On a chilly night in January, a unique event unfolded in Brooklyn, where participants gathered to engage in an art installation titled "Fight for America!" This large-scale tabletop war game invites players to reenact the events surrounding the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, with the aim of fostering dialogue about democracy and its challenges.
The game, developed by the artistic organization known as the American Vicarious, allows players to assume roles on either the Red Team, representing those attempting to breach the Capitol, or the Blue Team, symbolizing law enforcement defending it. Approximately 20 participants were present, each assigned a character from that fateful day, such as Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn or Elmer Stewart Rhodes III, founder of the Oath Keepers.
As the evening commenced, players were instructed to strategize around a meticulously crafted 14-foot replica of the Capitol, complete with hand-painted miniatures and dice. The game’s creator, Alessio Cavatore, known for his work on popular tabletop games like Warhammer, emphasized the importance of creating a space for dialogue rather than division. "Let’s play a game and then let’s have a chat," he said, highlighting the goal of encouraging participants to engage with differing perspectives.
The event, while held in a predominantly liberal area—where 92% of voters supported Kamala Harris in the last election—was designed to reach a broader audience across the political spectrum. Christopher McElroen, the artistic director of the American Vicarious, explained that the project aims to travel across the United States, engaging people in discussions about the state of democracy through gameplay.
Initial reactions from participants varied, with some expressing skepticism about the concept of a game based on such a serious and polarizing event. Korey Dowell, a player who initially dismissed the idea as a joke, later found value in the experience once he learned of its artistic intent. Naomi Clark, a game designer and NYU professor, noted the unusual nature of the game, suggesting it might represent a historic first in tabletop gaming.
As the game progressed, players found themselves immersed in the chaotic atmosphere, with snacks and drinks circulating, and Uncle Sam—played by actor Dana Watkins—leading the charge with chants and encouragement. The Red Team, which aimed to "find Mike Pence," quickly gained the upper hand, leading to a pivotal moment where they breached the Capitol and were faced with a moral choice: protect the Vice President or hang him.
In a surprising twist, the Red Team ultimately voted against hanging Pence, reflecting a desire to shape the narrative in a more hopeful direction. This decision sparked introspection among participants, with Dowell expressing a newfound understanding of the importance of community, even among those with opposing views.
The event concluded with a sobering reminder of the real-life implications of the game, as footage from the actual January 6 events played on screens, leaving participants to grapple with the weight of their actions and the broader societal implications of the day. The experience served as a catalyst for conversation, prompting players to reflect on the nature of democracy and the necessity of community engagement in navigating its challenges.