"The Ironclads" is a game that simulates naval warfare between ironclads during the American Civil War, such as the 1862 Battle of the "Monitor" and "Merrimack". Each ship in the game has its own unique blend of armament and armor. Most scenarios are presented as a two-ship combat, although one scenario is a solitaire game, and several present multiplayer fleet engagements. Most two-player games last about an hour.