Springtime is rapidly approaching and we are all excited about the prospect of spending a bit more time outside without the threat of frostbite! As the seasons have warmed up, so have the wargame offerings as there were just a ton of new games that I found this month to share with you. This month, I was able to find a total of 28 games (one more than last month’s 27) to share including 3 of those being offered on Kickstarter and 1 (upcoming) being offered on Gamefound.

This month, we again have a sponsor for the Wargame Watch post in Salt & Pepper Games. Salt & Pepper Games is a relatively new player in the historical board game area of our hobby and has done some really great projects over the past couple of years. The first game that caught our attention was Resist! designed by the triumvirate of David Thompson, Roger Tankersley and Trevor Benjamin, which is a solitaire game where the player controls the guerilla forces of the Spanish Maquis. Although they got their start during the Spanish Civil War, the game is primarily about the Maquis’ exploits after the end of WWII, when the Maquis returned to Spain and attempted to liberate the country from the despotic fist of Franco. 

We also enjoyed their follow-up effort with designers Matthias Cramer and Engin Kunter with the 2-player game The Hunt, which is an asymmetric card driven game that pits the British Royal Navy against the German Kriegsmarine in the South Atlantic led by the Graf Spee. The hidden movement in this one and the cat-and-mouse hunt is really very interesting and the game can be decided by a large combat at the historical River Plate.

Their 2 most recent games include Witchcraft! and The Battle of Versailles, which have both been praised by those who have played them. If you are interested in their games, you can click the below banner to be sent to their home page where you can purchase any of these games as well as others at very reasonable prices. I really enjoy their games as they are BIG games in very SMALL boxes but also have some of the best art in the business from the likes of Albert Monteys! We also will be highlighting their upcoming Operation Barclay designed by Maurice Suckling that will come to Gamefound in the next month or so later in the Wargame Watch under the Pre-Order section. It looks really tasty and deals with a rarely gamed topic in intelligence and counter-intelligence during World War II.

If you missed the February Wargame Watch, you can read that here at the following link: https://theplayersaid.com/2024/02/01/wargame-watch-whats-new-upcoming-february-2024

Pre-Order

1. Blitz in the East: The Russian Campaign 1941-45 from VentoNuovo Games

VentoNuovo Games does a great job of making very interesting and well researched wargames. One of their newest games called Blitz in the East ran a successful Kickstarter campaign last fall and that game is now available to late backers.

From the game page, we read the following:

After spectacular success in the West, Germany and its Axis partners turned East in June 1941 and launched the greatest land invasion in history against the Soviet Union. The goal of Operation Barbarossa was to decisively defeat the Soviet Union in a short lightning campaign before the onset of winter.

During the early stages of the campaign, the Wehrmacht caught the Soviet forces completely unprepared and had advanced its armored spearheads across the Dnepr in only a few short weeks. By mid-October, the Axis invasion appeared unstoppable and on the verge of ultimate success.

Unfortunately for the Wehrmacht, the time for a decisive victory had run out with the arrival of Russia’s notorious muddy season and the worst winter in a century. Despite suffering catastrophic losses over four months, the Soviet military was finally able to regroup and halt the invaders at the gates of Moscow. The Axis would never come so close to victory again and the initiative would slowly fall from its grasp.

As the Axis, can you do better and seize Moscow before the snow falls?

In addition to the historical setting that we all know so well, the game has a unique and new engine that should create some very interesting plays.

The game engine is the strength of Blitz in the East, as it is new, easy, and incorporates all of the historical campaign’s main themes. You will not have the feeling of playing “another” Russian front game.” says designer Emanuele Santandrea.

VNG developers have created a brand new engine for this game that is both easy to learn and hard to master. The base rules are minimal in length with many designer notes, examples, and beautiful graphics. Several optional rules and the Scorched Earth Expansion also add more historical flavor and complexity for more seasoned wargamers.

If you are interested in Blitz in the East: The Russian Campaign 1941-45, you can pre-order a copy for 85.00 € ($91.88 in US Dollars) from the VentoNuovo website at the following link: https://www.ventonuovo.net/games/blitz-in-the-east

2. Operation Barclay from Salt & Pepper Games Coming Soon to Gamefound

Salt & Pepper Games has done a series of great little historical games as mentioned above. There newest offering is called Operation Barclay and deals with the intelligence war between the Allies and their Abwehr counterparts in the Mediterranean Theater of WWII from 1942-1943. Also, the game is designed by Maurice Suckling who has done a string of very interesting and very good wargames over the past 5 years.

From the game page, we read the following:

Operation Barclay is a two-player game of low/medium complexity about the intelligence war between the Allies and their Abwehr counterparts in the Mediterranean theater in 1942-1943.

Operation Barclay puts players in the shoes of competing military intelligence directors who are attempting to mask or learn the truth about the Allied invasion plans for 1943. The Abwehr must attempt to learn where the Allies intend to land next. The London Controlling Section (LCS), the core intelligence agency responsible for Allied intelligence, must prevent the Abwehr from discovering the truth.

If you are interested in Operation Barclay, you can get more information from the Gamefound project page at the following link: https://gamefound.com/en/projects/saltandpepper/operation-barclay#/section/project-story

I am not totally sure about the release date on this one but added it just in case. If the campaign doesn’t launch in March, we will find additional information to post in a future Wargame Watch feature. We also are planning to do an interview with the game’s designer Maurice Suckling.

3. Axis & Allies: North Africa from Renegade Game Studios

As you probably know, I have a real soft spot in my heart for Axis & Allies. This was a wargame that I grew up on playing with my brothers and friends and we always had a good time! As you may know, Renegade Games Studios acquired the license for Axis & Allies from Hasbro over the past year and they have been working on updating the various editions of the game. This month, I noticed that they were offering a new game called Axis & Allies: North Africa for pre-order.

From the game page, we read the following:

The fighting in North Africa was unlike any other in World War II. Now you will command the forces of either the Axis (Germany and Italy) or the Allies (the United Kingdom and, eventually, the United States) in a campaign that may again capture the imagination of the entire world. Intercept enemy convoys headed to the ports of North Africa… while protecting your own. Prove your logistical prowess by keeping your forces supplied. But most of all, show your ingenuity as a general and you may change the course of history and ultimately gain the respect of your opponents.

If you are interested in Axis & Allies: North Africa, you can pre-order a copy for $90.00 from the Renegade Game Studios website at the following link: https://renegadegamestudios.com/axis-allies-north-africa/

The game is slated to release in August 2024.

4. Vive l’Empereur Series – Vol. XI La Bataille de Wagram, July 5-6, 1809 from Legion Wargames

Legion Wargames does some really good quality games that we have enjoyed playing. For all you Napoleonics buffs out there the next volume in the Vive l’Empereur Series is out called Trois Batailles en Allemagne.

From the game page, we read the following:

The battle of Wagram, July 5 and 6, 1809, is the second biggest battle of the Napoleonic era after Leipzig. It is the nadir of the Danube Campaign, starting in Bavaria in April and ending in July across the Danube. Around 180.000 French troops face 135.000 Austrians lead by the skilled Archduke Charles. After a bloody stalemate a month and a half before at Aspern-Essling (also included in the box as an experimental scenario), Wagram is a huge battle, a clear but not decisive French victory. Another battle, at Znaim a few days later, will be needed to finally push the Austrians to sue for peace.

The game includes 17 scenarios, spread over historical small pieces of the huge battle, a few scenarios from the opening moves the night and day before, and several what-ifs scenarios. The game includes Austrians troops from Archduke Johann and Prince of Reuss that could have been there that day and would push the final Austrian army to 165.000 men.

Other scenarios cover well known episodes like MacDonald’s attack, Davout’s maneuver, the Austrian move to cut the French army by taking the bridge on the Danube, and Masséna’s stout defense, among others.

History shows the advantage of an interior lines deployment, keeping a lot of reserves, and gambling on losing the left flank to prioritize the right wing and punch a hole in the center of the enemy army. The archduke, too extended and without a real reserve, will fight there his last campaign. Things could have turned differently !

If you are interested in Vive l’Empereur Series – Vol. XI La Bataille de Wagram, July 5-6, 1809, you can pre-order a copy for $90.00 from the Legion Wargames website at the following link: https://www.legionwargames.com/legion_WAG.html

5. 1812 – Napoleon’s Fateful March from VUCA Simulations

This game simply looks amazing, based on the limited information available and I know that Brian Asklev is a pretty sharp designer as he worked with us on a series of Event Cards Spoilers for his upcoming game Baltic Empires: The Northern Wars of 1558-1721 from GMT Games. His new game is a Napoleonics game called 1812 – Napoleon’s Fateful March and it is finally up for pre-order on the VUCA Simulations website.

From the game page, we read the following:

1812: Most of Europe is under Napoleon´s control, and Napoleon is poised to invade Russia and force them to comply with his Continental System and block British trade. In the face of overwhelming force, the Tsar reluctantly decide to fall back and adopt a scorched earth strategy. Faced by an elusive foe, the French were forced into advancing ever deeper into Russia and all the way to Moscow itself, even though their logistic
system was falling apart under the strain. The infamous retreat back from Moscow was the culmination of the campaign and the turning point of the Napoleonic Wars. Will
Napoleon and the hitherto undefeated Grande Armeé crush the Russian army and capture Moscow, or will they be punished for their hubris in the vast expanses of Russia?

1812 – The Fateful March is a 2-player game that simulates Napoleons invasion of Russia at the operational level. It is an easy to play card-driven system that utilizes secret order placement which ensures constant tension and little to no downtime. As befits the historical campaign, the game features a strong focus on logistic planning and march attrition with a set of simple but highly narrative mechanics.

There is a lot in that small description including that the game is a CDG at the Operational Level and that there are hidden orders and troop movements. Sounds choice and I am hotly anticipating this one!

If you are interested in 1812 – Napoleon’s Fateful March, you can pre-order a copy for $80.00 from the VUCA Simulations website at the following link: https://vucasims.com/products/1812-napoleons-fateful-march

6. Traces of Hubris from VUCA Simulations

If you haven’t noticed VUCA Simulations and their fantastic lineup of wargames, then you really need to put your phone/computer down and go check out their great looking games. Well, on 2nd thought you will need your phone/computer to go check out their site so just get off whatever site you are on right now (hopefully either theplayersaid.com or our YouTube Channel) and do it. You will thank me later I promise. We have played several of their games to date with the most recent being Traces of War, which is a fantastic low complexity hex and counter wargame that is in the same system as the famous Red Box Series from Multi-Man Publishing.

The newest offering in this very good series is again designed by Tetsuya Nakamura called Traces of Hubris and it looks amazing!

From the game page, we read the following:

Traces of Hubris is a two-player game that simulates the German Case Blue (Fall Blau) summer offensive in southern Russia during the second half of 1942. The goal was to “cut off” the Volga at Stalingrad and to capture the Caucasus oil fields.

The Axis player must eliminate the Soviet forces and break their defense lines in order to reach his objectives. The Soviet player must do everything to defend the homeland, and hold until he gets a chance to strike back.

Traces of War was just so very good and I am eagerly anticipating this one and cannot wait to give it a go.

If you are interested in Traces of Hubris, you can pre-order a copy for $76.00 from the VUCA Simulations website at the following link: https://vucasims.com/collections/coming-soon/products/traces-of-hubris

The website states that this should release in June 2024.

7. Iron Resolve: Western Front from Janovich Games Currently on Kickstarter

I love a good looking World War I game and this month I found a pretty interesting looking game in Iron Resolve: Western Front being offered on Kickstarter. I wish that there was more information on the game but the Kickstarter page is pretty sparsely populated.

From the game page, we read the following:

Iron Resolve: Western Front is an engaging World War One strategy battle game that can be played with 2 players. As a history enthusiast I designed the boardgame that I wanted to play myself.

You can also do just a print and play version and get files to also 3D print out the units so there are other options to just the full game. This one is a bit pricey for what you are getting but might be worth a look.

If you are interested in Iron Resolve: Western Front, you can back the project on the Kickstarter page at the following link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ironresolve/iron-resolve/description

As of March 1st, the Kickstarter campaign has raised $18,604 toward its $8,124 funding goal with 231 backers. The campaign will conclude on Monday, March 4th at 11:18am EST.

8. Might & Fury WWII from Warchronicle (Self Published) Currently on Kickstarter

File this one under new and interesting looking games covering a pretty iconic part of our history in World War II. In my opinion, some of the best parts of the war was the interaction between the 3 major players amongst the Allies in England, the United States and Soviet Union. Their interactions, and their leaders, all had a very interesting drama play out over the course of the war that ultimately formed and set the course for the next 50 years in the Cold War.

From the game page, we read the following:

Might & Fury WWII is a collaborative board game for 2-6 players. Games are 60 minutes and suited to ages 14+. To secure victory, players must skillfully navigate through three pivotal operations:

• Launching Campaign: Build an entry-level military deck to receive your classified route assignment.
• Route Completion: Collaborate closely with your allies to secure key strategic victories and outmaneuver the advancing enemy forces.
• Final Battle: Harness all available military resources to mount a decisive assault, bringing an end to the enemy campaign and seizing ultimate victory.

If you relish power moves, waging war, deduction and strategic gameplay – this one is for you. 

Tactical cards are used to manipulate gameplay and blunt enemy progress. They can be used to deftly orchestrate a dramatic turnaround and rewrite the course of history. 

Military Deck and background imagery with the help of AI – Our graphic design lead has utilized image generation technology from Midjourney to craft the foundation imagery for the military card deck before layering additional refinements through internal editing. Leveraging Midjourney has drastically increased image quality while also allowing us to lower development cost/backer pricing.

Players strategically assemble their military decks by selecting from a collection of Infantry, Pilot and Sailor poker size cards. Each of these form part of the tactical effort to forge the path to victory. Military cards are a key component of the game as they are used to either 1) win battles, 2) assist team members or 3) trade to obtain tactical cards. 

Looks pretty interesting and a 2-6 player game has a lot of potential. I particularly enjoy these type of negotiation and discussion style of games so am looking forward to this game.

If you are interested in Might & Fury WWII, you can back the project on the Kickstarter page at the following link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/568503279/mightandfury

As of March 1st, the Kickstarter campaign has raised $5,497 toward its $22,000 funding goal with 61 backers. The campaign will conclude on Wednesday, March 20th at 10:58am EDT.

9. 1867 Big Wyoming from GMT Games

While I am not a huge fan of 18XX games, mainly due to their length of play and the nature of the focus on building optimal routes and then running them over and over milling money and VP’s, I am a bit interested in this offering as it seems to be somewhat fast playing. It still takes 3 hours to play but that is a far cry from the 5-6 hours we logged with 1846: The Race for the Midwest several years ago. I also have always had a bit of a fascination with the western expansion of the United States and the concept of Manifest Destiny and this game is right at the heart of that time and movement as railroads began to build to the west coast.

From the game page, we read the following:

1867 Big Wyoming is a new game in the 18XX Series for 3 to 5 players that takes approximately 3 hours to play. In a game of 1867 Big Wyoming, players recreate Wyoming’s railroad history, assuming the roles of railroad operators, investors, and entrepreneurs seeking to strike it rich. Players will acquire private companies, establish railroad corporations, build rail networks that span the state, trade stocks, and develop Wyoming’s natural resource industries. The player who amasses the most wealth during the course of the game is the winner.

But this one has some new tricks and bit of innovation that aids in speeding game play.

While much of 1867 Big Wyoming will be familiar to longtime 18XX fans, the game offers several unique mechanisms that capture the unique quality of Wyoming’s railroad history and provide players with new and interesting challenges. The game seeks to provide a rich and dynamic play experience without overdressing the core system; as a result, 1867 Big Wyoming can be enjoyed by new and seasoned 18XX players alike and can be played in an evening.

Here is a bit of a look into these new innovations:

Accelerating Endgame – The game features an endgame acquisition system in which every player-owned railroad corporation is acquired by the Union Pacific or Burlington Northern systems, which today monopolize the state’s rail industry; the acquisition of the last such corporation signals the end of the game. During this phase of the game, corporations jockey for position on the stock market as acquisition offers are made. Players attempt to engineer the timing of their corporation’s acquisition to maximize their profits and deny valuable opportunities to their opponents. Corporations that decline or are denied acquisition must find a way to compete with the monolithic railroad systems and remain viable until their turn comes. Aside from being a novel endgame mechanism, it cannot be stressed enough that the endgame truly flies by. Veteran players can easily finish a game of 1867 Big Wyoming in under two and a half hours.

The Boom and Bust of Resource Delivery – The development of railroads in Wyoming would not have happened if not for Wyoming’s rich natural resource deposits. Upon their discovery, coal, metallic ores, crude oil, and natural gas quickly became the dominant industries statewide, attracting new rail lines and transforming small settlements into modern cities. 1867 Big Wyoming’s map is home to 5 natural resource deposit spaces. The deposits, once linked by rail, produce a number of resource cubes each round that can be delivered to nearby cities by whichever corporation claims them first. Once delivered, these resource cubes are used either to establish a refinery in that city or, if there is a refinery there already, to dramatically increase the value of that city, turning what was once a bump in the road into a major profit center. The locations and profitability of these refineries are driven by the development of railroad corporations, allowing player actions to influence the map’s financial landscape.

If you are interested in 1867 Big Wyoming, you an pre-order a copy for $59.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-1100-1867-big-wyoming.aspx

10. Lenin’s Legacy from GMT Games

While attending San Diego HistoriCon in November, we had a chance to sit down with Matthias Cramer (who is a delightful person and a great designer) and play his newest offering called Lenin’s Legacy (at the time he was referring to it as Lenin’s Death). The game deals with the power struggle between Leon Trotsky and Josef Stalin for control of Russia following the strokes suffered by Lenin. The game plays in about 30-45 minutes and has some very interesting mechanics where players struggle over the control of various issues such as the Politburo, control of regions that provide new powerful cards for the players and the NKVD which keeps the army under control and out of the other player’s reach.

From the game page, we read the following:

Lenin’s Legacy is a fast-paced solo or two-player game about the power struggle between Stalin and Trotsky in the early days of the USSR, starting the moment Lenin’s health began to weaken after a failed assassination attempt in 1918 and culminating with Lenin’s death in 1924. Players will take on the role of either Stalin or Trotsky, playing cards from a common display (plus one hidden card each) to gain control of “issues,” such as the NKVD, Politburo, and personal access to Lenin. Cards can also be played for specific historical events, and additional Region and Politician cards may enter play each round, favoring whichever player was able to control the relevant issue in the previous round. Victory can be achieved in three different ways: control of the Army, domination of the Party, or lasting Fame after Lenin’s death. Players must therefore balance short-term gains towards each of these conditions with long-term bonuses from Regions and Politicians, while also ensuring that their opponent is not able to play the cards that will most benefit them. The result is a tense, fast-paced game where every card counts and you always have to stay one step ahead of your opponent.

The cards and how players obtain them to play is one of the best parts as a common tableau is built with a total of 7 cards at the start of each round, 5 of which are visible to both players and then 2 cards that each player can view but keep hidden. The player with initiative, which is an issue that can be moved to your side, gets to play 4 cards while the non-initiative player only plays 3. Huge advantage there!

Here is a look at our interview with Matthias at the convention:

There also will be a full solitaire system included. This one is a winner and is sure to be one of my favorite quick playing Card Driven Games.

If you are interested in Lenin’s Legacy, you an pre-order a copy for $37.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-1101-lenins-legacy.aspx

11. Banish the Snakes 2nd Printing from GMT Games

We love cooperative games here at The Players’ Aid, with one caveat, they must be good cooperative games that are a challenge and are not too easily won! At first glance, Banish the Snakes looks very interesting and has some really interesting mechanics that are sure to be a joy to play. I am only sharing this one because it is a cooperative game based in the history of Ireland and not some fantasy setting where we are not dealing in facts. We own a copy but have not had a chance to play it as of yet…shamefully!

From the game page, we read the following:

Banish the Snakes is a cooperative game that simulates Ireland in the 5th century, while the Roman Empire was collapsing in the west and Ireland was turning to the Christian religion. Players represent Saints Patrick and others (up to six of you) who set out to convert the pagans on the island. You must work as a team to convert the people of Ireland before the barbarians completely overwhelm Britain – if you fail, the Irish will not be able to save Civilization in the following centuries!

The game uses some really interesting card assisted elements that decide how you go about your business of changing the minds of the Pagans and influencing them to join the Christian movement. So, a game with indirect conflict and overcoming influence. Sounds to me like a lot of the games that I personally love that use cards to influence areas such as Twilight Struggle and Washington’s War and that delves into the religious side of history like Here I Stand.

The game board is a map of Ireland in the 5th century, with four Provinces-the same as today – but no counties yet formed. Wooden tiles represent the People, Druids, Chiefs, and Kings, and of course the High King at Tara. It is the players goal to invade the interrelated influences between these groups of people and get your new ideas accepted.

I also see at the very bottom of the board is a schematic type of diagram of Great Britain which is used to keep track of the steady decline of Roman civilization in Great Britain and the continual assault on the country by barbarian invaders. As different parts of Britain succumb to the barbarians, more and more difficult challenges are added to the deck of cards, until finally Britain is completely overwhelmed, cutting off Ireland from the continent and ending the game.

The game also uses Event Cards to drive the action. Each turn a card is drawn, throwing new challenges at the group working to convert the populace. The severity of the event is determined by the previous card, and so no two games can ever play the same. The cards introduce events and ideas of the time, new saints, and historic figures such as Neil of the Nine Hostages.

We posted an early interview with the designer Kevin McPartland and you can read that at the following link (keep in mind that this was posted in March 2020 and the game might have changed since): https://theplayersaid.com/2020/03/09/interview-with-kevin-mcpartland-co-designer-of-banish-the-snakes-a-cooperative-game-of-st-patrick-in-ireland-from-gmt-games/

If you are interested in Banish the Snakes 2nd Printing, you an pre-order a copy for $55.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-1098-banish-the-snakes-2nd-printing.aspx

12. Flashpoint: South China Sea 2nd Printing from GMT Games

Flashpoint: South China Sea from GMT Games designed by Harold Buchanan is a very cool and fast playing 2-player strategy game that simulates the complex geopolitical contest currently taking place between the United States and China in the South China Sea. The game is a Card Driven Game that uses cards to allow players to play out the struggle using events based on today’s headlines and use these cards to take actions that will provide dominance over regions and score victory points at any time during the game. The game also has a dedicated Solo Opponent that was designed by GMT One and Jason Carr and I have played it four times and really enjoyed how it translates the tension in the 2-player game over to the solo game. It works really well and while daunting at first to run once you are familiar with the flowchart it becomes easy to maneuver.

First thing that I wish to say is about the solitaire mode. It uses the same general rules of play as the 2-player game but the Solo Opponent doesn’t have a hand of Event Cards. They use cards, but only typically draw an Event Card off of the top of the deck or use special Solo Opponent Cards. And, the game is brutal. I have played four times as the United States against the China bot and I am 0-4. I have come close once but it is very challenging. As all good solo games should be.

Part of the reason that the game is brutal is that it tries to take into account the actions that a human player would perform during the game. This typically revolves around the use of powerful Event Cards. The Solo Opponent doesn’t ever take Events though so they had to design a way for it to replicate that effect. The text of these Event Cards are ignored and the only way it uses the Event Cards is for the Scoring function and to see if there is a Mode Match which allows the Solo Opponent to remove the player’s Influence Cubes from the board. This really hurts and really replicates what a human opponent most likely would do in the same situation.

I really like the Solo Opponent and feel that its implementation really makes for an engaging and enjoyable solo experience for a game that was designed with 2-player mode in mind. I have played it four times, as mentioned previously, and I still enjoy the game and have not tired of it yet even though I have always played as the United States against the Chinese Solo Opponent. I need to switch sides now and go against the United States Solo Opponent to see how the game changes.

From the game page, we read the following:

The Chinese player works to influence other countries in the region, establish territorial claims and regional hegemony, and improve its world standing. The U.S. player works to maintain influence with allied countries in the region, secure freedom of navigation, and keep China in check. Success for both players hinges on the support and allegiance of non-player countries in the region. The game stops short of dealing with a potential full-scale military conflict. Rather, it requires the nuanced exercise of political, economic, and military resources, in a form of prima facie diplomacy – on the waters, in the air, and ultimately in the minds of the people – to achieve victory.

Each player manages a hand of cards that can be used immediately for various operations, or may be held for future operations under more favorable circumstances.

Here also is a look at our video review of the 2-player game:

I also have written a series of Action Point posts focused on the various aspects of the game and you can read those at the following links:

Action Point 1 – Game Board

Action Point 2 – Event Cards

Action Point 3 – Political Warfare

Action Point 4 – Scoring Cards

Action Point 5 – Solo Opponent

If you are interested in Flashpoint: South China Sea 2nd Printing, you an pre-order a copy for $35.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-1097-flashpoint-south-china-sea-2nd-printing.aspx

13. The Russian Campaign Deluxe 5th Edition, 2nd Printing from GMT Games

We have played a lot of wargames over the past 10 years but some of the classics have eluded us thus far. I say eluded but a better word would be are either unavailable or the cost is prohibitive. So when one of the classics gets a new edition, especially one that is updated with new graphics, new rules and clarifications all intended to assist and enhance gameplay, we are really excited and try our best to get a copy.

This story actually begins way back in 2017 or so when GMT Games announced the Deluxe Edition reprint of The Russian Campaign on P500. The last time The Russian Campaign was in print was sometime in 2002 and the game was sold out and out of print as of 2007. That is a long time ago and for such a classic and well thought of game, it was about time for a reprint and with changing production values and more knowledge some additional rules and tweaks. I was excited and mashed that button to reserve my copy. Well, at the time I thought this would maybe take a year or so to get to print and on my table but it actually took much longer than that and just became available earlier this year. So after waiting for about 8 years, we finally gave this one a spin and instantly I could immediately understand why so many wargamers held this game in such high regard.

The game is true to its name as it represents the entirety of the East Front of World War II stretching from Leningrad and Finland in the north all the way to the Caucasus Oil Fields, Rostov and Stalingrad in the south. I have said this before, but there is something a bit romantic about East Front games. Long lines of contiguous counters. The German blitzkrieg pushing the Soviets back for the first dozen turns. The Soviets gaining their strength, bringing up bigger replacement units and pushing back. A continuous bloody wave of motion and combat and attrition. Bad terrain, bad weather and bad luck all combining to spoil the best laid plans of commanders. It is all here. The entire East Front in all its glory and beauty and I think that this is one of the main draws of the game and the genre. Can my decisions lead to better advances? Can I do more than historical? Can the Germans break the red wall of Soviet units and capture Moscow to knock them out of the war?

We really enjoyed our play of this classic hex and counter style wargame and are eagerly awaiting an opportunity to give it another play. The mechanics are just solid and really rooted in classic wargaming style but there are enough new and interesting chrome optional rules here to make it interesting for anyone, even for those who may have played an older edition till the counters wore out. When I play wargames like this, meaning a true blue dyed in the wool hex and counter wargame, I feel the love and affection for this genre swell and grow in my whole mind! Just awesome simplicity.

Here is a link to our full unboxing video showing off the beautiful components:

We also shot a video review and you can view that at the following link:

I also wrote a full First Impressions style post on the blog and you can read that at the following link: https://theplayersaid.com/2023/12/05/first-impressions-the-russian-campaign-deluxe-5th-edition-from-gmt-games/

If you are interested in The Russian Campaign Deluxe 5th Edition 2nd Printing, you an pre-order a copy for $47.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-1099-the-russian-campaign-deluxe-5th-edition-2nd-printing.aspx

14. Storm of Steel: Ju-87 Stuka, Eastern Front from Compass Games Currently on Kickstarter

We have seen a lot of iterations of these solitaire air war games over the past couple of years from many different designers including Gregory M. Smith (Interceptor Ace, Nightfighter Ace), Chuck Seegert (Zero Leader and Stuka Leader), Russ Lance (Flying Tigers Leader) and Fernando Sola Ramos (Interceptor Ace Volume II). They appeal to a broad range of gamers because of the novelty of the narrative driven game and the interesting and cool mechanics such as dogfighting, obtaining skills to improve your pilot and graduating to upgraded models. I have played several and always enjoy them even though they can be a bit of a chart flipping dice fest! We have also seen a lot of iterations of games focused on the mighty Stuka on the East Front (Stuka Leader from DVG and Ju-87 Stuka Ace from Lock n’ Load Publishing) and we have another to add to the fray with Storm of Steel from Compass Games designed by Joe Fernandez.

From the game page, we read the following:

Storm of Steel: Ju-87 STUKA, Eastern Front is a solitaire tactical air wargame where you take the role of a Staffelkapitän – Flight leader. Select, equip and fly your aircraft, lead a squadron of Stuka dive bombers and execute close air support missions along the Eastern Front from the opening day of Operation Barbarossa on June 22, 1941 up to the Kursk offensive in 1943.

Take command of the legendary Stuka dive bomber on combat missions over the vast battlefields on the Eastern Front. Select and equip your Stuka Staffel with individual and historically named pilots and gunners or create your own. Lead your unit during the opening days of Operation Barbarossa, targeting Soviet airfields, troop concentrations, rail lines, convoys, tank formations, and more. Attempt the final drive on Moscow during Operation Winter Storm. Continue your career to participate in Case Blue and the offensive on Stalingrad. Use the newly converted Ju-87G Stuka tank killer during Operation Citadel to destroy enemy armor. Conduct maritime missions to sink, and disrupt the Red Navy on the Gulf of Finland and the Black Sea utilizing specialized ordnance.

Manage StG-1, 2, or 77, and fly with your Staffel of up to ten Stukas deep into enemy territory. Avoid enemy fighters, bad weather, and murderous anti-aircraft fire to deliver your deadly payload accurately to its target. Log your missions, scores, gain experience for yourself and your unit. An experienced-based promotion system provides an increased level of proficiency for your crew. Between missions; manage replacements and repairs of your aircraft as well as your wounded and KIA crew.

I am interested in this one and will definitely be trying to add this one to my collection. Solitaire airwar games are always loads of fun and I see no reason why this one won’t be the same.

If you are interested in Storm of Steel: Ju-87 Stuka, Eastern Front, you can back the project on the Kickstarter page at the following link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/compassgames/storm-of-steel?ref=e5mmjy

As of March 1st, the Kickstarter campaign has raised $22,837 toward its $2,500 funding goal with 171 backers. The campaign will conclude on Wednesday, March 6th at 9:45am EST.

15. #Maneuver Warfare: The Card Game from The Dietz Foundation

I am always very interested in games that are designed by veterans as they bring a very real experience and viewpoint on the subjects they are trying to tackle. What’s that old saying… of yeah “straight from the horse’s mouth”. And this one is a simple deck building (or they use the term construction) game that is sure to be one of those fast playing affairs that can be used as night cap for game night.

My only true concern with the project is the use of AI art. I am not as against it as others in our space but I do prefer real art as it can add so much to a game and give it a really thematic integration for us as players. I understand the use of the technology but am not as sold on it as others are. But this is not my game and probably not my say.

From the game page, we read the following:

#Maneuver Warfare: The Card Game puts modern warfare in your (cargo) pocket. This deck construction-style wargame explores the complexities of war today and tomorrow.  Players build decks from a card arsenal ranging from guerrillas to unmanned underwater vehicles to next-gen fighter aircraft capable of dominating the various areas (‘domains’ in the game) where confrontation will take place.  You can choose a deck heavy on high-tech satellites, hackers, and online influencers or you can focus your efforts on direct action with airmobile forces, armor, and massed artillery.

Victory is not determined by destruction in #MW:TCG instead, victory is determined by “WILL”.  This is your nation’s commitment to the conflict.  Whichever side loses their Will first, the opponent is the victor.  It’s that easy.

Will is drained with every unit you deploy, every action you take, so that players must balance their deployment of forces with the need to react to what your opponent does.   Of course, if you choose to take the time to send Humanitarian Aid, emphasize avoiding civilian casualties, you can gain more support (Will) from the public to continue the fight.

The entire idea of #MW:TCG is to put ‘a clash of wills’ directly onto the tabletop.

I do enjoy these type of fast playing and simple card type wargames to supplement our play time. I think that what I am reading sounds interesting as well.

If you are interested in #Maneuver Warfare: The Card Game, you can pre-order a copy for $30.00 from The Dietz Foundation website at the following link: https://dietzfoundation.org/product/maneuver-warfare/

16. The Campaign of Palestine 1917: North to Jerusalem from Three Crowns Games

A few months ago, actually in mid-2023, I came across a great looking little game publisher in Three Crowns Games and their at the time new game Iskra: Spark of Victory. We did an interview with the designer of that game Stefan Ekström and the product was really a great looking little game. They now have a whole gaggle of new offerings up for pre-order through their P150 Pre-Booking Program. The first one I will share is The Campaign of Palestine 1917: North to Jerusalem designed by Stefan Ekstöm.

From the game page, we read the following:

British Prime Minister David Lloyd George told Allenby, “he wanted Jerusalem as a Christmas present for the British nation.” Lloyd George made clear that this victory was needed in order “to strengthen the staying power and morale of this country.”

The decision to launch a major offensive in Palestine, in the autumn of 1917, was also based on “very sound strategic reasons.” The Russian Empire collapsed in the spring due to the Russian Revolution, freeing many Ottoman Empire forces. Allenby’s goal from the outset had been the annihilation of the Ottoman army in southern Palestine.

North to Jerusalem is a game recreating the South Palestinian Campaign from 30th October – 9th December, 1917.

Not much additional information on the game aside from the components including:

• One A1 map

• 143 15mm counters and markers

• 16 page rulebook

• Two Player Aid Cards (PAC) A4 containing most of the Charts and Tables.

If you are interested in The Campaign of Palestine 1917: North to Jerusalem, you can pre-order a copy by sending an email to order.threecrownsgames@gmail.com listing the titles you are interested in. Notice that no prices are listed but their other games have been sold at or near 40,00 € (around $43.00 US Dollars).

17. Dance of War: First Battle of El-Alamein, 1942 from Three Crowns Games

The next game that looks interesting to me from the P150 Pre-Booking Program at Three Crowns Games is Dance of War: First Battle of El-Alamein, 1942. This one is focused on the Desert War in North Africa during WWII.

From the game page, we read the following:

With the fall of Mersa Matruh only days earlier, the game starts on July 1st 1942 with the leading elements of Panzerarmee Afrika catching up with the retreating forces of the British 8th Army near the rail station at El Alamein. Rommel believed one more successful attack would see the 8th Army broken and fleeing for the Nile Delta.  

Dance Of War is a game recreating the first Battle of El-Alamein, 1942.

Not much additional information on the game aside from the components including:

• One A1 map

• 286 15mm counters and markers

• 16 page rulebook

• Two Player Aid Cards (PAC) A4 containing most of the Charts and Tables.

If you are interested in The Campaign of Palestine 1917: North to Jerusalem, you can pre-order a copy by sending an email to order.threecrownsgames@gmail.com listing the titles you are interested in. Notice that no prices are listed but their other games have been sold at or near 40,00 € (around $43.00 US Dollars).

There are more great looking games on the Three Crowns Games website as well as several other that are being offered in their P150 Pre-Booking Program.

New Release

1. Table Battles Doomed Expansion: A Collection of Disasters, Last Stands, Forlorn Hopes, and Other Tragedies from Hollandspiele

We really have enjoyed our experience with Table Battles. The system is really flexible and light and very interesting as it takes a look at all types of fighting styles, periods and tactics. Plus it is a small format game with a small footprint that can be taken with you anywhere and enjoyed. Now comes the newest expansion called Table Battles: Doomed Expansion, which takes a look at lost causes. In fact, the subtitle says it all with A Collection of Disasters, Last Stands, Forlorn Hopes, and Other Tragedies. Amazing looking cover by the way!

From the game page, we read the following:

In this radical reimagining of Amabel Holland’s popular Table Battles Series, players fight a series of short, snappy battles that are forgone conclusions. One side brings to bear overwhelming advantages while the other struggles to stave off certain doom as long as possible. Eventually, they will weaken. Inevitably, they will break. There is, mechanically speaking, no way for the doomed side to prevail – no victory condition at all,, and no way for the other side not to achieve theirs. But it’s not about that.

It’s about how hard you fight when you know you’re going to lose. During each battle, the doomed side will score points – a running tally that carries over from one scenario to the next. If by the end of the third battle they’ve hit a certain threshold, they win the game. But that threshold increases when you choose which of the game’s six battles to fight next – easier battles raise your threshold more than hard ones. The doomed player also has access to Advantage cards – once-per-battle powers that let them break the rules in some way. But each of these you take on also increases your threshold.

From the encircled Romans at Cannae to the trapped paladins at Roncevaux Pass, the outmatched French fleet at Trafalgar and the desperate highlanders at Culloden, this expansion spans desperate, hopeless battles from across human history and points toward an exhilarating new direction for Hollandspiele’s bestseller.

If you are interested in Table Battles Doomed Expansion, you can order a copy for $35.00 from the Hollanspiele website at the following link: https://hollandspiele.com/products/table-battles-doomed

*This is an expansion. You need the Table Battles base game to play it.

I also want to share this from Hollandspiele where they are offering several of their older games on reprint for the next week or so. There are some really good titles on this list so snatch them up while you still can. I bought a copy for Optimates et Populares recently from this offer and am really glad to have got my hands on it.

2. Late to the Fight: The Battle of Palmetto Ranch, May 13, 1865 from High Flying Dice Games

I love lesser gamed subjects. It is always nice to play something unique and interesting while learning new parts of history. High Flying Dice Games does this exceptionally well as they have made their living on doing lesser (or even totally) unknow battles in their small games.

Their newest offering is called Late to the Fight: The Battle of Palmetto Ranch, May 13, 1865 and the game takes a look at the American Civil War Battle of Palmetto Ranch fought near Brownsville, Texas along the Rio Grande River.

From the game page, we read the following:

Late to the Fight is an historical simulation of the battle fought on May 13, 1865 just east of Brownsville, Texas along the Rio Grande River. Although the Confederate forces and their leaders knew of the surrender of Confederate forces in the east, as well as the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, die-hards in state government and the remaining forces in Texas remained defiant. Union forces had occupied Brownsville, Texas in November 1863, but most of the Union forces there were withdrawn in November 1864 to where the Rio Grande emptied into the Gulf of Mexico at Brazos Island, Texas to guard against smuggling by pro-South Mexicans. A “gentlemen’s agreement” between the Union and Confederate forces in the area meant a relative calm had prevailed since then. However, when Union General Lew Wallace’s attempts to negotiate a surrender of all Confederate forces and the state of Texas were rebuffed in March, tensions grew. When General Wallace learned of a large Confederate force assembling at Brownsville, orders were issued for the 34th Indiana Infantry Regiment and 62nd United States Colored Troops Regiment to retake the town and disperse any rebel forces found there. What ensued as the last battle of the American Civil War, fought nearly a month after the surrender at Appomattox Court House. Can you do as well or better?

If you are interested in Late to the Fight: The Battle of Palmetto Ranch, May 13, 1865, you can order a copy for $22.95 from the High Flying Dice Games website at the following link: https://www.hfdgames.com/palmetto.html

3. Rifles in the Nam from Tiny Battle Publishing

We really have enjoyed this series from Tiny Battle Publishing. Our first foray into the series was Rifles in the Ardennes and then Rifles in the Pacific. Now we see the series spreading out to other conflicts and taking us to the Vietnam War.

From the game page, we read the following:

Introducing Rifles in the ‘Nam, the next installment in Gottardo Zancani’s popular solitaire RIFLES Series, this time set in the intense battlegrounds of the Vietnam War. Experience the gritty action of jungle warfare in a uniquely immersive single-player format. Say goodbye to traditional hex-maps; instead, dive into three simplified yet engaging maps (Tunnel, Jungle, City) that capture the essence of the Vietnam Theater.

Engage in thrilling firefights, with five to ten units per side, across various scenarios, including a convoy rescue, tense tunnel searches and fights, city battles, jungle ambushes, and a linked campaign. Utilizing blind chit draws and strategic die rolls, alongside carefully crafted charts, the game offers an authentic taste of the unpredictable nature of war.

This game has a pretty small table presence as you are basically playing with about 20 counters on a single map and the rulebook. It does offer lots of variability as you can play 12 different scenarios to give you the feel of all the different types of environments and combat types in Vietnam including jungle, city battles, tunnel searches and ambushes. You can also play a linked campaign.

If you are interested in Rifles in the ‘Nam, you can order a copy for $40.00 from the Tiny Battle Publishing website at the following link: https://tinybattlepublishing.com/products/rifles-in-the-nam

4. Battle of Sedan from The Historical Game Company

We have played a few of the games from The Historical Game Company from designer Steve Kling and they are designed as nice little introductory wargames with low counter density, great looking maps and easy to learn and understand rules. We described them as games you could play with your dad over a holiday or be used to introduce a friend to wargaming. These games are also print on demand and are printed and shipped by Blue Panther LLC once you buy them. They will take about 10 days to get to you.

One of their newest releases includes an interesting subject on the Battle of Sedan during the Franco-Prussian War in 1870.

From the game page, we read the following:

1870 – French Emperor Napoleon III has dreams of expanding his empire and aspires to be like his more famous uncle. He believes that with his French army’s zeal and his leadership, his nation will be able to annihilate the Upstart Prussian Empire. Meanwhile, the Prussians have been preparing for war. They have convinced many of the German States, including the Kingdom of Bavaria, to join their cause. The respective armies are destined to clash at Sedan. Both factions expect victory and to become a dominant force in Europe. The stage is set.

Battle of Sedan is a low to moderate complexity tactical game of the French disaster at Sedan during the Franco-Prussian War. One player commands the combined Prussian-Bavarian forces while the other player commands the French army.

If you are interested in Battle of Sedan, you can order a copy for $40.00 from the Blue Panther website at the following link: https://www.bluepantherllc.com/products/battle-of-sedan

5. Battle of Sekigahara from The Historical Game Company

The 2nd new game being offered this month from The Historical Game Company through their printing partner Blue Panther LLC deals with the Battle of Sekigahara, which was a decisive battle at the end of the Sengoku period. This battle was fought by the forces of Tokugawa Ieyasu against a coalition of Toyotomi loyalist clans under Ishida Mitsunari, several of which defected before or during the battle, leading to a Tokugawa victory. The Battle of Sekigahara was the largest battle of Japanese feudal history and is often regarded as the most important.

From the game page, we read the following:

October 21, 1600 – The fate of Japan hangs in the balance. The country is split into two factions each of which has gathered a large army. Osaka Castle has been captured and forces under Ieyasu Tokugawa have moved south to finish the war. Ishida Mitsunari has an army waiting to entrap the Ieyasu’s forces referred to as the Eastern Army. Ishida’s Western Army awaits though treachery is in the wind. The stage is set.

Battle of Sekigahara is a low to moderate complexity tactical game covering the epic Japanese battle in 1600 during the Sengoku period. The game takes about 90 minutes to play. One player commands the Western Army under Ishida Mitsunari and the other player commands the Eastern Army under Tokugawa Ieyasu. Cards vary game play.

If you are interested in Battle of Sekigahara, you can order a copy for $40.00 from the Blue Panther website at the following link: https://www.bluepantherllc.com/products/battle-of-sekigahara

6. Berestechko 1651 from SNAFU Design

Over the past couple of years, we have become acquainted with a newer Catalan wargame publisher called SNAFU Design. I first interviewed one of their partners and designer Marc Fiqueras in early 2021 on his new game called Ambon: Burning Sun & Little Seagulls. We next interviewed the incomparable Javier Romero for his design with SNAFU called Santander ’37. Then back to Marc with his Equatorial Clash game. Finally, most recently we interviewed Ivan Prat for his interesting game called 12 Hours of Maleme and Nicola Saggini for Nothing Left to Bomb. These games are very cool and cover lesser gamed subjects so these are right up my alley. Recently, I saw where a newer designer named Krzysztof Dytczak was doing a new design for SNAFU in their Pocket Battles Series called Berestechko 1651.

From the game page, we read the following:

Berestechko 1651 is a game for two players simulating the third day of the battle of Berestechko, fought on 30th June 1651 between the Zaporozhian Cossacks, led by Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky and aided by their Crimean Tatar allies, and a Polish-Lituanian army under King John II Casimir, near the Styr river in Volhynia It was one of the largest land battles of 17th century Europe.

The game is not quite ready for sale (we have been told it will be soon) but you can follow the status of the project by visiting the SNAFU Design website at the following link:: http://www.snafu.cat/w-beres.html

7. France ’40 2nd Edition from GMT Games

You know that we both really like the ’40X Series from GMT Games designed by Mark Simonitch. The mechanics work well together to create an enjoyable and interesting experience with low counter density and beautiful boards and counters. One of the 1st few games in the series was France ’40, which tells the story of the unleashing of the Blitzkrieg tactic on France during spring/early summery 1940. That game has eluded us but a few years ago they announced a 2nd Edition and I was very excited. Over the past few months, they have released some art and the new cover and board just look amazing.

France ’40 2nd Edition is a major upgrade to the original game. The changes include several rules updates for Extended Movement, Combat, Advance After Combat, Breakthrough Combat and Determined Defense have been updated so they are more in line with the recent games in the ’40X Series such as Stalingrad ’42 and Salerno ’43). A new scenario has also been included that is designed by Mark Merritt that combines both maps.

This double-sided mounted map features the game’s Dynamo map on one side and the Sickle Cut map on the other. And they look really great as they have been updated with some new colors and layout. As I look at the board, I just think it draws me in and makes we want to play it.

From the game page, we read the following:

France ’40 contains two separate games: Sickle Cut and Dynamo. Both games use the same rules and share many game pieces, but each has a separate full size map.

Sickle Cut: Guderian’s Drive to the Channel
This game covers the crucial week in May 1940 when the German army broke the French line on the Meuse and raced to the sea at Abbeville. The game starts on May 13th, the third day of Case Yellow. Six panzer divisions have passed through the Ardennes and are now at the Meuse River. The French and British have raced through Belgium to reach the Dyle Line and cover the Gembloux Gap. The stage is set. Can the Germans cross the Meuse in front of strong opposition? And, if they can, will they be able to break out from the bridgeheads and advance across the map while threatened by Allied reinforcements pouring in from the north and south?

Dynamo: Retreat to Victory
This game covers the British withdrawal to Dunkirk and the evacuation. The game starts on May 24th, the day the British decide that the B.E.F. is in real danger of being cut-off from their supply base and the best option is to head for the coast at Dunkirk. However, many of the German panzer divisions are closer to Dunkirk than the British. Can the British reach the coast before the Germans? Can they hold the Dunkirk perimeter for eight days while they evacuate?

The rules for both games highlight armor, air support, and morale. Special rules include: Allied Heavy Tanks, DeGaulle, Rommel, Hitler’s Halt Order, and French Command Paralysis.

Here is a gander at the Sickle Cut scenario board:

And the Dynamo scenario board:

If you are interested in France ’40 2nd Edition, you can order a copy for $38.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-635-france-40-2nd-edition.aspx

8. France ’40 2nd Edition Mounted Map from GMT Games

France ’40 2nd Edition is a major upgrade to the original game. The changes include several rules updates for Extended Movement, Combat, Advance After Combat, Breakthrough Combat and Determined Defense have been updated so they are more in line with the recent games in the 19XX Series such as Stalingrad ’42 and Salerno ’43). A new scenario has also been included that is designed by Mark Merritt that combines both maps.

This double-sided mounted map features the game’s Dynamo map on one side and the Sickle Cut map on the other. And they look really great as they have been updated with some new colors and layout. As I look at the board, I just think it draws me in and makes we want to play it.

If you are interested in the France ’40 Mounted Map, you can order a copy for $19.00 from the GMT Games website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-1069-france-40-mounted-map.aspx

9. Rebel Fury: Five Battles from the Campaigns of Chancellorsville and Chickamauga from GMT Games

This is really interesting looking, fast playing American Civil War game designed by one of the best ever called Rebel Fury: Five Battles from the Campaigns of Chancellorsville and Chickamauga. A few years ago (2019 to be specific), Mark Herman designed a simple to grasp fast playing ACW game called Gettysburg that appeared in C3i Magazine #32. That game’s rules and state were used as a basis for this new game which is Volume 1 in a new series called the Civil War Heritage Series.

The battles featured are Chickamauga, Chattanooga, Missionary Ridge, Chancellorsville, and Fredericksburg (solitaire). Several of the battles are linkable, covering the entire Chickamauga-Chattanooga campaigns.

From the game page, we read the following:

Units are portrayed at the Infantry/Cavalry division level. The Civil War Heritage Series game system features a new Zone of Influence/Zone of Control mechanic that controls unit formation (March/Battle) based on their proximity to your opponent. As your units close with the enemy, your forces naturally break into battle formation, where they then maneuver the last distance to engage. Unlike most hex and counter wargames, this system allows you total freedom to move units in any order multiple times, unleashing the full range of historical tactics in a simple and clean format.

Combat features a differential combat system with few but significant factors that capture the key features of Civil War division level combat. Units are rated for quality, artillery support, supporting units, and terrain. The game features artillery duels with the occasional Exploding Caisson result. The Civil War Heritage Series combat system accurately depicts the ability of units to launch multiple waves of attacks on the same position, capturing the back-and-forth nature of many famous combat duels.

This game is being marketed as an easy system to jump into with lots of interesting special units and situations that is fast playing and competitive. In my mind, saying a Civil War game is competitive means the sides will be somewhat evenly matched and will make for an anybody can win situation…but we shall see. And at least one of the scenarios (Fredericksburg) is designed as a solo scenario.

If you are interested in Rebel Fury: Five Battles from the Campaigns of Chancellorsville and Chickamauga, you can order a copy for $37.00 from the GMT Games’ website at the following link: https://www.gmtgames.com/p-747-rebel-fury-five-battles-from-the-campaigns-of-chancellorsville-and-chickamauga.aspx

10. WWII Campaigns: 1940, 1941, and 1942 from Compass Games

Anytime you see a multi-game pack being offered, it is always a good idea to at least give it a look. Especially when they are retooling classic games of yesteryear with new graphics, rules updates and additional content. Compass Games announced a new 3-game pack several years ago covering various campaigns during World War II all in the same box with these exact things. Also, the games in this series have no more than 120 counters and each play in 2 hours or less.

From the game page, we read the following:

WWII Campaigns: 1940, 1941, and 1942 is the faithful recreation of not one, but THREE classic GDW Series 120 games, in this all-encompassing package. Each of the three games is intended as challenging, introductory-level games; the “120” reflects each game in this series uses no more than 120 counters, and all are intended to be played to completion in two hours or less without sacrificing historical quality or gaming excellence. Classics in every sense of the word for their day, relive the battles with these old classics in a new and updated format (larger counters and map size).

Featured in this Series 120 Classic Edition are the following three standalone games:

1940, The Battle of France and the Low Countries is a two-player, operational-level (division/corps) — loosely based on the old SPI Battle of Moscow game system — of the first 52 days of the German offensive against France and the Low Countries in spring of 1940. The game focuses on the critical period — May 10 to June 30 — during which the Allies essentially fought and lost the First Battle for France. Units are corps/army, with a time scale of 5 days per game turn, and a map scale of 26 kilometers per hex.

1941, Operation Barbarossa, The Invasion of the Soviet Union covers the initial onslaught into the Soviet Union, beginning in the summer of 1941. Units are division/corps, with a time scale of one month per game turn, and a map scale of 65 kilometers per hex.

1942, The Japanese Campaign against Malaya, Java, and the initial attack in the Philippines covers the Japanese opening moves at the onset of the Pacific War, and the succeeding operations conducted against the various areas. The map covers the entire expanse of Southeast Asia at 85 nautical miles per hex. The gameplay is a true challenge for the Japanese player who must try to “run the table” and clear the map of Allied units.

I am very intrigued by this package and hope to give it a look as it seems to pack a punch and give you enough meat to chew on but presents it in a very manageable fashion.

If you are interested in WWII Campaigns: 1940, 1941, and 1942, you can order a copy for $54.00 from the Compass Games website at the following link: https://www.compassgames.com/product/wwii-campaigns-1940-1941-and-1942-pay-now/

11. The Great Northern War from Conflict Simulations Limited

If you are looking for something a bit different, then I have the exact thing for you. The Great Northern War is a new game from the mind of Raymond Weiss and Conflict Simulations Limited that deals with the 18th Century conflict between Sweden and Russia over greater influence in the Baltic Region. The game is not a traditional wargame and takes its inspiration from games such as A Very Civil Whist designed by Fred Serval and Maria from Histogames.

It also uses lots of new components like tiddlywinks, wooden pawns and is focused on cards and trick taking.

From the game page, we read the following:

A strategic hybrid card/wargame covering the first Barbarossa for 2 players. This will be our first game to come with wooden pieces, stickers and a gorgeous customized set of cards by artist Ilya Kudriashov. The Great Northern War allows players to briefly explore the conflict which set the stage for the remainder of the 18th century, and marked the decline of Sweden as a major power.

If you are interested in The Great Northern War, you can order a copy for $59.99 from the Conflict Simulations Limited website at the following link: https://www.consimsltd.com/products/the-great-northern-war-pre-order

As usual, thanks so much for reading along and sticking with me this month as I navigated through the many websites and game pages looking for new and interesting games to share. I am very excited about a lot of these games and really look forward to playing them. Please let me know if you know of a new pre-order game, Kickstarter or new release that I missed.

Finally, thanks once again to this month’s sponsor Salt & Pepper Games!

-Grant