War in Europe (1976)
War in Europe
“War in Europe” is a grand strategic board wargame published by Simulations Publications Inc. (SPI) in 1976. The game aims to simulate the entirety of the European theatre of World War II from 1939 to 1945. It is one of the largest wargames ever produced, featuring:
– 4000 counters
– Four rulebooks
– Nine maps that, when placed together, cover an area of 38.5 ft² (3.6 m²)The game is nominally a three-player game (Allied, Axis, Soviet), but each side can be represented by teams of players. SPI estimated that the full game would take at least 180 hours.
Why is War in Europe Popular?
“War in Europe” is a popular and significant board game for several reasons:
– It is a “monster” board wargame, which means it is a large-scale game that covers a wide range of military operations and strategies.
– The game is historically accurate and provides players with a realistic experience of the complexities of World War II in Europe.
– It has inspired numerous articles, variants, and game replays, showcasing its impact on the wargaming community.
Game Components of War in Europe
How To Setup War in Europe
Setting up War in Europe is a meticulous process due to its complexity and the large number of components. Players need to arrange the maps, place the counters according to the scenario or campaign they are playing, and set up the tracking sheets for production, supply, and other game mechanics. The game comes with detailed rules and setup instructions to guide players through this process.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
– Players control the ground, air, sea, and strategic forces of the Axis, Allied, and Soviet powers to recreate or alter the events of World War II in Europe.
– The goal is to achieve victory by controlling key territories, managing resources, and executing strategic decisions.
Player Experience
Playing War in Europe is a deeply immersive and complex experience, often described as a “monster game” due to its extensive scope and detailed mechanics. The game requires significant time and space, with the full campaign spanning 296 player turns. It is ideal for dedicated wargamers who enjoy strategic depth and historical accuracy. Team play is common, as it allows multiple players to handle different aspects of the war effort.
Pros
Cons
Personal Thoughts on War in Europe
War in Europe is for the serious and dedicated wargamer who appreciates historical detail and complex strategy. It is not a game for casual players due to its intricate mechanics and the substantial time commitment required. However, for those who enjoy deep strategic gameplay and are willing to invest the time, War in Europe offers a rewarding and immersive experience that closely simulates the strategic challenges of World War II in Europe.
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