A worn board game box cover titled "Team Yankee First Battle," with a silhouetted tank graphic, indicating a World War III theme, based on the book Team Yankee by Harold Coyle, by Game Designers' Workshop.
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Team Yankee (1987)

Team Yankee

“Team Yankee” is a board wargame published by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW) in 1987, based on the 1987 novel “Team Yankee” by Harold Coyle. The novel is set in West Germany during a hypothetical World War III and focuses on a tank battle. The wargame was designed to be a simplified version of a traditional “I go, You go” system, with basic rules that were marketed to new gamers using a “First Battle” label on the box.

Why is Team Yankee Popular?

The game is popular due to its connection to the 1987 novel “Team Yankee” and its depiction of a hypothetical World War III in West Germany. The novel and the wargame have sparked debates and discussions among players and enthusiasts, making the game more engaging and appealing. Additionally, the game is significant because it provides a glimpse into the potential scenarios of a large-scale conflict during the Cold War era.

Game Components of Team Yankee

The game box contains:
– Two double-sided paper hex grid maps scaled at 200 m (220 yd) per hex
– 240 die-cut counters
– Rule book
– Storage tray
– Six-sided die
– Background booklet

Game Setup of Team Yankee

The game is played on a tabletop surface with the provided hex grid maps and counters. Players choose their armies and place them on the map according to the scenario rules. The game proceeds in turns, with each player taking alternating turns to execute their actions.

Gameplay Mechanics of Team Yankee

During each turn, the first player has several phases:
– List artillery targets and roll a die to see if air units are available
– Attack with some or all units where they are
– Movement (Opponent may have an opportunity for reactive fire)

Game Objective of Team Yankee

The game’s objective is to control the map and achieve specific victory conditions, which vary depending on the scenario. Players can choose from various scenarios, some of which are based on historical events and others that are hypothetical.

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