Streets of Stalingrad (1979)

Streets of Stalingrad

Streets of Stalingrad is a two-player board game that simulates the German offensive to take the city of Stalingrad in the fall of 1942. The game is set during World War II and models the fight for the city of Stalingrad at the company level. The game is known for its historical detail and accuracy.

Why is Streets of Stalingrad Popular?

Streets of Stalingrad is popular among wargamers due to its historical accuracy and attention to detail. The game is significant because it allows players to experience the intense fighting that took place during the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the most significant battles of World War II.

Game Components of Streets of Stalingrad

Game Map: A 4×8 game map representing the streets of Stalingrad.

Counters: Nearly 2,000 counters (playing pieces) for infantry companies, tank platoons, and artillery battalions.

Dice: Mechanics involve dice rolling, with different dice types reflecting the experience level of units in the 4th edition.

Hexagon Grid: The game uses a hexagon grid system to represent terrain and movement.

How To Setup Streets of Stalingrad

Setting up the game involves placing the large 4×8 game map, deploying the numerous counters according to the scenario, and preparing the dice and other game components. Each scenario has specific setup instructions, and the game requires careful attention to detail to accurately reflect the historical context.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Combat resolution and other actions are determined by rolling dice.

Hexagon Grid: Movement and positioning are managed within a hexagon grid system.

Company/Platoon Level: The game focuses on tactical decisions at the company and platoon level.

Objective: Players aim to control key areas of the city, simulating the intense urban warfare of the Battle of Stalingrad.

Player Experience

Playing **Streets of Stalingrad** can be a deeply immersive experience, especially for those interested in historical wargaming. The game is known for its complex and detailed mechanics, which can make it quite engaging but also time-consuming. The 4th edition introduces new elements such as Random Event and Command Decision cards, adding a layer of unpredictability and realism.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is praised for its detailed simulation of the Battle of Stalingrad.

Complex Gameplay: Offers a rich and complex gaming experience for wargame enthusiasts.

Awards: Won the Charles S. Roberts Award for “Best Initial Release of a Boardgame of 1980”.

New Features: The 4th edition includes new mechanics like random event cards and multiple dice types to reflect unit experience levels.

Cons

Complexity: The game is known for its fiddly combat resolution and complex setup, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Time-Consuming: Gameplay can take many hours or even days to complete.

Learning Curve: Requires a significant amount of time to understand and master the rules.

Personal Thoughts on Streets of Stalingrad

**Streets of Stalingrad** is ideal for hardcore wargamers who enjoy detailed, complex simulations of historical battles. It is not a game for casual players due to its intricate rules and lengthy gameplay sessions. For those who appreciate the granularity of tactical decision-making and the historical context of the Battle of Stalingrad, this game offers a unique and rewarding experience. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a quick or easy-to-learn game.

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