Storm over Arnhem (1981) – Board Game Guys

Storm Over Arnhem

Storm Over Arnhem is a board wargame that simulates the battle for the Arnhem Bridge over the Lower Rhine river during Operation Market Garden in September 1944. The game was designed by Courtney F. Allen and published by Avalon Hill in 1981. One player controls the British units, while the other player controls the German defenders.

Why is Storm Over Arnhem Popular?

Storm Over Arnhem is considered a significant game due to its historical accuracy and the level of detail in its Gameplay Mechanics of Storm Over Arnhem. It is also popular among wargamers due to its challenging gameplay and the opportunity to recreate a pivotal moment in World War II history.

Game Components of Storm over Arnhem

Game Board: A map of the surroundings of the northern side of Arnhem bridge, divided into 30 areas of various sizes and shapes to represent unique characteristics such as buildings and trees.

Counters: Representing British and German units, with additional counters for variant games.

Movement Zones: Five zones outside Arnhem for quick unit movement.

Rule Book: Detailed instructions for setup and gameplay.

How To Setup Storm over Arnhem

Setup involves semi-free initial unit deployment. The German player must place a certain number of SS units in designated deployment zones but has flexibility in choosing which units to place. British units are deployed according to specific rules. The game starts on the afternoon of September 18, 1944, with British units aiming to capture and hold the northern end of Arnhem bridge.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each day is divided into three turns (two day turns and one night turn), with each turn consisting of five phases: Reinforcement & Reformed Units Phase, Random Events Phase, Movement/Fire Phase, Close Combat Phase, and Victory Point Determination Phase.

Area Movement System: Units move and attack within designated areas rather than hexes.

Impulse System: Players alternate impulses during the Movement/Fire Phase until all uncommitted units are used or both players pass.

Objective: The British aim to hold the Arnhem bridge, while the Germans aim to gain at least 22 victory points by occupying key areas by the end of the last turn.

Player Experience

**Storm over Arnhem** offers a dynamic and strategic experience, particularly appealing to those interested in historical warfare. The game’s mechanics, such as the area movement system and impulse system, create a tactical dilemma where players must carefully manage their units and resources. The inclusion of random events and close combat phases adds an element of unpredictability, enhancing the overall engagement.

Pros

Historical Depth: The game accurately depicts the Battle of Arnhem, providing a rich historical context.

Strategic Complexity: The area movement and impulse systems offer a challenging and engaging gameplay experience.

Replayability: Random events and variable unit deployments increase the game’s replay value.

Awards and Recognition: Nominated for and won several awards, indicating its quality and popularity.

Cons

Complex Setup: The semi-free deployment and specific rules can make the initial setup complex.

Lengthy Gameplay: The game can last up to 300 minutes, which may not be suitable for all players.

Niche Appeal: The game’s focus on a specific historical battle might limit its appeal to a broader audience.

Personal Thoughts on Storm over Arnhem

**Storm over Arnhem** is ideal for those who enjoy war games and are interested in World War II history. It is particularly suited for experienced gamers due to its medium to high complexity level. The game’s detailed mechanics and historical accuracy make it a standout in its genre, but it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, light-hearted experience. If you appreciate strategic depth and historical context, **Storm over Arnhem** is definitely worth considering.

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