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Raid on Iran (1980)

ByMichail

Raid on Iran

Raid on Iran is a board game published by Steve Jackson Games in 1980. It is a simulation of what might have occurred if the mission to rescue American hostages in Iran had reached Tehran. The game was designed as a minigame and was one of three wargames published by Steve Jackson Games in October 1980, with the other two being Kung Fu 2100 and One-Page Bulge. Raid on Iran was the best seller of the three due to the Iran Hostage Crisis being recent at the time.

Why is Raid on Iran Popular?

Raid on Iran is significant because it was published during the Iran Hostage Crisis, which was a major international event at the time. The game allowed players to simulate a hypothetical rescue mission to free American hostages in Iran, which was a topic of great interest and concern at the time. The game’s popularity may also be due to its fast, playable yet challenging gameplay.

Game Components of Raid on Iran

  • Map:** Based on actual maps and aerial photographs of the embassy area.
  • Rules Sheet:** Detailed rules for setup and gameplay.
  • Charts and Tables:** For resolving attacks and other game mechanics.
  • 119 Counters:** Representing U.S. and Iranian units, hostages, and other elements.
  • Dice:** At least two dice required for resolving various actions.
  • Pencil and Paper:** For tracking victory points and other game state.
  • Straightedge:** For aligning units on the map.

    How To Setup Raid on Iran

    The setup involves both players preparing their units and the map. The Iranian player places militants and sentries around the embassy, including specific allocations to the Residence and Chancellery buildings. They also distribute hidden militant units throughout the area. The American player sets up their commando units and mortars outside the embassy area. Hostages are placed in designated locations within the buildings. Neither player knows the exact distribution of all militant units until they are alerted during the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** The American player aims to rescue as many hostages as possible, while the Iranian player seeks to prevent this and potentially execute the hostages.
  • Turn Structure:** Players take turns with the Iranian player alerting and moving militants, and the American player commanding their units to infiltrate and rescue hostages.
  • Hostage Executions:** The Iranian player can attempt to execute hostages, with outcomes determined by dice rolls. Successful executions penalize the American player.
  • Combat:** Combat is resolved through dice rolls, with various modifiers applying based on the situation.
  • Alerting Militants:** Iranian sentries alert hidden militants as the game progresses, increasing the difficulty for the American player.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Raid on Iran** involves a blend of strategy and luck, as both players navigate the complexities of the rescue mission. The game’s tension builds as the American player tries to infiltrate the embassy without triggering militant responses, while the Iranian player must balance defense with the threat of hostage executions.

    Pros

  • Topical and Historical Significance:** Released during the Iran hostage crisis, it captures a pivotal moment in history.
  • Simple yet Strategic:** Despite its simplicity, the game offers deep strategic choices.
  • High Replayability:** The random placement of militants and variable player powers ensure different experiences each game.

    Cons

  • Outdated Mechanics:** Some mechanics may feel dated compared to modern board games.
  • Limited Player Interaction:** The game is primarily focused on solo efforts within each player’s turn, limiting direct interaction.
  • Luck-Dependent Outcomes:** Dice rolls can significantly impact the game’s outcome, which may not appeal to all players.

    Personal Thoughts on Raid on Iran

    **Raid on Iran** is a game for those interested in historical military simulations and wargames. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy strategic planning and can appreciate the historical context of the game. While it may not appeal to those looking for modern, complex game mechanics, it remains a compelling and challenging experience for those who enjoy the genre. Given its historical significance and unique gameplay, it is a valuable addition to any collection of vintage or niche board games.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl