First Blood: Second Marne, 15 July 1918 (2008) Board Game

First Blood: Second Marne, 15 July 1918 is a wargame that simulates the Battle of the Second Marne, a key engagement during World War I. The battle took place in July 1918 and was a turning point in the war, marking the beginning of the end for the German Army’s offensive capabilities on the Western Front.

Game Components of First Blood: Second Marne, 15 July 1918

Map: Represents the Marne River and surrounding terrain, including the Surmelin River Valley, small towns, and woods.

Units: Includes German and American infantry units, with varying strengths.

Artillery Rules: Reflects the use of massed artillery attacks and counter-battery fire.

Random Event Mechanics: Incorporates random setup and events to simulate the unpredictability of war.

Game Pieces: Hexagonal units and markers for tracking artillery and unit strengths.

How To Setup First Blood: Second Marne, 15 July 1918

The setup involves placing German units along the northern shore of the Marne River, with a random draw of 30 units placed one at a time in specific hexes. This random setup prevents the German player from forming a concrete battle plan before the game starts. American units are placed on the south side of the map, defending their positions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective:
– German player: Eliminate all American units or exit units off the south edge of the map.
– American player: Eliminate all German units.

Gameplay Mechanics:

Artillery Phase: Players use artillery to weaken enemy units before direct combat.

Movement and Combat: Units move and engage in combat, with terrain affecting defensive strength.

Random Events: Random draws can affect unit placements and effectiveness.

Victory Conditions:
– Primary: Eliminate all opponent’s units.
– Alternate for Germans: Exit units off the south edge of the map.
– Optional time limit: 16 turns.

Player Experience

**First Blood: Second Marne** is a game that is quick to learn but offers deep strategic gameplay, typically lasting two to four hours. It presents a challenging scenario, particularly for the American player, who must defend against a stronger and more experienced German force. The game requires players to understand the map and utilize proper axes of advance and defensive positions effectively.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Simulates a real World War I battle with attention to historical details.

Strategic Depth: Encourages thoughtful planning and use of terrain and artillery.

Replayability: Random setup ensures different game experiences each time.

Educational: Provides insight into World War I tactics and the challenges faced by forces during this period.

Cons

Balance Issues: The game is biased towards the German player, making it easier for them to win.

Complexity for New Players: While the rules are simple, the strategic depth can be overwhelming for new players.

Length: Games can take several hours to complete, which may not appeal to those looking for quicker games.

Personal Thoughts on First Blood: Second Marne, 15 July 1918

**First Blood: Second Marne** is ideal for history buffs and veteran wargamers who appreciate detailed simulations of historical battles. It offers a unique blend of strategy and historical context, making it a great addition to any wargamer’s collection. However, new players may find the game’s balance and complexity challenging, so it is best suited for those with some experience in war games.

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