Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942 (1977)

Air Assault on Crete

Air Assault on Crete is a wargame published by Avalon Hill in 1977 that simulates the Battle of Crete during World War II. The game is a strategic battalion-level game that simulates the first totally airborne invasion in history, with the Germans overwhelming the rag-tag defenders of Crete. The game also includes a separate bonus game, Invasion of Malta, 1942, which simulates Operation Hercules, a proposed German invasion of Malta that was planned by the German High Staff but never initiated.

Why is Air Assault on Crete Popular?

Air Assault on Crete is considered a significant game because it was one of the first wargames to simulate an airborne invasion. The game is also popular among wargamers because it offers several scenarios set over the course of the 10-day battle, approximating the troop strengths, drops, and reserves from the battle.

Game Components of Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942

3-part mapboard (66 in × 8 in) with a hex grid scaled to 1.6 kilometres per hex

24-page rulebook

Over 500 die-cut counters

Separate mapboard and counters for the bonus game *Invasion of Malta: 1942*

No dice included

How To Setup Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942

Setup involves placing the mapboards, deploying the Allied forces to resist an amphibious landing from the north, and positioning German units according to the scenario. The German player’s counters are initially inverted to conceal their strength. Each unit is placed on the map according to the scenario rules, with specific starting positions for both the Allied and German forces.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

German Play Segment:
– Aircraft Placement & Bombardment Phase
– Airborne Assault and Air Landing Phase
– Sea Movement Phase
– Movement Phase
– Combat Phase

Allied Play Segment:
– Sea Movement Phase
– Movement Phase
– Combat Phase

Game Objective:

Basic Game: Germans must seize one airfield and hold it for four turns to win.

Advanced Game: Germans must seize an airfield by Turn 8. Allies can win by evacuating combatant and non-combatant units via designated escape routes and inflicting significant casualties on the Germans.

Player Experience

Playing *Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942* is a complex and engaging experience, requiring strategic planning and tactical execution. The game’s phases mimic the real-life battle, with the Germans needing to secure airfields for reinforcements and the Allies aiming to defend and evacuate. The variability in unit strengths and the hidden German counter values add a layer of realism and challenge.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Simulates the Battle of Crete and a proposed invasion of Malta with detailed mechanics.

Depth and Complexity: Offers both Basic and Advanced game modes, catering to different levels of players.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and varied unit strengths ensure high replay value.

Bonus Game: Includes a separate game, *Invasion of Malta: 1942*, which adds more content to the package.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has intricate victory conditions and multiple phases, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Component Count: Managing over 500 counters can be cumbersome.

Historical Omissions: Criticized for omitting certain historical details, such as the cliffs on the Western Beach in the Malta scenario.

Personal Thoughts on Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942

*Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942* is ideal for experienced wargamers and history enthusiasts who appreciate detailed simulations of historical battles. The game’s complexity and depth make it challenging but rewarding, offering a rich and immersive experience for those willing to invest the time to learn its mechanics. It is not recommended for casual players or those new to wargames due to its intricate rules and setup.

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