Across Suez: The Battle of the Chinese Farm October 15, 1973 (1980)

Across Suez

“Across Suez: The Battle of the Chinese Farm, October 15, 1973” is a board wargame published by Simulations Publications (SPI) in 1980. Designed by Jim Dunnigan and Mark Herman, the game aims to simulate the Battle of Chinese Farm, which took place during the 1973 Arab-Israeli War. After SPI went out of business, Decision Games acquired the license for Across Suez and republished it in 1995, adding two variants and two new scenarios.

Why is Across Suez Popular?

Across Suez is popular and significant for several reasons:
– It is one of the four “gateway” games published by SPI in 1980, designed to introduce new players to the wargaming hobby.
– The game covers a historically significant event, the Battle of Chinese Farm, which was a crucial battle during the 1973 Arab-Israeli War.
– It is an operational-level wargame simulation, providing players with a realistic experience of the battle.

Game Components of Across Suez: The Battle of the Chinese Farm October 15, 1973

11 in × 17 in (280 mm × 430 mm) paper hex grid map

40 die-cut counters

Rules booklet

Various playing aids

A six-sided die

Small 9 in × 12 in × 1 in (229 mm × 305 mm × 25 mm) game box

How To Setup Across Suez: The Battle of the Chinese Farm October 15, 1973

Setup involves placing the map on a flat surface, distributing the counters according to the initial deployment rules, and ensuring each player has the necessary playing aids and rules booklet. The Israeli player sets up their forces on the west bank of the Suez Canal, while the Egyptian player sets up on the east bank, reflecting the historical positions of the forces at the start of the battle.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each turn represents 8 hours of game time, with the sequence being Israeli movement, Israeli combat, Egyptian movement, and Egyptian combat.

Game Duration: The game lasts seven turns.

Israeli Objective: The Israeli player must place a bridging unit on a specific hex on the Suez Canal, move a minimum of six combat units across the Suez, and maintain an unblocked line of communications to the bridging unit at the end of the last turn.

Egyptian Objective: The Egyptian player must prevent any of the Israeli victory conditions.

Player Experience

**Across Suez** is designed as an introductory-level simulation, making it accessible to new players in the wargaming hobby. The game reflects the surprise and shock of the initial fight, with quick gameplay that can be completed in about two hours. The simplicity and short duration make it an excellent choice for those looking to understand the basics of operational level wargaming.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: The game can be completed in about two hours.

Simple Rules: Ideal for beginners in wargaming.

Historical Accuracy: Simulates a significant battle of the 1973 Arab-Israeli War.

Additional Scenarios: Includes variants for airborne and amphibious landings.

Cons

Limited Complexity: May not appeal to experienced wargamers seeking more complex simulations.

Small Component Count: Only 40 counters, which might limit the scope of the battle simulation.

Personal Thoughts on Across Suez: The Battle of the Chinese Farm October 15, 1973

This game is perfect for those new to wargaming, offering a straightforward and engaging introduction to operational level simulations. It is also a great choice for history buffs interested in the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, as it provides a detailed and historically accurate representation of the Battle of the Chinese Farm. However, experienced wargamers might find the game too simplistic and lacking in depth. Overall, **Across Suez** is an excellent gateway game that can spark a deeper interest in wargaming and military history.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.