Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign (1999) Board Game

Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign is a board game that simulates the historical events of the Finnish Campaign during World War II. This particular conflict took place between Finland and the Soviet Union from 1939 to 1940, known as the Winter War. The game allows players to take on the roles of either the Finnish or Soviet forces and reenact the battles that occurred during this time period.

Game Components of Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign

Game Counters: 60 counters, including those for the Finnish and Russian forces.

Maps: Covers two battles in the forests of Karelia, specifically Allakurtti and Loukhi.

Rulebook: Detailed rules for gameplay.

Magazine: Originally released with Strategy & Tactics magazine #199.

How To Setup Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign

To set up the game, players need to lay out the maps representing the battlefields of Allakurtti and Loukhi. Each player assigns the respective counters to their forces according to the scenario rules. The setup involves positioning units, allocating resources, and ensuring all components are in place before initiating the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics: Hex-and-counter system, typical of many wargames.

Game Objective: Players aim to replicate historical battles, with the Finnish player trying to hold off or defeat the Russian forces, and the Russian player seeking to capture key objectives.

Turn Sequence: Alternating turns involving movement, combat, and resource management.

Victory Conditions: Winning depends on achieving specific objectives such as holding key terrain or eliminating a certain number of enemy units.

Player Experience

Playing **Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign** offers a deep dive into the strategic and tactical aspects of World War II battles, particularly those involving the Finnish army. The game is designed for two players, providing an intense and focused experience. The hex-and-counter system allows for detailed and realistic military simulations, which will appeal to fans of wargames and historical military conflicts.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched, offering a realistic portrayal of the battles.

Engaging Mechanics: The hex-and-counter system provides a challenging and engaging gameplay experience.

Focused Gameplay: Designed for two players, ensuring a concentrated and intense game session.

Educational Value: Players gain insights into lesser-known aspects of World War II history.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex, especially for new players to wargames.

Limited Availability: The game was released in 1999 and might be difficult to find or purchase.

Steep Learning Curve: The rules and setup can be time-consuming to learn.

Personal Thoughts on Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign

**Forgotten Axis: The Finnish Campaign** is ideal for wargame enthusiasts and those interested in World War II history. It offers a unique perspective on the conflict by focusing on battles often overlooked in larger historical narratives. While it may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a gem for those who enjoy detailed military simulations and historical accuracy.

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