| | | | | |

Rommel’s War (1985) Board Game

ByMichail

Rommel’s War is a strategic wargame that simulates the North African campaign during World War II. Players take on the roles of the British and Axis forces led by Field Marshal Erwin Rommel as they battle for control of key territories in the deserts of North Africa.

Game Components of Rommel’s War

  • Mounted Game Board**
  • Custom Printed Blocks**
  • Custom Tray Card Deck**
  • Player Aid Sheet**
  • Rule Books**
  • Note: Despite mentioning “Dice” in one source, the primary two-player game does not use dice for combat.

    How To Setup Rommel’s War

    To set up the game, players place the mounted game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player receives their respective blocks, cards, and player aid sheets. The game starts with each side having designated reinforcement and starting locations, such as Alexandria for the Germans and Tobruk for the British. The turn track and supply lines are also set up to ensure both players understand the spatial and logistical elements of the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    Mechanics

  • Campaign / Battle Card Driven**
  • Point to Point Movement**
  • Deterministic Combat: Combat is resolved by comparing the strength values of the units involved, with optional initiative cards to add strength.
  • Supply Management: Keeping units in supply and maintaining open supply lines is crucial.

    Game Objective

  • The objective is to capture the opponent’s base (Alexandria for the Axis or Tobruk for the Allies) or control Tobruk at the end of the 10-turn game. If one side surrounds Tobruk on three locations, the game is won by the side with the most units remaining on the board.

    Player Experience

    **Rommel’s War** offers a fast-paced and strategic experience, with games lasting about 60 minutes. Players must maneuver their units efficiently, manage supplies, and make tactical decisions about when to commit units to battle. The game is praised for its simplicity and accessibility, making it a great introduction to wargaming.

    Pros

  • Easy to Learn: The game has only 8 pages of rules and is designed for quick setup and play.
  • Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game requires thoughtful maneuvering and supply management.
  • Thematic Accuracy: It captures the essence of the North African Campaign, focusing on key locations and strategic objectives.

    Cons

  • Deterministic Combat: Some players find the combat mechanism, which relies on adding up unit strengths, too predictable and lacking in randomness.
  • Limited Randomness: The absence of dice rolls for combat can make the game feel less dynamic.

    Personal Thoughts on Rommel’s War

    **Rommel’s War** is ideal for those interested in World War II history, particularly the North African Campaign, and who prefer a more streamlined wargaming experience. It is a great choice for new players looking to dip into the world of wargames without being overwhelmed by complex rules. However, players who enjoy elements of chance and unpredictability in their games might find the deterministic combat less engaging. Overall, it’s a solid addition to any wargamer’s collection, offering a quick and engaging game that still requires strategic thinking.

    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. 

    • 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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *