Deluxe G.E.V. (2001) Board Game

Deluxe G.E.V. is a science fiction wargame that was first released in in 2001. Designed by Philip Reed, the game is set in a futuristic world where players control military units on a hexagon grid battlefield. The game is a standalone expansion to the classic game Ogre, also designed by Steve Jackson Games.

Game Components of Deluxe G.E.V.

Map: A 12″ x 14″ map printed on glossy paper, depicting a futuristic battlefield.

Counters: 135 counters representing military units and machines, including GEVs, tanks, infantry, and artillery.

Rulebook: A 22-page rulebook outlining the game mechanics and scenarios.

How To Setup Deluxe G.E.V.

To set up the game, players first lay out the map, which features various terrains such as ridgelines and radioactive craters. The defender sets up their forces in the more congested part of the map, while the attacker prepares their units, which can include GEVs, tanks, and other vehicles. Each scenario has specific setup instructions, including the distribution of units and the objectives for each side.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement: Each unit has a movement factor indicating how many hexes it can move each turn, with terrain affecting movement.

Combat: Attacks are resolved by comparing the attacker’s strength to the defender’s defense strength, with rules for overrun combat, spillover fire, and cover.

Game Objective: The objective varies by scenario but generally involves breaking through defenses, causing damage, or capturing territory. Victory is determined by a points-based system.

Unique Mechanics: GEVs have a move-fire-move sequence, allowing for hit-and-run tactics or high-speed advances.

Player Experience

Deluxe G.E.V. offers a fast-paced and strategic gameplay experience. Players need to employ combined-arms tactics, leveraging the strengths of different units to achieve their objectives. The game is praised for its quick gameplay, with most scenarios resolving within a short time frame, often around 10-30 minutes.

Pros

Fast Gameplay: Scenarios are quick to resolve, making it an excellent choice for those with limited time.

High Replayability: Multiple scenarios and unit combinations ensure the game remains engaging over multiple plays.

Strategic Depth: The game requires careful planning and use of different unit types to succeed.

Imaginative Scenarios: Includes unique scenarios such as attacking a supply train or racing across a DMZ.

Cons

Complexity: Some players find the game too complex or dull compared to its predecessor, *Ogre*.

Production Quality: Earlier editions had some issues with the durability of the game components.

Personal Thoughts on Deluxe G.E.V.

Deluxe G.E.V. is ideal for fans of science fiction and wargaming, particularly those who enjoy strategic, fast-paced games. It is a great choice for experienced gamers looking for a challenge and for those who appreciate the nuances of combined-arms warfare. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers seeking a more straightforward experience.

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