Home Before the Leaves Fall: The Marne Campaign 1914 (1997) Board Game

Home Before the Leaves Fall: The Marne Campaign 1914 is a historical wargame that simulates the events of the Battle of the Marne during World War I. The game was released in 1997 and is designed for 2 to 4 players, with a playing time of around 360 minutes. The game is set on a hexagon grid map and focuses on the strategic decisions and military maneuvers of the French and German armies during this crucial battle.

Game Components

Map: 22″ x 34″ paper hex grid map scaled at 7.2 km (4.5 mi) per hex.

Counters: 200 ½” die-cut cardboard counters.

Rules: Rules sheet and errata sheet (dated October 31, 1973).

Dice: A six-sided die.

How To Setup

To set up the game, players need to place the units according to the scenario being played. The game includes two historical scenarios: “The German Pursuit” starting on August 30, 1914, and “The Allied Counterattack” starting on September 6, 1914. These scenarios can be combined into one campaign game. Each scenario has specific setup instructions detailed in the rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Format: Classic “I Go, You Go” format, where the German player is active, followed by the Allied player.

Turn Phases: Each turn represents one day and consists of four phases: First movement phase, First combat phase, Second movement phase, and Second combat phase.

Objective: The German player aims to avoid their historical defeat, while the Allied player seeks to recreate their historical victory.

Unit Movement and Combat: Units can be moved and engage in combat in each phase, with stacking limits and flanking rules applying.

Player Experience

**The Marne: Home Before the Leaves Fall** offers a fluid and dynamic gameplay experience, particularly notable for its double move and double combat sequence. This mechanic allows for a more engaging and maneuver-based game, contrasting with the typical trench warfare scenarios of World War I. The game is relatively simple to learn, making it accessible to new wargamers, yet it still provides enough depth for experienced players.

Pros

Fluid Gameplay: Double move and double combat phases create a dynamic and engaging experience.

Historical Accuracy: Simulates the critical Battle of the Marne with historical scenarios.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules and a straightforward map make it accessible to new players.

Quick Setup: Quick setup and a relatively short playtime of 3–4 hours.

Cons

Limited Complexity: Some reviewers find the game too straightforward and lacking in complexity.

Stacking Issues: Unit stacking can be impractical due to the wide front and potential for flanking.

Mixed Reviews: Some critics have labeled it as “boring” and “unrealistic.”

Personal Thoughts on The Marne: Home Before the Leaves Fall

This game is ideal for those interested in World War I and tactical wargaming. It is a great introduction for new wargamers due to its simple rules and quick setup. Experienced players may appreciate its unique gameplay mechanics and the historical accuracy of the scenarios. However, those seeking complex and intricate wargaming may find it too straightforward. Overall, it’s a fun and playable game that captures the essence of maneuver warfare in the early days of World War I.

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