Korea: Fire and Ice (2018) Board Game

Korea: Fire and Ice is a board game that simulates the military conflict that took place on the Korean peninsula in the 1950s. The game focuses on the struggle between North Korea, backed by communist allies, and South Korea, supported by the United Nations and the United States. Players take on the roles of military commanders, making strategic decisions to secure victory in this intense conflict.

Game Components of Korea: Fire and Ice

2 maps (or 3 maps in some versions) of the Korean Peninsula

3 countersheets

Rulebook

Various play aids and charts

Hex scale: 10 miles per hex

Turn scale: 1 week per turn

How To Setup Korea: Fire and Ice

Setting up the game involves laying out the large map of the Korean Peninsula, which is divided into sections and may require a significant amount of space. Players must organize the counters, play aids, and charts according to the rules. The setup prepares the game environment for the mobile period of the Korean War, from 1950-51.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Operational-strategic level war game

Mechanics: Impulse/supply based movement system

Objective: Players aim to recreate the dynamic period of the Korean War, managing the initial Communist attack, the US invasion at Inchon, and the subsequent Chinese intervention.

Key Aspects:
– Divisional and operational-strategic level warfare
– Emphasis on infrastructure and supply chains
– Fast-paced gameplay with weekly turns

Player Experience

The gameplay is described as fast and interesting, utilizing a low playing piece density. However, some players have noted that the game’s accuracy could be improved. The rulebook has been a point of contention, with some versions being confusing and requiring errata downloads from external sources.

Pros

Fast and engaging gameplay

Unique impulse/supply based movement system

Covers a critical and dynamic period of the Korean War

Cons

Rulebook can be confusing and may require external errata

Map and play area requirements are extensive

Some players find the game’s accuracy lacking

Personal Thoughts on Korea: Fire and Ice

**Korea: Fire and Ice** is tailored for fans of strategic and operational-level war games, particularly those interested in the Korean War. It offers a detailed and dynamic simulation of the war’s early stages but may require patience and dedication to navigate its complexities and potential production issues. This game is best suited for experienced board game enthusiasts who are willing to invest time in learning its mechanics and overcoming any production shortcomings.

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