Bastogne or Bust (Second Edition) (1995) Board Game

Bastogne or Bust (Second Edition) is a wargame set during World War II, specifically focusing on the Battle of the Bulge. It was first released in 1995 by Terran Games, Inc. The game is designed for 2 players and is recommended for ages 16 and up. Players take on the roles of American and German forces, strategically maneuvering their units on a hexagon grid battlefield.

Game Components of Bastogne or Bust

Map: Represents the terrain of the Battle of the Bulge, including woods, rivers, and key road junctions.

Units: Companies, battalions, and regiments, all single-sided, meaning they are eliminated upon suffering a loss.

Rulebook: Details the game mechanics, setup, and play sequence.

Dice: Used for resolving combat and other game functions.

Supply Rules: Include tracing supply lines, capturing supply dumps, and managing fuel shortages.

How To Setup Bastogne or Bust

The setup involves placing the units according to the historical dispositions of the German and Allied forces at the start of the Battle of the Bulge. The German units are placed in their attacking positions, while the Allied units are set up in defensive positions. The game includes specific zones and areas that facilitate movement and supply tracing. Initial setup shots can be found online to help guide players through this process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Sequence: The German player goes first, followed by the Allied player, with phases including movement, combat, supply tracing, and reinforcement placement.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved using a Combat Results Table (CRT) with odds ranging from 1:3 to 7:1, incorporating die rolls and modifiers for terrain, artillery, and other factors.

Supply Management: Supply lines must be traced to friendly edges, with Germans facing stricter supply rules and penalties for being out of supply.

Objective: The German player aims to break through the Allied lines, while the Allied player must hold and eventually counterattack to regain lost ground.

Player Experience

Playing **Bastogne or Bust** is a deep and engaging experience, particularly for fans of WWII wargames. The game requires strategic planning and operational management, making it challenging but rewarding. The simple turn sequence and functional terrain design make the game accessible, but the full game can take at least 12 hours to complete, making it a significant time commitment.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game includes the right units and a map that accurately represents the battle area.

Engaging Mechanics: The zone and area movement system and supply rules add depth to the gameplay.

Replayability: While initial moves may follow historical patterns, the game opens up to various strategies as it progresses.

Cons

Lengthy Gameplay: A full game can take at least 12 hours, which may deter some players.

Complexity: While the turn sequence is simple, the game has many nuances and rules that require careful study and understanding.

Personal Thoughts on Bastogne or Bust

**Bastogne or Bust** is for serious wargamers and enthusiasts of the Battle of the Bulge. It offers a detailed and challenging simulation that requires commitment and strategic thinking. For those who enjoy operational-level wargames and are willing to invest the time, this game provides a rich and historically accurate experience. However, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those looking for a quick playthrough.

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