Wavre: The Lost Opportunity (1976) Board Game

Wavre: The Lost Opportunity is a historical wargame that simulates the Battle of Wavre during the Napoleonic Wars. It was released in 1976 by designer Redmond A. Simonsen and features artwork by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.). The game allows 1-2 players to recreate this pivotal battle that took place in 1815.

Game Components of Wavre: The Lost Opportunity

Map: A small 17″ x 22″ hex grid map depicting the area around Wavre.

Counters: 100 counters representing French and Prussian units.

Rules: Basic rules and special rules for additional complexity.

Dice: Used for resolving combat and other game mechanics.

Terrain Chits: Representing various types of terrain such as roads, trails, forests, and bridges.

How To Setup Wavre: The Lost Opportunity

To set up the game, players lay out the hex grid map and place the counters according to the initial deployment specified in the rules. Each side has its own set of units with specific starting positions. The game includes a simple “I Go, You Go” system of alternating player turns, with each turn representing one hour of game time.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players alternate turns, with the French player moving and engaging in combat first, followed by the Prussian player.

Unit Movement: Units move along hexes, with restrictions on stacking and movement through certain terrain types.

Combat: Mandatory combat when units are adjacent; resolved using a simple die roll mechanic.

Victory Conditions: The French aim to exit units off the western edge of the map and delay the Prussians, while the Prussians must establish a delaying force and exit their units off the map.

Victory Points: Awarded for eliminating enemy units and exiting units off the map.

Player Experience

**Wavre: The Lost Opportunity** is known for its tense and fast-paced gameplay. Players must carefully manage their unit movements and combat to achieve their objectives. The game is praised for its balanced and finely tuned mechanics, making it a challenging puzzle to solve.

Pros

Balanced Gameplay: The game is well-balanced, offering a finely tuned challenge for both sides.

Simple yet Strategic: Simple rules but deep strategic implications.

Quick Games: Games typically last one evening, around 8 turns.

Historical Accuracy: Reflects the operational level combat of the era.

Cons

Limited Complexity: Some critics find the game too simple or lacking in depth.

Map Issues: Minor errors in some versions of the map, such as missing terrain features.

Repetitive Gameplay: Some players may find the repetitive nature of the turns and combat resolution to be less engaging.

Personal Thoughts on Wavre: The Lost Opportunity

**Wavre: The Lost Opportunity** is ideal for players who enjoy tactical wargames with a strong historical context. It is particularly suited for those interested in the Napoleonic Wars and the specific battles around Waterloo. The game’s simplicity and short playtime make it accessible to new wargamers, while its strategic depth will keep experienced players engaged. However, those seeking highly complex or modern wargaming mechanics might find this game a bit outdated.

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