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The Great Patriotic War: Nazi Germany vs. the Soviet Union (1988) Board Game

ByMichail

The Great Patriotic War: Nazi Germany vs. the Soviet Union is a board game released in 1988, focusing on the intense conflict between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union during World War II. Developed by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW Games), this game allows players to step into the shoes of military commanders and strategize their way through historical battles.

Game Components of The Great Patriotic War: Nazi Germany vs. the Soviet Union

  • Map:** 22″ x 33″ hex grid map scaled at 40 mi (65 km) per hex
  • Rulebook:** 24-page rulebook
  • Scenario Booklet:** 16-page scenario booklet
  • Counters:** 240 die-cut counters
  • Additional Game:** A copy of *Battle for Moscow*, a smaller game on which *The Great Patriotic War* is based

    How To Setup The Great Patriotic War: Nazi Germany vs. the Soviet Union

    Setting up the game involves placing the hex grid map, distributing the counters according to the chosen scenario, and familiarizing oneself with the rulebook and scenario booklet. The game includes an introductory scenario to teach the basic rules, making the setup process more manageable for new players.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay Sequence:** Each turn consists of Reinforcements/Replacements, Special movement (Germans move tanks, Soviets move by train), Combat, and General movement.
  • Game Objective:** The objective is to occupy certain key cities, which determines the winner of each scenario.
  • Scenarios:** Includes five historical scenarios that can be combined into a campaign game.
  • Mechanics:** Hexagon Grid and Simulation

    Player Experience

    This game is designed for 2 players and takes around 180 minutes to play. It is rated for players aged 12 and above. The game is praised for its detailed components and the turn sequence that “beautifully models warfare at the Corps and Army level of this period”.

    Pros

  • Detailed Components:** Includes a comprehensive rulebook, scenario booklet, and die-cut counters.
  • Historical Accuracy:** Simulates the German-Soviet conflict with historical scenarios.
  • Educational:** Great for teaching new players about wargaming and World War II strategies.
  • Good Value:** Considered good value for money by many reviewers.

    Cons

  • Lack of Fog of War:** Criticized for not having a fog of war mechanism, making the battle simulation less realistic.
  • Complexity:** While the introductory scenario helps, the game can still be complex for new players.

    Personal Thoughts on The Great Patriotic War: Nazi Germany vs. the Soviet Union

    This game is ideal for enthusiasts of World War II history and wargaming. It offers a deep and immersive experience, especially for those interested in the German-Soviet conflict. However, due to its complexity and lack of a fog of war mechanism, it might not be the best fit for casual board game players. For those looking to delve into the strategic aspects of World War II, *The Great Patriotic War* is an excellent choice.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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