A Victory Denied: Crisis at Smolensk, July-September, 1941 (2009) Board Game

A Victory Denied: Crisis at Smolensk, July-September, 1941 is a board game designed by Adam Starkweather and published by Game Journal in in 2009. The game is set during World War II and focuses on the critical battle at Smolensk on the Eastern Front. Players take on the roles of the German and Soviet forces as they battle for control of this strategic city.

Game Components of A Victory Denied: Crisis at Smolensk, July-September, 1941

Map: Features colored symbols indicating setup locations for German and Soviet units.

Chits: Used for the chit-pull system, which drives the game’s events and activations.

Dice: Utilized for resolving combat and other key actions.

Charts, Tables, and Tracks: Provide necessary data and logistic management for the game.

Boxes: Organizational tools for unit and resource management.

How To Setup A Victory Denied: Crisis at Smolensk, July-September, 1941

To set up the game, players must place German and Soviet units on the map according to the colored symbols and specific setup instructions. Several charts, tables, and tracks need to be initialized, and the chit-pull system must be prepared. The rulebook includes detailed setup instructions, ensuring that all components are correctly positioned before the game begins.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Chit-Pull System: Drives the activation of units and events.

Dice Rolling: Used for combat resolution and other critical actions.

Medium Difficulty: The game is designed to be challenging but accessible.

Game Objective: Players aim to achieve strategic and tactical victories, with the Germans seeking to capture Smolensk and the Soviets working to defend it.

Player Experience

**A Victory Denied** offers a deeply immersive and historically rich experience, allowing players to delve into the complexities of World War II strategy. The game spans 240 minutes, making it a significant commitment but one that rewards careful planning and tactical execution. The medium difficulty level ensures that the game is engaging without being overly daunting.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously detailed to reflect the historical context of the battle.

Deep Strategy: Players must balance short-term and long-term goals, making it a game of deep strategic thinking.

Engaging Mechanics: The chit-pull system and dice rolling add a layer of unpredictability, enhancing the game’s replay value.

Cons

Long Playtime: The 240-minute playtime can be a barrier for some players.

Complex Setup: The setup process is detailed and requires careful attention to the rules.

Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the game mechanics and rules challenging to learn initially.

Personal Thoughts on A Victory Denied: Crisis at Smolensk, July-September, 1941

**A Victory Denied** is ideally suited for wargame enthusiasts and those with a keen interest in World War II history. It offers a rich and challenging experience that rewards careful strategy and historical knowledge. However, due to its complexity and long playtime, it may not be the best fit for casual or new board game players. If you’re looking for a game that combines historical depth with engaging mechanics, **A Victory Denied** is certainly worth considering.

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