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The Next War: Modern Conflict in Europe (1978) Board Game

ByMichail

The Next War: Modern Conflict in Europe is a board game released in 1978, designed by Redmond A. Simonsen and published by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.). The game is set in a hypothetical modern conflict in Europe, focusing on strategic warfare and military tactics.

Game Components of The Next War: Modern Conflict in Europe

  • Maps: Three 22 in × 35 in (560 mm × 890 mm) map sheets with a scale of 14 kilometres per hex, plus a 6 in × 8 in (150 mm × 200 mm) and a 10 in × 12 in (250 mm × 300 mm) map extension.
  • Counters: 2400 die-cut 1/2″ counters.
  • Rulebook: A 32-page rulebook.
  • Scenarios and Situation Briefing: A 40-page book.
  • Charts & Tables: Two identical 4-page folders.
  • Air Allocation Display**.

    How To Setup The Next War: Modern Conflict in Europe

    Setting up the game involves laying out the large map sheets that cover the central European front from Denmark to Italy. Players need to organize the extensive set of counters, which represent various military units, and place them on their respective starting positions as indicated in the scenario being played. The rulebook and scenario briefings provide detailed instructions on how to set up each scenario, including the distribution of forces and initial conditions such as weather and supply lines.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective: One player controls the Warsaw Pact forces, aiming to invade and capture key areas of Western Europe, while the other player defends with NATO forces.
  • Game Mechanics:
    – Ground, air, and naval operations
    – Weather and supply lines management
    – Chemical or nuclear warfare options
    – Airborne troops and amphibious landings
    – Special forces and electronic warfare
    – Complex rules for air and anti-aircraft units
    – Campaign game involving three scenarios covering the first 60 days after an invasion

    Player Experience

    Playing **The Next War** is a deeply immersive and complex experience. The game is renowned for its realism and comprehensive rules, making it a favorite among serious wargamers. Each turn can be lengthy due to the detailed calculations required for attacks and the management of various military assets. The game demands a significant amount of time and effort but offers a highly realistic simulation of modern conflict.

    Pros

  • Realistic Simulation: Covers most areas of modern military conflict, including ground, air, and naval operations.
  • Depth and Complexity: Enough basic and optional rules to keep gamers engaged for a long time.
  • Historical Significance: Simulates a hypothetical but plausible scenario of the late 1970s Cold War era.
  • Awards and Recognition: Finalist for Charles S. Roberts Awards in two categories.

    Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve: Requires significant time and effort to learn and master the rules.
  • Lengthy Gameplay: Each attack can take ten to fifteen minutes to compute the right odds.
  • Manageability: Keeping track of all the air and anti-aircraft units can be burdensome.

    Personal Thoughts on The Next War: Modern Conflict in Europe

    **The Next War** is tailored for serious wargamers who enjoy detailed and realistic simulations of military conflicts. It is not a game for casual players due to its complexity and the time commitment required. However, for those who are willing to invest the time and effort, it offers a rich and rewarding gaming experience that simulates the intricacies of modern warfare during the Cold War era.

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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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