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No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts is a board game designed by Rodger B. MacGowan and Carl Paradis and published by GMT Games in in 2018. It is a part of the No Retreat! series, which focuses on strategic wargaming set during World War II. This particular installment covers the initial stages of the war, including the invasion of Poland and France.

Game Components of No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts

  • 2-sided mounted map representing the French and Polish fronts
  • Oversized counters for units and markers
  • Plan cards to guide historical strategies
  • Hexes approximately 30 kilometers across
  • Turns representing 4 days of real-time each
  • Combat Results Table & Terrain Effects Chart
  • Countersheets for various units and markers
  • Setup displays for both French and Polish fronts.

    How To Setup No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts

    Setting up the game involves several steps. First, players must choose the scenario they wish to play, whether it be the French Front, Polish Front, or one of the alternative history scenarios. Each scenario has specific setup instructions, including the deployment of units on the map according to historical plans or alternative configurations. For the French Front, players must position units to reflect the German “Case Yellow” operation and the Allied defenses. For the Polish Front, the setup involves secretly deploying troops on smaller strategic maps, allowing for a “Fog of War” element. Detailed setup instructions can be found in the game’s playbook and scenario listings.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Card-assisted gameplay: Players use Plan cards to execute historical strategies and special operations.
  • Hex-and-counter system: Maneuvering forces over hexes that represent approximately 30 kilometers of terrain.
  • Turn-based: Turns represent 4 days of real-time each.
  • Combat resolution: Using a Combat Results Table and Terrain Effects Chart.
  • Objective: The Allied (French and British) or German forces aim to achieve historical objectives such as defending France, evacuating the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk, or capturing key territories in Poland.

    Player Experience

    No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts offers a rich and immersive experience, particularly for fans of historical wargames. The game system is designed to be understandable yet complex enough to simulate the intricacies of World War II. Players must navigate the unpredictability of battles, using Plan cards and strategic maneuvering to outmaneuver their opponents. The inclusion of “what if” scenarios adds a layer of replayability and historical speculation, allowing players to explore alternative outcomes to famous campaigns.

    Pros

  • Historical depth: Detailed simulation of the French and Polish campaigns with extensive historical research.
  • Replayability: Multiple scenarios, including “what if” alternatives, offer high replay value.
  • Engaging mechanics: The card-assisted gameplay and hex-and-counter system create engaging and unpredictable battles.
  • High-quality components: Oversized counters and a 2-sided mounted map enhance the gaming experience.

    Cons

  • Complexity: While the system is understandable, it can be complex for new players to learn.
  • Time commitment: Each turn represents 4 days of real-time, and games can be lengthy.
  • Space requirements: The game requires significant table space due to the large map and numerous counters.

    Personal Thoughts on No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts

    No Retreat!: Polish & French Fronts is ideal for fans of historical wargames and those interested in World War II military strategy. The game’s depth and replayability make it a valuable addition to any wargamer’s collection. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and the time commitment required. For those willing to dive into the intricacies of World War II battles, this game offers a highly rewarding and insightful experience.

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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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