1914: Offensive à outrance (2013) Board Game

1914: Offensive à outrance is a board game that focuses on the battles of World War I. The game is designed by Michael Resch and published by GMT Games in in 2013. It is a wargame that allows 1-4 players to engage in tactical and strategic warfare on a hexagon grid.

Game Components of 1914: Offensive à outrance

1 Rules booklet

1 Scenario booklet

3 standard-sized map sheets

1 Game Turn Record Track

4 player aid cards

4 sheets of organizational displays

7 Counter sheets (½” counters)

½ Counter sheet (½”x1” counters)

4 six-sided dice

Premium 115% Scale Map (optional).

How To Setup 1914: Offensive à outrance

Setting up the game involves several steps, including laying out the map sheets, which cover the entire theater of war from the English Channel to the Swiss Border. Players must also organize the counters, which represent various military units, and set up the organizational displays to show the relationships between different formations and armies. The game includes a detailed rules booklet and scenario booklet to guide the setup process. The introductory scenario, “The Battle for Lorraine,” is recommended for new players to familiarize themselves with the game mechanics.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat and other game mechanics.

Hexagon Grid: The game map is divided into hexagons, which define movement and combat ranges.

Simulation: The game simulates the operational conflicts of World War I’s opening campaigns.

Game Objective: Players aim to recreate or alter the historical outcomes of the initial Western Front campaigns. The German player seeks to outflank the French and achieve a quick victory, while the Allied player aims to stop the German advance and secure key positions.

Player Experience

**1914: Offensive à outrance** offers a deeply immersive and historically accurate experience, allowing players to explore the complexities of World War I’s opening campaigns. The game demands strategic thinking and patience, as players must manage large-scale military operations over several months. The game’s design ensures that players feel the historical weight of the campaign, with its multiple stages, including the German advance, the Battle of the Marne, and the subsequent “Race to the Sea”.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is comprehensively researched, providing an accurate order of battle and detailed game map.

Engaging Mechanics: The streamlined game system, derived from *1914, Twilight in the East*, offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience.

Replay Value: Multiple scenarios, including the Grand Campaign and shorter scenarios like “The Battle for Lorraine,” provide extensive replayability.

Educational: Players gain valuable insights into one of the most significant campaigns of the 20th century.

Cons

Complexity: The game has detailed rules and a steep learning curve, which can be daunting for new players.

Time Commitment: The game requires a significant time investment, especially for the full Grand Campaign scenario.

Space Requirements: The game’s map and components take up considerable space, making it challenging to play in smaller areas.

Personal Thoughts on 1914: Offensive à outrance

This game is a must-have for World War I enthusiasts and serious wargamers. It is designed for players who are willing to invest time and effort into mastering its complex mechanics. While it may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity and time requirements, it offers a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about historical wargaming. The game’s ability to balance historical accuracy with engaging gameplay makes it a standout in its genre.

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