Bar-Lev: The Yom-Kippur War of 1973 (1974) Board Game

Bar-Lev: The Yom-Kippur War of 1973 is a board game that simulates the military conflict between Israel and its neighboring countries during the Yom Kippur War in in 1974. Designed by John Hill and released in 1974, the game allows players to command their military forces and strategize their way to victory in this historical event.

Game Components of Bar-Lev: The Yom-Kippur War of 1973

Large hex grid mapsheet (33″ x 22″) split into two sections for the Golan Heights and Suez Canal fronts.

450 counters representing various military units.

Two rulebooks: one for ground combat and one for air combat.

Optional air power rules.

Reinforcement boxes and sheets for tracking losses and refitting units.

How To Setup Bar-Lev: The Yom-Kippur War of 1973

Setting up **Bar-Lev** involves placing units on the board based on historical initial positions. The Israeli player sets up their troops first, reflecting the pre-war intelligence and strategic placements. The Arab player then sets up their units, with flexibility in choosing attack points. The game includes sheets for tracking Arab allies and the conditions for their entry into the battle. Initial setup also involves allocating units to off-board reinforcement boxes, which are crucial for maintaining supply lines and strategic movements.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Sequence: The game uses a complex series of phases for each turn, including bridge building, indirect fire, movement, direct fire, advancing, and regrouping.

Air and Ground Combat: Integrates air units, surface to air missiles, artillery, and ground combat, with rules for first fire by units in villages or on higher ground.

Unit Interactions: Units cannot attack at odds less than 1-2, adding a layer of strategy in combat engagements.

Victory Conditions: The Arab player wins if they hold three Israeli villages without losing any Syrian villages, or if they clear all Israeli units from the map. The Israeli player must hold territory to claim victory, with revised conditions in later editions.

Player Experience

Playing **Bar-Lev** is a deeply strategic and immersive experience. The game demands careful planning and execution, especially given the complex turn sequence and the integration of multiple combat elements. The game is tilted slightly towards the Israeli player, but bad dice rolls can quickly shift the balance. Players must manage resources, choose where to reinforce, and decide whether to pursue a minor victory or go for a complete win.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Simulates the Yom Kippur War with detailed historical units and scenarios.

Complex Strategy: Offers a sophisticated mix of operational and tactical rules.

Engaging Gameplay: The game includes sudden death victory options and mid-game shifts in strategy, keeping players engaged.

High Replayability: Multiple paths to victory and variable unit strengths ensure varied gameplay experiences.

Cons

High Complexity: The rules are forbiddingly complex, making it challenging for casual gamers.

Long Playtime: The game can be very long, given the detailed turn sequences and multiple phases.

Steep Learning Curve: Requires a significant investment of time to understand and master the rules.

Personal Thoughts on Bar-Lev: The Yom-Kippur War of 1973

**Bar-Lev** is a game for veteran wargamers who are interested in the Yom Kippur War and are willing to invest the time to learn its intricate rules. It is not for casual players due to its complexity, but for those who enjoy deep strategic games, it offers a highly rewarding experience. The game’s ability to integrate various combat elements and its historical accuracy make it a standout in the wargaming genre. If you’re ready to dive into the logistical and tactical challenges of the Yom Kippur War, **Bar-Lev** is an excellent choice.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.