Air Assault on Crete
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Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942 (1977)

ByMichail

Air Assault on Crete

Air Assault on Crete is a wargame published by Avalon Hill in 1977 that simulates the Battle of Crete during World War II. The game is a strategic battalion-level game that simulates the first totally airborne invasion in history, with the Germans overwhelming the rag-tag defenders of Crete. The game also includes a separate bonus game, Invasion of Malta, 1942, which simulates Operation Hercules, a proposed German invasion of Malta that was planned by the German High Staff but never initiated.

Why is Air Assault on Crete Popular?

Air Assault on Crete is considered a significant game because it was one of the first wargames to simulate an airborne invasion. The game is also popular among wargamers because it offers several scenarios set over the course of the 10-day battle, approximating the troop strengths, drops, and reserves from the battle.

Game Components of Air Assault on Crete

1 22″ x 28″ mapboard200 die-cut counters1 rulebook2 player aid cards

Game Setup of Air Assault on Crete

Players set up the game by placing the mapboard on a flat surface and positioning the counters according to the scenario being played. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on how to set up the game for each scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics of Air Assault on Crete

Air Assault on Crete is a two-player wargame that simulates the Battle of Crete during World War II. The game uses a turn-based system, with each turn representing one day of the battle. Players take turns moving their units and conducting combat operations, with the goal of achieving victory conditions specific to each scenario.

Game Objective of Air Assault on Crete

The objective of the game varies depending on the scenario being played. In the Basic Game, if the Germans can seize one airfield and hold it for four turns, then the German player wins the game.

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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