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

Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942 is a board game released in in 1977. Designed by Rodger B. MacGowan and Randall C. Reed, this game focuses on the World War II battles that took place in the Mediterranean theater, specifically the airborne assault on Crete and the Axis invasion of Malta in 1942.

Game Components of Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942

Rulebook

Game board with hexagon grid

Counter sheets with unit markers

Dice

How To Setup Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942

Place the game board on a flat surface.

Separate and organize the counter sheets by unit type.

Each player chooses a side to play as – Axis or Allied.

Follow the rules for setting up the initial starting positions of units on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take on the roles of either the Axis or the Allied forces and strategize their movements and combat actions to achieve their respective objectives. The game involves dice rolling to determine the outcomes of battles and movements. The objective varies depending on which side you are playing

either defending Malta as the Allies or conducting an airborne assault on Crete as the Axis.

Player Experience

Pros

Immersive gameplay that captures the historical events accurately.

Strategic depth with multiple paths to victory.

Hexagon grid adds tactical decision-making.

Cons

Lengthy runtime of 240 minutes may not be suitable for players looking for quick games.

Learning curve for new players can be steep.

Limited replay value due to a specific historical focus.

Personal Thoughts on Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942

Overall, Air Assault on Crete / Invasion of Malta: 1942 is a solid wargame that offers a deep dive into the Mediterranean theater of World War II. The game is well-designed with attention to historical detail, making it a must-have for enthusiasts of this era. However, the lengthy runtime and learning curve may deter casual players. The pricing and availability of both new and used copies vary, so it’s worth considering if the game aligns with your gaming preferences. For fans of wargames and historical simulations, this game is definitely worth your time. However, those looking for a more casual gaming experience may want to skip it.

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