Air Bridge to Victory: Operation Market-Garden, 1944 (1990) Board Game

Air Bridge to Victory: Operation Market-Garden, 1944 is a board game that simulates the famous World War II operation in which Allied forces attempted to secure a series of bridges in the Netherlands to create a pathway for their advance into Germany. The game was released in 1990 and is designed by Rodger B. MacGowan, Brent Mercer, and Terry R. Shrum, with artwork by GMT Games.

Game Components of Air Bridge to Victory: Operation Market-Garden, 1944

Game board depicting the Arnhem, Nijmegen, and Eindhoven areas

Battalion-level counters representing various military units

Scenario cards

Rulebook

Dice for resolving combat and other actions

Victory condition charts

Player aids and reference sheets

How To Setup Air Bridge to Victory: Operation Market-Garden, 1944

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, arranging the battalion-level counters according to the scenario, distributing scenario cards, and ensuring each player has the necessary rulebook, dice, and player aids. The setup is designed to mirror the historical deployment and objectives of the forces involved in Operation Market-Garden.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Battalion-Level Combat: Players engage in combat using battalion-level counters, resolving battles with dice rolls.

Supply and Logistics: Managing supply lines and logistics is crucial for sustaining operations.

Airborne Operations: Players must coordinate airborne landings and follow-up ground assaults.

Automatic Victory Conditions: Each game features variable victory conditions, ensuring no two games are alike.

Objective: The primary objective is to secure key bridges and terrain objectives, mirroring the historical goals of Operation Market-Garden.

Player Experience

Playing **Air Bridge to Victory** offers a deep and immersive experience, particularly for fans of historical wargames. The game requires strategic planning, tactical execution, and a good understanding of the historical context. Players must balance the risks and rewards of airborne operations with the necessity of securing ground objectives.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched and adheres closely to the events of Operation Market-Garden.

Replayability: Automatic victory conditions ensure each game is unique.

Complexity: Offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for wargame enthusiasts.

Components: High-quality components, including detailed maps and counters.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Can be daunting for new players due to complex rules and historical context.

Time Commitment: Games can be lengthy, requiring several hours to complete.

Space Requirements: The game board and components take up significant space.

Personal Thoughts on Air Bridge to Victory: Operation Market-Garden, 1944

**Air Bridge to Victory** is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in World War II history. It offers a rich and engaging experience that delves deeply into the strategic and tactical aspects of a pivotal military operation. While it may not be the best introduction for new players due to its complexity, it is a must-have for anyone looking to explore the intricacies of Operation Market-Garden in a detailed and historically accurate manner.

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