Atlantic Chase: The Kriegsmarine Against the Home Fleet 1939-1942 (2021) Board Game

Atlantic Chase is a board game that simulates naval warfare between the Kriegsmarine (German Navy) and the Home Fleet of the Royal Navy during the early years of World War II. Players take on the roles of the German and British naval commanders, strategizing and maneuvering their fleets in the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Game Components of Atlantic Chase: The Kriegsmarine Against the Home Fleet 1939-1942

Game board

Task Force Display

Trajectory lines

Ships and convoys markers

Aircraft and U-boats tokens

Scenario and operation cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Atlantic Chase: The Kriegsmarine Against the Home Fleet 1939-1942

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, which represents the North Atlantic, and preparing the Task Force Displays for each player. Players arrange their task forces off-map on these displays and plot their trajectories on the board. Convoys, U-boats, and air assets are also positioned according to the scenario or operation being played. The setup ensures that each player starts with a clear understanding of their forces and the objectives of the scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics:

Trajectory System: Players use lines to represent the probable courses of their task forces, making it harder to pinpoint exact locations.

Initiative System: Players take actions continuously until they lose the initiative, allowing for dynamic and fluid gameplay.

Clarifying Trajectories: Players aim to reduce trajectory lines to points to determine exact locations for battles or safe harbor.

Air and Sea Battles: Fleeting and short battles interspersed with air searches, evasive maneuvers, and attempts to break away to safety.

Game Objective:

German Player: Sever Britain’s lifeline to its colonies and allies by intercepting convoys and evading the Home Fleet.

British Player: Protect convoys and catch or destroy German raiders to maintain supply lines.

Player Experience

Players experience a high level of uncertainty and strategic depth, as the trajectory system mimics the historical fog of war. Each player must weigh aggressive actions against the risk of losing valuable assets. The game can be played solitaire or against another player, and operations typically take 1-2 hours to complete. The dynamic initiative system keeps players engaged, as control can switch back and forth quickly.

Pros

Unique Trajectory System: Innovatively models the uncertainty of naval warfare.

Historical Accuracy: Includes scenarios like the Sink the Bismarck and PQ17 operations.

Solitaire and Multiplayer: Offers flexibility in gameplay.

Quick Play: Scenarios can be completed within 1-2 hours.

Cons

Complex Rules: The novel approach to rules can be challenging for new players to learn.

Dependency on Scenarios: Game depth is heavily reliant on the various scenarios provided.

Personal Thoughts on Atlantic Chase: The Kriegsmarine Against the Home Fleet 1939-1942

This game is ideal for wargamers and history enthusiasts interested in naval warfare during World War II. It offers a unique and engaging experience, especially for those who appreciate strategic complexity and historical accuracy. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its intricate rules and setup. For those willing to invest time in learning the mechanics, **Atlantic Chase** provides a rich and immersive gaming experience that closely replicates the challenges and uncertainties of naval warfare in the North Atlantic during WWII.

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