BAOR (1981) Board Game – Board Game Guys

BAOR, or British Army of the Rhine, is a historical wargame released in in 1981. Designed by Redmond A. Simonsen and published by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.), it is set in a modern warfare setting focusing on the British Army’s operations in Germany during the Cold War era.

Game Components of BAOR

16-page rulebook (8 pages common to all *Central Front* games, 8 pages specific to BAOR)

22″ x 34″ paper map scaled at 4 km (2.5 mi) per hex

200 counters

Scenarios including “The Thin Red Line” and others specific to the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR) operations.

How To Setup BAOR

Setting up BAOR involves placing the map, which represents the North German Plain, and deploying the counters according to the chosen scenario. Players need to separate the NATO and Warsaw Pact forces and position them on the map as specified in the scenario rules. The rulebook provides detailed setup instructions for each scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Scenario-Based Gameplay: The game comes with multiple scenarios, each with its own objectives and setup.

Turn-Based System: Players take turns moving and engaging in combat, with each turn consisting of multiple phases.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved using a combination of dice rolls and modifiers based on unit strengths and terrain.

Nuclear Warfare: The game includes rules for tactical nuclear weapons, adding a layer of complexity and realism.

Objective: The primary objective for NATO is to defend against the Warsaw Pact invasion, while the Warsaw Pact aims to break through NATO defenses and advance into West Germany.

Player Experience

Playing BAOR is an immersive experience for fans of wargames. The game requires strategic thinking and careful planning, as players must manage resources, reinforce positions, and respond to enemy movements. The inclusion of tactical nuclear options adds a high stakes element, making each decision critical.

Pros

Historical Realism: BAOR offers a detailed and realistic simulation of modern warfare in the 1980s.

Complex Scenarios: Multiple scenarios provide a variety of gameplay experiences and challenges.

Deep Strategy: The game demands careful planning and execution, appealing to experienced wargamers.

Engaging Mechanics: The turn-based system and combat resolution mechanics keep players engaged throughout the game.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to detailed rules, especially regarding tactical nuclear weapons.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can be quite long, especially in the full scenarios, which may deter casual players.

Outdated Components: The original components may appear dated compared to modern board games.

Personal Thoughts on BAOR

BAOR is tailored for hardcore wargamers who appreciate detailed simulations and complex strategies. It is not a game for the casual player due to its intricate rules and lengthy gameplay. However, for those who enjoy the nuances of modern warfare and the challenges of defending against a numerically superior enemy, BAOR provides an absorbing and challenging experience. The game’s historical context and realistic mechanics make it a standout in the wargame genre.

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