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Baptism By Fire: The Battle of Kasserine (2017) Board Game

ByMichail

The Battle of Kasserine was a significant engagement during World War II, where the Allies suffered a defeat at the hands of the Axis forces in North Africa. This board game, Baptism By Fire: The Battle of Kasserine, allows players to simulate and experience this historic battle firsthand.

Game Components of Baptism By Fire: The Battle of Kasserine

  • Maps:** Two 22” x 34” full-color game maps.
  • Counters:** 560 counters, including unit counters and BCS marker sheets.
  • Rulebooks:** BCS rulebook (version 1.1, in full color), BCS Charts and Tables, BCS Crib Notes Booklet, and a game-specific rulebook.
  • Scenarios:** Six scenarios, including the Kasserine Campaign, Operation Spring Wind, Mid-Campaign Start, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, End Campaign Start, and High Water Mark.
  • Box and Dice:** Included for gameplay.

    How To Setup Baptism By Fire: The Battle of Kasserine

    Setting up the game involves laying out the maps, sorting and placing the counters according to the scenario being played, and reviewing the specific rules for that scenario. The game comes with detailed rulebooks and charts to guide players through the setup process. The maps are divided into hexagons, and each scenario has its own setup instructions to ensure historical accuracy and gameplay balance.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Mechanics:** Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid, Simulation.
  • Objective:** Players aim to manage their units effectively to achieve victory conditions. For the Axis player, this involves selecting an objective randomly during the game, which affects the victory conditions. The Allied player must protect against various possibilities while counteracting the Axis advances.

    Player Experience

    This game offers a deep and engaging experience, especially for wargame enthusiasts. The Battalion Combat Series (BCS) provides a detailed and realistic simulation of the Battle of Kasserine, highlighting the challenges faced by both the US and Axis forces. Players must balance resource management, tactical maneuvering, and adapting to changing objectives, making each playthrough unique and challenging.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** The game is praised for its detailed order of battle research and historical accuracy.
  • Replayability:** Multiple scenarios and the random selection of objectives ensure high replayability.
  • Accessibility:** Designed as a more accessible entry to the BCS system, it is smaller and faster than other games in the series.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** The game involves complex rules and mechanics, which can be daunting for new players.
  • Time Commitment:** Games can last from 240 to 720 minutes, requiring a significant time investment.

    Personal Thoughts on Baptism By Fire: The Battle of Kasserine

    This game is ideal for experienced wargamers and those interested in the intricacies of World War II battles. It offers a rich and immersive experience that challenges players to strategize and adapt, making it a great addition to any wargame collection. However, due to its complexity and time requirements, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to the genre.

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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

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