A worn board game box labeled "BLITZKRIEG" with the subtitle "Realistic GAME of Lightning Warfare" for ages "12 YEARS & UP," featuring military imagery, by THE AVALON HILL COMPANY, BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, displayed on a wooden surface.
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Blitzkrieg (1965)

ByMichail

Blitzkrieg

Blitzkrieg is a strategic-level wargame that simulates a non-historical attack by one major power against another using the blitzkrieg strategy. It was designed by Larry Pinksy and Thomas Shaw and was released by Avalon Hill in 1965. The game was a bestseller for the company and paved the way for “monster” wargames of more than 1,000 counters. The game is a fictional representation of the breakout of World War II, with five minor countries becoming involved in the conflict.

Why is Blitzkrieg Popular?

Blitzkrieg is significant because it was the first commercial wargame that did not simulate an actual historical battle. It was also a precursor to the “monster” wargames of the 1970s featuring more than a thousand counters. The game is popular among wargamers due to its historical theme and strategic gameplay.

Game Components of Blitzkrieg

  • Counters:** 390 die-cut counters (189 Blue, 6 blank, 187 Red, 8 blank).
  • Game Board:** 44″ x 22″ hex grid map featuring various terrains (clear, forest, mountains, desert).
  • Rule Books:** Basic and Advanced/Tournament rule books.
  • Dice:** 6-sided die.
  • Other Components:** Order of Appearance sheets, Time Record sheet, and Game attrition tables.

    How To Setup Blitzkrieg

    To set up Blitzkrieg, players start by placing their “Turn 1” units on any hexes within their respective borders. Great Blue places its units first, followed by Big Red. The game board is divided into hexes, each representing different types of terrain, and the units are placed according to the initial setup rules.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Combat Resolution:** Combat is resolved through simple odds calculations and a Combat Results Table (CRT). Players determine the odds by comparing the attacker’s combat strength to the defender’s, including any terrain modifiers. A six-sided die is rolled, and the result is cross-referenced against the CRT to determine the outcome.
  • Game Objective:** The objective is to either annihilate the opponent’s standing army or occupy key territories. The game features land, air, and sea warfare, making it a comprehensive strategic-level wargame.
  • Terrain Effects:** Defenders receive terrain bonuses, but attackers do not. For example, city hexes double the combat factor (CF) of units within when defended.

    Player Experience

    Blitzkrieg offers a complex and engaging gameplay experience, particularly for those interested in strategic-level wargames. However, some players may find it lacking in historical context, which can dampen their enthusiasm. The game’s mechanics, while innovative for its time, may feel outdated compared to more modern wargames.

    Pros

  • Innovative Mechanics:** It was the first commercial wargame to offer partial eliminations as a combat result and to address all elements of 20th-century warfare (land, air, and sea) in a single game system.
  • High Replayability:** The game offers enough variation to remain engaging over multiple plays.
  • Introductory Value:** It is considered a good introductory game for those new to wargaming, with both basic and advanced rules.

    Cons

  • Lack of Historical Context:** The game does not simulate an actual historical battle, which can be a drawback for players seeking historical authenticity.
  • Complexity:** With almost 400 counters and detailed rules, the game can be overwhelming for some players.
  • Potential for Stalemate:** Some players have noted that games can grind to a stalemate in the middle of the map.

    Personal Thoughts on Blitzkrieg

    Blitzkrieg is ideal for experienced wargamers and those interested in strategic-level gameplay. Despite its lack of historical context, it remains a valuable piece of wargaming history and offers a unique gameplay experience. It’s a good choice for players looking to explore different military strategies and scenarios, but may not appeal to those seeking a historically accurate wargaming experience. The game’s complexity and depth make it more suitable for dedicated wargamers rather than casual players.

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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