Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear!

“Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear!” is a board wargame published by Academy Games in 2008 that simulates squad-level and platoon-level combat on the Eastern Front in 1941–42 during the German invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II. It is the first game in the Conflict of Heroes series, which is designed for history fans, universities, and military personnel throughout the world.

Game Components of Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear – Russia 1941-42

Maps: Five 15″ x 19″ geomorphic mounted hex grid maps.

Rulebook: A 12-page rulebook and a 12-page scenario book.

Counters: 192 1″ die-cut counters, reversible for German and Soviet forces.

Action Cards: 55 action cards.

Tracking Sheets: Four tracking sheets and summary sheets.

Dice: Two six-sided dice.

Additional Components: A sixth map board was sold separately in the first printing.

How To Setup Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear – Russia 1941-42

To set up the game, players first choose a scenario, each of which represents a pivotal point in various battles during Operation Barbarossa. The maps are then arranged according to the scenario instructions, and the respective units and counters are placed on the board. Players receive a set of action cards and tracking sheets to manage their units’ actions and resources. The game includes a programmed instruction approach in the rulebook, allowing players to learn the game in sections as they progress through the scenarios[3”.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Action Points System: Units have Action Points (AP) used for moving, attacking, and other actions. Players also have Command Action Points to activate or give actions to units without using their AP.

Unit Activation: Players alternate activating units, with each unit having a limited number of AP. Units flip over when their AP are exhausted.

Firefights: Scenarios are designed to be played in about an hour, depicting key battles. Each scenario has specific victory conditions and goals.

Historical Accuracy: Units are distinguished by their historical strengths and weaknesses, such as armor thickness, speed, and crew training, represented through an easy-to-learn target number system.

Victory Conditions: Players earn victory points by eliminating enemy units and achieving scenario-specific goals. The player with the most victory points wins.

Player Experience

Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear offers a dynamic and engaging experience, especially for fans of tactical wargames. The game’s design allows for quick learning through its programmed instruction approach, making it accessible even for new players. The scenarios are diverse and challenging, requiring strategic thinking and resource management. The game supports two to four players, as well as solitaire play with an advanced AI system in the Eastern Front Solo Expansion.

Pros

Historical Depth: The game accurately represents the strengths and weaknesses of historical units.

Interactive Gameplay: The alternating unit activation and Action Points system create a highly interactive and tense experience.

Flexible Scenarios: Supports two to four players and solitaire play with advanced AI.

Easy to Learn: Programmed instruction approach in the rulebook makes it easy for new players to start playing quickly.

Replayability: Scenarios can be played multiple times with different tactics and outcomes.

Cons

Complexity: While the rules are streamlined, the game can be complex due to the many variables and historical details.

Time Commitment: Each scenario can take around an hour to play, and setting up can take some time.

Space Requirements: The game requires a significant amount of table space to lay out the maps and components.

Personal Thoughts on Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear – Russia 1941-42

This game is ideal for history buffs and fans of tactical wargames. It offers a deep and engaging experience that simulates the complexities of squad-level and platoon-level combat during World War II. The game’s balance between historical accuracy and gameplay mechanics makes it appealing to both casual and veteran gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for a quick or light gaming experience due to its complexity and time commitment.

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