| | | | | | |

Cross of Iron: A Squad Leader Gamette (1978) Board Game

ByMichail

Cross of Iron: A Squad Leader Gamette is an expansion for the base-game Squad Leader, which was released in in 1978. Designed by John Hill and published by The Avalon Hill Game Co, this expansion focuses on the Eastern Front of World War II, specifically the battles between the Germans and the Soviets.

Game Components of Cross of Iron: A Squad Leader Gamette

  • Board:** Includes Board #5 featuring forest terrain.
  • Counters:** Multiple countersheets for German, Russian, Polish infantry, and armor, including Waffen-SS troops and various tank models like the Tiger I and T-34/85.
  • Scenarios:** 13-20 scenarios focused on the Eastern Front.
  • Orders of Battle:** Complete orders of battle for Soviets and Germans, including dozens of different models of vehicles and artillery systems.

    How To Setup Cross of Iron: A Squad Leader Gamette

    Setting up Cross of Iron requires the base Squad Leader game, as it is an expansion. Players must integrate the new board, counters, and scenarios into their existing Squad Leader setup. The process involves placing the new board, deploying the appropriate counters according to the scenario, and following the expanded rules provided in the gamette.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Expanded Rules:** New rules for tank combat, armor, and artillery systems.
  • Combined Arms:** Represents combined arms warfare, incorporating infantry, armor, and artillery.
  • Orders of Battle:** Detailed orders of battle for both German and Soviet forces.
  • Game Objective:** Simulate small group tactical combat during World War II on the Eastern Front, with the goal of achieving scenario-specific objectives such as controlling key terrain or eliminating enemy units.

    Player Experience

    Cross of Iron significantly enhances the Squad Leader system, especially for armor enthusiasts. The game introduces complex and detailed armor rules, which were praised for their realism and depth. However, this complexity can be overwhelming for new players, requiring a gradual learning curve. The game’s detailed mechanics and expanded orders of battle make it a compelling choice for those interested in combined arms warfare.

    Pros

  • Realistic Armor Rules:** Far superior to the original Squad Leader armor rules.
  • Detailed Orders of Battle:** Includes a wide variety of vehicles and artillery systems.
  • Enhanced Realism:** Brings a high level of realism to the game, especially for tank combat.
  • Award-Winning:** Won the Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Physical Systems & Graphics in 1978.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** Rules can be overly complex, especially for new players.
  • Line of Sight Issues:** Line of sight rules are not well-explained and can be confusing.
  • Steep Learning Curve:** Requires significant time to learn and master the new mechanics.

    Personal Thoughts on Cross of Iron: A Squad Leader Gamette

    Cross of Iron is tailored for experienced wargamers and fans of combined arms warfare. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate detailed and realistic simulations of World War II combat, especially on the Eastern Front. Newcomers to the Squad Leader series should be prepared to invest time in learning the expanded rules and mechanics. Despite its complexity, Cross of Iron is widely regarded as a landmark expansion that elevates the Squad Leader system to new heights of realism and depth.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • 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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *