Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870 (2008) Board Game

Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870 is a wargame that simulates the Battle of Mars-la-Tour during the Franco-Prussian War of

Designed by Craig Grando and Mike Siggins, the game allows two players to experience the strategic challenges faced by the forces of Prussia and France in this historical conflict.

Game Components of Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870

Mapboard: Depicting the battle area around Mars-la-Tour.

Counters: Representing French and Prussian units.

Rulebook: Detailed rules for gameplay.

Scenario book: Including historical context and setup instructions.

Player aids: Charts and tables for quick reference.

Dice: Used for resolving combat and other game mechanics.

How To Setup Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870

Setting up the game involves placing the mapboard, deploying the French and Prussian units according to the scenario instructions, and organizing player aids and dice. The setup ensures that the historical deployment of forces is accurately represented, with the Prussians typically starting in a defensive position around the villages of Mars-la-Tour, Vionville, and Flavigny.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hex-and-counter system: Units move and fight within hexagonal spaces on the mapboard.

Turn-based gameplay: Players take turns moving, attacking, and resolving combat.

Combat resolution: Uses dice rolls and modifiers based on unit strength and position.

Game Objective: The Prussians aim to hold key villages, while the French must dislodge them to win.

Player Experience

**Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870** offers a immersive and challenging experience for wargamers. The game requires strategic planning, as players need to manage unit movements, morale, and combat effectively. The historical accuracy adds depth, making it appealing to those interested in the Franco-Prussian War.

Pros

Historical accuracy: Faithfully recreates the Battle of Mars-la-Tour.

Deep strategy: Requires careful planning and execution.

Engaging gameplay: Turn-based system keeps players involved.

Educational value: Teaches about the historical battle and its significance.

Cons

Complexity: May be daunting for new wargamers due to detailed rules.

Component quality: Some players might find the counters and mapboard less durable or visually appealing.

Length of play: Games can be time-consuming, requiring several hours to complete.

Personal Thoughts on Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870

**Deathride: Mars-la-Tour 1870** is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a keen interest in military history, particularly the Franco-Prussian War. It offers a rich and challenging experience that rewards strategic thinking and historical knowledge. However, it may not be the best choice for newcomers to wargaming due to its complexity and the time commitment required.

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