| | | | | |

Desert Fox Deluxe (2016) Board Game

ByMichail

Desert Fox Deluxe is a wargame that takes place during World War II, specifically focusing on the North African Campaign between the Axis forces led by Erwin Rommel and the Allied forces. The game is designed by Joe Youst and published by Decision Games, known for their historical strategy games.

Game Components of Desert Fox Deluxe

  • Rules Booklet**
  • Campaign Analysis & Player’s Guide**
  • Player Aid Cards**
  • 48 Event Display Cards**
  • Six Game Maps**
  • Display Map**
  • 560 Counters**
  • Two Six-Sided Dice**

    How To Setup Desert Fox Deluxe

    Setting up **Desert Fox Deluxe** involves several steps. First, lay out the six game maps, which cover the battlefields from Algiers to Alexandria at a scale of 10 miles per hex. Each player selects their respective counters, which include combat units (regiments, brigades, divisions, and specialist battalions) and supply units. Players must also organize the event display cards, player aid cards, and the rules booklet. The game requires careful arrangement of the maps and counters to reflect the initial historical deployment of forces.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective:
    – Axis: Maintain a presence in North Africa.
    – Allies: Eliminate the Axis presence.

  • Gameplay Mechanics:
  • Unit Movement: Players maneuver units across the hex maps.
  • Combat: Initiate and resolve combat using combat strength enhanced by weapons, supporting fire, air power, and special tactics.
  • Supply Management: Manage supply lines, moving supplies and replacements from ports to the front lines.
  • Event Cards: Use event display cards to alter the availability of reinforcements and supplies or demand player action.
  • Turn Structure: Each turn represents one month of real time, with players taking turns to act and react.

    Player Experience

    **Desert Fox Deluxe** offers a deep and immersive experience for players interested in historical wargames. The game captures the ebb and flow of the desert war, requiring players to build up units and supplies over several turns before launching major attacks. The inclusion of event cards and variable player powers adds a layer of realism and unpredictability, reflecting the historical challenges faced by both the Axis and Allied forces.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy: Comprehensive simulation of the North African campaign.
  • Complex Strategy: Deep gameplay mechanics involving resource management and combat tactics.
  • Replayability: Event cards and variable player powers offer high replay value.
  • Extensive Components: Includes detailed maps, counters, and support materials.

    Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve: Complex rules and mechanics may intimidate new players.
  • Time Commitment: Setting up and playing the game can be time-consuming.
  • Space Requirements: The game requires a significant amount of table space to lay out the maps and counters.

    Personal Thoughts on Desert Fox Deluxe

    **Desert Fox Deluxe** is tailored for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in World War II history. It offers a challenging and rewarding experience, allowing players to delve into the strategic and logistical complexities of the North African campaign. For those looking for a detailed and engaging historical simulation, **Desert Fox Deluxe** is an excellent choice. However, new players may find the game overwhelming due to its complexity and the time required to learn and set it up.

    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 *