Destruction of Army Group Center (Second Edition) (2009) Board Game

Destruction of Army Group Center (Second Edition) is a wargame that focuses on the Eastern Front of World War II. Players take on the roles of German and Soviet forces as they battle for control of the vital Army Group Center. The game is designed by Ty Bomba and published by Decision Games, known for their strategic wargames.

Game Components

Map: A 22″ x 28″ paper hex grid map scaled at 16 km (10 mi) per hex.

Rulesheet: An 8-page map-folded rulesheet.

Counters: 200 die-cut counters.

Supply Terminals: Three Supply Terminals for Soviet units and rail lines for German units.

How To Setup

To set up the game, players must deploy their units according to the historical initial deployments of Operation Bagration. The German player sets up units in the exposed salient in Byelorussia, while the Soviet player deploys forces to attack both flanks of the salient. The setup requires careful attention to the supply lines and unit placements, as these are crucial for the game’s mechanics.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game System: Uses the “I Go, You Go” system of turns, with asymmetrical supply rules.

Supply Rules: German units must trace an unobstructed path to a rail line connecting to the western edge of the map, while Soviet units must connect to one of three Supply Terminals linked to the eastern edge.

Victory Conditions: Victory is based solely on the number of enemy units destroyed, not on geographical gains.

Objective: The Soviet player aims to encircle and destroy the German defenders, while the German player tries to hold the line and prevent the Soviet advance.

Player Experience

The game is often described as a “slogging match” with limited strategic changes after the initial deployment. Reviewers have noted that it is more suited for beginners due to its simple and smooth-running game system, but it lacks variety and excitement for experienced players.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game accurately simulates the historical Operation Bagration.

Simple Mechanics: Easy to learn and play, making it accessible to new players.

Educational Value: Provides a good understanding of the military strategies and logistical challenges of the time.

Cons

Predictability: The game is predictable, favoring the Soviet player significantly.

Lack of Variety: Limited strategic options and no innovative mechanics compared to other games in the series.

Imbalanced: Criticized for being too simple and lacking the drama of other SPI games.

Personal Thoughts on Destruction of Army Group Center

This game is ideal for historians and those interested in World War II military strategies, particularly the Eastern Front. It is a good introduction for new players to the world of board wargaming due to its straightforward mechanics. However, experienced players may find it lacking in complexity and variety. Despite its limitations, it remains a valuable tool for understanding the pivotal Operation Bagration and its impact on the war.

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