Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918 (2019) Board Game

Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918 is a wargame that takes players back to the intense battle that took place during World War I at Belleau Wood in in 2019. The game is designed by Rick Barber and Sean Cooke, and it is published by Worthington Publishing, LLC. Players will experience the challenges and strategies faced by soldiers during this historic battle.

Game Components of Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918

Game Board: A large, hand-drawn map by historical artist/cartographer Rick Barber, depicting key terrain features.

Counters: Over 300 large counters with rounded corners, representing headquarters, infantry, mortars, engineers, machine guns, and other units from the American Marines, US Army, French Army, and German Army.

Cards: Two 30-card decks, one for each player, which are faction-specific.

Scenario Book: Includes 5 scenarios covering different points in the battle, some of which can be played in under an hour.

Markers: Chits for determining initiative and order choice.

How To Setup Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918

Setup involves placing the game board, which is divided into four sectors of the battlefield. Each player shuffles and draws their respective card deck. The counters are placed according to the scenario being played, reflecting the historical units and their positions. Players determine initiative using the chits, which will guide the order of play in each sector.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card-Driven: Players play cards from their hand onto the board to determine initiative and issue orders.

Diceless Combat: The game uses a unique diceless combat system, emphasizing planning and issuing orders.

Hex and Counter: Units move and engage in combat within 180-meter hexes.

Objectives: The objective is to refight the Battle of Belleau Wood, capturing the high casualty rate and tension of the historical battle. Players aim to achieve scenario-specific goals, such as controlling key terrain or eliminating enemy units.

Player Experience

Playing **Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918** is an intense and satisfying experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The game is easy to learn but challenging to master, requiring careful planning and strategic order issuance. The diceless combat system adds a layer of realism, focusing on the importance of unit placement, terrain, and command decisions.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is heavily researched and play-tested to capture the essence of the Battle of Belleau Wood.

Unique Mechanics: The diceless combat system and card-driven gameplay add a fresh twist to traditional wargames.

Fast-Paced: Games can be completed in 1-4 hours, making it accessible for players with varying time commitments.

High Replayability: Five scenarios and the use of cards ensure multiple playthroughs can be different each time.

Cons

Complexity: While the game is easy to learn, mastering it can take time due to the strategic depth.

Availability: The game has been noted to be out of stock at times, which may limit immediate availability.

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players, which might limit its appeal for larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918

**Devil Dogs: Belleau Wood 1918** is ideal for fans of historical wargames and those interested in World War I history. It’s particularly suited for players who appreciate strategic depth and unique mechanics. The game’s focus on planning and order issuance makes it a great choice for those who enjoy games that require careful thought and execution. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a multiplayer experience.

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