Dieppe (1977) – Board Game Guys

Dieppe is a two-player wargame that simulates the Allied Raid on Fortress Europe, which took place in August 1942. The game was published by Simulations Canada in 1977 and was designed by Stephen Newberg with graphics and artwork by Tom Fennel. The game is popular and significant because it covers a unique topic in wargaming and provides a short, tense game experience for players.

Game Components of Dieppe

Map: 21″ x 27″ paper hex grid map, scaled at 500 m (550 yd) per hex.

Rules Booklet: Contains the game rules.

Counters: 255 die-cut counters representing various units and elements.

Scenarios: Six different scenarios, including the historical event, the original plan, and alternative plans envisioned by General Bernard Montgomery and Commander Louis Mountbatten.

How To Setup Dieppe

To set up the game, players first choose a scenario, which determines the Allied units and their deployment. The German units and their placement remain consistent across all scenarios. Players then place the counters on the map according to the chosen scenario’s specifications. The rules booklet provides detailed instructions for each scenario, ensuring historical accuracy and variability in gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Wargame

Mechanics: Hex-and-counter system, scenario-based gameplay

Objective: The Allied player aims to achieve specific objectives such as securing key locations and neutralizing German artillery, while the German player seeks to defend the area and repel the Allied invasion.

Scenarios:
– Historical: Simulates the actual events of the Dieppe Raid.
– Original Plan: A two-pronged pincer attack.
– Montgomery’s Plan: A frontal assault with weak flank attacks and a paratroop drop.
– Mountbatten’s Plan: A pincer attack with less air power and more naval units.
– The Historical Plan: How the operation was supposed to unfold.

Player Experience

Players experience a tense and absorbing game that challenges their strategic thinking. The game is praised for its clear and concise rules, elegant game system, and the opportunity for both sides to achieve victory. Each scenario offers a unique set of challenges, making the game replayable and engaging.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game accurately simulates the Dieppe Raid, offering a unique historical perspective.

Replayability: Six scenarios provide varied gameplay experiences.

Professional Components: Despite being published by a small Canadian company, the game is noted for its professionalism and well-designed components.

Engaging Gameplay: Tensely balanced scenarios ensure that both players have a chance of victory.

Cons

Component Quality: Some reviewers found the map to be ugly and the counters hard to read in the original edition.

Rules Ambiguities: There were some reported ambiguities in the rules, though they were generally praised for being clear and concise.

Depth of Game: Some players felt the game could benefit from a more elaborate and in-depth examination of the battle.

Personal Thoughts on Dieppe

**Dieppe** is an excellent choice for WWII buffs and fans of wargames, especially those interested in lesser-covered historical events. The game’s ability to balance historical accuracy with engaging gameplay makes it a valuable addition to any collection. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy strategic challenges and historical simulations, and it stands out as a notable example of a Canadian-designed and produced wargame.

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