Drang Nach Osten! (1973) Board Game

Drang Nach Osten! is a board game that was released in 1973, designed by Paul Richard “Rich” Banner and Don Lowry. The game is set during World War II and focuses on the conflict between Germany and the Soviet Union on the Eastern Front. Players take on the roles of military commanders, strategizing and battling to achieve victory.

Game Components of Drang Nach Osten!

Counters: 1792 die-cut counters.

Maps: Five 21″ x 27″ maps covering the Eastern Front from Warsaw to Stalingrad and from Murmansk to Sevastopol.

Rules: 20-page rulebook and game cover art.

Charts and Aids: Ten charts and aids.

Packaging: Packaged in a ziplock bag.

How To Setup Drang Nach Osten!

To set up the game, players must first arrange the five maps to form the entire Eastern Front. Each player then sorts and places their respective counters on the map according to the initial setup instructions. The rules folder provides detailed setup procedures, including the placement of units, supply depots, and other game elements.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each turn represents 2 weeks of game time, divided into the first and last half of the month.

Movement: Modified by terrain and weather.

Combat: Results determined by the ratio of attackers to defenders.

Supply: Dependent upon home cities acting as supply depots.

Objective: The Axis player/team must capture every major Soviet city hex before the end of the 19th turn (second half of March 1942). The Soviet player/team wins by preventing this.

Player Experience

**Drang Nach Osten** is renowned for its complexity and depth. Players must manage large numbers of units, navigate intricate rules, and contend with the challenges of supply and weather. The game is designed for serious wargamers who are willing to invest significant time and effort into mastering its mechanics.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Detailed simulation of Operation Barbarossa.

Complexity: Appeals to experienced wargamers looking for a deep and challenging game.

Scale: Encompasses a vast area of the Eastern Front with detailed maps and numerous units.

Reception: Rated highly by wargame players, including a Number 1 rating in a 1976 poll.

Cons

Time-Consuming: Playing the game can take a significant amount of time, estimated to be around two years for a full campaign.

Complex Rules: The game’s rules are extensive and can be overwhelming for new players.

Balance Issues: Some players have noted imbalance favoring the German side, requiring skilled Soviet players to counter effectively.

Personal Thoughts on Drang Nach Osten!

**Drang Nach Osten** is for the dedicated and experienced wargamer who appreciates historical detail and complexity. It is not a game for casual players due to its extensive rules and time requirements. However, for those who are willing to invest the time and effort, it offers a rewarding and immersive experience that simulates one of the most pivotal campaigns of World War II. If you’re ready to dive deep into the intricacies of military strategy and historical simulation, **Drang Nach Osten** is an unparalleled choice.

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