| | | | | |

Edelweiss: The Struggle in the Caucasus, 1942 (1989) Board Game

ByMichail

Edelweiss: The Struggle in the Caucasus, 1942 is a board game that focuses on the military campaign that took place in the Caucasus region during World War II. Players take on the roles of German and Soviet forces as they battle for control of strategic locations in the rugged terrain of the Caucasus mountains.

Game Components of Edelweiss: The Struggle in the Caucasus, 1942

  • Map: A detailed map of the Caucasus region.
  • Counters: Representing various military units, including German, Soviet, Slovakian, and Romanian divisions.
  • Rule Book: A comprehensive guide to the game rules.
  • Player Aid Cards: To assist players during the game.
  • Dice: For resolving combat and other game mechanics.

    How To Setup Edelweiss: The Struggle in the Caucasus, 1942

    Setting up the game involves placing the map, deploying the respective military units according to the scenario, and preparing the player aid cards and dice. The setup ensures that the German forces are positioned to advance into the Caucasus, while the Soviet forces are deployed to defend key locations such as Novorossisk, Tuapse, and Grozny.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective: The Germans must secure key locations like Novorossisk, Tuapse, and Grozny, while the Soviets aim to stop the German advance.
  • Turn Structure: Turns involve movement, combat, and exploitation phases.
  • Unit Morale: Units have morale that can affect their performance in combat.
  • Determined Attacks and Defense: Special mechanics influencing combat outcomes.
  • Air Support: Available for German units to modify combat results.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Edelweiss: The Struggle in the Caucasus, 1942** immerses players in the intense conflict of the Caucasus campaign. The game demands strategic thinking, as players must manage unit morale, air support, and the timing of attacks. The game’s complexity is moderate, making it accessible to experienced wargamers while still offering a challenging experience.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy: The game faithfully recreates the 1942 Caucasus campaign.
  • Strategic Depth: Offers complex decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Unit Variety: Includes a range of military units with different capabilities.
  • Quick Playing: Despite its complexity, the game can be completed in a relatively short time frame, such as 5 hours for the full game.

    Cons

  • Complexity: May be overwhelming for new wargamers.
  • Limited Accessibility: The game’s rules and setup can be daunting for those not familiar with wargames.
  • Component Overload: Managing numerous counters and rules can be cumbersome.

    Personal Thoughts on Edelweiss: The Struggle in the Caucasus, 1942

    This game is ideal for experienced wargamers who appreciate historical accuracy and strategic depth. It offers a challenging and engaging experience, particularly for those interested in World War II and the Caucasus campaign. However, it may not be the best introduction for new players due to its complexity and the need for prior knowledge of wargame mechanics.

    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