Board game box titled "Entdecker Exploring New Horizons" featuring an illustrated galleon sailing on the ocean, with the text "An exciting journey of discovery and colonization!" and logos for Mayfair Games, Kosmos, and a Spiel des Jahres Winner award.
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Engage & Destroy (1980)

ByMichail

Engage & Destroy

Engage & Destroy is a board wargame that simulates tactical armored warfare in World War II, from 1939 to 1945. The game was first published in 1980 by Chaosium. The game is significant because it offers a comprehensive set of rules for simulating armored warfare in World War II, and it has been popular among board wargamers for over 40 years.

Game Components of Engage & Destroy

  • Rulebook
  • Technical data sheets
  • Scenario guides
  • Miniature models (HO and micro scale)
  • Terrain and battlefield accessories

    How To Setup Engage & Destroy

    Setting up **Engage & Destroy** involves preparing the battlefield with the appropriate terrain and miniature models. Players must read through the rulebook to understand the technical data and scenario guidelines. The setup includes arranging the miniatures according to the chosen scenario, configuring the battlefield, and distributing the technical data sheets among the players.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Miniatures Rules: The game uses detailed rules for contemporary miniatures.
  • Strategic Campaigns: Players engage in strategic battles using HO and micro models.
  • Technical Data: Incorporates technical data for realistic gameplay.
  • Objective: The primary objective is to outmaneuver and defeat the opponent’s forces in a simulated battlefield.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Engage & Destroy** can be a complex and detailed experience, particularly appealing to those interested in wargaming and miniature modeling. The game requires a good understanding of the rules and technical data, which can be both engaging and challenging.

    Pros

  • Detailed Rules: Provides comprehensive rules for realistic miniature battles.
  • Technical Depth: Includes detailed technical data, appealing to hard-core wargamers.
  • Strategic Complexity: Offers a challenging and strategic gameplay experience.

    Cons

  • Poor Organization: The rulebook has been criticized for poor organization.
  • Errors: The game has been noted to contain errors.
  • High Price: At the time of its release, it was considered overpriced.
  • Negative Reviews: Received a ‘not recommended’ review from Nick Schuessler due to its shortcomings.

    Personal Thoughts on Engage & Destroy

    **Engage & Destroy** is best suited for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in miniature modeling and strategic campaigns. Despite its flaws, such as poor organization and errors, it offers a deep and complex gameplay experience that can be rewarding for the right audience. However, it may not be the best choice for new players due to its complexity and historical criticisms.

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    • 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