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Fall Blau: Army Group South, June to December 1942 (2016) Board Game

ByMichail

Fall Blau: Army Group South, June to December 1942 is a board game that focuses on the German military campaign during World War II known as Operation Blue. This operation was a German strategic summer offensive in 1942 which aimed to capture the oil fields in the Caucasus region while also removing the Soviet threat to the German oil supply lines. The game covers the period from June to December 1942, as players take on the role of the German Army Group South or the Soviet forces defending against the German invasion.

Game Components of Fall Blau: Army Group South, June to December 1942

  • Three 22 x 34 inch maps
  • Two smaller maps
  • Three and a half countersheets with approximately 980 counters (1/2” size)
  • One Rulebook
  • One Scenario book
  • Fourteen Player Aid cards with various Scenario Set-Ups, Tracks, Charts and Tables
  • One 10-sided dice
  • One Box and Lid set

    How To Setup Fall Blau: Army Group South, June to December 1942

    Setting up the game involves several steps, including laying out the maps, which cover the area from Kursk towards Baku. Players must set up the units according to the specific scenario they are playing, using the counters and the setup instructions provided in the Scenario book. The game includes both free and historical setup options, allowing for varied gameplay experiences.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Turn Sequence:** Classic IGO-UGO (I Go, You Go) with movement and combat phases.
  • Combat Resolution:** Uses a modified version of the Operation Typhoon/Victory in the West system with randomly drawn strength chits.
  • Air Support:** Simplified through the use of Air Points.
  • Supply System:** Tied closely with combat, restricting Axis attacks due to supply limitations.
  • Time Scale:** Each turn represents 3 days.
  • Map Scale:** 1 hex equals 6.5 miles or about 10km.
  • Unit Scale:** Mostly divisions, with Soviet corps, brigades, and tank battalions as needed.
  • Objectives:** The Axis player aims to capture key territories, including oilfields, while the Soviet player seeks to defend and counterattack.

    Player Experience

    **Fall Blau** offers a rich and detailed gaming experience, particularly appealing to fans of historical wargames. The game is designed for 2 players, but campaigns can accommodate up to 8 players, and it also has a high solitaire suitability rating. The gameplay is complex enough to be engaging but not overwhelmingly so, with a complexity rating of 5 out of 10. Playing time varies from less than an hour for small scenarios to about 45 hours for the largest campaign.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** Uses detailed Order of Battle from sources like David Glantz.
  • Replay Value:** Multiple scenarios and options, including historical and free setup choices.
  • Detailed Maps:** Accurate portrayal of the rail network and terrain.
  • Solitaire Friendly:** High solitaire suitability rating.
  • Varied Scenarios:** Nine scenarios, including small and large campaigns.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** May be daunting for new players to wargames.
  • Time Commitment:** Large campaigns require significant time investment.
  • Space Requirements:** The game requires a substantial amount of space for the maps and components.

    Personal Thoughts on Fall Blau: Army Group South, June to December 1942

    **Fall Blau** is ideal for seasoned wargamers and those with a deep interest in World War II history, particularly the Eastern Front. The game’s detailed mechanics and historical accuracy make it a great choice for those looking for a immersive and realistic gaming experience. However, due to its complexity and time requirements, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to the genre.

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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

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