Fire in the East (1984) Board Game

Fire in the East is a classic board game that was released in 1984 by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW Games). It is a wargame set in World War II, focusing on the Eastern Front. The game was designed by John Astell, Paul Richard “Rich” Banner, and Frank Chadwick, with artwork by Paul Richard “Rich” Banner and Rodger B. MacGowan.

Game Components of Fire in the East

Maps: Six 21″ x 27″ maps covering the Eastern Front from Warsaw to Stalingrad and from Murmansk to Sevastopol, with a scale of 25 km (16 mi) per hex.

Counters: More than 2500 die-cut counters.

Rulebook: A 40-page rulebook.

Player Charts: Various charts for gameplay.

Dice: Two six-sided dice.

How To Setup Fire in the East

Setting up **Fire in the East** involves carefully laying out the maps to form the vast Eastern Front, organizing the numerous counters representing military units, and preparing the rulebook and player charts. Players must ensure that all components are correctly placed according to the initial setup rules, which include positioning German and Soviet forces as they were at the start of Operation Barbarossa on June 22, 1941. The setup process can be intricate due to the game’s complexity and the large number of components.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each turn represents two weeks, divided into two player turns with phases for initial setup, ground and naval movement, air operations, combat, and exploitation movement.

Combat Resolution: Combat results are determined by the ratio of attackers to defenders using a Combat Results Table.

Supply System: Supplies are dependent on home cities acting as supply depots; capturing a city permanently removes its depot status.

Victory Conditions: The Axis player must capture all major Soviet city hexes before the end of the 21st turn (April 1942), while the Soviet player wins by preventing this.

Player Experience

**Fire in the East** is known for its complexity and depth, earning it the title of a “monster game.” Players can expect a highly detailed and immersive experience that requires strategic planning and a good understanding of military tactics. The game is designed for serious wargamers and can take over 40 hours to complete, making it a significant commitment.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is praised for its historical accuracy and detailed simulation of Operation Barbarossa.

Depth and Complexity: Offers a rich and challenging experience for experienced wargamers.

Detailed Components: Includes extensive maps and a large number of counters, enhancing the gameplay experience.

Educational Value: Provides a thorough understanding of the military strategies and challenges during the initial stages of the Russo-German War.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s complexity can be overwhelming for new players.

Long Playtime: Requires a significant time commitment, often exceeding 40 hours.

Space Requirements: The large maps and numerous counters require substantial storage and play space.

Limited Playability: Due to its complexity, it may not be as accessible or enjoyable for casual gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Fire in the East

**Fire in the East** is tailored for serious wargamers and history enthusiasts who are eager to delve into the intricacies of military strategy during World War II. It is not a game for the faint of heart or those new to board wargames, given its complexity and lengthy gameplay. However, for those who enjoy a deep, immersive, and historically rich gaming experience, **Fire in the East** offers a unique and rewarding challenge.

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