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Flames of War: Open Fire! (2012) Board Game

ByMichail

Flames of War: Open Fire! is a World War II miniatures wargame that was released in in 2012. It is designed by Evan Allen and published by Battlefront Miniatures Ltd. The game is set in the European theater of World War II and allows players to recreate historical battles using miniature figures and terrain.

Game Components of Flames of War: Open Fire!

  • Miniatures:** Over 118 finely detailed miniatures, including German Panzer IV H tanks, StuG G assault guns, Sd Kfz 251 halftracks, American M4A3 Sherman tanks, M3 halftracks, British Sherman V and Firefly tanks, Comet tanks, Soviet T-34 and T-34-85 tanks, and SU-85 and SU-100 assault guns.
  • Rulebook:** A 54-page quick start guide and a 298-page full-color complete rulebook.
  • Terrain:** Cardboard terrain and a V1 flying bomb terrain piece.
  • Tokens and Markers:** Tokens, objective markers, and army lists.
  • Dice:** Twenty six-sided dice.

    How To Setup Flames of War: Open Fire!

    Setting up the game involves several steps. First, players assemble and paint their miniatures, which is facilitated by the included assembly and painting guides. The game includes company diagrams that help players choose and add platoons to their force. Once the miniatures are ready, players set up the tabletop with the provided cardboard terrain. The scenario and mission objectives are determined using the scenario lists provided in the rulebook.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Category:** Miniatures wargame.
  • Mechanics:** Turn-based, with each player’s turn consisting of four phases (rallying forces, bringing up reserves and air support, springing ambushes, and resolving actions).
  • Game Objective:** The objective varies by scenario but generally involves achieving specific victory conditions such as capturing objectives, destroying enemy units, or holding positions.

    Player Experience

    Playing Flames of War: Open Fire offers a engaging and simulationist experience. The game is designed to be learned quickly, with straightforward basic rules and helpful picture diagrams. Players can choose from four major nations, each with unique equipment and styles of play. The game’s turns are structured to minimize disputes, with a declarative measuring system that ensures clarity and fairness.

    Pros

  • Value for Money:** The set includes a significant number of miniatures and a comprehensive rulebook at a reasonable price.
  • Balanced Gameplay:** The battles are generally balanced and enjoyable, with no glaring issues in the rules.
  • Streamlined Rules:** The rules are streamlined and easy to follow, making it accessible to new players.
  • Engaging Scenarios:** Various scenarios such as free-for-all, encounter, dust-up, and more are available, offering a lot of replayability.

    Cons

  • Introduction Curve:** Preparing the miniatures can be time-consuming and may be a barrier for some players.
  • Rulebook Binding:** There have been issues with the binding of the rulebook, which can deteriorate quickly.

    Personal Thoughts on Flames of War: Open Fire!

    Flames of War: Open Fire is perfect for those new to miniatures wargaming, particularly those interested in World War II. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the hobby, including assembling, painting, and playing with miniatures. The game’s balanced and engaging gameplay makes it enjoyable for both beginners and experienced players. However, it may not be ideal for those who prefer simpler, more abstract games due to the detailed miniatures and rules involved.

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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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