Flashpoint: Golan – The Fifth Arab-Israeli War is a strategic wargame that simulates the military conflict between Israel and its Arab neighbors in the Golan Heights during the Yom Kippur War of
Designed by Kevin Boylan and Charles Kibler, this game was released in 1991 by Victory Games. The game is known for its historical accuracy and attention to detail in depicting the complexities of modern warfare.Game Components of Flashpoint: Golan – The Fifth Arab-Israeli War
Maps: Two hexagon maps covering Northern Israel, the Golan Heights, Southern and Central Lebanon, and Western Syria.Counters: Representing various units such as headquarters, infantry, armored formations, and artillery. Each counter includes designations for the formation, unit type, and combat strength.Chits: Representing multi-unit maneuver units (divisions or brigades) and higher command headquarters.Tables: For scenario generation, morale levels, and terrain effects.Terrain Features: Includes hills, escarpments, mountains, rivers, streams, waddies (dried river valleys), and permanent fortifications like anti-tank ditches.
How To Setup Flashpoint: Golan – The Fifth Arab-Israeli War
Setting up the game involves placing the two maps, which fit together to form the entire battlefield. Players must then set up the counters and chits according to the scenario being played. The game includes a scenario generator that allows players to create different situations by rolling dice and consulting tables to determine the postures of various countries and factions involved.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Hexagon Grid Mechanics: The game uses a hexagon grid for movement and combat.Chip Pool System: Chits represent units and command headquarters.Scenario Generation: Players can generate different scenarios using dice rolls and tables.Morale Levels: Victory is determined by morale levels, which are affected by unit losses and geographic control.Game Objective: The objective is to achieve victory by maintaining morale levels and controlling key geographic locations.
Player Experience
Flashpoint: Golan offers a deeply immersive and complex gaming experience, particularly appealing to fans of modern warfare and strategic planning. The game’s scenario generator adds a high level of replayability, allowing players to engage in different scenarios each time they play. The detailed rules and extensive setup time reflect the game’s focus on realism and strategic depth.
Pros
High Replayability: The scenario generator allows for multiple unique playthroughs.Depth and Complexity: Appeals to players who enjoy strategic planning and operational-level combat.Historical Accuracy: The game is set in the early 1980s Middle East, offering a realistic portrayal of potential conflicts in the region.Interactive Gameplay: The game involves a highly interactive sequence of play.
Cons
Long Play Time: The game requires a significant commitment of 360 minutes per session.Complex Rules: The game has detailed and complex rules, which can be daunting for new players.Limited Player Count: Designed for only 2 players, limiting its appeal for larger groups.
Personal Thoughts on Flashpoint: Golan – The Fifth Arab-Israeli War
Flashpoint: Golan is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in modern military strategy. It is not suited for casual gamers due to its complexity and lengthy playtime. However, for those who enjoy deep strategic gameplay and historical accuracy, this game offers a rich and engaging experience.
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