Great War Commander (2018) Board Game

Great War Commander is a board game that simulates the strategic and tactical aspects of World War I. Designed by a team of experienced game designers, this wargame offers players the opportunity to explore the complexities of warfare during this historical period.

Game Components of Great War Commander

6 back-printed 17˝ x 24˝ game maps (twelve maps total)

256 large (⅝˝) die-cut counters

36 double large (1.25”x5/8”) die-cut counters

160 small (½˝) die-cut counters

270 playing cards

4 double sided player aid sheets

8 back printed scenario sheets

One 32-page Rulebook

One 8-page Playbook.

How To Setup Great War Commander

To set up the game, players first need to locate the appropriate map for the chosen scenario, identified by a specific number found on the scenario card. Each map is measured in hexagons and organized by an alphanumeric coordinate system. Next, players place the initial units of the forces involved, such as German and French troops, according to the scenario instructions. The maps are designed to show terrain, and the hexagons are subtle and sometimes hard to see. Units are represented by double-sided cardboard markers, or counters, which are divided into different types based on the number of soldier icons printed on them.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Card Play: Players take turns playing “Fate cards” to activate military units on the mapboard.

Unit Activation: New orders like Offensive, Runner, and Machine Gun Suppress reflect intense combat.

Actions and Events: Over 30 actions, including Engineering works, Go to Ground, and Rolling Barrage, and 40 events like Tanks and Sturmtruppen.

Terrain and Combat: Barrages can alter terrain, gas attacks can flood a sector, and air dominance or reconnaissance can influence the fighting.

Game Objective

The objective is to command forces from France, Germany, or America through historical scenarios on the Western Front.

Players aim to achieve scenario-specific objectives, such as holding positions or advancing through enemy lines.

Player Experience

Great War Commander offers a rich and immersive experience, especially for those familiar with the Combat Commander series. The game includes sixteen historical scenarios, including an introductory scenario and scenarios involving tanks. The maps are deeper, allowing more maneuvering space for the two battalion-size forces facing each other. The addition of new orders and events unique to World War I, such as Trommelfeuer and Petard Raquette, enhances the historical accuracy and complexity of the game. The Random Scenario Generator adds significant replay value.

Pros

Historical Depth: Detailed historical scenarios and unique events.

Complexity and Replay Value: Multiple scenarios and a Random Scenario Generator.

Immersive Gameplay: Reflects the intense combat of World War I.

Expandable: Future expansions planned for other nations and theaters.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Requires understanding of the Combat Commander system or significant time to learn.

Complex Rules: Numerous actions and events can be overwhelming.

Time-Consuming: Games can last around two hours.

Personal Thoughts on Great War Commander

Great War Commander is ideal for wargame enthusiasts, particularly those interested in World War I and the Combat Commander series. It offers a deeply immersive and historically rich experience, making it a great addition to any wargamer’s collection. However, due to its complexity and the need for a substantial investment of time to learn the rules, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to wargames.

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