Holdfast: Atlantic 1939-45 (2016) Board Game

Holdfast: Atlantic 1939-45 is a board game that simulates the naval warfare of World War II in the Atlantic Ocean. Players take on the roles of Allied and Axis commanders, strategizing and deploying their fleets to gain control of key areas and outmaneuver their opponents. The game captures the tension and excitement of this crucial theater of war, where naval power played a vital role in determining the outcome of the conflict.

Game Components of Holdfast: Atlantic 1939-45

Blocks: Representing ships, submarines, and aircraft, these blocks feature a simple fog of war mechanism where the strength is hidden until engagement.

Board: Divided into large areas representing different sectors of the Atlantic Ocean.

Dice: Used for combat resolution.

Area Control Markers: To denote which side controls each sector.

Convoy Units: Though not the main focus, these units represent merchant ships.

Rulebook: Detailed rules outlining setup, movement, and combat.

How To Setup Holdfast: Atlantic 1939-45

Setup involves placing the blocks representing ships, submarines, and aircraft in their designated starting areas on the board. Each side starts with a set of units and control markers. The game also requires the distribution of convoy units, which move from the US to the UK. The points available for controlling each area are assigned based on the side and the sector, adding a strategic layer to the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Block Rotation: Blocks rotate to indicate current strength and losses.

Activation and Combat: Uses a shared pool of points for both activation and attacking, creating a tactical dilemma.

Multi-Round Combat: Involves submarines, aircraft, and ships with dice rolls determining outcomes.

Area Control: Critical areas around Britain and other sectors must be controlled to prevent enemy movements.

Convoy Management: Though simplified, convoys move with minimal fuss but are crucial for points.

Game Objective: The objective is to control key areas and deny them to the opponent, with variable victory points (VP) values for each sector.

Player Experience

Players engage in a high-stakes game of tactical maneuvering and bluffing. The lack of real movement and the reliance on area control create a dynamic where battles can swing wildly based on dice rolls and strategic unit placement. The combined arms element, particularly the effectiveness of aircraft against submarines, adds depth to the game.

Pros

Streamlined Design: Simplifies complex historical scenarios into an engaging game.

High Replayability: Variable setup and dice rolls ensure different outcomes each game.

Historical Accuracy: Abstractly captures the essence of naval warfare during WWII.

Tactical Depth: Requires careful resource management and strategic planning.

Cons

Luck of the Dice: Combat outcomes can be significantly influenced by dice rolls, which may not appeal to all players.

Limited Movement: The static nature of unit placement can feel restrictive to some.

Abstracted Convoys: While the abstraction is clever, some might find the lack of detailed convoy mechanics disappointing.

Personal Thoughts on Holdfast: Atlantic 1939-45

This game is ideal for fans of naval warfare and those who enjoy block games with a strong historical context. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate strategic planning and tactical bluffing. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking highly detailed convoy simulations or extensive movement mechanisms, it offers a unique and engaging take on WWII naval battles.

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