Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42 (2016) Board Game

Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42 is a wargame that allows players to step into the shoes of commanders during the North African Campaign of World War II. This period saw the British Eighth Army facing off against the Axis forces led by Erwin Rommel, also known as the Desert Fox. Players must strategize and outmaneuver their opponents to secure victory in the harsh desert terrain of North Africa.

Game Components of Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42

Rulebook

22″ x 34″ mounted game board

1 counter sheet with 176 counters

2 player aid cards

2 six-sided dice

1 box and dice tray

How To Setup Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42

Unfold and set up the game board in a flat and stable surface.

Punch out the counters from the counter sheet and organize them according to their designated categories.

Each player selects their faction (British or Axis) and places their units on the starting areas as indicated on the board.

Follow the setup instructions for specific scenario or campaign you wish to play.

Consult the player aid cards for reference during gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42 utilizes action points, dice rolling, and a hexagon grid to simulate the tactical decisions made by commanders during the North African Campaign. Players must carefully allocate their action points to move units, engage in combat, and secure objectives on the map. The game objective varies depending on the scenario being played, but typically involves controlling key locations or eliminating enemy units.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging and immersive theme that captures the essence of the North African Campaign.

Strategic depth and replayability with different scenarios and campaign options.

Balanced gameplay that rewards both offensive and defensive strategies.

Cons:

Steep learning curve for new players unfamiliar with wargames.

Some scenarios may feel unbalanced in favor of one faction over the other.

Limited player interaction in two-player mode.

Personal Thoughts on Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42

Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42 offers a detailed and challenging wargaming experience for enthusiasts of the genre. The game’s components are well-made, and the artwork effectively sets the tone for the desert warfare setting. However, the game may not appeal to casual gamers due to its complex rules and lengthy playtime. Pricing and availability for both new and used copies can vary, so it’s worth shopping around for the best deal.

In terms of alternatives and similar games, players who enjoy Holdfast: North Africa 1941-42 may also appreciate titles like Memoir ’44 or Conflict of Heroes: Awakening the Bear for their tactical gameplay and historical themes. Ultimately, whether Holdfast is worth your time depends on your interest in World War II wargames and your willingness to invest time in learning its mechanics. It’s a game that rewards patience and strategic thinking, making it a good fit for players looking for a challenging and immersive gaming experience.

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