Invasion: America – Death Throes of the Superpower (1976) Board Game

Invasion: America – Death Throes of the Superpower is a classic wargame released in 1976 by designer Redmond A. Simonsen. It is a strategic board game that focuses on modern warfare and geopolitical conflict, set in an alternate history where the United States is invaded by a coalition of foreign powers. The game is known for its detailed gameplay mechanics and deep strategic depth, making it a favorite among hardcore wargame enthusiasts.

Game Components of Invasion: America – Death Throes of the Superpower

Map: A two-piece 35″ x 46″ paper hex grid map of North America, scaled at 130 km (80 mi) per hex.

Counters: 400 die-cut counters representing land, air, and naval military and logistics units. Each counter has numerical combat and movement ratings, with land and air units being double-sided to indicate “untried” status.

Rule Book: A 16-page rule book outlining game mechanics and scenarios.

Miscellaneous: A plastic counter tray and two six-sided dice.

How To Setup Invasion: America – Death Throes of the Superpower

To set up the game, players first deploy the units according to the scenario instructions. Each scenario defines the order of battle and initial deployment for both the invading and defending forces. The map is laid out, and the counters are placed face down to represent “untried” units. The game includes specific instructions for each of the six scenarios and the campaign game, detailing unit replacement rates and victory conditions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: The game uses an “I go, You go” system where one player moves all desired pieces, followed by the other player.

Movement: Units can move through a number of hexes equal to or less than their movement rating.

Combat: Combat is resolved by calculating the ratio of attacker to defender strength and rolling a die. This can result in retreats or losses for one or both sides.

Untried Units: Units are initially deployed as “untried,” with their true strength revealed only when they engage in combat.

Victory Conditions: Victory is determined by control of urban, supply, and resource hexes that yield victory points. In the campaign game, the invaders must control all key locations by the end of the 60th turn to win.

Player Experience

Invasion: America offers a complex and engaging wargaming experience, particularly appealing to fans of strategic and tactical gameplay. The game’s “untried units” mechanic adds a layer of uncertainty, simulating the fog of war effectively. Players must balance defense and offense, managing resources and unit deployments across a large map. The multiple scenarios and the lengthy campaign game provide a high replay value.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: The “untried units” feature was a groundbreaking mechanic at the time of its release.

High Replay Value: Six different scenarios and a 60-turn campaign game ensure a lot of replayability.

Complex Strategy: The game offers deep strategic and tactical gameplay, appealing to experienced wargamers.

Cons

Complex Setup: The large map and numerous counters can be overwhelming for new gamers.

Rule Complexity: Some players have noted issues with the scenario victory conditions and miscellaneous rules.

Physical Size: The game’s components, especially the large map, can be daunting for those with limited space.

Personal Thoughts on Invasion: America – Death Throes of the Superpower

Invasion: America is ideal for experienced wargamers and those who enjoy complex strategic games. The game’s unique mechanics and detailed scenarios make it a standout in the wargaming genre. However, due to its complexity and the physical size of the components, it may not be the best introduction for new gamers. For those who appreciate a challenging and immersive wargaming experience, Invasion: America – Death Throes of the Superpower is a classic worth exploring.

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