It Never Snows (2012) Board Game

It Never Snows is a wargame set during World War II, specifically focusing on the Western Front. The game was released in 2012 by Multi-Man Publishing, known for their historical wargames. The designers, The Gamers, have a reputation for creating detailed and immersive war simulations.

Game Components of It Never Snows

Game board depicting the operational area of Market Garden

Unit counters representing Allied and German forces

Scenario cards

Rules booklet

Charts and tables for game mechanics

Player aids and maps

How To Setup It Never Snows

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, distributing unit counters according to the scenario being played, and preparing player aids and charts. Players must also read through the scenario briefing to understand the specific objectives and initial conditions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Area Movement, Hex-and-Counter, Scenario-Based Gameplay

Game Category: Wargame, Historical

Objective: The Allied player aims to capture and hold key bridges and roads, while the German player must defend and counterattack to disrupt the Allied plans.

Turn Structure: Turns are divided into phases that include movement, combat, and supply checks.

Player Experience

**It Never Snows** offers a deep and immersive experience, making players feel like military commanders. The game is a planner’s game, requiring strategic thinking and resource management. Players must balance the movement and supply of their units while engaging in combat, making it a challenging and rewarding experience.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Faithfully recreates the Market Garden offensive.

Deep Strategy: Requires careful planning and execution.

Immersive Experience: Makes players feel like they are part of a real military operation.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable setup ensure high replay value.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to intricate rules and mechanics.

Time Commitment: Games can be lengthy, requiring several hours to complete.

Component Overload: The number of counters and charts can be overwhelming for new players.

Personal Thoughts on It Never Snows

**It Never Snows** is ideal for veteran wargamers and those with a strong interest in historical military conflicts. The game’s complexity and depth make it less accessible to casual gamers but highly rewarding for those willing to invest the time and effort to master its mechanics. If you’re looking for a game that challenges your strategic thinking and offers a rich historical context, **It Never Snows** is a great choice.

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