Kasserine Pass (1972) Board Game

Kasserine Pass is a board game that simulates the Battle of Kasserine Pass during World War II. This battle took place in February 1943 in Tunisia and was a significant engagement between the Axis and Allied forces. The game allows players to recreate this historical battle and experience the challenges faced by both sides.

Game Components of Kasserine Pass

Map: 25″ x 21″ paper hex grid map scaled at 4.5 mi (7 km) per hex.

Counters: 150 die-cut counters.

Rulebook: 4-page rulebook.

Charts and Aids: Various charts and player aids.

How To Setup Kasserine Pass

Setting up the game involves placing the map board, which represents the Kasserine Pass area, and distributing the counters according to the initial deployment rules. Players must ensure that the German and American forces are positioned correctly, reflecting the historical setup of the battle. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on the initial placement of units and the setup of other game components.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay System: Traditional alternating “I Go, You Go” system with Axis movement, Axis combat, Allied movement, and Allied combat phases.

Turn Duration: Each turn represents one day of game time, with the game lasting 12 turns.

Movement: Units have movement costs to enter enemy zones of control; German units have preferential movement and combat bonuses.

Victory Conditions: Germans must take and hold 6 towns to win; Allies win by preventing this.

Player Experience

**Kasserine Pass** offers a fast-paced and tactical experience. Players control either the German attackers or the American defenders, each with unique challenges and strategies. The game is praised for its simplicity and playability, making it accessible to new wargamers while still offering depth for experienced players.

Pros

Highly Playable: Simple basic system makes it highly playable.

Historical Accuracy: Simulates the true nature of the battles in North Africa.

Balanced Gameplay: Despite initial appearances, the game is balanced, with both sides having viable winning strategies.

Cons

Simple Rules: Some reviewers found the rules not unique and at a fairly simple level.

Price: Criticized for being relatively high-priced compared to other games at the time.

Personal Thoughts on Kasserine Pass

**Kasserine Pass** is a great introduction to wargaming, especially for those interested in World War II history. It is designed for two players and offers a competitive experience where strategy and resource management are crucial. The game’s simplicity and historical accuracy make it an excellent choice for both new and experienced wargamers. However, those seeking complex rules or a large number of players may find it less engaging.

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