Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51 (1971) Board Game

Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51 is a board game that simulates the Korean War, specifically focusing on the mobile warfare tactics employed during the conflict. The Korean War was fought between North Korea, supported by China and the Soviet Union, and South Korea, supported by the United Nations, primarily the United States. It was a brutal and bloody conflict that lasted from 1950 to 1953.

Game Components of Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51

Map: 23″ x 29″ paper hex grid map scaled at 16 km (10 mi) per hex

Counters: 255 die-cut counters

Rules: Map-folded rules sheet

Dice: Small six-sided die (not included in the original “Test Series” edition)

Scenarios: Three scenarios – Invasion, Intervention, and Stalemate, plus twelve “what if” scenarios

How To Setup Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51

To set up the game, players first lay out the map of Korea, which is divided into hexes representing 16 km (10 mi) each. The counters, which represent various military units, are placed on the map according to the specific scenario being played. Each scenario has its own setup instructions. The rules sheet provides detailed instructions on how to arrange the units and start the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay System: Alternating “I Go, You Go” system of movement
– First Movement: All units may move
– Combat: All units within range may fire upon enemy units
– Second Movement: All units may move again

Objective: The United Nations player aims to repel the North Korean and Chinese forces, while the North Korean/Chinese player seeks to unify Korea under communist control.

Turn Structure: Each turn represents one week of game time.

Unit Stacking: Units are not allowed to stack except during retreat situations if unavoidable.

Additional Rules: Includes rules for naval gunfire, sea transport, invasions, and fortifications.

Player Experience

Players of **Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51** engage in a strategic and tactical simulation of the Korean War, navigating the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the conflict. The game requires careful planning and execution of movements and combat, reflecting the historical context of rapid advances and retreats during the war. Reviews have noted that the game is a good simulation but may lack in strategic depth, with some players finding it too realistic and others pointing out ambiguities in the rules.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is praised for its realistic portrayal of the Korean War.

Multiple Scenarios: Offers three main scenarios and twelve “what if” scenarios, providing varied gameplay experiences.

Simple yet Engaging Mechanics: The “I Go, You Go” system is straightforward yet engaging.

Affordable: Originally part of SPI’s cheaply made “test games,” it was later re-released with improved components.

Cons

Rule Ambiguities: Some players have noted ambiguities in the rules, particularly with the map-folded rules sheet.

Limited Strategic Depth: Some reviewers felt that the game lacks significant strategic choices.

Production Quality: Early versions had lower production quality, such as paper counters and typewritten rules.

Personal Thoughts on Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51

This game is ideal for wargame enthusiasts and those interested in the Korean War. It offers a detailed and historically accurate simulation that can be appealing to both history buffs andStrategy gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking complex strategic decisions or high production values. For those willing to delve into the nuances of the Korean War, **Korea: The Mobile War 1950-51** provides an engaging and educational experience.

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