Kursk: Burning Tigers – A Panzer Grenadier Game (2014) Board Game

Kursk: Burning Tigers is a board game that falls under the wargame category, focusing on the World War II battle of Kursk, which took place in 1943 on the Eastern Front. The game is designed by Guy Riessen and features artwork by Avalanche Press Ltd.

Game Components of Kursk: Burning Tigers – A Panzer Grenadier Game

Rulebook

40 separate scenarios

Counters representing German and Soviet forces

Maps depicting the battlefields of the northern flank of the Kursk salient

How To Setup Kursk: Burning Tigers – A Panzer Grenadier Game

Setting up the game involves preparing the maps, placing the counters according to the scenario rules, and reading through the scenario briefings. Each scenario has specific setup instructions to ensure historical accuracy and challenging gameplay. Players need to carefully follow the setup guidelines to recreate the historical battles accurately.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Phased Turn System: Players alternate moving and firing units in a phased manner, creating a more dynamic and less artificial turn structure.

Line of Sight/Spotting: Detailed rules for line of sight and spotting to add realism.

Armor Overruns: Rules allowing for armor units to overrun enemy positions.

Objective: The German player aims to break through the Soviet defenses, while the Soviet player must hold or counterattack to repel the German advance.

Player Experience

Playing **Kursk: Burning Tigers** is an immersive experience for wargamers, especially those interested in World War II. The game requires strategic thinking and tactical execution, as players must manage resources, coordinate units, and adapt to changing battlefield conditions. The phased turn system adds a layer of realism, making the game feel more fluid and interactive.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Faithfully depicts the German Ninth Army’s assault on the northern flank of the Kursk salient.

Engaging Scenarios: 40 scenarios provide a wide range of challenges and historical contexts.

Easy to Learn: The game mechanics, although detailed, are easy to learn for new players.

Realistic Gameplay: The phased turn system and detailed rules enhance the game’s realism.

Cons

Complexity: While easy to learn, the game can be complex and time-consuming for some players.

Component Density: The game includes a large number of counters and maps, which can be overwhelming.

Space Requirements: Setting up and playing the game requires significant table space.

Personal Thoughts on Kursk: Burning Tigers – A Panzer Grenadier Game

**Kursk: Burning Tigers** is ideal for wargamers and history enthusiasts who enjoy tactical combat simulations. The game’s detailed scenarios and realistic mechanics make it a standout in the Panzer Grenadier series. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and the time required to set up and play each scenario. For those deeply interested in World War II tactics and the Battle of Kursk, this game offers a rich and rewarding experience.

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