Less Than 60 Miles (2019) Board Game

Less Than 60 Miles is a modern warfare board game that was released in in 2019. It is designed by Eleonora Olivares and Fabrizio Vianello, with artwork by Thin Red Line Games. The game is set in a fictional conflict scenario in the Middle East, where players take on the roles of military commanders.

Game Components of Less Than 60 Miles

Map: 98×55 cm matte plasticized map covering the US V Corps area of responsibility.

Counters: Over 1000 5/8″ matte plasticized counters.

Rule Books: 35-Pages Rules Booklet and 30-Pages Scenario & Designer’s Notes Booklet.

Event & Action Cards: 40 cards.

Tables and Charts: Two full-color tables booklets and two Order of Battle Charts.

Dice: Two 10-sided dice.

Storage: 10 Zipbags and a roll of baggies for counter storage.

Player Aids: Six single-sided player aids, including ground combat charts, setup sheets, and time tracks.

Field Manual: An eight-page Quick Start guide for battlefield operations.

How To Setup Less Than 60 Miles

Setting up the game involves organizing the extensive array of components. Players must sort and place the numerous counters on the large map, ensuring each unit is correctly positioned according to the scenario. The rule book and scenario book provide detailed instructions on setup, including specific troop deployments and initial conditions for each scenario. The game also includes player aids and charts to help streamline the setup process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Scale: Operational scale with 5 km per hex and 3 hours per game turn.

Units: Regiment/Battalion sized units.

Order of Battle: Detailed Order of Battle set exactly in July 1985.

Command, Control & Communication: Emphasis on operational planning, orders, and postures.

Combat Mechanics: Close Air Support, Attack Helicopters, Electronic and Intelligence Warfare, Interdiction, Bombardment, and Counter-Battery fire.

Special Operations: Chemical and Nuclear warfare, Combat Engineer Operations.

Random Events: Event cards to increase battlefield chaos.

Objective: The primary goal is to stop the Soviet advance for NATO or to break through the NATO defenses for the Warsaw Pact.

Player Experience

**Less Than 60 Miles** offers a deeply immersive and complex gaming experience, particularly suited for veteran wargamers. The game demands meticulous planning and execution, mirroring the real-world challenges faced by Corps and Division commanders. Players must navigate the intricacies of modern, mechanized warfare, managing resources, and adapting to random events that can significantly impact the battlefield. The game’s components and rules are well-researched and detailed, providing a realistic simulation of Cold War-era conflict.

Pros

Realistic Simulation: Detailed and realistic portrayal of operational warfare.

High-Quality Components: Well-made counters, maps, and rule books.

Complex Gameplay: Challenges players with real-world military command issues.

Expansive Scenarios: Multiple scenarios and campaigns to play through.

Community Recognition: Nominated for the 2019 Charles S. Roberts Awards and winner of the 2020 Open Paris Jeux d’Histoire Bronze Medal.

Cons

Time Commitment: Requires a significant amount of time to play and set up.

Complex Rules: Steep learning curve due to detailed rules and mechanics.

Availability: Currently out of stock at some retailers.

Personal Thoughts on Less Than 60 Miles

**Less Than 60 Miles** is ideal for dedicated wargamers who appreciate the depth and complexity of operational-level simulations. The game is not for casual players due to its intricate rules and the substantial time required to play. However, for those interested in the Cold War era and military strategy, this game offers an unparalleled level of realism and challenge. It is a testament to the designer’s commitment to detail and historical accuracy, making it a standout in the wargaming community.

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