Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18 (2015) Board Game

Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18 is a board game that simulates the East African campaign of World War I, where German Colonel Paul Emil von Lettow-Vorbeck led a small but highly effective force against the British and Allied forces. The game captures the challenges faced by both sides in the harsh African terrain during the war.

Game Components of Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18

Game map depicting the East African theater

Unit counters for German and Allied forces

Event cards

Rulebook

Player aids and charts

Dice for resolving combat and other actions

How To Setup Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18

To set up the game, players first lay out the map of East Africa, which includes key terrain features and locations. Each player then receives their respective force counters, with the German player setting up their mobile and guerrilla units, and the Allied player deploying their forces according to historical dispositions. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on the initial setup, including the distribution of event cards and other game components.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Operational Level: The game operates at a strategic and operational level, focusing on large-scale maneuvers and resource management.

Guerrilla Warfare: German players must execute a mobile, guerrilla campaign to tie down Allied forces.

Resource Management: Players manage supply lines, troop movements, and strategic decisions to achieve their objectives.

Objective: The German player aims to delay and harass the Allied forces, while the Allied player seeks to defeat the German forces and secure the colony.

Player Experience

Playing **Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18** offers a challenging and immersive experience, particularly for fans of historical wargames. The game requires strategic thinking and resource management, as players must balance immediate needs with long-term goals. The guerrilla warfare mechanics add a layer of complexity and unpredictability, simulating the historical context of the East African Campaign.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched and adheres closely to historical events.

Strategic Depth: Offers complex and engaging gameplay mechanics.

Replayability: Different event cards and initial setups ensure high replayability.

Educational Value: Provides insight into a lesser-known aspect of World War I.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s rules and mechanics can be daunting for new players.

Lengthy Playtime: Games can be quite long, reflecting the prolonged nature of the historical campaign.

Complexity: May not be suitable for casual gamers due to its operational level and detailed rules.

Personal Thoughts on Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18

**Lettow-Vorbeck: East Africa 1914-18** is ideal for enthusiasts of historical wargames and those interested in World War I. It offers a unique perspective on a lesser-known campaign and challenges players to think strategically and tactically. While it may not be the best fit for new or casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time and effort into mastering its mechanics.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.