Mercury/Market Garden (2012) Board Game

Mercury/Market Garden is a two-player wargame set during World War II, designed by Brandon Pennington and published by Worthington Games in in 2012. The game takes its name from two key operations during the war: Operation Mercury, the German invasion of Crete in 1941, and Operation Market Garden, the Allied attempt to secure a bridgehead over the Rhine River in 1944.

Game Components of Mercury/Market Garden

Large 7/8″ counters

Double-sided map board

Rules booklet (4 pages per battle)

Dice

How To Setup Mercury/Market Garden

Setting up **Mercury/Market Garden** involves laying out the double-sided map board, which features different scenarios for each of the two games included. Players then place the large counters representing units on the board according to the specific battle setup outlined in the rules. The rules booklet provides clear instructions for each scenario, ensuring a straightforward setup process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics:
– Area Control: Players maneuver units to control key areas on the map.
– Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat and other game mechanics.
– Strategic Planning: Players must plan and execute strategies to achieve objectives.

Game Objective:
– In **Mercury: The Invasion of Crete**, the objective is to simulate the German airborne invasion of Crete during World War II.
– In **Market Garden: Race For the Rhine**, the goal is to recreate the Allied operation to secure key bridges in the Netherlands.

Player Experience

**Mercury/Market Garden** offers a quick and engaging wargaming experience. The large counters and double-sided map board make the game visually appealing and easy to navigate. The rules are concise, with only 4 pages per battle, which helps in getting the game started quickly. This makes it an excellent choice for both new and experienced wargamers looking for a fun and challenging experience.

Pros

Quick Setup: Easy and fast setup due to straightforward rules.

Visually Appealing: Large counters and a double-sided map board enhance the gaming experience.

Historical Accuracy: The game accurately represents historical battles, making it a great choice for history enthusiasts.

Dual Games: Includes two distinct games in one package, offering variety.

Cons

Limited Complexity: The game mechanics are relatively simple, which might not appeal to players seeking more complex strategies.

Dependence on Dice Rolls: The game’s outcome can be heavily influenced by dice rolls, which may introduce an element of luck over strategy.

Personal Thoughts on Mercury/Market Garden

**Mercury/Market Garden** is ideal for wargamers who appreciate historical accuracy and quick, engaging gameplay. It is particularly suited for those new to wargaming due to its simple and intuitive rules. However, experienced players looking for more complex strategies might find it a bit lacking. Overall, it’s a great addition to any wargame collection, offering a fun and historical gaming experience.

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