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No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940 (2012) Board Game

Brief History and Background Information for No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940 is a board game set during the early stages of World War II when the German military launched a successful invasion of France in 2012. This game is part of the No Retreat series, known for its historical accuracy and strategic gameplay. Designed by Tim Allen, Alan Emrich, and Carl Paradis, this game aims to recreate the tension and challenges faced during this crucial period of the war.

Game Components of No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

  • Hexagon Grid Map
  • Battle Cards
  • Player Aid Cards
  • Dice
  • Counter Tokens
  • Rulebook

How To Setup No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

  • Place the hexagon grid map on the playing surface.
  • Each player receives their set of counter tokens, battle cards, and player aid cards.
  • Shuffle the battle cards and place them face down.
  • Determine the starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In No Retreat 3, players take on the roles of the German and French forces, attempting to outmaneuver and outwit their opponents. The game features campaign and battle card-driven mechanics, where players must strategically use their cards and dice rolls to gain an advantage on the battlefield. The objective is to control key territories and achieve victory points by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

  • Historical accuracy in gameplay and events
  • Strategic depth and replayability
  • Immersive theme and setting

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve for new players
  • Long playing time may not be suitable for casual gamers

Personal Thoughts on No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

Overall, No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940 offers a challenging and engaging experience for players interested in World War II history and strategic board games. The game’s build quality is solid, with detailed components that enhance the thematic immersion. While the game may not be suitable for everyone due to its complexity and time commitment, it is worth the investment for those looking for a deep and rewarding gaming experience. Additionally, the pricing and availability of both new and used copies make it accessible to a wider audience. If you enjoy historical wargames and are willing to dedicate time to learn the mechanics, No Retreat 3 is definitely worth your time. However, casual gamers or those looking for a quick and light gaming experience may want to skip this one.

Game Components of No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

  • Mapboard: A 22×18 mounted and two-sided map, one side for France and the other for Poland.
  • Units and Markers: One sheet of 40 2-sided square units and one sheet of 112 2-sided round/hex markers.
  • Rule Book: A 24-page rule book.
  • Scenario Book: A 24-page scenario book.
  • Play-aid Cards: Five play-aid cards.
  • Event Cards: 80 event cards (45 for France, 35 for Poland).
  • Dice: Two 6-sided dice.

    How To Setup No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

    Setup involves each player choosing or drawing “Campaign Plan Cards” that outline their general objectives. For the French Front, players can opt for different scenarios such as the Regular Game, Historical Game, or Simulation Game. In the Regular Game, players select from over six different campaign plans for each side, while the Historical Game and Simulation Game use more historically plausible and actual campaign plans, respectively. For the Polish Front, setup includes secret deployment of troops on smaller strategic maps, with options for historical or alternative history scenarios.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Category: Wargame, World War II.
  • Game Mechanics: Card-assisted gameplay, hex-and-counter system, variable player powers (through Plan cards).
  • Objective: Players command either the Allied (French and British) or German forces, aiming to achieve the objectives outlined in their chosen campaign plans. The goal is to accumulate Victory Points or prevent the opponent from achieving theirs.
  • Scale: Each unit represents an Army or Corps, each hex is approximately 30 kilometers across, and each turn represents four days of real time (except the first turn, which is two days).

    Player Experience

    Playing **No Retreat 3** immerses you in the strategic and tactical challenges of World War II’s early campaigns. The game’s use of Plan cards and event cards introduces unpredictability, mirroring the historical uncertainties of war. Players must navigate through scenarios that challenge their strategic thinking, such as the German blitzkrieg through the Ardennes Forest or the evacuation at Dunkirk. The addition of “what if” scenarios adds a layer of replayability and historical speculation.

    Pros

  • Historical Depth: Rich and insightful presentation of the French and Polish campaigns.
  • Replayability: Multiple scenarios and “what if” options enhance replay value.
  • Strategic Complexity: Engaging gameplay that requires strategic planning and tactical execution.
  • Educational Value: Offers a detailed look at the military strategies and outcomes of World War II’s early years.

    Cons

  • Complexity: The game mechanics and multiple scenarios can be overwhelming for new players.
  • Time Commitment: Campaign games can take 3 to 4 hours to complete.
  • Learning Curve: Requires a good understanding of wargame mechanics and historical context.

    Personal Thoughts on No Retreat 3: The French Front – May-June 1940

    **No Retreat 3: The French and Polish Fronts** is ideal for experienced wargamers and history enthusiasts. It offers a deep dive into the strategic decisions and military engagements of World War II’s early years, making it a great choice for those interested in historical military simulations. However, due to its complexity, it may not be the best introduction for new players to the wargame genre.

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