No Retreat!: The North African Front (2013) Board Game

No Retreat!: The North African Front is a board game that focuses on the North African Campaign during World War II. Players take on the roles of either the Axis or Allied forces as they battle it out in the deserts of North Africa.

Game Components of No Retreat!: The North African Front

Map: The game features a main map and five “mini-maps” located at key termini of maneuver and battle zones.

Counters: Representing various military units.

Event Cards: Each card has two parts, one for the Germans and one for the Allies, influencing gameplay and strategy.

Plan Cards: These cards provide secret instructions and objectives for each player, adding a layer of historical strategy and alternative scenarios.

Initiative Markers: Representing Command & Control abilities, used for card play, combat, and movement.

How To Setup No Retreat!: The North African Front

Setting up the game involves placing the main map and mini-maps, deploying units according to the scenario or campaign game chosen, and distributing Event and Plan Cards. Players must choose a Plan Card secretly, which outlines their initial strategy and objectives. The game also includes specific setup instructions for different scenarios, such as the Tournament Game, Full-Fledged Campaign game, and Bonus scenarios like the “Invasion of Crete” and “Invasion of Malta”.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Initiative System: Players use initiative markers to play Event Cards, which can significantly impact gameplay. Unlike other games in the series, initiative is not strictly divided between players; instead, it is managed through these markers.

Combat Mechanics: The game features different Mobile Combat Tables for the Allies and Germans, reflecting historical differences in mobile combat tactics.

Scenario-Based Gameplay: Includes quick-playing scenarios, a Tournament Game, a Full-Fledged Campaign game, and bonus scenarios.

Game Objective: The objective is to achieve victory points by completing objectives outlined in the Plan Cards and through successful military operations.

Player Experience

Playing **No Retreat!: The North African Front** offers a deep and immersive experience, especially for fans of historical wargames. The game requires strategic thinking and adaptability, as players must balance their secret plans with the dynamic events and challenges presented by the game. The use of Event and Plan Cards adds a layer of historical authenticity and variability, ensuring each playthrough is unique.

Pros

Historical Depth: The game provides a detailed and historically accurate portrayal of the North African front, including alternative scenarios and secret plans.

Dynamic Gameplay: Event and Plan Cards introduce complex effects without overly complicated rules, making the game dynamic and engaging.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and the random distribution of Plan Cards ensure high replayability.

Strategic Complexity: The game requires careful planning and strategic decision-making.

Cons

Learning Curve: The game can be complex for new players, especially those unfamiliar with wargames.

Time Commitment: The Full-Fledged Campaign game and some scenarios can be time-consuming.

Rule Density: While the event cards simplify some rules, the game still has a significant number of rules to learn.

Personal Thoughts on No Retreat!: The North African Front

**No Retreat!: The North African Front** is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a keen interest in World War II history. It offers a challenging and engaging experience that delves deep into the strategic and tactical aspects of the North African campaign. New players may find the game daunting due to its complexity, but the reward is well worth the effort for those who enjoy strategic gameplay and historical accuracy.

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