Old School Tactical: Volume 2 – West Front 1944/45 is a board game that focuses on the Western Front of World War II during the years 1944 and
Designed by Shayne Logan and published by Flying Pig Games in 2017, this game is part of the Old School Tactical series known for its engaging gameplay and historical accuracy.Game Components of Old School Tactical: Volume 2 – West Front 1944/45
Map: A modular, mounted map measuring 30″ x 41″, with scenarios using specific sections.Counters: Representing soldiers, guns, and vehicles such as M-10 tank destroyers, Sherman Easy Eight tanks, M5 halftracks, and German armored cars.Rule Book: Though criticized for its layout, it outlines the game mechanics and scenario setups.Luck Cards: Used at the beginning of each scenario to introduce random elements like airstrikes or extra grenades.Casualty and Victory Point Tracks: For tracking game progression and determining the victor.Dice: For resolving combat and other game mechanics.
How To Setup Old School Tactical: Volume 2 – West Front 1944/45
Setting up the game involves laying out the map, which is designed to be modular but must be set up in its entirety even if only a part of it is used for the scenario. Players then place their units according to the scenario rules, with Germans and Americans setting up in specified hexes. The game also includes drawing Luck Cards at the start of each scenario to add an element of surprise.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Action Points: Players use Impulse Points to enable their forces to act, with the number of points determined by dice rolls.Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat, movement, and other actions.Hexagon Grid: The game is played on a hexagonal grid map, with each hex representing a specific area of the battlefield.Initiative System: Players roll for initiative to determine the order of play, with the ability to interrupt opponents using Opportunity Fire.Objective: The goal is to achieve scenario-specific objectives, such as controlling key terrain or eliminating enemy units, while managing casualties and victory points.
Player Experience
Playing **Old School Tactical: Volume 2 – West Front 1944/45** offers a quick-to-learn but challenging-to-master experience. The game builds an exciting narrative as players navigate the complexities of World War II combat. The Impulse Point system and initiative rolls create a dynamic and unpredictable environment, making each scenario engaging and challenging.
Pros
Easy to Learn: The rules are straightforward, though the rule book’s layout can be cumbersome.Dynamic Gameplay: The Impulse Point system and initiative rolls ensure each turn is exciting and unpredictable.Historical Accuracy: The game includes a variety of historical units and scenarios, making it appealing to history buffs and wargame enthusiasts.Modular Map: Allows for a variety of scenarios and replayability.
Cons
Rule Book Layout: Criticized for being poorly laid out, making it harder to learn and remember the rules.Map Setup: Requires setting up the entire map even if only a part is used, which can be inconvenient.Complexity in Detail: While the core mechanics are simple, the game includes detailed rules for various units and scenarios, which can be overwhelming at times.
Personal Thoughts on Old School Tactical: Volume 2 – West Front 1944/45
**Old School Tactical: Volume 2 – West Front 1944/45** is ideal for fans of tactical wargames and those interested in World War II history. It offers a engaging and challenging experience with its dynamic gameplay mechanics and historical accuracy. However, it may not be the best fit for new players to the genre due to the detailed rules and the need to navigate a sometimes cumbersome rule book. Nonetheless, for those who enjoy tactical depth and historical realism, this game is a standout in its category.
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