Operation Pegasus (1980) Board Game

Operation Pegasus is a wargame set in the Vietnam War, where players take on the roles of either the American forces or the North Vietnamese Army. The game was released in 1980 by designers R. Vance Buck and Allen D. Eldridge, featuring grid movement, hidden movement, and dice rolling mechanics.

Game Components of Operation Pegasus

Map: A 16″ x 20″ hex grid map scaled at 500 meters (550 yards) per hex.

Rulebook: An 18-page rulebook.

Counters: 108 counters representing various units.

Casualty Record Sheets: Two sheets for tracking casualties.

Reference Charts: Various charts for gameplay.

How To Setup Operation Pegasus

To set up the game, Vietnamese units are placed face down on the map, concealing their combat strength until they engage in combat. The American player starts by positioning their initial forces and planning their helicopter deployments. The setup reflects the historical context of the operation, with the American forces aiming to relieve the besieged Marines at Khe Sanh.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Turns: Each turn represents one day.

American Reinforcements: The American player receives new units and helicopter points each turn.

Helicopter Use: Helicopters can be used for transportation, support, or observation but must be grounded for a turn before returning to the air.

Movement and Combat: Both American and Vietnamese forces move and engage in combat according to specific rules.

Victory Conditions: The American player wins by accumulating positive victory points based on casualties, mine removal from the road to Khe Sanh, and the effectiveness of the Vietnamese siege.

Player Experience

Operation Pegasus offers a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience, particularly appealing to fans of contemporary era wargames. The game requires meticulous planning, especially regarding helicopter deployments and unit movements. The hidden strength of Vietnamese units adds an element of surprise, making each game unique.

Pros

Innovative Design: The game includes interesting design innovations at the operational level.

Historical Accuracy: It provides a fairly good simulation of the 1968 Battle of Khe Sanh.

Replay Value: The game has been praised for its high replayability, with multiple scenarios including historical and “what if” scenarios.

Engaging for Both Sides: There is significant scope for both the American and Vietnamese players to influence the game’s outcome.

Cons

Complexity: The game involves detailed rules and mechanisms that may be overwhelming for new players.

Limited Helicopter Use: The restriction on consecutive helicopter turns can be a strategic challenge but may also feel restrictive.

Personal Thoughts on Operation Pegasus

Operation Pegasus is a must-play for fans of wargames and those interested in the Vietnam War. It is particularly suited for experienced gamers who appreciate operational-level strategy and historical simulations. The game’s ability to capture the essence of airmobile operations and its replay value make it a standout title in the wargaming genre. However, it may not be the best introduction for new players due to its complexity and detailed rules.

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