Origins of World War II (1971) Board Game

Origins of World War II is a classic board game released in 1971, designed by Jim Dunnigan and Thomas N. Shaw. It is a strategic wargame that allows players to explore the political and military factors that led to the outbreak of World War II. With a focus on negotiation and alliances, players must navigate through the complex landscape of pre-war Europe to ensure their nation’s survival.

Game Components of Origins of World War II

Game board

Player tokens and markers

Diplomatic cards

Rulebook

Maps and charts of Europe in the 1930s

Other various game pieces to track military and economic power.

How To Setup Origins of World War II

To set up the game, players first need to place the game board in the middle of the playing area, which depicts Europe in the 1930s. Each player selects a major power (such as Germany, Britain, France, etc.) and places their tokens and markers on the board according to the starting conditions outlined in the rulebook. Players then shuffle and distribute the diplomatic cards, which will drive the game’s events and decisions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Strategy, Diplomacy

Number of Players: 2-5

Objective: Players aim to navigate the complex web of international politics and diplomacy to either prevent or precipitate the outbreak of World War II.

Mechanics: Area Control, Hand Management, and Negotiation

Designer: Not explicitly listed, but developed by Avalon Hill.

Player Experience

Playing **Origins of World War II** is an immersive experience that delves deep into the diplomatic and strategic intricacies of the pre-World War II era. Players must balance their own national interests with the need to form alliances and negotiate with other powers. The game is designed to be simple and fast-playing, making it suitable for both casual gamers and those interested in historical scenarios.

Pros

Educational Value: Excellent for teaching about the pre-WWII diplomatic landscape.

Simple yet Engaging: Easy to learn but with sufficient depth for strategic thinking.

Historical Accuracy: Faithfully recreates the geopolitical tensions of the 1930s.

Replayability: Different outcomes based on player decisions and card draws.

Cons

Aged Mechanics: Some mechanics may feel outdated compared to modern games.

Limited Player Interaction: Some players might find the diplomatic negotiations less interactive than other games.

Historical Complexity: Requires some basic knowledge of the period to fully appreciate.

Personal Thoughts on Origins of World War II

**Origins of World War II** is a game that is ideal for history buffs, educators, and anyone interested in strategic diplomacy. While it may not offer the complexity of modern board games, its simplicity and historical accuracy make it a compelling choice for those looking to understand the lead-up to one of the most significant conflicts in history. It is particularly suitable for classroom use due to its educational value and straightforward gameplay.

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