Poland Defiant: The German Invasion, September 1939 (2019) Board Game

Poland Defiant: The German Invasion, September 1939 is a board game that simulates the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany in September 1939, marking the beginning of World War II. Players take on the roles of either the German or Polish forces, strategizing and maneuvering their troops in a hexagon grid to achieve their objectives. The game captures the historical events of this crucial period in a strategic and immersive way.

Game Components of Poland Defiant: The German Invasion, September 1939

Map: A 22” by 34” map representing parts of Germany, Slovakia, Danzig, and Poland.

Counters: One sheet of 1/2” die-cut counters for Polish, German, and Slovak units.

Rule Booklet: Includes detailed rules and sections for gameplay.

Player Aid: A cover/player aid for quick reference.

Command and Action Chits: Used to activate HQs and manage turns.

Turn Record Track (TRT): To mark the current turn.

Terrain Effects Chart (TEC): Shows the effects of different terrain features.

Combat Results Table (CRT): Used to resolve combat.

Air Force Boxes: For German Air units of the 1st and 4th Luftflotte and the Polish Air unit.

Activations Tracks: For Polish and German Command Chits.

Replacement Table: For rolling Polish replacements.

Operational Group Roll Table: To determine activated Polish Operational Groups.

Victory Point Hex Track: To record German-held Victory Point Hexes.

How To Setup Poland Defiant: The German Invasion, September 1939

To set up the game, players need to place all the Command and Action Chits without a turn number in a cup. The map is laid out, and the Polish player starts by controlling all Victory Point hexes. Players must also set up the various tracks and tables, such as the Turn Record Track, Terrain Effects Chart, and Combat Results Table. Each player needs to understand the rule booklet to ensure correct setup and gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each turn represents a day, with the game spanning 10 days.

Command Chits: Activate HQs, allowing units to move and attack.

Combat Resolution: Uses the Combat Results Table to determine outcomes.

Supply Management: Units must be in supply to function effectively.

Victory Conditions: Based on the number of supplied Victory Point Hexes held by the German player.

Objective: The German player aims to capture key locations, while the Polish player seeks to defend and maintain control over these areas.

Player Experience

**Poland Defiant** offers a detailed and strategic experience for wargamers. The game’s mechanics, such as the use of Command Chits and the emphasis on supply management, create a realistic and challenging environment. Players must carefully plan and execute their moves, taking into account the historical context and the limitations of their units.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game faithfully represents the first 10 days of the German invasion of Poland.

Strategic Depth: Complex mechanics and the use of Command Chits provide a deep and engaging gameplay experience.

Clear Rules: The rules are relatively short and clear, making it easier for new players to learn.

Cons

Learning Curve: The game’s complexity can be daunting for new wargamers.

Limited Scope: The game only covers the first 10 days of the invasion and does not include the Soviet invasion.

Personal Thoughts on Poland Defiant: The German Invasion, September 1939

**Poland Defiant** is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a keen interest in historical military conflicts. The game’s focus on strategic planning and its historical accuracy make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to delve into the intricacies of World War II’s early days. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and specific historical context.

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