Race to the Meuse (1983) Board Game

Race to the Meuse is a board game that was released in 1983, designed by Rodger B. MacGowan. It falls under the category of wargames, specifically focusing on World War II. The game allows for two players to engage in strategic warfare set in the historical context of the Battle of France in 1940.

Game Components of Race to the Meuse

Map Sheet: Detailed map with numerous towns, charts, holding boxes, and a turn record track.

Counters: 200 thin ½-inch counters, including unit counters for German and Allied forces, game and task point markers, and German fuel counters.

Units: Allied forces include the 84th Infantry Division, 2nd Armored Division, and British 3rd Royal Tank Regiment. German forces include the 2nd Panzer, Panzer Lehr, 9th Panzer Divisions, 116th Panzer Division, and the Fuhrer Begleit Brigade.

Scenarios: Three scenarios, including a historical scenario, an alternative scenario starting a day earlier, and a scenario with limited free set-up and hidden units.

How To Setup Race to the Meuse

To set up the game, players need to carefully separate and organize the counters, as they are punched out from a sheet. The historical scenario requires placing units according to the historical deployment, while the other scenarios offer variations in set-up. The map sheet needs to be laid out with the various charts and tracks ready for use. Bob McWilliams’ article in *The Wargamer* magazine provides historical notes and setup instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: 6-hour day and 12-hour night turns, with 3 turns per day, totaling 14 turns in the standard game.

Task Points: Used for movement and combat, providing a fluid game structure outside the usual IGO-UGO system.

Hex Scale: 1.25 kilometers per hex.

Game Objective: The German objective is to reach and cross the Meuse River, while the Allied objective is to prevent this and hold their positions.

Player Experience

Playing **Race to the Meuse** offers a deep and strategic experience, particularly for fans of the Battle of the Bulge. The game’s focus on the critical period from 22-27 December 1944 adds historical depth. The use of Task Points for movement and combat introduces a dynamic and fluid gameplay mechanic, making each turn engaging and strategic.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously designed to reflect the historical context of the Battle of the Bulge.

Dynamic Gameplay: The Task Point system adds a layer of complexity and realism.

Multiple Scenarios: Offers variety in gameplay with different setup options.

Detailed Map: The map includes numerous towns, which favors defensive strategies and reflects the historical challenges faced by the Germans.

Cons

Counter Quality: The 39-year-old counters can be tricky to punch out.

Complexity: The game may be overwhelming for new players due to its detailed mechanics and historical context.

Limited Replayability: While there are multiple scenarios, the game’s focus on a specific historical period may limit replayability for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Race to the Meuse

**Race to the Meuse** is designed for seasoned wargamers and those with a strong interest in the Battle of the Bulge. It offers a rich and immersive experience that combines historical accuracy with engaging gameplay mechanics. For those who enjoy strategic and tactical depth, this game is a gem from the early days of wargaming. However, it may not be the best fit for casual board game enthusiasts due to its complexity and historical specificity.

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