Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970’s (1972)

Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970s

Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970s is a board wargame published by Simulations Publications Inc. (SPI) in 1972. The game simulates hypothetical battles in West Germany between Warsaw Pact invaders and NATO defenders during the Cold War. The game’s title refers to the red star on Soviet tanks and the white star on American tanks.

Why is Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970s Popular?

Red Star/White Star is significant because it was published during the height of the Cold War and reflects the tensions and fears of that time. The game is also notable for its use of hypothetical scenarios, which allowed players to explore the possibilities of a potential future conflict in Europe.

Game Components of Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970s

Map

Scenario sheet

Rules

Two Counter sheets partially punched with units in box compartments.

How To Setup Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970s

To set up the game, players need to deploy their units according to the specific scenario rules. For example, in Scenario Twelve, the West German player deploys first, west of the Denetter River, while the Russian player deploys second, east of the Horlof River. Units may be entrenched at the start of the game depending on the scenario. Each scenario has unique deployment rules and victory conditions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Alternating turns with phases including Indirect Fire/Air Strike, Movement, Close Assault, and Defensive Fire.

Each game turn represents six minutes and forty seconds of the battle.

Includes modern weapons and technology from the early 1970s, such as wire-guided missiles, rocket launchers, and helicopter gunships.

Units as small as platoons are represented.

Game Objective

The NATO player aims to stop the Warsaw Pact invasion.

The Warsaw Pact player seeks to advance and exit units off the western edge of the board.

Victory is determined by the number of units exited, destroyed, or crippled, depending on the scenario.

Player Experience

Red Star/White Star is known for its high complexity, making it a challenging but engaging game for experienced wargamers. The game requires meticulous planning and execution, simulating real-world tactical combat strategies. However, the detailed rules and extensive bookkeeping can make the game cumbersome and time-consuming.

Pros

Realistic Scenarios: The game includes ten detailed scenarios simulating various aspects of a hypothetical war in Europe.

Complex Gameplay: Offers a deep and realistic tactical experience, making it appealing to serious wargamers.

Historical Significance: It was the first tactical-level game to address contemporary Cold War issues.

Cons

Complexity: The game is highly complex, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Bookkeeping: Extensive recording of unit actions can detract from the game’s playability.

Balance Issues: Some reviewers noted an imbalance favoring NATO forces, which can affect the game’s balance and realism.

Personal Thoughts on Red Star/White Star: Tactical Combat in Europe in the 1970s

Red Star/White Star is a game tailored for dedicated and experienced wargamers who appreciate the intricacies of tactical combat. Despite its complexity and potential balance issues, it remains a significant title in the history of board wargaming, offering a unique and realistic Cold War-era combat experience. For those who enjoy detailed strategy and historical simulation, this game can be extremely rewarding, but it may not be the best choice for casual gamers.

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