Rifles in the Ardennes (2017) Board Game

Rifles in the Ardennes is a wargame set during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. This battle, also known as the Ardennes Counteroffensive, was a major German offensive on the Western Front in December

The game allows players to take on the roles of either the Axis or Allied forces as they fight for control of key strategic locations in the Ardennes forest.

Game Components of Rifles in the Ardennes

Generic and plain board with 6 numbered spaces

Terrain counters (buildings, forest, fields, etc.)

Unit counters for German, American, and Russian forces

Scenario booklet

Rules booklet (approximately 10 pages)

Event markers

Action points

Fire power value markers

Suppression markers

How To Setup Rifles in the Ardennes

To set up the game, you start by semi-randomly distributing terrain counters on the board, creating the environment for your mission. You then select and purchase your squad using 10 points, choosing units and equipment from the Order of Battle (OOB) for your chosen nationality. Each unit and piece of equipment has a point cost, making the decision-making process important but not overly complex.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Command a small tactical force to complete missions such as recon patrols, rescue missions, or precision strikes against enemy heavy weapons.

Game Mechanics:
– Move through different areas on the board using action points.
– Find cover in terrain, make fire attacks, or progress further in the mission.
– Encounter event markers that can spring enemy ambushes, drop inclement weather, or other adverse effects.
– Roll for random enemy patrols if no enemies are on the board.
– Resolve fire attacks using fire power values modified by terrain.
– Coordinate combined fire attacks or use grenades.
– Manage suppression and elimination of units.

Player Experience

**Rifles in the Ardennes** provides a fun and challenging experience with a small table footprint and quick gameplay, typically lasting around 30 minutes per mission. The rules are well-written and easy to learn, allowing players to quickly transition from referring to the rulebook to playing from feel. The game offers a high level of tactical agency and tells engaging stories through its missions.

Pros

Simple and Easy to Learn: The game has a concise rulebook of about 10 pages.

Quick Gameplay: Missions are resolved within 30 minutes.

High Replayability: Semi-random terrain setup and event markers ensure different experiences each time.

Tactical Agency: Players have significant control over their squad’s actions and strategies.

Campaign Aspect: Players can follow their squad through an 8-mission tour of duty.

Cons

Limited Complexity: Not suitable for players seeking deeply complex wargames.

Simple Board: The generic board might be less appealing to some players.

Personal Thoughts on Rifles in the Ardennes

**Rifles in the Ardennes** is ideal for players looking for a fun, fast-paced, and tactically engaging solitaire wargame without the complexity of larger, more intricate games. It fills a niche for those who enjoy World War II scenarios but prefer shorter, more manageable gameplay sessions. This game is perfect for casual wargamers and those new to the genre who want to experience the thrill of tactical combat without being overwhelmed by complex rules.

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