Rommel in the Desert (1982) Board Game

Rommel in the Desert is a historical wargame that was first released in in 1982. It is set during World War II and focuses on the North African campaign led by German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel. The game has been designed by Tom Dalgliesh, Ron Gibson, Jody Harmon, and Eric Hotz, and features artwork by Columbia Games, Doit Games, and Game Preserve.

Game Components of Rommel in the Desert

Game board with hexagon grid

Unit counters representing different military units

Dice for resolving combat and movement

Rulebook and player aids

Secret unit deployment screens

How To Setup Rommel in the Desert

Place the game board on a flat surface.

Each player selects their secret unit deployment screen and places it in front of them.

Place the unit counters on the designated starting positions on the board.

Roll dice to determine the starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Rommel in the Desert, players take on the roles of either the Allied or Axis forces and compete to control key strategic locations in the North African desert. The game features dice rolling, hexagon grid movement, and secret unit deployment mechanics. The objective is to outmaneuver and outwit your opponent to secure victory.

Player Experience

Pros:

Strategic depth with hidden unit deployment

Historical accuracy and thematic immersion

Engaging gameplay for 2 players

Replayability with different scenarios and setups

Cons:

Long play time (180-480 minutes)

Steep learning curve for new players

Limited flexibility in unit actions

Personal Thoughts on Rommel in the Desert

Rommel in the Desert is a classic wargame that offers a challenging and immersive experience for history buffs and strategy enthusiasts. While the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity and lengthy playtime, it rewards players who invest time and effort into mastering its mechanics. The build quality of the game components is sturdy and durable, reflecting its longevity in the gaming community.

In terms of pricing and availability, Rommel in the Desert may be harder to find as it is a niche wargame from the 1980s. However, it can still be purchased through specialty game stores or online platforms for collectors. For those interested in similar games, titles like Axis & Allies and Memoir ’44 offer comparable gameplay experiences in the World War II genre.

Overall, Rommel in the Desert is worth your time if you enjoy deep strategy games with historical themes and are willing to invest in a longer gaming session. It is recommended for seasoned wargamers and history enthusiasts who appreciate the detailed simulation of military tactics in a pivotal historical period. However, casual gamers or those looking for quick, light-hearted gameplay may want to skip this one.

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