Ruweisat Ridge: The First Battle of El Alamein (1985) Board Game

Ruweisat Ridge: The First Battle of El Alamein is a historical board game that simulates the pivotal battle that took place in North Africa during World War II. The battle of El Alamein was fought in July 1942 between the British Eighth Army and the German Afrika Korps, marking a turning point in the North African campaign.

Game Components of Ruweisat Ridge: The First Battle of El Alamein

Map: 16″ x 21″ map of North Africa, depicting the battlefield from the Mediterranean Sea to the Qattara Depression.

Counters: 100 counters representing brigades, battlegroup formations, armoured companies, and artillery groups.

Rulebook: 12-page rulebook outlining the game mechanics and setup.

Hex Scale: Each hex represents 1.5 miles of terrain.

Turn Scale: Game turns represent one day.

How To Setup Ruweisat Ridge: The First Battle of El Alamein

To set up the game, players first lay out the map, ensuring it covers the entire battlefield area. Next, they place the counters on their respective starting positions as indicated in the scenario setup. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on unit placement, formation, and initial conditions. Players must also allocate HQ units for activation and organize their forces according to the historical setup of the First Battle of El Alamein.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Opportunity Fire: Units can fire at enemy units during their movement.

Overruns: Mechanized units can attempt to overrun enemy positions.

Reaction Movement: Units can react to enemy movements.

Withdrawal Fire: Units can fire while withdrawing.

Airstrikes: Air support can be called in to strike enemy positions.

Fortifications: Units can establish defensive positions.

Game Objective: Victory is determined by points gained through controlling objective hexes, eliminating enemy units, and occupying portions of the ‘coast road’.

Player Experience

Playing **Ruweisat Ridge: The First Battle of El Alamein** is an immersive experience that delves deep into the strategic and tactical aspects of desert warfare during World War II. Players must navigate the challenges of flanking maneuvers, supply line management, defensive positioning, and artillery placement. The game requires a blend of strategic thinking and tactical execution, making it both challenging and rewarding.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game faithfully recreates the historical context and challenges of the First Battle of El Alamein.

Detailed Mechanics: The inclusion of mechanics like Opportunity Fire and Overruns adds depth to the gameplay.

Strategic Depth: Players must manage supply lines, defensive positions, and army branch integration.

Replay Value: Multiple scenarios and the point-based victory system offer high replayability.

Cons

Complexity: The game’s detailed mechanics can be overwhelming for new players.

Map Size: The map, although detailed, might be too large for smaller gaming spaces.

Counter Management: Managing 100 counters can be cumbersome.

Personal Thoughts on Ruweisat Ridge: The First Battle of El Alamein

This game is ideal for history enthusiasts and wargamers who appreciate detailed simulations of World War II battles. It offers a rich and immersive experience, particularly for those interested in the North African Campaign. However, due to its complexity and the need for careful counter management, it may not be the best fit for casual or new wargamers.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.