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Salerno: The 1943 Allied Invasion of Italy (2015) Board Game

ByMichail

Salerno: The 1943 Allied Invasion of Italy is a board game that simulates the historical events of the Allied invasion of Italy during World War II. The game is set in September 1943, when the Allies launched Operation Avalanche, the invasion of mainland Italy at Salerno. Players take on the roles of either the Allies or the Axis forces, strategizing and fighting to control key objectives and territories.

Game Components of Salerno: The 1943 Allied Invasion of Italy

  • Map:** A single sheet measuring 22″ x 25 1/2″, featuring the Gulf of Salerno and the surrounding terrain.
  • Counters:** Representing regiment, brigade, and battalion size units.
  • Entry Areas:** Identified by color and letter/number codes for unit reinforcements.
  • Ports:** Major and minor ports marked with blue and white circles, respectively, which serve as supply sources and naval transport hubs.
  • Administrative Tracks:** General Records Track, Turn Record Track, Remnant Display, Weather Table, Available Air Units, Allied and German Supply Points.
  • Invasion CRT:** A special combat resolution table for the Allied landings.
  • Terrain Features:** Mountains, hills, and rugged terrain that significantly impact unit movement and combat.

    How To Setup Salerno: The 1943 Allied Invasion of Italy

    The setup involves placing Allied units in designated landing boxes along the beaches and ports, with specific areas for British and American divisions. German units are placed according to their defensive positions. The game includes 9 Allied Landing Boxes, with the British and American forces landing in separate sectors. The 82nd Airborne Division is held in reserve for potential reinforcement. Reinforcements for both the Allies and Germans are placed in their respective Entry Areas based on their entry codes.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Scenarios:** Includes an 8-turn Invasion Scenario and a 24-turn Campaign Game.
  • Time Scale:** 1 day per turn.
  • Map Scale:** 3.8 km per hex.
  • Unit Scale:** Regiment, brigade, and battalion size units.
  • Objective:** Allies must exit the north map edge by the end of September 1943, while Germans aim to delay the Allies to allow time for the construction of the Gustav Line.
  • Weather Effects:** Determines air unit availability, naval unit availability, and supply points.
  • Terrain Impact:** Mechanized units cannot cross mountain hex sides; non-mechanized units are disrupted and likely out of supply if they cross.
  • Supply Management:** Crucial for maintaining unit effectiveness.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Salerno ’43** is a challenging and immersive experience, particularly due to the complex terrain and the historical accuracy of the Allied invasion. The game requires strategic planning, as the terrain significantly limits the axes of advance, making certain key spots crucial for defense. The weather system adds an extra layer of realism, affecting air and naval support as well as supply logistics. The game often comes down to critical turns and rolls, making each playthrough unique and engaging.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** Faithfully recreates the Allied invasion of Italy in 1943.
  • Complex Terrain:** Adds depth to the game, requiring careful strategic planning.
  • Dynamic Weather System:** Influences gameplay significantly, adding realism.
  • Multiple Scenarios:** Offers both a short Invasion Scenario and a longer Campaign Game.
  • Beautiful Map Design:** The board is visually appealing, with clear and distinct terrain features.

    Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve:** Due to complex rules and mechanics.
  • Limited Player Count:** Designed for two players only.
  • Time-Consuming:** The Campaign Game requires a significant time commitment.

    Personal Thoughts on Salerno: The 1943 Allied Invasion of Italy

    **Salerno ’43** is ideal for wargame enthusiasts and those interested in historical military conflicts. It offers a deep and challenging experience that requires strategic thinking and a good understanding of military operations. The game’s complexity and historical detail make it a great fit for experienced players, but it may be daunting for newcomers to the genre. If you enjoy games with intricate mechanics and a strong focus on strategy, **Salerno ’43** is definitely worth considering.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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