Second Front is a wargame set during World War II and was released in in 1994. Designed by Games Research/Design (GR/D), it is a two-player game that focuses on the strategic aspects of the war. With a runtime of 60 to 1440 minutes, it is a game that requires time and patience to fully immerse yourself in the gameplay.
Game Components of Second Front
Maps: Detailed maps covering specific campaigns and regionsOrders of Battle: Comprehensive lists of units and their capabilitiesGame Pieces: Representing divisions down to battalionsRulebook: Detailed rules for gameplayPlay Aids: Various aids to assist in managing the complex game mechanics
How To Setup Second Front
Setting up “Second Front” involves several steps:
Lay out the detailed maps covering the specific campaign area.Organize and place the game pieces according to the orders of battle.Review and understand the complex rules and play aids.Ensure all players are familiar with the game mechanics and objectives.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Game Objective: To simulate the operational level of World War II, with the goal of achieving strategic objectives through tactical decisions.Turn Structure: Game turns represent two weeks of time.Unit Management: Manage units from divisions down to battalions.Terrain Impact: Detailed terrain affects unit movement and combat.Complex Ruleset: Extensive rules governing unit interactions, combat, and resource management.
Player Experience
“Second Front” offers a deeply immersive and challenging experience for wargame enthusiasts. The game requires a significant investment of time and effort to understand and master the complex rules and mechanics. Players must strategize carefully, managing resources, unit placement, and terrain to achieve their objectives.
Pros
Depth and Complexity: Provides a highly detailed and realistic simulation of World War II operations.Historical Accuracy: Faithfully represents the operational scale of World War II.Replayability: Multiple scenarios and the ability to integrate with other Europa games enhance replay value.
Cons
Steep Learning Curve: The complex ruleset can be daunting for new players.Time-Consuming: Games can be very long, requiring several hours or even days to complete.Space Requirements: The large game-map area and numerous components require significant space.
Personal Thoughts on Second Front
“Second Front” is ideal for dedicated wargamers who appreciate the operational scale and historical accuracy of World War II simulations. It is not a game for casual players due to its complexity and the time commitment required. However, for those passionate about detailed strategy and historical simulations, “Second Front” offers an unparalleled gaming experience.
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.
