Tannenberg (1969) – Board Game Guys

Tannenberg

“Tannenberg” is a board wargame published by Simulations Publications Inc. (SPI) in 1969, designed by Jim Dunnigan. It simulates the Battle of Tannenberg, which took place on the Eastern Front of World War I from August 26 to August 30, 1914. The game was created as a companion piece for Avalon Hill’s Western Front wargame 1914, also designed by Dunnigan. Although Tannenberg can be played as a standalone game, rules were included to combine it with 1914 into a two-front wargame.

Why is Tannenberg Popular?

Tannenberg is a popular and significant game for several reasons:
– It simulates a major battle of World War I, the Battle of Tannenberg, which was a crucial event in the war and involved a unique maneuver.
– The game is part of the Der Weltkrieg series, which includes other wargames that cover various battles and campaigns of World War I.
– It was initially released as a free pull-out game in SPI’s house magazine Strategy & Tactics to promote SPI’s upcoming release of The Great War in the East.
– The game has been reprinted and is still available for purchase, making it accessible to modern gamers.

Game Components of Tannenberg

Map: Small single-color paper hex grid map representing the Eastern Front.

Counters: Thin paper counters for Russian and German forces.

Rules: Typewritten rules, initially simple and later revised.

Packaging: Originally in ziplock bags, later offered as a boxed set and a pull-out game in *Strategy & Tactics* magazine.

How To Setup Tannenberg

Setting up *Tannenberg* involves deploying units according to the scenario, though the original 1969 version lacked clear deployment rules. In the revised 1978 edition, deployment and supply rules were clarified. Players set up their forces on the map, with each side having specific starting positions and objectives.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn System: “I Go, You Go” alternating turn system, with each turn representing 3 days.

Gameplay: One player controls Russian forces, and the other controls German forces.

Objective: The German player aims to encircle and defeat the Russian armies, while the Russian player seeks to coordinate their two armies to destroy the German troops in East Prussia.

Game Mechanics: Revised in 1978 to align with *The Great War in the East*, including supply systems and command control.

Player Experience

*Tannenberg* offers a strategic and tactical challenge, particularly in the 1978 revised version. Players must manage supply lines, coordinate army movements, and execute maneuvers to outmaneuver their opponent. The game requires careful planning and execution, reflecting the historical context of the Battle of Tannenberg.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game captures the essence of World War I warfare on the Eastern Front.

Strategic Depth: Provides ample opportunities for strategic and tactical finesse.

Educational Value: Useful as an educational tool to understand historical military tactics and logistics.

Cons

Rule Omissions: The original 1969 version had significant gaps in the rules, frustrating players.

Complexity: The 1978 version is intricate, potentially too complex for casual players or classroom use.

Limited Maneuvers: The supply system and command control restrictions can lead to more straightforward assaults rather than complex maneuvers.

Personal Thoughts on Tannenberg

*Tannenberg* is ideal for wargame enthusiasts and history buffs interested in World War I. The game’s depth and complexity make it more suited for experienced players who can appreciate the strategic and tactical challenges it presents. While it may not be the best introduction for new players due to its intricacies, it serves as a solid addition to any serious wargamer’s collection.

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