The Drive on Metz (1980) Board Game

The Drive on Metz is a board game that was released in 1980 and is designed to recreate the historic Battle of Metz during World War II. The game puts players in the shoes of military commanders as they strategize and maneuver their troops to capture the city of Metz.

Game Components of The Drive on Metz

Map: An 11″x17″ map (or 8.5″x11″ with an attached 8.5″x11″ player aid)

Counters: Representing regimental units

Rules: Included in an eight-page rulebook (six pages of content)

Hex scale: 4 km (2.5 miles) per hex

Unit scale: Regimental level

Turn scale: 1 day per turn

How To Setup The Drive on Metz

Setting up the game involves placing the map, deploying the initial units according to the scenario, and ensuring each player has the necessary rules and player aids. The game includes a simple and straightforward setup process designed to introduce new players to wargaming.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The US player aims to capture the fortified city of Metz, while the German player seeks to defend it.

Turn Structure: Each turn consists of movement and combat phases for both the US and German forces.

Combat Resolution: Uses a straightforward combat mechanism based on unit strength and terrain.

Victory Points: Awarded for controlling key locations, eliminating enemy units, and achieving strategic objectives.
– US: Points for units east of the Moselle, controlling Thionville and Metz, and exiting units over the east edge.
– German: Points for units exiting over the west edge and for each US unit eliminated.

Player Experience

The Drive on Metz is designed as an introductory wargame, making it accessible to new players. It teaches the basics of wargame design and mechanics through a simple yet engaging historical scenario. The game is praised for its clarity and ease of play, allowing players to quickly grasp the rules and focus on strategy.

Pros

Introductory: Excellent for new wargamers to learn the basics.

Historical: Recreates a significant historical event, General Patton’s attempt to capture Metz.

Simple Mechanics: Easy to learn and play.

Quick Games: Short gameplay duration.

Educational: Helps explain wargame design principles.

Cons

Limited Complexity: May be too simple for experienced wargamers.

Outdated Mechanics: Rooted in the hex-and-counter culture of the 1970s and 1980s.

Limited Replayability: The game scenario is fixed, which may reduce replay value.

Personal Thoughts on The Drive on Metz

The Drive on Metz is ideal for newcomers to the world of wargaming. It offers a clear, straightforward introduction to the genre, making it an excellent teaching tool. For experienced wargamers, it serves as a nostalgic reminder of the early days of board wargaming and can be a quick, fun diversion. However, those seeking complex, modern wargaming mechanics might find it too simplistic. Overall, it remains a valuable piece of gaming history and a great starting point for anyone interested in wargames.

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