The Fall of South Vietnam: A Game of Combat in South Vietnam – 1973-1975 (1981)

The Fall of South Vietnam

“The Fall of South Vietnam” is a board game that focuses on the events and conflicts during the final years of the Vietnam War, specifically the attempt by the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) to capture Saigon and end the war.

Why is The Fall of South Vietnam Popular?

The game is popular and significant because it offers players a unique opportunity to revisit and experience the complexities of the Vietnam War. It provides an engaging and educational experience for history enthusiasts and wargame enthusiasts alike. The game has gained popularity due to its realistic gameplay, attention to detail, and the fact that it covers a lesser-known aspect of the Vietnam War.

Game Components

Map: Printed on the inside of a deluxe record album box, showing South Vietnam and Cambodia, divided into provinces with provincial capitals.

Counters: Representing ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) and NVA (North Vietnamese Army) units.

Tables: Combat results tables, air holding boxes, unit availability tables, turn track, and desertion table, all printed on the map.

Box: Double LP-sized folder with the game components inside.

How To Setup

To set up the game, the South Vietnamese player places all their units in the provinces of South Vietnam, with specific stacking limits (5 units per province, up to 2 additional units in the capital, and 4 units in Saigon). The North Vietnamese player starts with all units off the board, assumed to be in Cambodia.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Structure: Alternating “I Go, You Go” turns, with each turn representing a season.

Turn Sequence:
– North Vietnam: Available Unit Determination Phase, Movement Phase, Attack Phase, Adjustment Phase.
– South Vietnam: Available Unit Determination Phase, Movement Phase, Attack Phase (including air strikes), Adjustment Phase, Desertion Phase.

Objective: The NVA wins by controlling Saigon by the end of the eighth turn. The ARVN wins by maintaining control of Saigon province until the end of the game.

Player Experience

The game is designed to be quick and simple, lasting about two to three hours. It is praised for its fast-paced action and immediate results, but criticized for its simplicity in representing the complex military situation of the Vietnam War. Reviewers noted that the game is more suited for players seeking a light, introductory wargame rather than a full-scale operational game.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: The game can be finished in about two to three hours.

Simple Mechanics: Easy to learn and play, making it accessible to new players.

Balanced: Games often last until the final turn, indicating a balanced gameplay experience.

Cons

Simplistic: Critics found the game too simplistic to accurately capture the complexities of the Vietnam War.

Desertion Mechanics: Some players feel that the desertion rules could be more realistic, particularly for elite units.

Limited Depth: Not suitable for players seeking a detailed, operational wargame.

Personal Thoughts on The Fall of South Vietnam: A Game of Combat in South Vietnam – 1973-1975

This game is ideal for those who are new to wargaming or looking for a quick, light game. It provides a basic introduction to the final phases of the Vietnam War but may not satisfy players seeking a more nuanced and detailed gaming experience. Despite its simplicity, the game’s balanced mechanics and fast-paced action make it an enjoyable and educational experience for those interested in historical conflicts.

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