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The Great War in Europe: Deluxe Edition (2007) Board Game

ByMichail

The Great War in Europe: Deluxe Edition is a wargame that simulates the events of World War I in Europe. Designed by Rodger B. MacGowan and Mark Simonitch, this game allows players to experience the strategic and tactical challenges faced by the various powers involved in the conflict.

Game Components of The Great War in Europe: Deluxe Edition

  • 5 Full-color countersheets**
  • 3 22″ x 34″ mapsheets**
  • 2 Player Aid Cards**
  • Rules Booklet**
  • 2 6-sided dice**
  • Map Patches and Counter Errata** for updates.

    How To Setup The Great War in Europe: Deluxe Edition

    Setting up the game involves organizing the extensive components, including laying out the maps, sorting and placing the 1200 counters, and distributing the player aid cards. The game divides into Eastern and Western fronts, allowing for efficient setup and play. The detailed rules booklet guides players through the initial setup process.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Time Scale:** 1 month (2 months in Winter)
  • Map Scale:** Western Theatre: 9.5 miles per hex, Eastern Theatre: 22.5 miles per hex
  • Unit Scale:** Divisions
  • Number of Players:** 1-2
  • Event Chits:** Introduce new weapons, tactics, and political events
  • Trench Levels:** Simplify trench placement
  • German U-boat Campaigns:** Affect US neutrality
  • Emergency Replacements:** Available at a cost in victory points
  • Objective:** Win the war by achieving victory points or completing the game timeline.

    Player Experience

    The game offers a deeply immersive experience, allowing players to manage entire armies across multiple fronts. The division of the game into Eastern and Western fronts enables two players to move and attack simultaneously, significantly reducing waiting times. The inclusion of event chits and historical details enhances the realism and strategic depth of the game. Players can explore various scenarios, including separate campaigns and “What-If” situations, such as Teddy Roosevelt winning the 1912 election.

    Pros

  • Historical Depth:** Detailed simulation of World War I
  • Engaging Mechanics:** Event chits, trench levels, and U-boat campaigns add variety
  • Efficient Gameplay:** Allows two players to play efficiently without long waiting times
  • Visual Quality:** High-quality map and counter art by Mark Simonitch and Rodger’s box art
  • Replayability:** Multiple scenarios and “What-If” variants.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** Requires significant time and effort to learn and set up
  • Component Overload:** 1200 counters and extensive rules can be overwhelming
  • Playtime:** Although efficient for two players, it still requires a long weekend to complete.

    Personal Thoughts on The Great War in Europe: Deluxe Edition

    This game is ideal for dedicated wargamers and history enthusiasts who appreciate detailed simulations and strategic complexity. It is not for casual players due to its intricate rules and extensive setup. However, for those willing to invest the time, it offers a rich and rewarding experience that captures the essence of World War I in Europe. The game’s ability to handle multiple fronts and scenarios makes it a standout in the wargaming genre, making it a must-have for serious gamers and historians.

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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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