The Last Hundred Yards: Volume 2 – Airborne Over Europe (2020) Board Game

The Last Hundred Yards: Volume 2 – Airborne Over Europe is a board game that focuses on the airborne operations during World War II in Europe. Designed by Dariusz Buraczewski, Charles Kibler, and Liz Stephanoff, this game is a part of the Last Hundred Yards series published by GMT Games. It is a simulation wargame that allows players to experience the challenges faced by airborne units in various missions across Europe.

Game Components of The Last Hundred Yards: Volume 2 – Airborne Over Europe

One Game Box

Six double-sided geomorphic maps

One full-color Rules booklet

One full-color Playbook

Five Mission Cards (10 missions)

Counters and markers for units, actions, and terrain

Dice for resolving combat and other actions

How To Setup The Last Hundred Yards: Volume 2 – Airborne Over Europe

Setting up the game involves organizing the components meticulously. Players need to sort and place the counters, maps, and other markers according to the specific mission being played. The game includes detailed instructions in the Rules booklet and Playbook to guide the setup process. For optimal storage, players can use specialized trays to keep all components organized, ensuring everything fits snugly into the box without clutter.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Tactical Combat: Players engage in small unit combat, making tactical decisions on unit movements and actions.

Mission-Based: The game features 10 missions across two major campaigns (Operation Overlord and Operation Market Garden).

Historical Scenarios: Missions are based on real historical events, such as securing objectives in Normandy and defending against German counterattacks.

Objective Securing: Players aim to secure key objectives, such as bridges and artillery batteries, while defending against enemy counterattacks.

Unit Assembly and Command: Players manage the assembly and command of airborne units, reflecting the challenges faced by these troops in historical battles.

Player Experience

The Last Hundred Yards: Volume 2 – Airborne Over Europe offers an immersive and challenging experience for wargame enthusiasts. It delves deep into the tactical intricacies of small unit combat, requiring strategic thinking and attention to detail. Players follow historical figures like Lt. Dick Winters and experience the intense battles of WWII, making it a compelling choice for those interested in historical wargaming.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched to replicate the actual missions and challenges faced by US airborne forces.

Deep Tactical Gameplay: It provides a rich tactical experience with detailed rules and scenarios.

Replayability: With multiple missions and variable outcomes, the game offers high replayability.

Educational Value: Players can gain insight into the strategies and hardships of WWII airborne operations.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to its detailed rules and mechanics.

Component Management: Managing the numerous counters and maps can be cumbersome without proper storage solutions.

Time-Consuming: Each mission can take several hours to complete, making it a significant time commitment.

Personal Thoughts on The Last Hundred Yards: Volume 2 – Airborne Over Europe

This game is ideal for dedicated wargame enthusiasts and those with a strong interest in WWII history. It offers a detailed and immersive experience that rewards strategic thinking and historical knowledge. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and the time required to play. For those willing to invest in learning the rules and setting up the game, it provides a deeply satisfying and historically rich gaming experience.

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