Typhoon! The Drive on Moscow, 1941 (1995) Board Game

Typhoon! The Drive on Moscow, 1941 is a historical wargame that simulates the German invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II. It was first released in 1995 and designed by John Kranz, Rodger B. MacGowan, and Joe Youst. The game focuses on the German Army’s attempt to capture Moscow in the winter of 1941, known as Operation Typhoon.

Game Components of Drive on Moscow: Operation Typhoon 1941

Two 34” x 22” maps

352 counters

One Player Aid Card

One 32-page rules & campaign analysis

How To Setup Drive on Moscow: Operation Typhoon 1941

Setting up the game involves laying out the two large maps, which represent the area around Moscow with each hexagon equating to 7.5 miles (12 km). Players then deploy their units according to the initial setup rules. The German forces are positioned based on the historical offensive that began on 1 October 1941, while Soviet units are placed according to their initial defensive positions. The game includes a detailed rules booklet to guide the setup process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The German player aims to capture Moscow, while the Soviet player must defend it.

Turn Structure: Each game turn represents a week.

Unit Movement: Units move and engage in combat within the hex-and-counter system.

Air Superiority: German air superiority is integrated into movement and combat rules.

Unit Strengths: Soviet units are mostly untried with unknown strengths until they enter combat; elite Guards divisions have known strengths.

Victory Conditions: The game ends on 7 December 1941, with victory determined by the control of key areas around Moscow.

Player Experience

**Drive on Moscow: Operation Typhoon 1941** offers a challenging and immersive experience for wargame enthusiasts. The game balances historical accuracy with engaging gameplay, making it suitable for both new and veteran players of strategic wargames. The low-intermediate complexity ensures that the game is accessible without being overly simplistic.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Incorporates corrections and updated information from historical research.

Engaging Gameplay: The hex-and-counter system and unknown unit strengths add a layer of strategy and surprise.

Solitaire Friendly: Can be played solo, making it a great option for those who enjoy solo gaming.

Detailed Components: Includes large maps, numerous counters, and a comprehensive rules booklet.

Cons

Complexity for Newbies: While low-intermediate, the game may still be daunting for complete newcomers to wargames.

Setup Time: Setting up the game can be time-consuming due to the detailed initial deployment.

Length of Play: Each turn represents a week, which can make the game quite long, especially for those new to wargames.

Personal Thoughts on Drive on Moscow: Operation Typhoon 1941

This game is ideal for fans of World War II history and strategic wargames. It offers a deep dive into one of the pivotal battles of the war, combining historical fidelity with engaging gameplay mechanics. For those who enjoy solitaire games or are looking for a challenging two-player experience, **Drive on Moscow: Operation Typhoon 1941** is a solid choice. However, it may not be the best fit for beginners in the wargame genre due to its complexity and the time required to set up and play.

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