Undaunted: Battle of Britain (2023) Board Game

Undaunted: Battle of Britain is a board game that takes place during World War II, specifically focusing on the Battle of Britain where the Royal Air Force defended the United Kingdom against the German Luftwaffe. The game is designed by Roland MacDonald and published by Osprey Games, known for their historical and military-themed games.

Game Components of Undaunted: Battle of Britain

116 cards

32 large map tiles

4 dice

Tokens

Scenario booklet

How To Setup Undaunted: Battle of Britain

To set up the game, players build the map using the large map tiles and construct their decks according to the scenario being played. Each player draws four cards from their deck and chooses one to determine initiative by comparing the numbers in the top left corner of the cards; these cards are then discarded. The remaining three cards in each player’s hand are used to play actions throughout the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck Building: Players add new cards to their discard pile, which eventually get shuffled into their deck.

Compulsory Movement: Each plane must move at least one hex every time it is activated, simulating constant aerial movement.

Actions: Players can choose to move, maneuver (rotate the plane), or attack. Each plane has its own shooting limitations, such as directional firing.

Dice Rolls: Combat involves rolling dice, with hits determined by the defense value of the target, distance, and obstacles.

Objective: The goal is to destroy enemy bases, ships, and planes, with a focus on the results of dice rolls to win.

Player Experience

Playing *Undaunted: Battle of Britain* is a high-stakes, tense experience that requires strategic thinking and anticipation. The compulsory movement and limited actions per turn create a dynamic where players must plan ahead carefully to position themselves for attacks or avoid being targeted. The game has a chess-like quality, as players need to predict their opponent’s moves and adjust their strategy accordingly. However, the significant element of luck in dice rolls can lead to moments of frustration.

Pros

Dynamic Gameplay: The game captures the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of aerial combat.

Historical Accuracy: While not a simulationist game, it draws heavily from historical research to create an immersive experience.

Easy to Learn: Despite the changes from previous *Undaunted* games, the mechanics are easy to pick up, even for new players.

High Replayability: With multiple scenarios and the option to string them together as a campaign, the game offers a lot of replay value.

Cons

Luck-Driven Combat: The reliance on dice rolls for combat can lead to frustration, especially if luck does not favor the player.

Limited Deck Flexibility: Unlike previous *Undaunted* games, players cannot ground planes, limiting their ability to adjust their deck strategy.

Token Color Similarity: The tokens for different squads can be hard to distinguish, especially in the early games.

Personal Thoughts on Undaunted: Battle of Britain

*Undaunted: Battle of Britain* is ideal for fans of the *Undaunted* series looking for a fresh and challenging twist on the traditional gameplay. It is also suited for those interested in aerial combat and World War II history. However, players who prefer games with less luck and more strategic control may find this game frustrating at times. Overall, it offers a unique and engaging gaming experience that balances strategy and luck, making it a compelling addition to any board game collection.

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