Undaunted: Stalingrad (2022) Board Game

Undaunted: Stalingrad is a board game set during World War II, focusing on the brutal battle that took place in Stalingrad between German and Soviet forces. Designed by Trevor Benjamin and David Thompson, this game is part of the Undaunted series published by Osprey Games, known for their historical and strategic wargames.

Game Components of Undaunted: Stalingrad

375 cards: Including starting, reserve, upgrade, and locked cards.

129 map tiles: Representing the city of Stalingrad, with the ability to be destroyed and replaced.

204 tokens: For various units, actions, and game states.

4 dice: Used for resolving combat.

4 booklets: Each player has a scenario book specific to their faction (Soviets or Germans).

Unique illustrations and mission briefings: Over 300 illustrations by Roland MacDonald and 150 mission briefings by Robbie MacNiven.

How To Setup Undaunted: Stalingrad

Setting up the game involves each player receiving their own scenario book, card supply, and faction-specific tokens. The map is constructed using location tiles that represent different parts of Stalingrad. Players must place tokens and units according to the mission setup described in their scenario books. The rulebook provides clear instructions on how to lay out the board, including the placement of tokens and the initial draw of cards. Each mission setup may introduce new units, rules, and conditions, which are detailed in the respective scenario books.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck-building: Players draw and play cards to perform actions, including moving units, engaging in combat, and managing resources.

Card Initiative: Players draw four cards and use one for initiative, determining who acts first.

Unit Management: Units enter the board based on rifleman locations, and riflemen can control mission points.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved using dice rolls, taking into account the attacker’s power value, distance, and cover bonuses on the enemy tile.

Campaign Progression: The game spans fifteen branching scenarios, with each mission introducing new units, rules, and conditions. The campaign provides lasting consequences, as casualties and destroyed buildings affect future missions.

Player Experience

Playing **Undaunted: Stalingrad** is an immersive and challenging experience. The game is designed for two players, each controlling a different faction (Soviets or Germans), and involves a deep narrative campaign. Players must strategize and make tactical decisions, knowing that every action has consequences that persist throughout the campaign. The game’s design ensures that each scenario is unique, with changing rules and conditions that keep the game fresh and engaging. The thematic grounding in one of World War II’s most infamous battles adds a layer of realism and tension.

Pros

Superb deck-building mechanics: Allows for deep strategy and tactical play.

Consequences have lasting impact: Casualties and destroyed buildings affect future missions, adding a layer of realism and replayability.

Immersive narrative campaign: With 150 evocative mission briefings and unique illustrations.

High replayability: The game can be fully reset and replayed, allowing for exploration of different outcomes.

Awards and accolades: Recognized as one of the best board games of 2022 by several gaming communities.

Cons

Complex setup: Adding all the tokens to the board can be daunting, though the rulebook helps navigate this process.

War setting may not appeal to everyone: Those not keen on war settings might find the game less appealing.

Earlier print issues: Some earlier prints had minor issues, but these are generally resolved in later printings or through online resources.

Personal Thoughts on Undaunted: Stalingrad

**Undaunted: Stalingrad** is a masterpiece for fans of deck-building and war games. It offers a unique blend of strategy, tactics, and narrative immersion that sets it apart from other games in the series. This game is ideal for those who enjoy deep, thematic gameplay and are willing to invest time in a campaign that spans multiple sessions. While it may not appeal to everyone due to its war setting, it is widely regarded as one of the best World War II board games available, making it a must-play for enthusiasts of the genre.

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