Urban Operations (2017) Board Game

Urban Operations is a board game released in 2017, designed by Thomas Pouchin and published by Draco Ideas and Nuts! Publishing. It falls under the categories of bluffing, modern warfare, and wargame, and incorporates mechanisms such as dice rolling, hexagon grid, modular board, secret unit deployment, and simulation. The game is designed for 1 to 6 players, with the best experience being for 1 to 2 players. The gameplay revolves around tactical combat in urban environments, requiring strategic thinking and careful planning.

Game Components of Urban Operations

Maps: Four 72cm x 54cm maps, one 72cm x 13cm map, and two 24cm x 30cm underground maps.

Counters: 199 die-cut counters.

Blocks: 160 wooden blocks.

Cards: One set of 144 playing cards.

Rules: A 36-page rules booklet plus a 4-page summary “Urban Operations in a Nutshell”.

Player Aids: Two player aids and 16 scenario-specific display cards.

Stickers: One 82 and one 74 stickers sheet.

Dice: Two dice.

Campaign Books: Includes campaign booklets such as Mogadishu 1993, Fulda 1985, and Four Aces.

How To Setup Urban Operations

Setting up Urban Operations involves several steps. Each scenario comes with double-sided Scenario display cards that provide detailed setup information, including unit placements and reinforcements. Players must draw units from different platoon bags to form Impulse Forces, which operate together when activated. It is advisable to record which platoon bags are used for each scenario to streamline future setups. The game includes various maps, each representing different urban environments, such as Western and Middle Eastern settings.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Unit Movement and Combat: Involves moving units through hexes and room areas, with considerations for Line of Sight (LOS), buildings, rooftops, apertures, and breaches.

Support and Logistics: Support units help recover lost steps in combat, while logistics units replenish support supplies. This requires maneuvering units into adjacency.

Scenario Objectives: Each scenario has specific objectives, such as controlling certain areas or completing missions in urban environments.

Impulse System: Units are activated in Impulse Forces, adding a layer of complexity to the game.

Player Experience

Urban Operations offers a challenging and rewarding experience, particularly for those interested in modern tactical urban warfare. The game’s complexity is balanced by its detailed scenario setup and the use of high-quality components. However, the innovative rules can sometimes lead to queries and uncertainties, making the learning curve steep. Players need to navigate the intricacies of urban combat, including population counters and the use of support units.

Pros

High-Quality Components: The game includes detailed maps, wooden blocks, and well-designed scenario cards.

Realistic Gameplay: Emphasizes the complexities of urban warfare, including LOS and building breaches.

Diverse Scenarios: Offers a variety of scenarios set in different urban environments, such as Mogadishu and the Middle East.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s innovative rules can lead to confusion and a high rate of queries.

Clarity Issues: Some rules lack precision, leading to uncertainties during gameplay.

Time-Consuming Setup: Setting up scenarios can be time-consuming, especially with the need to record unit placements.

Personal Thoughts on Urban Operations

Urban Operations is geared towards experienced wargamers who enjoy the complexity and realism of modern urban warfare. It is not a game for casual players due to its intricate rules and setup requirements. For those willing to invest the time and effort, it offers a deeply rewarding and challenging experience that simulates the intricacies of urban combat effectively. If you’re looking for a game that challenges your tactical skills and provides a realistic urban warfare experience, Urban Operations is an excellent choice.

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