Victory in Europe (2015) Board Game

Victory in Europe is a strategic board game set during World War II, where players take on the roles of either the Axis or Allied powers in a battle for control of Europe. The game was released in 2015 and is designed by Tom Dalgliesh and Ron Draker, with artwork by Columbia Games.

Game Components of Victory in Europe

Map: An oval map of Europe, divided into 9 panels, folding down to an 8.5×11 size.

Blocks: Over 180 hardwood blocks representing forces of every nation involved, with country-specific stickers.

Cards: 108 full-color cards controlling initiative, movement, and combat, with year-specific and country-coded cards.

Rule Book: A concise rule book with updated errata available.

How To Setup Victory in Europe

To set up the game, players first unfold and place the map of Europe. Each player then receives their respective blocks and stickers, which are applied to the blocks. The card decks are shuffled, and players draw their initial hands based on the year of the war they are starting with. Players also determine their starting positions on the map according to the game’s initial setup rules. The game is ready to play once all blocks are stickered, and the cards are distributed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players draw cards each year, which determine the number of operations (attacks or strategic movements) they can perform. Cards are color-coded and have specific operations numbers.

Block Rotations: Battles are resolved by rotating the blocks, with letters on the blocks determining the order of battle and hits.

Influencing Neutrals: Players can influence neutral countries through dice rolls, with advantages and penalties based on territorial control.

Game Objective: The Axis can win by capturing key objectives or holding Berlin by the end of 1945. The Allies win by capturing Berlin, with the first Allied player to do so being declared the winner in a three-player game.

Player Experience

Victory in Europe offers a dynamic and strategic gaming experience. The early war is dominated by the Axis, but the Allies gain strength and initiative by 1943. The game’s card system adds a layer of strategy, forcing players to prioritize their attacks and movements. The influence mechanics on neutral countries add an element of unpredictability, making each game unique. The game’s replayability is high due to the random card draws and the varied outcomes possible in each game.

Pros

High Replayability: The card deck and influence mechanics ensure no two games are the same.

Strategic Depth: The game offers a deep strategic experience with many variables to consider.

Attractive Components: The blocks and stickers are of high quality, and the map is bright and colorful.

Quick Gameplay: Despite covering the entire European theater of WWII, the game can be played in 4-6 hours.

Cons

Map Size: The map can feel a bit flimsy and small, especially during intense battles around Germany.

Learning Curve: While the rule book is concise, understanding the card mechanics and block rotations may take some time.

Personal Thoughts on Victory in Europe

Victory in Europe is ideal for fans of strategic wargaming and those interested in World War II history. It offers a balanced and engaging experience, allowing for historical accuracy while also providing the flexibility for alternative outcomes. The game’s components and mechanics make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who enjoy games with deep strategy and high replayability. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complex mechanics and historical context.

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