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Yarmuk (1997) Board Game

ByMichail

Yarmuk is a board game released in 1997 by XTR Corp. It is a wargame set in a medieval context, specifically focusing on the Battle of Yarmuk which took place in 636 AD. The game is designed for 2 players and is recommended for ages 12 and up.

Game Components of Yarmuk

  • Game board
  • Unit counters
  • Leader counters
  • Supreme Effort (SE) chits
  • Combat Results Table (CRT)
  • Rulebook
  • Dice for various checks (e.g., Parley, Sandstorm, Duel of Champions)

    How To Setup Yarmuk

    Setting up Yarmuk involves placing units and leaders on the board according to the specified setup rules. Each leader must be stacked with any unit under their command, which is a crucial but sometimes overlooked detail due to the confusing rules layout.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective:** The game recreates the epic battle between Byzantine and Moslem armies in 636 AD. The objective is to emerge victorious after a six-day battle.
  • Alternating Formations:** Players activate formations in alternating turns.
  • Combat Resolution:** Simple combat system based on the difference between attacking and defending units, using a Combat Results Table (CRT).
  • Zones of Control:** Units must stop when entering an enemy Zone of Control (ZoC) and must attack if starting the Combat Phase in an enemy ZoC.
  • Morale Checks:** Required for units retreating through an enemy ZoC.
  • Special Events:**
    – Parley Check: One in six chance of skipping a full day in the game.
    – Sandstorm Check: One in six chance of a sandstorm reducing combat effectiveness.
    – Duel of Champions: Optional first-day event.
    – The Sword of Allah: Moslem player gets an extra Action Phase using Moslem cavalry.
    – Supreme Effort: Each formation has a chit that can be played for extra combat power, but with potential backlash.

    Player Experience

    Yarmuk is a game that aims to capture the thematic elements of the historical battle but is marred by unclear rules and lack of unique mechanics. The game has a simple ruleset but suffers from confusing rule layouts and printing errors, which can significantly affect gameplay. Despite its Command & Colors-style gameplay, the experience is often hindered by the need to carefully read and interpret the rules.

    Pros

  • Simple Rules:** Short and fairly simple ruleset.
  • Thematic Elements:** Decently captures the theme of the historical battle.
  • Formation Activations:** Alternating formation activations add a layer of strategy.
  • Special Events:** Events like Parley, Sandstorm, and Duel of Champions add thematic depth.

    Cons

  • Confusing Rules:** Unclear and poorly laid out rules can be frustrating.
  • Printing Errors:** Errors such as the incorrect printing of Supreme Effort chits.
  • Lack of Unique Mechanics:** No standout mechanics to make the game memorable.
  • Morale Check Complexity:** Careful reading is required for retreating units, which can be complex.

    Personal Thoughts on Yarmuk

    Yarmuk is a game that could appeal to historical wargame enthusiasts, particularly those interested in the Byzantine and Moslem armies of the 7th century. However, due to its confusing rules and lack of unique mechanics, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those looking for a seamless gaming experience. For a more enjoyable experience, adapting the game into a Command & Colors scenario might be more rewarding.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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