The Chain of Command system has always been popular in our club. Recently, however, our attention has shifted to other games. In light of this, the second edition of the rules has just been released. Mike has suggested we play a training game to refresh our memories, review the differences, and try out a fan-made expansion that simulates a hypothetical NATO vs. Warsaw Pact conflict in the 1980s.
UMPIRING: Mike Evans
1. Forces.
2. The Game.
Warsaw Pact forces were gradually advancing through the rural areas of northern Germany. However, they soon fell into a trap set by a British infantry unit. Initially, NATO forces struggled to halt the invaders and experienced some losses. Polish and Soviet vehicles continued to push forward, but this situation was about to change.
In our game, I was in command of the entire Pact forces along with a platoon of two T-55 tanks. Jimmy had an additional squad in a BTR-40, while Alasdair led an infantry platoon in a BMP-1. Facing us was a British infantry platoon commanded by Tim and David.
The situation quickly intensified for the Warsaw Pact soldiers. The British deployed their anti-tank weapons, and although the initial shells missed their targets, they forced the Soviets to abandon their first combat vehicle. What followed was a systematic destruction of the enemy. The British first targeted and destroyed the leading BMP, subsequently eliminating all its crew. Despite Alasdair's efforts to support the infantry with the remaining vehicles, he could not prevent the destruction of the first squad.
My first mistake in this game became clear when I realised I had spread our forces too thin. I should have concentrated my BMPs and tanks in one area and used the BTRs as a distraction. To rectify this mistake, I decided to regroup my forces. However, I encountered some problems along the way. I discovered an enemy infantry squad on my flank, but I had already collected a Chain of Command (CoC) die, which allowed me to interrupt the enemy's phase and activate one of my units.
First, I moved one of my tanks into position, deliberately exposing its rear to the enemy to act as bait. When David's unit activated, I chose to activate Jimmy's vehicle next. Unfortunately, Jimmy's shot at David's unit was ineffective. In retaliation, David fired a missile at the rear of my vehicle, and that was the end of my clever plan. The T-55 exploded!
Alasdair was struggling to regain his bearings and manage the chaos caused by British gunfire targeting his troops. An attempt to rescue the first squad failed, resulting in the death of the third officer. While he was able to force the British to retreat briefly, they soon mounted a renewed attack, inflicting even more casualties on Alasdair's platoon. I endeavoured to salvage the situation on the right flank, where Jimmy was trying to capture the British jump-off point. However, Alasdair's losses were affecting morale, which in turn led to a reduction in our command dice. Eventually, our morale dropped to zero, and we were forced to withdraw.
Regarding the rules, it's difficult for me to provide a detailed opinion at this point. However, my initial impression is that the game has become smoother overall, and the QRS (Quick Reference Sheet) is clearer. We'll play a few more games, and then I'll be able to share my thoughts more comprehensively.
3. Links.
SESWC:
FLICKR:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/asienieboje/albums/72177720331515677
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