A Victory Lost: Crisis in Ukraine 1942-1943
- Designer Tetsuya Nakamura
- Publisher Multi-Man Publishing , Banner Of War , Kilovolt Design
- Illustration Nicolás Eskubi
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In this game, you simulate intense mobile fighting between Axis and Soviet forces in southwestern USSR from December 1942 to Manstein's counterattack. Players manage troop movements on a hex grid using movement points and dice rolls combined with a chit-pull system. Tactical decisions are crucial as mistakes can turn victory into a rout. The game's atmosphere evokes harsh winter conditions and fierce combat.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced wargamers and enthusiasts aged 12 and up who enjoy long, intricate sessions lasting 3 to 6 hours. It is a medium complexity title requiring patience and understanding of detailed military simulations. There is no solo mode, as it is designed exclusively for two players.
How It Works
A Victory Lost uses a chit-pull system for event determination combined with tactical movement points on a hexagon grid. Combat resolution involves a ratio-based combat results table and dice rolling. Players maneuver units at division to corps scale, aiming to encircle or retreat strategically. The gameplay emphasizes realistic operational warfare mechanics.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Tetsuya Nakamura, the game won the 2006 Charles S. Roberts Awards for Best Wargame Graphics and Best World War II Boardgame, as well as the James F. Dunnigan Award. It is part of an international series from Multi-Man Publishing and stands out for its historical depth and precise rules.
Awards
- 2006 Charles S. Roberts Best Wargame Graphics — Winner
- 2006 Charles S. Roberts Best World War II Boardgame — Winner
- 2006 James F. Dunnigan Award — Winner
Pro
- Detailed simulation of the Eastern Front 1942-43
- Sophisticated mechanics like chit-pull system and ratio combat results table
- Winner of the 2006 Charles S. Roberts Awards
- High tactical depth and realism
Contra
- Only for two players, no solo mode
- Very long playtime (3-6 hours)
- Medium complexity requires prior experience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers military operations in Ukraine and southwestern Soviet Union during World War II from December 1942 to 1943. The setting features cold winter conditions and intense battles between German and Soviet forces.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start by focusing on understanding core mechanics such as movement points and the chit-pull system before exploring advanced strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, A Victory Lost is designed exclusively for two players without a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts between 3 and 6 hours, depending on player familiarity.
What prior experience do I need?
This medium complexity wargame requires experience with detailed rule sets and strategic military simulations.
How does this compare to similar games?
It stands out through its combination of a chit-pull system and ratio combat results table on a hex grid, providing tactical depth and historical accuracy.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity, long playtime, and age restriction (12+), it is more suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The chit-pull system combined with the ratio combat results table creates a unique tactical dynamic and realistic combat simulation.
Fazit
A Victory Lost is recommended for wargame fans seeking realistic Eastern Front simulations. The long playtime and complexity demand prior experience.
