A World at War: Second World War in Europe and the Pacific
- Designer Bruce Harper
- Publisher GMT Games , Rawstone
- Illustration Rodger B. MacGowan , Mark Simonitch
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Immerse yourself in a detailed strategic simulation of WWII battles across Europe and the Pacific. Using mechanics like Dice Rolling and Hexagon Grid, you manage land, sea, and air forces, plan research and diplomacy. Each game demands careful troop deployment and resource management to navigate multiple theaters of war.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced strategy gamers and wargame enthusiasts aged 14 and up who appreciate very long playtimes. With a duration of about 48 hours, patience and prior experience with complex simulations are recommended.
How It Works
The game uses Dice Rolling to resolve combat and a Hexagon Grid for precise unit movement on continental-scale maps. Players coordinate land, naval, and air units, while also managing research and diplomacy as strategic resources. This blend of simulation and grid movement offers a rich war experience.
What Makes It Special
Bruce Harper’s design builds on the classic Rise and Decline of the Third Reich system with added detail. It was nominated for the 2003 Charles S. Roberts Best World War II Boardgame award. The mix of tactical hex-grid combat and strategic resource management is distinctive.
Awards
- 2003 Charles S. Roberts Best World War II Boardgame — Nominated
Pro
- Extensive historical simulation with multiple layers
- Diverse mechanics: Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid, Simulation
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Nominated for Charles S. Roberts Award 2003
Contra
- Very long playtime (~48 hours)
- High complexity requiring strategic experience
- Not suitable for casual or family play
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set during World War II in Europe and the Pacific, the game includes historical countries like Germany, France, Belgium, and China, covering diverse battlefields.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with smaller scenarios and take time to learn the complex mechanics and gameplay flow.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, A World at War includes a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game typically lasts around 2880 minutes (48 hours), including setup and explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy games is recommended, as this is an expert-level wargame.
How does this compare to similar games?
It expands the Rise and Decline of the Third Reich system with more detail and combines hex-grid tactical combat with strategic resource management.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its long duration and complexity, it is not suitable for families or casual gamers.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Dice Rolling and Hexagon Grid within a deep simulation is characteristic.
Fazit
A World at War is a vast wargame combining strategy and simulation for experienced players. It offers deep gameplay but demands significant time and dedication.
