D-Day
- Designer Charles S. Roberts
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In D-Day, two players reenact the Allied landings in France over 50 turns, each representing a week. Players establish a beachhead, break out, and push across France towards the Rhine. The game uses a hexagonal grid, a pioneering feature at the time, and involves managing movement points and combat through a Combat Results Table. Heavy German resistance challenges your strategic planning and supply management.
Who Is This Game For?
This two-player wargame is aimed at experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy historical simulations and complex strategy games. With a playtime of around 120 minutes, it demands patience and tactical skill. It is not designed as a family game but for enthusiasts and wargame fans.
How It Works
Players move units across a hex grid using movement points, engaging in combat resolved via a ratio-based Combat Results Table combined with dice rolling. The game simulates realistic troop movements and supply lines over weekly turns. Strategic positioning and timing are crucial to secure the beachhead and advance through France.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Charles S. Roberts, D-Day was the first wargame to feature a hexagonal map in 1961. It set a standard for realistic WWII Western Front simulations using cardboard counters and strategic combat resolution. Although it has no awards, its influence on the wargaming genre is significant. It is strictly a two-player strategic war simulation.
Pro
- First wargame with hexagonal grid in 1961
- Authentic simulation of Normandy invasion and Rhine crossing
- Tactical depth with movement points and Combat Results Table
- Classic two-player wargame with high strategic demand
Contra
- Only for two players
- Long playtime around 120 minutes
- Complex rules require experience and patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game focuses on the Western Front of World War II, specifically the Allied Normandy invasion and the subsequent push to the Rhine. It offers a detailed and realistic war simulation.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take your time to understand core mechanics like hex movement and combat resolution before diving into advanced strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
D-Day is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 120 minutes; setup and explanation may add extra time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames or strategic board games is recommended as D-Day is challenging.
How does this compare to similar games?
D-Day was the first to use a hex grid and emphasizes realistic simulation with movement points and a Combat Results Table.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, D-Day is less suitable for families with younger players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hex grid movement, movement points, and ratio-based Combat Results Table defines its tactical gameplay.
Fazit
D-Day is a historically important, tactical wargame for two players that appeals mainly to genre enthusiasts. It is less suitable for beginners or families due to its length and complexity.
