Drang Nach Osten!
- Designer Paul Richard "Rich" Banner , Frank Chadwick
- Publisher Game Designers' Workshop (GDW Games)
- Illustration Paul Richard "Rich" Banner , Don Lowry
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
You engage in a complex simulation of Operation Barbarossa on a hexagon grid map, managing army HQs, divisions, and air groups. The game spans 19 half-month turns, using dice rolling and movement points to recreate tactical and strategic decisions. Terrain effects and unit specialization add depth to the historical experience.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for experienced players interested in detailed WWII wargames, Drang Nach Osten! requires significant time investment across multiple sessions. With a minimum age of 12 and high complexity, prior experience with strategic simulations is recommended.
How It Works
The game uses a hexagon grid for movement, with units controlled via movement points. Dice rolling resolves combat outcomes, while simulation mechanics ensure historical accuracy. Each turn simulates two weeks, involving strategic deployment of ground and air units and consideration of terrain impacts.
What Makes It Special
Created by Paul Richard "Rich" Banner and Frank Chadwick, Drang Nach Osten! was among the first detailed wargames on the Eastern Front and is part of the Europa series that simulates the entire European theater of WWII. Its large map and deep simulation set it apart in the genre.
Pro
- Comprehensive simulation of the 1941-42 Eastern Front
- Large hexagon grid map component
- Deep strategic gameplay with movement points and dice rolling
- Part of the renowned Europa wargame series
Contra
- Extremely long playtime (~20 multi-hour sessions)
- High complexity demands prior wargame experience
- Not suited for casual or family play
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941 during WWII's Eastern Front, depicting challenges from Operation Barbarossa through the Soviet winter counteroffensive in 1942.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the rules thoroughly and consider starting with shorter wargames to gain experience with hex grids and simulations.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Drang Nach Osten! is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not have an official solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game takes about 20 sessions of several hours each, as each turn simulates two weeks of play.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and strategic simulations is needed due to many rules and units.
How does this compare to similar games?
As part of the Europa series, it stands out for its detailed Eastern Front simulation with a large map and numerous units.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to high complexity and long playtime, it is less suitable for families or casual players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hexagon grid, movement points, and dice rolling delivers a historically accurate and strategic simulation.
Fazit
Drang Nach Osten! is a demanding historical simulation ideal for dedicated wargamers with time to invest. It is less suitable for casual players or families due to its complexity and length.
