Korsun Pocket: Little Stalingrad on the Dnepr
- Designer Jack Radey
- Publisher People's War Games
- Illustration Ina Clausen , Rodger B. MacGowan
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players simulate the Battle of Korsun-Shevchenkovsky on a detailed 1:100,000 scale hex map, commanding battalion-sized units. Turns divide the day into two daytime phases and a long night phase, using dice rolling and a ratio/combat results table to resolve combat. The game models the first large-scale German encirclement after Stalingrad, requiring careful tactical planning and simulation.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced enthusiasts and experts who enjoy long, complex wargames. With a duration around 6000 minutes, it demands patience and prior knowledge of hex-based movement and simulation tactics. It is not suitable as a family game and requires solid understanding of war game mechanics and historical context.
How It Works
The game uses a hexagon grid where units have movement points representing battalions. Combat is resolved through dice rolls and a ratio-based combat results table. Days split into two five-hour turns plus a fourteen-hour night turn, with optional extra night turns. The system simulates realistic movement and combat on the WWII Eastern Front.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Jack Radey, Korsun Pocket builds on SPI's 'Wacht am Rhein' system, adding new armor rules to better simulate the Eastern Front. It focuses on the January–February 1944 operation seen as a major German encirclement. Part of the Korsun family, it uses classic wargame mechanics like simulation, hex grids, dice rolling, and movement points.
Pro
- Detailed simulation of the 1944 Korsun battle
- Historically grounded tactical gameplay with hex grid and movement points
- Extensive playtime for deep immersion
- Enhanced armor rules for greater realism
Contra
- Extremely long playtime (~6000 minutes)
- High complexity suited only for experienced players
- Not suitable for families or casual gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the Battle of the Korsun Pocket on the Dnepr River during WWII, focusing on the Soviet operation against German forces in winter 1944. It features historical conflicts among Germany, Soviet Union, and Ukraine on the Eastern Front.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with shorter wargames to learn hex movement and combat results tables before tackling Korsun Pocket.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The game supports 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The duration is about 6000 minutes, requiring multiple days of play.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames, hex movement, and dice combat systems is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Korsun Pocket expands SPI's 'Wacht am Rhein' with specialized armor rules for the Eastern Front.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is not suitable for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hex grid, movement points, and ratio/combat results table creates realistic combat flow.
Fazit
Korsun Pocket is a highly detailed, complex wargame for dedicated players with ample time. Those seeking deep Eastern Front simulations and long sessions will find it unique.
