Storm Over Arnhem
- Designer Courtney F. Allen
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Jean Baer , Rodger B. MacGowan , W. Scott Moores , Dale Scheaffer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You engage in a detailed simulation of the fierce fighting around Arnhem Bridge from September 18-21, 1944. The game uses an Area-Impulse system where each turn is divided into mini-turns, allowing tactical movement and combat decisions involving dice rolls. Units become committed after moving or firing, adding strategic timing to your actions. The game offers a blend of simulation and area movement for a realistic wartime experience.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed exclusively for two players, Storm Over Arnhem appeals to enthusiasts of historical wargames. With a playtime around 300 minutes and a recommended age of 12+, it is a medium-complexity (3/10 on Avalon Hill’s scale) game requiring patience and some prior experience with tactical war games.
How It Works
Storm Over Arnhem features an Area-Impulse mechanic where each full turn consists of multiple impulses. Players move or attack with a limited number of units per impulse, and once a unit acts, it is committed until the next turn. Movement is handled through Area Movement, and combat resolution uses Dice Rolling combined with attack and defense values. Advantage Tokens add extra tactical options throughout the game.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Courtney F. Allen, Storm Over Arnhem won the 1982 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Twentieth Century Game. As Avalon Hill’s first Area-Impulse game, it set the foundation for later titles like Thunder at Cassino. Its combination of simulation and innovative mechanics makes it a landmark among two-player wargames.
Awards
- 1982 Charles S. Roberts Best Twentieth Century Game — Winner
Pro
- Innovative Area-Impulse mechanic for tactical depth
- Historical simulation of the Arnhem battle in 1944
- Exclusive two-player design with clear roles
- Winner of the 1982 Charles S. Roberts Award
Contra
- Long playtime around 300 minutes requires patience
- No solo mode, strictly two-player
- Medium complexity may challenge beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game recreates the battle for Arnhem Bridge, part of Operation Market Garden in September 1944. The map focuses on Arnhem, Netherlands, and the surrounding areas where British and German forces clashed.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the Area-Impulse system and plan your moves carefully to maximize unit effectiveness.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Storm Over Arnhem is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
Expect around 300 minutes of playtime; plan accordingly.
What prior experience do I need?
The game has medium complexity (3/10) and suits players familiar with tactical wargames.
How does this compare to similar games?
Storm Over Arnhem was the first Avalon Hill game with Area-Impulse mechanics, influencing later titles like Thunder at Cassino.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its length and complexity, it is less suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Area-Impulse, Advantage Tokens, and Dice Rolling creates deep tactical gameplay and realistic simulation.
Fazit
Storm Over Arnhem is recommended for players interested in historically accurate, tactical wargames with longer play sessions. Its moderate complexity keeps it accessible, though it demands strategic planning and patience.
