The Devil's Cauldron: The Battles for Arnhem and Nijmegen
- Designer Adam Starkweather
- Publisher Multi-Man Publishing
- Illustration Nicolás Eskubi , Mark Mahaffey , Steve Paschal
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The Devil's Cauldron, you command company-level units on detailed hex maps representing the Arnhem and Nijmegen drop zones. The game emphasizes command control, weather effects, and line of sight, combining chit-pull activation and dice rolling for tactical combat. Scenarios range from one-hour skirmishes to an extensive grand campaign.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced wargamers aged 12 and up who can commit to very long sessions of up to 40 hours. It is an expert-level simulation requiring patience, historical interest, and tactical depth.
How It Works
The Devil's Cauldron uses a chit-pull system to activate units and dice rolls to resolve combat and movement outcomes. The maps use a hexagon grid with line of sight rules affecting attacks. Players manage company-sized units through different scenarios with specific rules and planning demands.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Adam Starkweather, it was nominated in 2008 for the Charles S. Roberts Best Graphic Design and Best World War 2 era Board Game as well as Golden Geek Best Wargame. It won the Walter Luc Haas Best Simulation award in 2009. Part of Multi-Man Publishing’s Grand Tactical series, it stands out for its detailed historical simulation and weather mechanics.
Awards
2008
- 2009 Walter Luc Haas Best Simulation — Winner
- 2008 Charles S. Roberts Best Graphic Design — Nominated
- 2008 Charles S. Roberts Best World War 2 era Board Game — Nominated
Pro
- Extensive historical documentation and background
- Complex simulation with chit-pull system and line of sight
- Part of the renowned Grand Tactical series by MMP
- Winner of the 2009 Walter Luc Haas Best Simulation award
Contra
- Very long playtime of up to 40 hours for the grand campaign
- High complexity requiring significant rule study
- Not suitable for casual or family players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the northern drop zones of Operation Market Garden in the Dutch cities Arnhem and Nijmegen during World War II, focusing on historical accuracy and weather effects.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to study the rules thoroughly and start with smaller scenarios before attempting the grand campaign.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The Devil's Cauldron is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
Playtime ranges from about 1 hour for small skirmishes up to around 40 hours for the full campaign.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert-level game with complex rules, recommended for experienced wargamers.
How does this compare to similar games?
It stands out for its chit-pull activation system, detailed historical simulation, and weather mechanics within the Grand Tactical series.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its long duration and complexity, it is less suitable for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The chit-pull system combined with line of sight and hexagon grid mechanics defines the gameplay.
Fazit
The Devil's Cauldron is ideal for wargamers seeking deep simulation and extended playtime. Casual players might find the complexity and length challenging.
