The Longest Day
- Designer Randall C. Reed
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Rodger B. MacGowan , Randall C. Reed
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The Longest Day, you command battalion and corps units of Allied and German armies across seven maps covering the Normandy beaches and hinterlands. The game features over 2600 counters and five scenarios introducing the complex rules step-by-step via programmed instruction. Gameplay involves strategic movement on a hexagon grid, dice rolling, and combat resolved through a ratio-based combat results table. The campaign can last several months.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players and experts who have patience for very long playtimes and complex rules. With an Avalon Hill complexity rating of 8, it is not suited for beginners or casual gamers. A keen interest in historical wargames is essential.
How It Works
Players move units on a hexagon grid using movement points to position strategically. Combat is resolved through dice rolling combined with a ratio/combat results table. Events dynamically influence the game state. Five scenarios teach the rules progressively before players tackle the full campaign.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Randall C. Reed, The Longest Day is one of the most detailed WWII Normandy invasion board wargames. It uses hex grids and a ratio combat results table to provide tactical depth. It belongs to the family of amphibious and land warfare wargames set in Normandy, France.
Pro
- Extensive historical simulation of the Normandy invasion
- Five scenarios with programmed instruction for learning
- Detailed WWII unit counters with authentic military symbols
- Deep tactical mechanics with hex grids and combat results table
Contra
- Extremely long playtime up to several months
- High complexity (Avalon Hill rating 8) demands deep learning
- Not suitable for players under 12 or casual gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the Allied D-Day invasion in June 1944 and the subsequent Normandy campaign until August 31, 1944, with maps spanning beaches and inland areas of Northern France.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take your time to play through the five scenarios step-by-step to gradually learn the complex rules.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The Longest Day is designed for 2 to 8 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
The full campaign can last several months; individual scenarios are shorter but still lengthy.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert-level wargame with high complexity, so prior wargame experience is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
The Longest Day offers a particularly detailed and extensive simulation of the Normandy invasion using programmed instruction and tactical hex grid combat.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is generally not suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hexagon grid movement, movement points, and ratio/combat results table defines its tactical depth.
Fazit
The Longest Day is a monumental wargame for enthusiasts willing to invest time and effort into a historically detailed campaign. It offers a unique experience for fans of deep and long-lasting wargames.
