The Next War: Modern Conflict in Europe
- Designer Jim Dunnigan , Mark Herman
- Publisher SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Redmond Aksel Simonsen
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players command brigade and divisional units during a hypothetical Warsaw Pact invasion of Central Europe. The game uses hexagon grid movement combined with dice rolling for combat resolution. Scenarios vary from sudden war outbreaks to tension periods, with optional rules for weather, supply, chemical and nuclear warfare, and air and naval operations, which extend the playing time considerably.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced hobbyists and experts interested in military simulations. It is strictly a two-player game requiring patience for its long playing time of around six hours. It is not suited for families and demands prior experience with complex wargames.
How It Works
The core mechanic combines dice rolling with hexagon grid movement, allowing units to engage in combat during movement. Units can exceed normal movement limits at the risk of fatigue or attrition. Optional rules add layers such as air, naval, and electronic warfare. The campaign includes several scenarios with varying states of readiness.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Jim Dunnigan and Mark Herman and published in 1978, The Next War is known for its complexity and detail. It was nominated for two Charles S. Roberts Awards in 1978: Best Graphics and Physical Systems and Best Twentieth Century Game. It simulates a hypothetical Warsaw Pact invasion of Western Europe, making it a classic among military simulations.
Awards
- 1978 Charles S. Roberts Best Graphics and Physical Systems — Nominated
- 1978 Charles S. Roberts Best Twentieth Century Game — Nominated
Pro
- High tactical depth through combined combat and movement
- Numerous optional rules for customized gameplay
- Thematically detailed Cold War simulation
- Focused exclusively on two-player gameplay
Contra
- Very long playing time (around 360 minutes)
- High complexity limits accessibility
- Only suitable for two players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates a hypothetical Warsaw Pact invasion of NATO in Central Europe in the late 1970s, covering areas from Denmark to Italy.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with the basic rules and simple scenarios to gradually learn the complex system.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, The Next War is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A full game takes about 360 minutes, including setup and rule study.
What prior experience do I need?
It is intended for experienced players familiar with complex wargames.
How does this compare to similar games?
The Next War offers a particularly detailed simulation with many optional rules and a focus on combined movement and combat on a hex grid.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is not suitable for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of dice rolling and hexagon grid movement with integrated combat is central.
Fazit
The Next War is a detailed military simulation for two players with extensive options. It is recommended for wargame enthusiasts who enjoy long and tactically demanding sessions.
