To the Green Fields Beyond: The Battle of Cambrai, 1917
- Designer David C. Isby
- Publisher Decision Games (I) , Excalibre Games, Inc. , SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Redmond Aksel Simonsen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players command British or German forces in this detailed operational simulation of the first large tank battle. The game includes three scenarios and a 17-turn campaign on a hex grid using dice rolls and combat results tables. Each turn involves complex decisions and recreates the confusion and strategy of WWI combat.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for experienced wargamers interested in WWI history, this expert-level game lasts about 240 minutes. It requires patience and prior familiarity with complex strategy games. Beginners may find it challenging.
How It Works
Players alternate turns in a progressive turn order on a hexagonal map. Combat is resolved through dice rolling combined with a ratio-based combat results table. The game blends scenario and campaign play, demanding tactical planning and adapting to battlefield developments.
What Makes It Special
David C. Isby crafted a historically accurate simulation that won the 1978 Charles S. Roberts Best Twentieth Century Game award. It stands out among two-player wargames for its focus on the first major tank battle of WWI.
Awards
- 1978 Charles S. Roberts Best Twentieth Century Game — Winner
Pro
- Historically detailed simulation of the Battle of Cambrai
- Deep tactical decisions using dice and combat results table
- Two-player focus on strategic planning
- Winner of the 1978 Charles S. Roberts Award
Contra
- Long playtime around 240 minutes requires patience
- High complexity can deter newcomers
- Strictly for two players, no solo mode
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game portrays the 1917 Battle of Cambrai in France during WWI, highlighting the first large-scale use of tanks and trench warfare tactics.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with one of the shorter scenarios to familiarize yourself with the mechanics before attempting the full campaign.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, To the Green Fields Beyond is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A full game takes about 240 minutes, with turns lasting 30 to 75 minutes each.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and patience for long sessions is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
It focuses on the first large tank battle of WWI, combining hex-based strategy with ratio combat results tables.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The progressive turn order with dice rolling and ratio combat results tables provides realistic battle resolution.
Fazit
Recommended for fans of deep, historically grounded wargames who can invest the time and effort. Its complexity and length make it suitable mainly for experienced players.
