For the Motherland! The Russian Front, 1941-44 – High-Value Compact Strategic Wargame
From the sudden shock of Operation Barbarossa to the final, bitter stages of the Soviet drive to expel the Axis forces, the Eastern Front was the true turning point of World War II. For the Motherland! The Russian Front, 1941-44 is an all-new, streamlined wargame designed by the renowned Japanese historical expert, Masahiro Yamazaki. Borrowing the strategic depth of his massive two-map game War for the Motherland, this single-map edition packs the same thematic weight into a highly playable layout that can be completed in a single sitting.
Evolving Combat Dynamics & Core Historical Scenarios
One of the finest mechanical twists implemented in this design is the variable strength chit system. Over time, the combat strength chits available to the Soviet player increase in value, perfectly modeling the growing operational capabilities, heavy weaponry, and tactical effectiveness of the Red Army as the tide turned against the Wehrmacht.
The package features four versatile scenarios to accommodate your gaming schedule:
- Operation Barbarossa: A fast-paced 1 to 7 Game-Turns introductory scenario covering the lightning German invasion of 1941.
- The Road to Stalingrad: A tense 1 to 12 Game-Turns struggle charting the critical offensive into the Caucasus and Volga.
- Fall Blau: A targeted strategic operational scenario spanning Game-Turns 8 to 17.
- War for the Motherland Campaign: The full, grand 1 to 22 Game-Turns conflict, compressing the older 40-turn system into a smooth, dynamic campaign.
Key Features
- Sleek, Compact Design: Yamazaki delivers a beautifully balanced system with fewer units and compressed turn tracks, making it accessible without diluting historical realism.
- Upgraded Components: Features a durable, thick mounted game map and large, clear 9/16″ counters for an ergonomic tabletop experience.
- High Solitaire Suitability: Rated at 7 out of 10 for solo play. Since there are no hidden units, a single commander can easily pilot both sides to test alternative historical strategies.
Product Information
- Complexity: 5 out of 10 (Medium)
- Solitaire Suitability: 7 out of 10
- Players: 1 to 2 (Best with 2)
- Play Time: 2–5 hours for standalone scenarios, 8+ hours for the full campaign
- Scales: Army (Soviets & Axis Minors) / Corps (Germans); 74 km per hex; 1–2 months per turn
Box Content
- 1 Mounted game mapboard
- 5 Countersheets (9/16″ size)
- 1 Rules booklet (English language)
- 2 Player aid cards
- 1 Axis Order of Appearance Display & 1 Soviet Order of Appearance Display
- 1 Six-sided die
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