2025 · Wargame

Spring Prelude: Second Kharkov, May 1942

This two-player wargame simulates the Second Battle of Kharkov from 12–27 May 1942, covering the failed Soviet offensive and the German counterattack that followed. One player commands the Soviet forces under Semyon Timoshenko, while the other leads German Army Group South under Fedor von Bock. The game uses a variable-strength system in which combat values are determined by concealed strength chits, creating uncertainty about unit capabilities. Players maneuver German regiments and Soviet divisions across a map scaled at three miles per hex, with turns representing one day. Rules cover weather, swollen rivers, headquarters, air missions, differing stacking limits, and Soviet doctrine restrictions. Four scenarios include the historical campaign and alternate situations with modified Soviet planning and German operations.

groupPlayers

1–4 best 2

psychologyComplexity

2.5 / 5