In January, the War Room group introduced a 10-game challenge, encouraging participants to play and share their experiences and thoughts about each game.
To kick off the challenge in January, I revisited an old favorite that I hadn't played in a long time. World War I is a delightful game known for its straightforward gameplay. I particularly appreciate how the game handles the attrition aspect, making it both enjoyable and easy to engage with.
Following RAF, I proceeded to play the game which I enjoy regularly and find always engaging. While I recently acquired the deluxe edition, I opted for the original version for a more challenging experience. Despite my fondness for the deluxe version, I am considering selling the original copy.
February was the month that I wanted to play Manilla - The Savage Streets since the battle started in that month in real life. I love this solo system. It is easy to set up and play. A little dice heavy but a ton of fun to play. You can see a playthrough here. Michael Rinella is a genius! I love his games.
I guess I was in a solo mind state for February as I followed that up with B-17 and the Hunters. I enjoyed playing these as well. B-17 is always fun and I love the narrative. The same can be said for The Hunters. The game tells a story and is so much fun to play. I have always had a soft spot for games designed by Gregory Smith. They are well thought out and tell a wonderful story.
March roared in with Stalingrad - Advance to the Volga, followed up by A House Divided. I have already expressed my thoughts about Michael Rinella's system, I love it and Stalingrad was no different. This series is probably my favorite. I can't wait for Berlin to drop.
I have played A House Divided for many years and still own the original copy. I also have the Mayfair edition and will buy the new one from GMT when it hits as well. It is a great game and I have found it is easy to play with new players not familiar with wargames. It is a easy to play, but games are never the same. You should check out this oldie but a goodie.
April was a slow month for gaming as the motorcycle riding season kicked off and that always cuts into my playing time. I played one game. Fighting Formations Battle for Kharkov. I have to say that I really want to love playing Fighting Formations, but for some reason it does not do it for me. I played a ladder game using this module. I enjoy the system, just not one of my favorite games.
Things always slow down in the gaming department for me in the summer months. This summer was no different. In May I played Salerno 43 on vassal and WOW! I loved this game and have played it a couple of times since. It is a great introductory game to get started with the 40 series of games. I have also played Normandy 44 and France 40. To say I am a fan is an understatement. I have Holland and Stalingrad on pre order. I am always on the road for most of June and July, so I set up one game to play solo using the solo card system. That game was the original For The People. I had it set up for weeks and would walk through and play a 1 turn at a time. I liked it so much I purchased the new version from GMT with the Mounted map. I would love to play this with someone, so if you are interested then lets do it! That did it for my 2024 War Game challenge. This is a great idea and it forced me to play some games that I might not have played. I would recommend doing this in 2025 if the gang from the War Game Room want to do it again next year. So how many of you have completed the challenge? Are you happy with the games that you played? Let me know. Until next time Be Kind and Happy Gaming!
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