St-Lô: Normandy 1944 – The Breakout Begins (1986)

Overview

St-Lô: Normandy 1944 – The Breakout Begins was the first board-wargame to cover this unique battle. Designed by Joe Balkoski, creator of Atlantic Wall and Sixth Fleet, St-Lô offers a challenging system for the simulation of World War II battalion-level combat.

Unit morale is the crucial factor in this game. Morale fluctuates as units move, rest or attack. Should you pull this battalion out of the line to rest ? Or will one more push carry the position ?

Artillery plays a crucial role too. Good observation posts are essential for accurate fire. You will find yourself fighting many desperate actions for control of hilltop vantage points or church steeples.

The innovative movement system makes uncertainty another key element of St-Lô. You never know who will move next. Even units that have already moved may move again the same turn. You will need to plan ahead, rest your troops and then spring your offensive.

Outstanding for solitaire play. The rulebook has extensive designers notes throughout and each chapter has numerous quotes from commanders at the battle for St-Lô.

Designed by a master craftsman this is an innovative, tense and accurate portrayal of World War II battalion command - the way it really was.

18 July 1944 13:40 Hrs Gen. Gerhardt: "Capt. Putenny, you sure did a masterful job and are going up for promotion; you'll keep that battalion. Where is Howie's body?"

Contents: 22" x 34" paper map of St-Lô and surrounding areas. 400 multi-color back printed counters Rulebook Player-aid cards