The Game of France, 1940: German Blitzkrieg in the West (1971)

Overview

France 1940 is an operational level simulation of the German invasion of France in 1940. Units are corps and divisions, with important regiments and brigades represented. The map covers the German-Franco border, from the parts of the Maginot Line to the English Channel.

The game consists of standard rules, advanced rules incorporating more complexity and realism and an Idiot's Rule, simulating the initial inflexibility of the Allied command. Six German and eleven Allied orders of battle allow players to experiment with game balance as well as explore various "What ifs".

The game comes with detailed designer's notes, giving insight into both game design and the actual campaign.

The first incarnation of the game appeared as an insert in Strategy & Tactics magazine #27 [1971], and was subsequently republished by Avalon Hill in a boxed edition in 1972.

Avalon Hill inventory:

Rule Book (a large foldout sheet) Strategy Guide pamphlet with historical map (a folded paper with printing on both sides) Designer's Notes booklet CRT Table (In the 1st printing slipcase this is printed on the inner box lid. In the standard box 2nd printing, it is a loose sheet.) 22 x 24" Map Board 224 Counters (including the 27 blanks) 9 Scenario Cards (8 of which are 2 sided)

The 1st printing included a plastic box insert. This may not be in the 2nd printing as Avalon Hill did discontinue their use in the mid 1970's.