Storm of Steel (2nd Edition)

STORM OF STEEL (SoS) is a complete simulation of World War I. Three maps cover Europe from the Pyrenees to the Urals, along with the Middle East. Fighting ranges from St. Petersburg to Baghdad and beyond. The maps can be combined for one grand campaign game, or they can be used separately for theater-level campaigns. Nearly two dozen scenarios allow players to focus on one year and one front, one year on all fronts, start a campaign game from the beginning of any year, play the Eastern front for the entire war, play an alternative history 1919 scenario, or play a Grand Campaign of the entire war. Turns are quarterly, with all units able to move and fight in at least one impulse per turn. Campaign Cards simulate the designation of objectives and logistical preparations, and provide additional impulses and potential combat bonuses to recreate the intense offensives of the war. Units represent land, naval and air forces. Ground forces are portrayed at corps level. Each corps is rated for the number of divisions it includes; players can concentrate for the offensive or disperse for the defense. Corps types include infantry, shock troops, mountain infantry, and cavalry.

Each country has its own unique order of battle. For example, the Austro-Hungarians have mountain corps, and there are additional units representing Bolshevik and independent nationalist forces. Naval units are at the squadron level for capital ships, and flotillas for cruisers and destroyers. Surface engagements, naval bombardment, and amphibious assaults are all possible.

There is also commerce raiding, including unrestricted submarine warfare, for attacks on merchant shipping, as well as convoy escorts for defense. Air warfare is represented by strategic and tactical wings. Improve aerial warfare capabilities by increasing air doctrine levels. As air doctrine improves, players can employ increasingly sophisticated aerial missions including interception, aerial supply, and para-drops. Psychological warfare is an important element in trying to maintain the morale of friendly forces while undermining the enemy’s morale.

SoS is the comprehensive simulation of World War I. All the elements of the war are simulated, yet the rules are straight-forward and easy to understand. It can be played by two players, but also makes a great weekend game for four to six. No matter the number of players or the time available, SoS provides an opportunity to study individual fronts and years, as well as the big picture. It allows players to examine the interaction of military, economic, and political elements. You can recreate the sweeping campaigns in the east and the Middle East. You can try alternative strategies to break the trench deadlock in the west. Victory can be yours in Storm of Steel.

Contents:

Rules & Scenario booklet

1,400 Die cut counters

100 Color playing cards

3 34” x 22” Map

11 x 17 World Display

Assorted Player Aid Cards

1 Die

Storage bags

11x17x2" box