# Arracourt

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2022
- **BGG Rating**: 8.4
- **BGG Rank**: #6102
- **Players**: 2 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 120 min
- **Weight**: 3.85 / 5
- **Designers**: Carl Fung, Dean Essig
- **Artists**: Dean Essig, Nicolás Eskubi
- **Publishers**: Multi-Man Publishing, Rawstone
- **Categories**: Wargame, World War II
- **Mechanics**: Dice Rolling, Grid Movement, Hexagon Grid, Movement Points, Simulation, Zone of Control

## Verdict
If you're into tactical wargames and want to dive into an iconic piece of World War II history, Arracourt is an excellent choice! It delivers a dense and strategic simulation of tank and infantry battles, but in a way that doesn't drown you in rules. It's the perfect entry point into the BCS series, with dynamic scenarios and a fascinating real-world story behind it.Deep tactical simulationGreat for BCS beginnersEngaging historical conflictCompact and varied scenariosAccessible core rulesHigh strategic weightInitial learning curveTwo-player onlyHIGHLY RECOMMENDED

## Description
Arracourt is a wargame from the acclaimed Battalion Combat Series (BCS) that throws you right into the heart of World War II, in September 1944. The stakes are high: you'll relive the desperate Axis counterattack to halt General Patton's relentless drive through France, and the spectacular response of the American Combined Arms that brought that offensive to a dead stop. The game simulates the mobile engagements that became a case study for the US Army, demonstrating how to defeat an armored foe with clever tactics. 

The historical context is as follows: the US 4th Armored Division, the spearhead of Patton's Third Army, is stretching its supply lines thin, which have been diverted to the British in the north (remember Operation Market Garden?). Hitler, seeing an opening, decides to launch his newly formed Panzer Brigades, equipped with Panthers fresh off the assembly line, but manned by green crews. The result? Intense battles where both sides utilize all their mobile warfare tools, maneuvering to attack and defend strategic terrain. 

Arracourt is super accessible for those new to the BCS series, serving as a great starter kit before venturing into other, more complex titles. But make no mistake, it still offers a significant challenge for BCS veterans! Scenarios are compact, usually on a single map or less, and the game has very few special rules – except, of course, for a peculiar one involving the legendary 'Bazooka Charlie,' an artillery observation pilot who rigged his plane with bazooka launchers to hunt German tanks daily. Prepare for six scenarios ranging from 2 to 13 turns, including the Arracourt Campaign and the Battle of Lunéville. Components include the BCS v2.0 rulebook, support charts, a 22” x 34” full-color game map, and 352 counters.

## FAQ
### Is Arracourt a complex wargame? Is it good for beginners in this genre?
Well, Arracourt is a wargame with a considerable strategic weight (3.85/5 on BGG), so it's not a light game. But the good news is that it's considered an excellent entry point into the highly respected Battalion Combat Series (BCS). It features fewer special rules and shorter scenarios, making it easier for newcomers.

### How many players can play Arracourt, and what's the average game time?
Arracourt is exclusively a two-player game, perfect for a direct and strategic confrontation. Game time can vary significantly depending on the scenario. Smaller scenarios might take 2 hours, while the full campaign could keep you engaged for about 10-12 hours.

### What are the main components included in the game?
Inside the box, you'll find the BCS series rulebook (v2.0, full color), two charts and tables, an Arracourt game-specific rulebook, a turn record track card, one 22” x 34” full-color game map, and 352 counters for your units and events.

### What are the most important game mechanics in Arracourt?
Core mechanics include dice rolling for combat, hexagon grid movement with movement points, detailed combat simulation, and the crucial 'Zone of Control,' which affects enemy movement. All these contribute to a very realistic tactical experience.

### Is the game based on real historical events?
Absolutely! Arracourt simulates the battles of September 1944 in France, where the US 4th Armored Division faced a German counterattack. It's a real historical event, even studied by the US Army as an example of mobile defense against armored forces.

### Is there a luck factor, or is it purely strategic?
Like any good wargame, Arracourt combines strategy with an element of luck. Dice rolling is fundamental for resolving combat, adding a dose of unpredictability that simulates the chaos of war. However, strategy and unit positioning are crucial for mitigating that luck.

## Price Comparison
### Best International Offers
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 85.56 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=3239923&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 85.62 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=3794525&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 114.72 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=4679619&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
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