FAB: Sicily

If you enjoy wargames that don't take an entire week to finish, FAB: Sicily is a fantastic choice. This second volume of the Fast Action Battles (FAB) series puts you directly in command of the Allied invasion of Sicily, a pivotal moment in World War II. The game shines by balancing the tension of a historical conflict with mechanics that keep the pace brisk without sacrificing the tactical depth we expect from a solid simulator.

The real highlight here is the uncertainty. As the Allied player, you determine your landing spots only after seeing where the Axis has deployed. Will you follow Montgomery’s historical plan, take a risk with Patton’s strategy, or come up with something entirely new? The choice is yours, but the rugged Sicilian terrain won't make it easy. Meanwhile, the Axis player must deal with constantly declining Italian morale. With every Allied victory, Italian morale drops, making their units less effective and creating a ripple effect that can determine the island's fate.

The use of block wargame components is a highlight, hiding crucial information and forcing players to read the battlefield carefully. The game also introduces thematic events, such as the infamous Patton slapping incident or unexpected reinforcements, which add that extra flavor. The pressure is constant: if the game reaches the ninth turn without a decisive victory, the Axis receives bonuses for units that manage to escape through Messina, forcing the Allies to be aggressive and the Axis to fight for every inch of territory. It is a tense, strategic experience that rewards those who can read their opponent's bluffs well. If you are looking for a medium-weight wargame focused on specific operations with high replayability, FAB: Sicily is a solid addition to your collection.