Nations at War: White Star Rising

Nations at War: White Star Rising plunges you headfirst into the intense platoon-level combat of World War II, introducing Lock 'n Load Publishing's Nations at War (NAW) game system. If you're into wargames that get straight to the point but don't skimp on tactical depth, this is your game. It packs everything you'd expect from platoon-level conflict: iconic tanks like M-10 Wolverines and Shermans against German Panthers and Tigers, infantry that truly makes a difference (not just cannon fodder!), command and control, air support, and even amphibious landings. And the best part? All this is covered in just eight pages of rules, two fewer than its predecessor, World at War. Units represent platoons of vehicles and infantry, from paratroopers to Volksgrenadiers, and can utilize support weapons like heavy machine guns and flamethrowers for devastating effects. The big innovation of the NAW system is how it tosses traditional turn-based activation out the window. Units are grouped into formations, led by a headquarters, and can only activate if they're within HQ range. Activation order is determined by a chit-pull system, where well-trained formations might activate multiple times in the same turn, while others might not even get a chance to act. Tension is constant, as the turn can end at any moment with the drawing of the second 'end turn' chit. Combat is resolved with dice rolls: a unit's firepower determines how many dice are rolled to hit, and armor plus terrain define defense. Hits cause disruption, reduction, or elimination of the unit. And if things get heated, you can go for close assault, with infantry being especially effective against unsupported armor. Get ready for quick decisions and plenty of adrenaline!