# Operation Dauntless: The Battles for Fontenay and Rauray, France, June 1944 ## General Info - **Year Published**: 2016 - **BGG Rating**: 7.7 - **BGG Rank**: #6585 - **Players**: 2 (Best with: 2) - **Duration**: 120-2400 min - **Weight**: 4.08 / 5 - **Designers**: Mark Mokszycki - **Artists**: Charles Kibler, Mark Mahaffey, Rodger B. MacGowan - **Publishers**: GMT Games - **Categories**: Wargame, World War II - **Mechanics**: Chit-Pull System, Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid, Line of Sight, Simulation ## Verdict If you're a fan of detailed and immersive WWII wargames, Operation Dauntless will keep you glued to the table for hours! It's a polished tactical simulation of the Normandy confrontation.Deep tactical simulationRich historical immersionDetailed armor systemHigh scenario replayabilityConsiderable complexityLong playtimeExtensive rules readingFOR GENRE FANS ## Description Get ready for an epic wargame that transports you straight to Normandy in June 1944! In Operation Dauntless, you command the British 49th Infantry Division, known as "The Polar Bears," on a mission to capture Fontenay and secure the high ground near Rauray. This objective is crucial for the impending Operation Epsom. But don't think it'll be a walk in the park! Facing you are the fearsome 12th SS Panzer Division "Hitlerjugend" and Panzer Lehr, elite German units packed with powerful tanks like Panthers and Tigers. The game utilizes the same system as the acclaimed Red Winter, but with a full focus on World War II, ditching winter-specific rules for a more detailed armor system and intense combat. The scale is grand: each turn represents 90 minutes, each hex covers 425 yards, and units are mostly company-sized infantry with platoon-sized armor. Prepare for intense action with rules covering German fanatical defense, British special ammo, combat engineers, air support, night bombings, and the impact of the massive initial British barrage. The terrain varies from fields and orchards to woods and villages, with the Germans starting entrenched and able to reinforce their positions. You can play a full multi-day campaign or enjoy shorter scenarios, some even featuring German counter-offensives to retake ground. Designed for two players, it also works exceptionally well solo. The complexity is medium, similar to other games by the designer, but with an added layer of detail. If you enjoy historical immersion and tactical challenges in your wargames, Operation Dauntless is a guaranteed hit! ## FAQ ### What is the average playtime? The playtime is quite variable, ranging from 90 minutes per turn up to 2400 minutes (40 hours) for the full campaign. Shorter scenarios are quicker. ### How many players can participate? This game is designed exclusively for two players, offering an intense tactical duel. ### Is it a difficult game to learn? The complexity is considered medium-high, similar to other games by designer Mark Mokszycki. There's a lot of material to read, including a rulebook and a scenario book with examples. ### Do I need to speak English to play? Yes, the game has extensive language dependency and requires translation to be played comfortably. ### Does the game work well solo? Yes, the designer intended the game to work very well in solo mode, offering a good challenge even without an opponent. ### What kind of game is this? It's a wargame focused on World War II, using a hexagon grid, dice rolling, and a chit-pull system to simulate tactical battles. ### What comes in the game box? The box includes a map, three counter sheets, a rulebook, a play book, a scenario book, a reference book, player aid cards, reinforcement cards, and dice. ## Price Comparison ### Best International Offers - **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 63.01 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=6915895&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com) - See all on BoardGamePrices: https://boardgameprices.com/item/show/15911/operation-dauntless-the-battles-for-fontenay-and-rauray-france-june-1944?utm_source=boardgamesbot.com