Panzergruppe Guderian

The Avalon Hill Game Co, SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.) · Board game · 1976
Ludopedia 7.4 BGG 2 · best 2 180–300 min Weight 2.8/5
Buy · from US$ 13.43
rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

For historical wargame fans who love tactical challenges with innovative mechanics. The hidden Soviet units twist is brilliant!

Highlights
  • Unique 'untried units' mechanic
  • Strategic depth with division bonuses
  • Detailed map and accurate historical scale
Keep in mind
  • Long playtime (3-5 hours)
  • Complex for wargame newcomers
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Panzergruppe Guderian is a classic wargame simulating the Battle of Smolensk in July 1941, during the German invasion of the Soviet Union. Each turn represents two days of combat on a map where each hex equals 10.5 km. The game shines with its innovative 'untried' Soviet units mechanic: they enter play face-down, with hidden strength until their first combat, adding delicious tactical suspense. Germans enjoy operational advantages like mechanized movement before and after combat, plus bonuses for keeping divisions intact. Soviets must strategize to redirect troops and defend key cities. Victory is determined by capturing cities (for Germans) or destroying enemy divisions (for Soviets). Includes map, counters, dice, and reference cards — perfect for fans of historical wargames with deep strategy and surprises.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

6 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Country: Belarus Country: Russia Country: Soviet Union History: World War II (Eastern Front) Magazine: Strategy & Tactics Players: Two-Player Only Games Series: Panzergruppe Guderian System (SPI)
Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co, SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
Designer Jim Dunnigan
Artist Redmond Aksel Simonsen, Rodger B. MacGowan

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,973owners
184wishlist
44want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How long does a game take?
Between 3 to 5 hours, depending on player experience and scenario.
Is it good for wargame beginners?
Not the most beginner-friendly due to rule complexity and length. Best for those with some hex-based wargame experience.
How many players?
Only 2 (one as Germans, one as Soviets).
What makes this game unique?
Soviet units start hidden — you only discover their real strength in first combat, creating amazing tactical suspense.
Does it need much table space?
Yes, the map is large and you'll need room for counters and reference tables.

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