Sicily II

Multi-Man Publishing · Board game · 2016
— Ludopedia 8.1 BGG 1–2 · best 2 Solo 120–3000 min Weight 4.3/5
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— rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Sicily II is the perfect gateway into the OCS system, brilliantly balancing complexity and realism. It captures the tension of the Sicily invasion with a pace that keeps players engaged from start to finish. It is a dense experience, built for those who love deep military simulations and want to see every logistical detail come to life on the board.

Highlights
  • Refined and accessible OCS system
  • Extremely detailed historical simulation
  • Excellent for solo play
  • Flexibility with short scenarios
Keep in mind
  • Requires OCS v4.2 rulebook
  • Steep learning curve
  • Long playtime
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Sicily II is the perfect gateway for anyone looking to dive into the acclaimed Operational Combat Series (OCS). If you are a fan of military history or a strategist who loves managing supplies and logistics under pressure, this title brings the 1943 invasion of Sicily to your table with surgical precision. Unlike the original 2000 edition, this version has been completely overhauled to offer a more dynamic experience, perfectly aligned with the current standards of the series.

The game puts you in command of a 16-turn campaign where every decision counts. With hexes representing 3.5 miles and turns covering 3 to 4 days, the pace is intense. The OCS system truly shines here by simulating everything from the chaos of amphibious landings to the strategic use of the Luftwaffe with their Fritz-X missiles. What makes Sicily II fascinating is the unpredictability of the Italian units, which may waver or surrender, forcing you to adapt your strategy on the fly. Plus, the game offers great flexibility: you can play short scenarios focused on specific map areas or tackle the full campaign to test your command skills.

Featuring high-quality components, including a full-color map and hundreds of counters, the game is a feast for those seeking realism. It works great for two players but also serves as an excellent entry point for those wanting to explore the OCS system solo. If you are already familiar with the series, you will notice that the refined rules make the game more accessible without losing the tactical depth that veterans expect. It is, without a doubt, a history lesson and a strategy masterpiece in a single box.

Keep in mind that, like any good OCS title, you will need to have the series rulebook (v4.2) handy or download the necessary reference charts. This is not a game for those seeking a quick weekend filler, but for those who want to feel the weight of a historical campaign, it is an immersive and rewarding experience. Prepare your plans, organize your logistics, and see if you can change the course of history in Sicily.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–2 players
1 REC
2 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Islands: Sicily (Italy) Series: OCS - Operational Combat Series (MMP & The Gamers)
Publisher Multi-Man Publishing
Designer Dean Essig
Artist Dean Essig

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,112owners
127wishlist
31want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Do I need other games to play Sicily II?
Yes, you will need the OCS series rulebook (v4.2) and the charts, which are available for download online.
Is this a good game for wargame beginners?
It is a great entry point for the OCS system, but it remains a high-complexity game (4.25 weight). Patience is required.
Can I play this game solo?
Absolutely! The OCS system is highly regarded by solo players who enjoy simulating full campaigns.
How long does a game take?
It depends on the scenario, but expect anywhere from 2 to 20 hours for the full campaign.
What changed from the 2000 version?
The scale was adjusted, the map is new, the order of battle was revised, and the rules were streamlined for better flow.

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