Southern Front: Race for the Turkish Straits

If you are a fan of classic wargames and love a Cold War 'what if' scenario, Southern Front: Race for the Turkish Straits will definitely grab your attention. This is the second entry in GDW's Third World War series, and while it shares the core rulebook, it delivers a very different experience. The focus here is on the Balkan theater: Bulgaria and Romania, bolstered by Soviet forces, clash against Greece, Turkey, and Yugoslavia, which are thinly supported by elite units from the US, France, and Italy.

The real hook is the high mobility. The map doesn't allow for a solid, impenetrable front line, so you will need to be creative. Special units like airmobile, airborne, and amphibious troops are the stars of the show, essential for outflanking the enemy and navigating the mountainous terrain. The game also shines by simulating the tangled Balkan politics: Romania is a shaky Pact ally, and Greece can even withdraw from NATO. There is even a scenario where Romania stays neutral, forcing the Soviets to rethink their entire invasion strategy.

Furthermore, the game allows for integration with 'Battle for Germany'. This adds an insane layer of strategy, where you can shift reinforcements between fronts. But be careful: every division sent to the Balkans is one less unit protecting the Central Front. It is the type of decision that makes you sweat while planning your moves. If you enjoy games that demand long-term strategic vision and a solid tactical challenge, this one is a must-play.