# World War 3: 1976-1984

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 1975
- **BGG Rating**: 5.2
- **BGG Rank**: #30495
- **Players**: 2 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 360 min
- **Weight**: 3.25 / 5
- **Designers**: Jim Dunnigan
- **Artists**: Redmond Aksel Simonsen
- **Publishers**: SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- **Categories**: Modern Warfare, Wargame
- **Mechanics**: Hexagon Grid

## Verdict
World War 3 is a robust classic for fans of global strategy wargames and alternate history scenarios. The experience is dense and demands careful planning, focusing on army and fleet maneuvers rather than pure luck. It is perfect for players looking for a serious Cold War simulation without the overwhelming complexity of modern systems.Deep and immersive strategic simulationExcellent solo playability includedGlobal scale with detailed mapIntuitive rules for the genreVery long playtime requiredClassic wargame aestheticRelies on combat results tablesFOR GENRE FANS

## Description
If you are a fan of alternate history and have always wondered what a global conflict at the height of the Cold War would look like, World War 3: 1976-1984 is exactly what you need. This game is a classic strategic-level simulation that puts two players in command of the world's superpowers in a hypothetical scenario where political tension escalated into a large-scale conventional military conflict. Forget the nuclear button for a moment: the focus here is on maneuvering armies and fleets across a map that covers the entire globe.

The gameplay experience is dense and immersive. With turns representing quarters over a five-year period, you will have to manage the advance of your troops across a hexagon grid, balancing the firepower of the US against the raw strength of the Soviets. The combat system is straightforward, utilizing results tables based on the strength differential between units, which keeps the game flow steady despite the complexity inherent in the theme. The game shines by simulating logistics and the need to maintain control of strategic areas without escalating into mutually assured destruction.

What makes this title interesting is that it doesn't require you to be a military historian or a strategy genius to get started. The rules are designed to be intuitive, focusing on common sense and the player's adaptability. Furthermore, the possibility of solitaire play is a highlight, allowing you to explore the scenario without needing an opponent available. The units represent actual armies and fleets, and the game offers optional rules to adjust the complexity, making it accessible for those who want a quick session or for those seeking a deep simulation. It is an absolute classic for those who enjoy wargames with an "what if" flavor, offering a fascinating look at a world that, fortunately, only existed on game boards.

## FAQ
### Is the game very difficult to learn?
Not really! Although it is a wargame, the rules follow an intuitive logic for combat and movement. If you've played other classics, you'll feel right at home.

### Can I play it solo?
Yes, the game features excellent solo playability, allowing you to explore the war scenario without needing a second player.

### How long does a game last?
Prepare for a long session. A full game can take around 6 hours, so set aside an entire afternoon.

### Does the game use dice?
Yes, combat is resolved with dice by consulting a results table, which adds an element of tactical uncertainty.

### Do I need to know military history?
Not at all. The game provides all the necessary context and does not require prior knowledge of tactics or real-world events.

### How many players are required?
The game is designed specifically for two players, representing the two sides of the Cold War.