Rzhev (the Meat Grinder)
6 VP’s
Card Balance:
Allies – 4
Axis – 6
Complexity:
4
Conditions:
Winter
Location:
Russia
Year:
1942
Theater:
Eastern Front
Summary:
Rzhev is a complex scenario recreating the Soviet counter-offensive with a 10 VP goal. This requires a long-term plan, as quick tactical hits will not win such a long battle. Night rules are in effect.
Objectives:
10 VPs,
including Objective medals for both Axis and Allies, plus Exit objectives for Allies.
The town of Belyi is a temporary medal objective worth 1 medal for both sides. If any unit occupies any of the three hexes marked with an ‘A’ they gain a medal irregardless if an opponent occupies any of the other hexes. Both sides can earn 1 medal at the same time.
The town of Rzhev is a temporary medal objective worth 2 medals for both sides. If any unit occupies any of the 3 hexes marked with a ‘B’ they gain 2 medals irregardless if an opponent occupies any of the other hexes.
Terrain:
The Axis forces already control much of the battlefield, as sandbagged troops who are very difficult to dislodge, while the Russians are pressed up against the wall.
Troops:
Allies – 10 Infantry, 5 Armor, 2 Artillery
Axis – 9 Infantry, 2 Armor, 1 Artillery
Allied Strategy:
1. Big picture strategy for the Allied forces is to concentrate your firepower on the towns of Belyi and Rhzev. Once you take out the enemy you will gain not only points for destroying units but also objective medals for controlling the towns.
2. You can attack the well-protected Axis Infantry units by placing your Armor in the forest and degrading them over several turns. Time is on your side, so there is no need to rush the attack until you are ready.
3. The Axis have a sniper (as do you). Because they are lethal at five hexes away, and can slowly degrade your troops, you need to move armor in close proximity and take him out.
4. You have a well-placed Artillery right in the center of the battlefield. Use it at every opportunity to take out enemy forces. If you get the chance to concentrate firepower using a card like Firefight, Barrage, or Airpower, then use it to destroy the enemy Artillery against the back border before it moves forward.
Axis Strategy:
1. Because this is a Russian counter-attack scenario, the Germans are primarily in a defensive position and out-numbered. So use your protections well. You must get your Armor into a good defensive tactical position to allow for mobility when needed, and defense of open terrain in the center and left section.
2. Your artillery is well-placed in the center. Use it to good effect before it is overwhelmed by the enemy.
3. The Axis begins the scenario with three medals. Keep the enemy out of the towns of Belyi and Rhzev to retain them.
4. The Russians have a Sniper. So the best way to deal with him (or her), is to move in armor to block its attack, and pick him/her off.
Battle Reports
(percentage of Allied victories):
31%
Author:
Days of Wonder
