Fighting Formations: Grossdeutschland Motorized Infantry Division
- Players
- 2
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 180 min
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.3 / 5
- Year
- 2011
About the game
Fighting Formations: Grossdeutschland Motorized Infantry Division is a squad-and-vehicle-scale World War II wargame that puts two players in command of German infantry and armor fighting on the Eastern Front. Rather than a rigid turn sequence, the game uses an impulse-driven Initiative system where players spend Initiative points to activate orders, creating a tense back-and-forth battle of timing and tempo. Card-based Assets like snipers, artillery, and air support add tactical texture without turning the game into a card-driven design. With a full complement of countersheets, mapsheets, and specialty dice, this first entry in the Fighting Formations series delivers a detailed but focused tactical WWII experience for two dedicated players.
Hobbli's Notes
This is a serious, rules-dense wargame built for players who already love the genre, and Hobbli's team sees it as a rewarding but demanding addition to any wargame shelf. The impulse-based Initiative system stands out as genuinely clever, rewarding careful sequencing over rote turn-taking. It's not a game to bring out casually - expect a long evening and a real investment in learning the rulebook. For the right two players, though, the tactical payoff is substantial.
What we like
- The impulse-based Initiative system creates constant tactical tension between both players.
- Card Assets like snipers and artillery add variety without overcomplicating the core system.
- The squad-and-vehicle scale delivers a highly detailed simulation of WWII infantry combat.
- Extensive components support a long series of future Fighting Formations titles.
Keep in mind
- The lengthy rulebook and long playtime demand a significant time investment.
- Strictly two players limits who can join a session.
- The genre's steep learning curve will deter non-wargamers.
Who it's for
Dedicated wargamers and WWII history enthusiasts looking for a detailed two-player tactical simulation; not recommended for casual or new gamers.
