Wacht Am Rhein

About this board game

Wacht Am Rhein is a 1–4 player grand-tactical simulation of the Battle of the Bulge, with an approximate playing time of 240 minutes. The 2005 edition covers the enormous battle at a scale of one mile per hex, with three game turns per day.

More than 2,380 counters represent the formations that fought in the battle, including American, German, British, French, Canadian, and Belgian units. Infantry and artillery appear at battalion level, armor at company level, and each strength step represents a company.

The four full-color map sheets were compiled from 1944 German staff maps and 1943–44 U.S. Army maps. They show roads, trails, towns, villages, creeks, rivers, and other terrain, including waterways that wheeled vehicles cannot cross without a bridge.

• Six smaller scenarios can be played using individual map sections.
• The campaign game uses all four map sections and covers three weeks across 50 game turns.
• Extensive supply, weather, and air power rules shape the campaign.
• Updated systems include exploitation mode, vantage points for improved artillery spotting, and constricted terrain representing steep gullies and ravines.

In the campaign, German forces race toward the Meuse, the final obstacle before the open country leading to Antwerp, while Allied infantry, armor, and air power become increasingly concentrated. The revised combat, artillery, and supply systems are intended to better portray tactical and operational warfare.

Wacht Am Rhein includes four 22×34-inch maps, 2,380 die-cut playing pieces, rule and scenario booklets, player aid charts, two ten-sided dice, storage bags, and an 11×17×2-inch box.