Bolt Action - Battle of Halbe Playtest Setup

 Set up for a playtest of a Bolt Action Battle of Halbe game. Using a bit of the Tank War rules by using more than usual AFVs in the game. The Germans will to move off the opposite side of the table - replicating the Ninth Army's attempt to break out of the Halbe pocket and head west to surrender to the American/British forces. Historically, they never made it and were chewed up by both the 1st Ukrainian and 1st Belorussian Front armies. The Soviet infantry and German Panzergrenadiers are both classed as veterans with Fanatic traits. They also both have ample antitank weapons including Panzerfausts. Will post an update once the playtest is over. Will likely be tweaking the scenario for a few more playtests - plan to host it at a game day later this summer.

The initial table set up; maybe move around or add terrain prior to the game. Mainly wanted to add enough LOS-blocking terrain for the AFVs, but still allow for their manuevering.

Soviet forces including an IS-2, SU-100, two T-34/85s, a T-34/76, and two Lend-Lease Sherman 76mm. Most of the infantry will be tank riders.

German armor consisting of a King Tiger, and two each Panthers and Panzer IVs, three Sd.Kfz. 251s, and one Sd.Kfz. 7. Most of the infantry will ride in the halftracks. Also included a Kubelwagen carrying the command staff.

Some painted blue painters tape to cover the US stars on the turret to make it look like a Lend-Lease tank. Should be good enough for the game.

Last minute work on a couple of old Battle Honors Sd.Kfz. 251s my buddy gave me a few weeks ago (same buddy who gave me all the Soviet armor). Since these will be strictly troop transports for the game, left off the bridge ramps for the 251/7, as well as the gun for the 251/9. I used some blister plastic for a gun shield on one of them. The Tamiya 1/48th 251 will also be used in the game - along with the Sd.Kfz. 7. (Note: these were finished and are pictured in the photos above).

Well, just a quick update for the blog. And as mentioned, will be posting again once the game is played out. Thanks for stopping by and wishing you all the best.