FANEFLUGT vs. PHILMAIL
None of us have played the scenario before.
Game Notes taken from the gamefolder.
1. The Allies
Straight up, the Allies have the advantage in this scenario, especially in terms of replacements and the number of reinforcements. Although at this point in time the British 8th Army was an experienced and effective fighting force, it was largely tired and somewhat depleted after its costly victory at El Alamein, and the subsequent pursuit across North Africa. The British 1st Army, fresh and fully equipped, is for the most part untried and inexperienced. The US II Corps’ initial performance was nearly disastrous, while the ad-hoc French XIX Corps provided a small yet effective formation. Speed is of the essence in the first several turns if the Allies are to gain a victory before the crippling winter weather. As the game ends at any point with the capture of Tunis, a quick and well placed strike at the German line can mean the difference between early victory, or a desperate battle of attrition.
2. The Axis
Despite clear deficiencies, especially in Italian formations, the Axis player has the advantage of quality, both in formations and equipment, and in particular armour. If the Axis can delay the capture of Tunis, sufficient reinforcements will be shipped into the theatre to allow the possibility of dealing the Allies a significant blow. With careful deployment of armour and clever mobile tactics, the Axis will be able delay the Allies long enough to perhaps gain a victory. The Mareth Line defenses are one of the keys to their strategy. Played well, the Mareth Line will delay the 8th Army long enough to allow the preparation of strong defenses further north, as well as biding time for the DAK to rest and somewhat rebuild. The major weakness in Axis strategy is the possibility that the Allies will cut-off the DAK’s escape route, by driving through central Tunisia to the sea.
