Darkest Crusade

This is a relatively fast, simple (introductory) hex-and-counter FREE print-and-play boardgame about the 22Jun41 Axis invasion of Russia, using my 1984 Dark Crusade's popular firing point combat system (also used in my games Tiger Attack! and Eagle Attack!) - upgunned 50% for fewer battle rounds - plus (infantry unit flip-side) fortification. No Zones of Control, per se.

Combat results are unusually unpredictable, making the game good for solitaire play.

There is an abstracted, mini version of the units - order of battle - which I personally prefer.

Because the combat is hex-side, the map should be made at least 22" wide.

It is corps-army level - also with air and naval fleet and air units - having monthly turns with Blitzkrieg/breakthrough possibilities, initially for Germans in Good weather.

It includes the Finnish front, although it is up to the Axis player whether or not Finland becomes active.

The Operation Barbarossa scenario is typically 2-3 hours long - shorter with 4 players. Darkest Crusade can go longer if players wish to continue the game past April 1942