Pavlov's House

Pavlov's House

2018
Strategy
3.94 out of 5
77+ people loved this game
Mechanics
Folk on a Map
Complexity
Medium
Duration
60 - 75 minutes
Number of players
1 - 3 players
Minimum age
12+ years

Pavlov's House review

I recently purchased Pavlov's House, a solitaire wargame set during the Battle of Stalingrad. As a fan of historical games, I was immediately drawn to the premise and the promise of a challenging yet engaging solo experience. I must say, the game lived up to the hype.

The game's mechanics are surprisingly deep for a solitaire experience. You play as the Soviet defenders of Pavlov's House, a fortified apartment building, against the relentless German assault. The game's core gameplay involves managing resources, defending your positions, and launching counterattacks. The German AI is represented by a deck of cards, each with unique actions that keep you on your toes. The game's challenge stems from the delicate balance of resource management and strategic decision-making.

The components are of high quality, with a sturdy board, well-designed cards, and clear tokens. The rulebook is comprehensive and detailed, although it can be a bit intimidating at first. I found the online community helpful in clarifying some of the less intuitive rules.

I particularly enjoyed the game's historical accuracy. Although you don't need to be a WWII buff to enjoy the game, knowing the historical context adds a layer of immersion. I also appreciate the game's focus on solo play. As someone who often plays games alone, it's refreshing to have a game designed specifically for that experience.

Overall, I highly recommend Pavlov's House to any wargame enthusiast or solo gamer looking for a challenging and engaging experience. If you're looking for a game that scratches that wargaming itch, this is a fantastic choice. The game provides a unique blend of tactical gameplay and historical setting, offering hours of immersive gameplay.