Guderian's Blitzkrieg is the first in the Gamer's new line of OCS (Operational Combat System) games. It simulates winter 1941-42 operations on the southern wing of the German thrust at Moscow. The OCS system puts players in a position where they must make many of the same decisions that the operational commanders had to make. In most military operations, many factors govern decision making: communications, supply, weather, morale and air cover. The OCS simulates many of these factors. I intend to present some of the historical factors that could have changed the outcome of the battle for Moscow.

The battle of Moscow was a pivotal point in the war in the East. It halted Operation Barbarossa. The subsequent Russian counteroffensive dealt the German forces in Russia their first major set back. Some of the factors examined in this variant could have significantly altered the Moscow campaign.

In all cases, rules for Guderian's Blitzkrieg are in effect. If the variant material conflicts with the game rules, use the latter for resolving the dispute. I have used existing game equipment and mechanics wherever possible.

No 1st Shock Army

The arrival of the First Siberian Shock Army was one major factor that saved Moscow from capture. These units were guarding Siberia from a possible Japanese invasion. However, Russian espionage learned there were no plans for such an invasion. Stalin shifted these forces to the Moscow area just in time. Suppose that this was not possible and the Russians must defend Moscow with available troops.

When playing this variant, the Russian player does not receive reinforcements for turns 7 and 8. Use this variant with scenarios 4, 5, and 8.

Better Weather

The weather was a major factor inhibiting German operations. Try simulating milder weather by using the next mildest condition when determining weather states. In other words, deep snow becomes deep freeze, etc.

Better German Supply

Historically, lack of proper supply crippled German operations. Use the normal weather supply rules in rasputista conditions. Ignore 1.2c-c and d for deep freeze conditions. This does not affect deep snow conditions.

Better German Air Support

This variant supposes that the Russian Air Force did not rally to defend Moscow, and the Germans allocated more aircraft to the Moscow operation. Use all German aircraft in the countermix as initial units in scenarios 5-8. All German airfields are at level 2. Players may not bomb Moscow.

Reinforcements from Army Group South

Historically, German Army Group South halted its advance on Rostov to divert units to the Moscow area. Try simulating arrival of additional reinforcements by playing scenarios 6-8 normally. However, bring these units back as reinforcements one game turn after withdrawing the 4th Panzer Group. This should occur on the south map edge at two units per turn. All units (i.e., divisions) enter play in a single group.

Reinforcements from France

In this variant, the Germans have no illusions about the opposition facing them at Moscow. They strip units from French occupation forces for additional strength against the Russians. Have all German reinforcements arrive one turn earlier than indicated. Take the German units designated for entry on turn one as reinforcements and deploy them as initial units anywhere in German held territory on map A.