“Undaunted: Normandy” might just be one of the most concise and accessible games ever to win “Best Wargame” at the Golden Geek Awards. Take command of one side and triumph in battles on the Western Front of World War II.

About the Board Game Undaunted: Normandy

June 6, 1944, marked the launch of Operation Neptune—better known as the Normandy landings—the largest amphibious assault in military history. Its success opened a second front in Europe and sparked the liberation of France from German occupation.

“Undaunted: Normandy” offers 12 scenarios, each rooted in real Western Front battles. The American commander drives their squads forward, breaking into occupied France, while the German leader strives to halt the advance, wiping out Allied units. Whose side will claim victory?

Gameplay

You wield a deck of cards to determine initiative, deploy new squads, and issue orders to those already in combat. But beware: every misstep could spell disaster. A successful enemy attack means lost soldiers—and, critically, cards gone forever.

That’s right—your cards are your soldiers on the battlefield. Play a card with a specific fighter to command their squad: advance, retreat, or attack. When the enemy strikes back, you lose troops—first from your hand, then your discard pile, then your deck. Fewer cards mean fewer options for your squad, leaving it vulnerable. Once your cards run dry, that squad is wiped out.

You’ll play cards, lose soldiers, call in reinforcements, dismantle your opponent’s deck, and chase victory. But your rival is just as determined. Can you stop their advance?

Every scenario is distinct—unique terrain, starting positions, and objectives for both players. You might clash in an open field or send riflemen sneaking around under machine-gun fire to seize a key hill. No two scenarios feel alike, yet each begs to be replayed—whether for revenge or to solidify your win.

Best of all, the game doesn’t demand hours. You can learn the rules in about twenty minutes, and a single match wraps up in forty or less. It’s the perfect tabletop pick for a cozy night and a stellar choice for history buffs who love wargames but aren’t ready to commit days to the heavyweights.

The game’s art deserves a shoutout—stylized watercolor-like illustrations you’ll want to admire endlessly. Plus, every soldier has a name, adding a dramatic edge: a die roll doesn’t just kill a faceless sniper, but grim Gustav Brevis, whose skill carried your squad so far. Rest easy, Gustav—your kids will remember you...