The Third Reich via Bolano

So i remember mentioning this a long time ago but never formally posted anything about it.  If you are a self professed wargamer and a self professed lover of literature, then wait no more!  Roberto Bolano's book "The Third Reich" is just what you need.

I enjoyed the read not only because of the author's inclusion of what is in all likelyhood the old Avalon Hill game Rise and Decline of The Third Reich but because the guy is actually a decent writer with a slew of books including his tome like "2666" a preoccupation of the last five years of his life as his liver slowly gave out.  It's 1,100 pages are every bit as demanding as a textbook but don't let that scare you.

The Third Reich is on a level all its own.  Its a much more approachable story unlike the aloof 2666.  The Third Reich  is actually willing to entertain you while you must entertain  a book like 2666.

Avalon Hill's Rise and Decline of The Third Reich is a classic to say the least, probably the Medal Of Honor of its day.  The 1974 release was the brainchild of Greenwood and Prados, the former would go on to become a powerhouse designer within the industry.  The game was expanded in 1992 and became known as Advanced Third Reich, much to the groaning of many an old school RDTR purist.

So give it a read and play a moldy but goody while your at it!


The book:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Third_Reich_%28novel%29

Interesting Essay:
http://www.themillions.com/2012/02/war-games-on-roberto-bolanos-the-third-reich.html


The Games:
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1563/rise-and-decline-third-reich
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/283/advanced-third-reich