Modern War #45: The Dragon and the Hermit Kingdom is a two-player strategic-level wargame that explores a gripping near-future scenario — the outbreak of a Second Korean War. Designed as a prequel to The Dragon that Engulfed the Sun (Modern War #42), this standalone game simulates the events that would lead up to the Chinese victory depicted in that later title. Players will command the armed forces of North and South Korea — and their respective allies — through a tense and unpredictable conflict that could reshape the balance of power in East Asia.

The game begins with a North Korean invasion of South Korea, plunging the peninsula into all-out war. One player controls the forces of North Korea (the Hermit Kingdom), aiming to achieve a rapid victory before global intervention can take hold. The other commands the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and its potential allies, striving to withstand the initial onslaught, stabilise defences, and launch effective counteroffensives to repel the aggressors. The dynamics of surprise, attrition, and escalation define the struggle as both sides race to secure key objectives and sustain their political will.

While the game’s focus is on the immediate Korean conflict, it also models regional and global implications, including potential support from major powers such as China, the United States, and Japan. Every decision — from committing elite units to managing limited logistics — can alter the course of the war. As the fighting intensifies, players must balance aggressive strategy with political restraint, knowing that escalation could ignite a far broader confrontation.

The Dragon and the Hermit Kingdom delivers a streamlined yet immersive experience, offering the perfect balance between accessibility and realism. Its operational and strategic systems simulate modern combat doctrines, joint operations, and asymmetrical warfare, with both sides facing unique strengths and vulnerabilities. The game captures the fragility of modern deterrence and the speed at which conventional warfare can spiral into global crisis.

Components:

• One 22” x 34” full-colour map of the Korean Peninsula
• 176 die-cut counters representing ground, air, and support forces
• Comprehensive rulebook with full scenario setup and special rules
• Player aids and charts for quick reference

Scale and Play Details:
Players: 2
Level: Strategic / Operational
Map Scale: Regional (Korean Peninsula)
Counters: 176 pieces
Play Time: 2–3 hours

Modern War #45: The Dragon and the Hermit Kingdom presents a tense and plausible vision of 21st-century warfare on the Korean Peninsula. With dynamic gameplay and a compelling narrative, it challenges players to navigate the razor’s edge between conventional conflict and global escalation. This is a must-have for modern military strategists and fans of realistic geopolitical simulations.

Available now from Milsims Games — Australia’s trusted retailer for modern and historical wargames. Includes price-match guarantee and fast domestic shipping from Mont Albert, VIC.

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