World at War #35: Strike North – Japan vs. the Soviet Union, 1941 presents a fascinating alternate history scenario that reimagines one of World War II’s greatest “what ifs.” In this two-player wargame, Imperial Japan joins forces with Nazi Germany by launching an invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941 — rather than attacking the United States. This speculative premise sets the stage for a campaign that would have reshaped the entire global conflict.

• Alternate History Campaign: Explore how the course of World War II might have changed if Japan had chosen to strike north into Siberia instead of south into the Pacific. The Soviet Union now faces the nightmare of a two-front war — a scenario that could have dramatically altered the balance of power in Europe and Asia.
• Strategic Trade-offs: Japan’s commitment to a northern war means sacrificing the resource-rich territories of the East Indies and Southeast Asia. Players must carefully manage Japan’s limited oil reserves, which provide less than six months of fuel — a key factor influencing both strategy and survival.
• Detailed Operational Map: The game map covers Northeast Asia as it stood in 1941, from Siberia to Manchuria. Each hex represents approximately 37 miles (60 kilometres), and each game turn covers one month of operations.
• Multi-level Command: Units include brigades, divisions, and corps, allowing players to conduct sweeping offensives or focused defensive actions across the vast and unforgiving terrain of the Asian frontier.

Strike North challenges players to master logistics, timing, and strategic foresight. For Japan, success requires rapid advances before resources run out; for the Soviets, survival hinges on delaying and countering the invaders until the balance shifts. The game delivers the tension of high-level decision-making where every move can alter the war’s trajectory.

Game Components & Features:

• 1 x 22x34” full-colour map of Northeast Asia (1941)
• 228 counters representing historical and hypothetical units
• Playable campaign covering the 1941–42 timeframe
• Two-player gameplay with strong solitaire suitability

Scale:
Players: 2
Level: Division
Hex: ~37 Miles (60 km)
Turn: 1 Month

In addition to the core simulation, this issue of World at War includes several compelling historical articles:

• The Red Orchestra: The true story of Stalin’s spy ring operating deep inside Nazi Germany.
• Hube’s Pocket: An analysis of the encirclement and dramatic breakout of the German 1st Panzer Army in northwest Ukraine, early 1944.
• Long Range Desert Group: A look at the daring operations and impact of Britain’s elite reconnaissance commandos in North Africa.

World at War #35: Strike North – Japan vs. the Soviet Union, 1941 offers a unique blend of historical depth and strategic imagination. Perfect for both dedicated wargamers and fans of alternate history, it provides a thrilling exploration of what might have been — if Japan had looked north instead of east.

Available now from Milsims Games — Australia’s trusted destination for wargames, strategy titles, and historical simulations for over 50 years. Price-match guarantee and fast shipping from Mont Albert, VIC.

Help other Milsims Games users shop smarter by writing reviews for products you have purchased.