World at War #39: France Fights On explores one of the most intriguing “what if” scenarios of the Second World War — what if France had refused to surrender in June 1940? Designed by Ty Bomba, this two-player alternate history wargame examines the strategic and operational possibilities that could have unfolded had the French government chosen to continue the fight from North Africa instead of seeking an armistice with Germany.

• Alternate 1940 Campaign: The game assumes the French Army begins a large-scale evacuation toward France d’Outre Mer (Algeria), while the German Wehrmacht races to destroy as much of the retreating force as possible before it escapes across the Mediterranean.
• Strategic Retreat & Pursuit: Players must manage the delicate balance between aggression and preservation — the French aim to delay and withdraw in good order, while the Germans must pursue relentlessly without overextending or suffering excessive losses.
• Historically Grounded Orders of Battle: Both sides use accurate unit compositions and force structures, reflecting the real capabilities and limitations of the 1940 campaign’s armies.
• Tense, Fast-paced Gameplay: The entire conflict unfolds over one month of in-game time, keeping the action focused and intense. Each turn represents two days of operations, simulating the rapid tempo and uncertainty of mobile warfare in Western Europe.

The map covers northern and central France, with hexes representing 8 miles (13 km) across. Terrain, river crossings, and key evacuation routes all play a crucial role in determining the success of either side’s strategy. For the Germans, time is their greatest enemy — failure to achieve decisive results quickly would represent a major strategic setback ahead of future campaigns.

Game Components & Features:

• 1 x 22x34” full-colour map of France, 1940
• 88 counters (plus bonus variant units)
• Historically accurate divisions and corps for both sides
• Streamlined rules for operational manoeuvre and evacuation
• Playable in one session for two players

Scale:
Players: 2
Level: Division/Corps
Hex: 8 Miles (13 km)
Turn: 2 Days

World at War #39: France Fights On challenges players to think strategically about logistics, timing, and morale under extreme pressure. It’s a fascinating study of what might have been — a clash between German offensive prowess and French determination to regroup and fight another day.

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

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