The climatic battle in the Barbarossa series and I can see why. A large battle 40 turns, 100+ units, weather, visibility and 6 boards. The Soviets are on the defensive with entrenchments and minefields make it hard for the Germans to get to the victory hexes. The Soviets setup around the towns and hills on all boards. The Germans advance on board from the west. Using roads as there is a stiff penalty for the deep snow off roads. Moving forward they start to engage the Soviet defenders. Heavy OBA on the entrenchment start to have an effect and the German assault teams move into the towns and hills. But stubborn Soviet defenders keep the Germans occupied for several turns before they can clear boards 8 and 6. Half way through the Germans are just getting onto boards 1 and 5. Darkness starts and visibility is cut to one hex. Now the leaders and units must move right up to the Soviet bunkers, but Soviet OP fire takes its toll. Both player LT's are wounded and removed from the game. In the end the Germans are able to take most of Board 1 but fail to get boards 5,2 and 4. This gives the Soviets just enough to hold the victory points for the win.

In the end only one leader survived, the Major. Several LT's started but don't finish the series showing how hard continual quality leadership is a struggle in a long campaign. I look forward to try this with other in the series.