First let me state that the original Japanese victory condition in the design version had them winning by controlling more Valley hexes than the Americans but it was changed in development to controlling more non-hill hexes south of the east-west road which I feel they have very little chance. I believe the most the Japanese can hope for it getting a draw by denying the 8 step loss victory points.

The American Army units did eliminate just 8 steps towards the very end to achieve a close victory. The Japanese Type 97 step even survived the battle. A fun scenario for the Americans to play but not the Japanese in this finalized version of this scenario and for that reason alone I will rank my own scenario a 3. I recommend this as a solo scenario.