The games have very different feels. They also have very different combat systems.
After a couple of games I’m convinced that the Guadalcanal system is a random casualty system only in the sense that sometimes you can hit a higher value piece. I think the Bulge system is more random as to what will get hit.
That being said the G’canal system is more random in the number of hits you will get. It is tough to gauge what is going to be there when you open the neck of that battlebox. I know they are dice and all so maybe it is my perception. :|
I have to disagree with IL on the supply aspect. At least the impression he gives that the systems are the same. Supplies make Bulge a big departure from the games prior to it.
The supply system in Bulge must be very carefully managed– your units can’t shoot or move without supplies so logistics are important in Bulge. In G’canal the supplies are to build airfields. Your units will be able to move and fight without supplies. But you won’t be able to win if you don’t move the supplies to build the airfields.
Bulge has a pre set reinforcement schedule (similar to D-Day) as far as types and timing of units. G’canal allows you to make those decisions. You have reinforcement points to use to get supplies, ships, planes and ground troops.
Bulge is strictly land combat on a hex divided map where you’ll have land and sea and air support for each in G’canal.
I really like Bulge. I also like G’canal.
G’canal does seem to play quicker.
They are very different games. The decision is closer to Beer or Wine than to Budweiser or Guinness.
You might also check to see which your likely opponents would be more interested in.
