I have known Ventonuovo games for its block type of wargaming (which is not my cup of tea) but this title was a pleasant surprise. I have played the Barbarossa operation on different wargame titles: Advanced Third Reich, Russian Campaign, Thunder in the East, The Barbarossa Campaign and Iron, Blood, Snow & Mud. IMHO Blitz in the East is the most elegant and appropriate design to encompass and explore this ‘heavy’ and major Operation.

The mounted map is at the right size with fine graphics and large hexes, the stacking limit is two counters per hex for the Axis and later in the game the same goes for the Soviets; they fit perfectly on a hex and the map does not get packed with stacks of counters. The rulebook needs some fixing like an index or a mention of paragraphs and numbering for rules when you try to find a certain action. Also, some more info on the commodities and the oil track. The player aids are very helpful. Most of the rules are straightforward and comprehensive and thus easy to digest. It has examples of play and tutorial scenarios to get the hang of the mechanics. Strategy and Tactics Cards compliment the inventory of the box. The use of the blitz and attrition mechanic blends excellent in this operation; it is a brain teaser for how and where to use one’s ground and air units.

This title is the core game and is enough to try out your luck to see if you can attain your goal or fail miserably.
It is worth your money and time to invest in finding more about this huge operation.