WWII Wargaming

for Young and Old

review by Bill Rutherford

(2nd Edition, by Win. Greenwald).This new edition considerably revises and expands upon the original, reviewed in these pages two years ago. A 37 page digest-sized booklet consisting of basic and advanced rules, WW II Wargaming is still aimed squarely at the younger novice gamer. Ground and time scales are still not specificd and the troop scale remains at one model/troop stand equals one platoon. The recommended miniatures scale is 1/72 -1/87, though provisions are made for 15mm or 1/285th scale models (the reader is admonished that models in these scales contain lead, however, and aren't suitable for younger gamers ... ) Play sequence is: determine initiative; move sequentially; and conduct simultaneaos fire and melee. Units falling to 1/3 strength check morale. Fire combat is resolved by exceeding a given die roll, based on range, whether die target is in cover, and firer type (tank, hvy weapons, or small arms). Melee is resolved by using the tried and true Paper, Scissors, Stone game. The major changes to the 2nd edition appear in the advanced rules. The rules themselves don't change an that much; simultaneous movement, order chits, preparatory fire, smoke, and aircraft are all still present. Terrain woods, towns, hills, roads, and rivers all affect movement and combat - are still treated simply (and effectively). Fire combat uses a slightly different mechanism, but isn't appreciably more complex than the basic rule (all tanks are still equal ... ) Advanced melee combat is still formula driven and artillery scatters. New to this edition are amphibious, airborne/glider, and aircraft rules (including rules for taking off and landing??!?) Also included are four scenarios, with game maps and orders of battle a welcome addition. Unfortunately, with the expansion of the rules comes a price expansion at $12-95 per copy, this rule set is not inexpensive. Still, this is a good introductory game, clearly written and ideally suited to introducing a newcomer to the hobby. Available from your local game shop or directly from WAG Publishing, at 49 Amherst Street, Milford, NH 03055

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