Firebase Games, 37 Woodcote Way, Monkmoor, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY2 5SG, UK (01743 236983) has released the second edition of Free Fire Zone Vietnam wargames rules. The first set was released in 1993 and this edition, according to Barrie Lovell of Firebase Games, updated rules for artillery & air support, armour vehicles, combat & target location at night, and close combat. New additions to the rules include controlling ammo consumption and supply, VC sappers, jungle clearance operations, tunnel warfare, combat in built up areas, and riverine warfare. Price is 8.50 pounds plus 1% P&P.

Scale is one model equals on man, vehicle or weapon; one inch equals 5 or 10 metres; one turn equals two to five minutes (determined by throwing an average die); and the rules are designed for 15mm or 20mm figures.

There are six phases to each turn with the first phase being an "initiative" phase. This is a 92-page nicely printed effort with two double-sided "cheat" sheets. The rules appear quite complete and were interesting to read. Units must usually take a "motivation test" to carry out an activity and the unit's "troop type" (Elite, Regular, Conscript, and Militia ratings) determines how successful they are.

There are rules for "bugging out", viability and target location (the type of target, distance, cover, and sighting unit determine viability - a well done section), weather conditions, night fighting, helicopter movement, ambushes, bunkers, support fire, air support,, POWs, casualty evacuation, search operations, bobby traps, civilians, ammo supply, engineering,, street fighting, radar, riverline actions, troop type classification, and an excellent listing of books, movies, and videos.

A well done effort which the Vietnam wargamer will be well served by!

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© Copyright 1996 Hal Thinglum

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