A board game box cover for "MARINE: 2002," depicting a sci-fi illustration with spaceships, astronauts, and the Earth in the background, suggesting a theme of the first Lunar War.
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Marine: 2002 – A Game of the First Lunar War (1979)

ByMichail

Board Game: Marine! 2002
– Brief History and Background Information of Marine: 2002

The game “Marine!” 2002 is a board game that focuses on historical small unit tactical operations, specifically during the Battle of Tarawa in World War II.

Game Setup of Marine: 2002

Prepare the double-sided battle mat.Shuffle the 168 cards and place them face down in a draw pile.Each player is dealt a hand of 7 cards.Place the remaining cards face up in a row next to the draw pile.

Gameplay Mechanics of Marine: 2002

The game is played in turns, with each turn consisting of the following phases:Planning Phase: Players take turns drawing cards and selecting actions.Movement Phase: Players move their units on the battle mat according to the selected actions.Fire Phase: Players resolve any attacks or fire between the units.Casualty Phase: Players remove any units that have been eliminated from the battlefield.The game continues until one player achieves victory by eliminating all enemy units or capturing key objectives.

Game Objective of Marine: 2002

The objective of the game is to achieve victory by eliminating all enemy units or capturing key objectives on the battlefield.

Game Components of Marine: 2002 – A Game of the First Lunar War

  • Counters: Representing squads, teams, and vehicles, with larger counters for combat units (⅝” for combat units, ½” for others).
  • Terrain Pieces: Modular, included with the counters.
  • Range Stick: Integrated into the counter sheet for measuring distances.
  • Player Aids: Two identical aids for each player.
  • Transportation Vehicle and Weapon Damage Sheets: A pad of sheets for tracking damage.
  • Company Organization Sheets: For both Soviet and US Marine units.
  • Rule Book: 24 pages with saddle stitch binding, including black and white images.
  • Maps: Three 9” x 21” maps that can be set up variously.
  • Dice: Two dice included in the game box.

    How To Setup Marine: 2002 – A Game of the First Lunar War

    Setting up **Marine: 2002** involves laying out the maps, which can be arranged side by side or end to end. Players need to organize the counters, terrain pieces, and player aids. The rule book provides detailed instructions on how to prepare the battlefield, including setting up units and terrain. The modular terrain pieces allow for varied configurations, adding to the game’s replayability.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Movement Modes: Units can select from Ground, Normal, Air, and Fire modes, each affecting movement distance and combat effectiveness.
  • G-mode: Slowest, with cover advantage.
  • N-mode: Balanced between movement and cover.
  • A-mode: Fastest, but no cover.
  • F-mode: No movement, but enhanced fire combat.
  • Line of Sight: Associated with movement modes and altitude, affecting the horizon line for each unit.
  • Combat: Involves various futuristic weapons like neutron warheads, rocket shells, lasers, and charged particle beams.
  • Command and Communication: Rules cover command control, morale, and individual casualties.
  • Objective: To simulate and win tactical battles on the lunar surface between US and Soviet forces.

    Player Experience

    **Marine: 2002** offers a complex yet engaging experience, with a unique blend of movement modes and line of sight mechanics that require strategic planning. The game demands patience and organization but rewards players with a realistic and immersive simulation of lunar combat. The lack of a full narrative is compensated by the rich detail in the game mechanics and the freedom to create one’s own story within the context of the First Russo-American Lunar War.

    Pros

  • Innovative Mechanics: Unique movement modes and line of sight rules add depth to the game.
  • Realistic Simulation: Faithfully represents the strengths and weaknesses of futuristic weapons in space.
  • Replayability: Modular terrain and varied scenarios enhance replay value.
  • Historical Depth: Although fictional, it provides a detailed look at a hypothetical lunar conflict.

    Cons

  • Complexity: Rated as Level Two complexity, which can be challenging for new players.
  • Outdated Design: Some aspects of the game may feel dated compared to modern wargames.
  • Limited Story: The game lacks a comprehensive narrative, relying on players to fill in the gaps.

    Personal Thoughts on Marine: 2002 – A Game of the First Lunar War

    **Marine: 2002** is ideal for fans of tactical wargames and those interested in science fiction scenarios. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy complex gameplay mechanics and are willing to invest time in learning and mastering the rules. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those who appreciate the intricacies of wargaming. For those looking to mix role-playing elements with tactical combat, **Marine: 2002** can be a great starting point for creating a detailed and engaging campaign within the context of the First Lunar War.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl