A shrink-wrapped board game titled "CARRIER The Southwest Pacific Campaign: 1942-1943" featuring an illustration of deck crew personnel in yellow attire preparing a blue military aircraft for takeoff on an aircraft carrier. The background shows a clear sky and another aircraft carrier in the distance. Visible on the cover is the publisher information "1990 Victory Games, Inc." with an address in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Carrier: The Southwest Pacific Campaign – 1942-1943 (1990)

ByMichail

Carrier

Carrier is a solitaire wargame published in 1990 by Victory Games, a subsidiary of Avalon Hill. The game was designed by Jon Southard and uses a single-player rules system to simulate the World War II Pacific Theater. The player takes on the role of the commander of a US aircraft carrier, and the objective is to complete a series of missions while avoiding detection and destruction by the Japanese fleet.

Why is Carrier Popular?

Carrier is a popular game among wargamers due to its challenging Gameplay Mechanics of Carrier and historical accuracy. The game is significant because it allows players to experience the strategic decisions and challenges faced by real-life commanders during World War II.

Game Components of Carrier: The Southwest Pacific Campaign – 1942-1943

  • 1 22″ x 32″ Map
  • 780 Counters (3 Sheets)
  • 1 Rules Booklet
  • 2 Charts and Table Cards
  • 2 Charts and Table Screens
  • 1 Ten-sided Die
  • 1 Counter Tray.

    How To Setup Carrier: The Southwest Pacific Campaign – 1942-1943

    Setup involves preparing the map, organizing the counters, and familiarizing oneself with the rules booklet. The game requires laying out the map, setting up the task forces, and initial placement of counters according to the scenario being played. The rules booklet provides detailed instructions for setup and gameplay.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** As the U.S. commander, the goal is to maneuver task forces and conduct air searches to locate and engage Japanese carriers before they locate and attack yours.
  • Key Mechanics:**
    – Air searches to locate enemy carriers
    – Task force maneuvering
    – Simple mechanics for Japanese movement and attack timing
    – Tactical decision-making once enemy forces are located.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Carrier: The Southwest Pacific Campaign – 1942-1943** is a tense and strategic experience. Players must navigate the uncertainties of naval warfare, making crucial decisions on task force deployment and air search operations. The game replicates the real-life tactical dilemmas faced by historical commanders, providing a challenging and immersive experience.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** Simulates historical and hypothetical carrier battles accurately.
  • Solitaire Experience:** Designed for solo play, providing a engaging experience for single players.
  • Strategic Depth:** Requires careful planning and tactical decision-making.
  • Replayability:** Multiple scenarios and variable Japanese movement ensure high replayability.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** The game has a moderate to high complexity level, which can be daunting for new players.
  • Component Intensive:** Involves a large number of counters and charts, which can be overwhelming.
  • Rules Learning Curve:** The rules booklet is detailed, and learning the game mechanics can take time.

    Personal Thoughts on Carrier: The Southwest Pacific Campaign – 1942-1943

    This game is ideal for fans of historical warfare and solitaire wargaming. It offers a deep and challenging experience that mimics the strategic and tactical complexities of naval battles during World War II. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy detailed game mechanics and historical accuracy, but may not be the best fit for those new to wargaming or looking for a quick, simple game.

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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