ASG Baseball (1973) – Board Game Guys

ASG Baseball is a tabletop baseball simulation game that was published in 1973 by ASG Games. The game uses individual batter and pitcher cards and dice to accurately recreate games between Major League Baseball teams.

Why is ASG Baseball Popular?

ASG Baseball was among the “second wave” of tabletop baseball simulations that hit the market in the early 1970s. The game is popular among baseball fans who enjoy the strategy and simulation aspects of the sport. It is significant because it allows players to recreate games between their favorite teams and players, and it has been around for several decades.

Game Components of ASG Baseball

Game System: Involves D20 die rolls and cross-referencing charts.

Player Cards: Each player has a card reflecting their real-life statistical performance.

Dice: A 20-sided die (D20) is used for resolving game actions.

Charts: Various charts for determining outcomes based on die rolls and player statistics.

How To Setup ASG Baseball

Setting up ASG Baseball involves distributing the player cards, preparing the necessary charts, and ensuring each player has the appropriate dice. Players start by selecting their teams and lining up their players according to the game’s rules. The game requires a thorough understanding of the charts and how to use the D20 die to simulate baseball actions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolls: Players use a D20 to determine the outcome of plays such as hits, strikes, and fielding actions.

Chart Cross-Referencing: Outcomes are determined by cross-referencing the die rolls with the player’s statistical card and the game’s charts.

Game Objective: The objective is to score more runs than the opposing team by accurately simulating real-life baseball strategies and player performances.

Player Experience

ASG Baseball offers a highly immersive experience for baseball fans, allowing them to simulate real games using actual player statistics. The game demands strategic thinking and a good understanding of baseball tactics, making it appealing to both casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts.

Pros

Realistic Simulation: Uses real-life player statistics for accurate game simulation.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to think strategically about lineup management, pitching decisions, and in-game tactics.

High Replayability: With different player cards and dice rolls, each game can have a unique outcome.

Cons

Complex Setup: Setting up the game and understanding the charts can be time-consuming and complex.

Steep Learning Curve: New players may find it challenging to grasp the game mechanics quickly.

Limited Accessibility: The game’s complexity might make it less accessible to those who are not familiar with baseball or tabletop games.

Personal Thoughts on ASG Baseball

ASG Baseball is ideal for dedicated baseball fans and those who enjoy complex, strategic board games. While it may not be the best choice for casual players due to its complexity, it offers a rich and realistic baseball simulation experience that rewards players for their investment in learning the game. If you’re a fan of baseball and enjoy the idea of managing a team using real-life statistics, ASG Baseball is definitely worth considering.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.