Lasalle (2009) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Lasalle is a historical wargame set in the Napoleonic era, designed by Sam Mustafa Publishing LLC and released in in 2009. It is a game that focuses on strategic warfare, using miniatures to recreate battles from this period in history.

Game Components of Lasalle

Rulebook

Army lists

Basing system (abstracted and not corresponding to historical companies or platoons)

No points system for army building

Diagrams and design note boxes for clarity

How To Setup Lasalle

Setting up Lasalle involves creating armies without using a points system, which was innovative at the time of its release. The game features an abstracted basing system that does not reflect historical companies or platoons. Players arrange their units on the table, and the game starts with a dynamic sequence of play driven by player decisions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Intuitive and simple, with a “true IgoUgo” sequencing system. Movement happens last in the turn sequence, eliminating the need for traditional Napoleonic conventions like opportunity charges or defensive fire.

Game Objective: To command and maneuver military units effectively to defeat the opponent’s forces.

Turn Sequence: Dynamic and driven by player decisions, with the ability to interrupt each other’s actions, creating unpredictable momentum shifts.

Combat: Units fire straight ahead, avoiding complex target selection. The casualty system has stepwise reductions at critical points, which can lead to some quirks in effectiveness.

Player Experience

Playing Lasalle offers a unique and dynamic experience with a focus on holistic military effort rather than individual unit management. The game’s innovative mechanics and abstracted systems allow for fast-paced and unpredictable gameplay. Players must adapt quickly to the changing sequence of play, which is driven by the actions and reactions of both players.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: The “true IgoUgo” sequencing and dynamic turn structure add a layer of unpredictability and engagement.

Simple to Learn: The rules are intuitive, and combat factors can be memorized quickly.

Visual Appeal: Attractive diagrams and clear layout make the rules easy to follow.

Dynamic Gameplay: The game’s open sequence of play ensures no two turns are alike.

Cons

Simplistic Command: Command and control are very straightforward, lacking the vagaries of real-world command challenges.

Quirks in Casualty System: The stepwise reductions in the casualty system can lead to disproportionate effectiveness at certain thresholds.

Friction and Simulation: The game scores low on friction and simulation aspects, particularly in how command and casualties are handled.

Personal Thoughts on Lasalle

Lasalle is ideal for players who enjoy tactical wargames with a focus on dynamic and unpredictable gameplay. It is particularly suited for those interested in the Napoleonic era but looking for a more streamlined and fast-paced experience. However, traditional Napoleonic gamers may find some of the abstracted systems and simplifications less appealing. Overall, Lasalle offers a unique blend of strategy and adaptability, making it a compelling choice for those willing to explore new approaches to wargaming.

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