Squad Leader (1977) Board Game

Squad Leader is a classic wargame that was first released in in 1977. Designed by Richard Hamblen, Rodger B. MacGowan, and W. Scott Moores, Squad Leader is set during World War II and is known for its intricate gameplay mechanics and strategic depth. The game has been praised for its historical accuracy and detailed scenarios, making it a favorite among wargame enthusiasts.

Game Components of Squad Leader

Mapboards: Divided into hexagonal grids, each hex representing 40 meters of terrain.

Counters: Represent individual leaders, support weapons, vehicles, 4-man crews, and 12-man squads.

Scenarios: 12 different scenarios with increasing complexity, along with a “design your own” system and a campaign game.

Rules: Programmed instruction guides players through the scenarios, with rules for morale, leadership, machineguns, flamethrowers, and more.

How To Setup Squad Leader

Setting up Squad Leader involves preparing the mapboards, distributing the counters, and selecting the scenario to be played. Each scenario card includes historical information, victory conditions, and play balancers for each side. The game uses a point purchase system for custom scenarios, where forces are selected by drawing playing cards from a standard 52-card deck and comparing the result to a force description table.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Time Scale: Each game turn represents two minutes of actual time, divided into multiple phases.

Rally Phase: Broken units attempt to rally and malfunctioning weapons are repaired.

Prep Fire Phase: The player whose turn it is may fire on enemy units.

Movement Phase: The player may move their units on the board.

Defensive Fire Phase: The other player may fire on units that just moved.

Advancing Fire Phase: Units that moved may fire at reduced strength.

Rout Phase: Broken units must flee for cover.

Advance Phase: The player may move every unit one hex.

Close Combat Phase: Units in the same hex engage in close combat.

Combat Resolution: Uses a “design for effect” philosophy, with outcomes limited to elimination, discomfit, or no effect.

Objective: Players aim to achieve scenario-specific victory conditions, often involving the capture of key terrain or the elimination of enemy forces.

Player Experience

Squad Leader is renowned for its complexity and realism, making it more than just a game but a theoretical training exercise in infantry combat. Players must make instant decisions that result in life or death for their units, victory or defeat for their army. The game requires strategic thinking and a deep understanding of the rules and mechanics. For many players, Squad Leader has provided decades of enjoyable and challenging gameplay, often credited with enhancing their understanding of historical infantry combat.

Pros

High Realism: Detailed rules for various aspects of infantry combat, including morale, leadership, and support weapons.

Complex and Challenging: Appeals to players looking for a deep and strategic gaming experience.

Customizable Scenarios: Allows players to design their own scenarios using a point purchase system.

Historical Accuracy: Scenarios are based on historical events, providing a immersive experience.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Requires prior wargaming experience due to its complexity.

Rule Complexity: The game’s rules can be overwhelming, especially for new players.

Time-Consuming: Games can take a significant amount of time to complete due to the detailed mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Squad Leader

Squad Leader is for the dedicated and serious wargamer who appreciates realism and complexity. It is not a game for casual players due to its intricate rules and detailed gameplay. However, for those willing to invest the time and effort, Squad Leader offers an unparalleled experience in simulating World War II infantry combat. It has been a cornerstone in the wargaming community since its release and continues to provide many hours of challenging and rewarding gameplay.

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