Picket Duty: Kamikaze Attacks against U.S. Destroyers – Okinawa, 1945 (2013) Board Game

Picket Duty: Kamikaze Attacks against U.S. Destroyers – Okinawa, 1945 is a solo wargame that simulates the intense kamikaze attacks that took place during the Battle of Okinawa in in 2013. The game puts you in the shoes of a commander of a U.S. Navy destroyer tasked with defending the fleet against relentless Japanese kamikaze attacks.

Game Components of Picket Duty: Kamikaze Attacks against U.S. Destroyers – Okinawa, 1945

Map: A large map depicting the area around Okinawa.

Counters: 35 types of Japanese planes represented on 1.2″ square counters.

Game Scenarios: Includes six historical scenarios, two hypothetical scenarios, a mini-campaign, and a full campaign.

Rulebook: Basic and advanced game rules, along with optional rules.

Crew and Damage Control: Key crew members and damage control teams are represented.

Other Components: Weather, ammo and fuel consumption, ship trim and listing, land and ship radar, air and surface fire support, and Ohka attacks.

How To Setup Picket Duty: Kamikaze Attacks against U.S. Destroyers – Okinawa, 1945

To set up the game, players need to prepare the map, lay out the necessary counters, and choose the scenario they wish to play. Each scenario will specify the initial conditions, including the weather, the state of the ship, and the types of Japanese planes that will be encountered. Players must also allocate resources such as ammo and fuel, and ensure their ship’s systems are ready for the upcoming attacks.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Survive as the captain of a Fletcher Class destroyer while performing picket duty off Okinawa from late March 1945 to late June 1945.

Game Phases: Each game turn is divided into three phases, each depicting an eight-hour period.

Combat Mechanics: Players must defend against waves of Japanese fighters and special attack planes, using various calibre guns with different effectiveness at different altitudes and ranges.

Damage Control: Manage ship damage, including putting out deck fires and repairing the ship.

Resource Management: Manage ammo, fuel, and ship trim and listing.

Player Experience

Playing **Picket Duty** feels like commanding a real naval vessel, with a strong emphasis on tactical decision-making. The game offers a tower defense-like experience, where players must strategize to shoot down incoming Japanese planes and manage the damage to their ship. The inclusion of various Japanese plane types and special attacks adds complexity and realism, making each game session challenging and engaging. The game’s design ensures that players have meaningful choices in defending their ship, making it more than just a role-playing experience.

Pros

Immersive Experience: Provides a commander-in-chief type feeling with a large map and detailed charts.

Deep Tactical Puzzle: Involves significant tactical decision-making, especially with the firing arcs of different guns.

Historical Accuracy: Well-researched and detailed representation of the kamikaze attacks during the Okinawa campaign.

Variety in Scenarios: Includes multiple historical and hypothetical scenarios, as well as mini-campaign and full campaign options.

Cons

Complex Rulebook: Reviews mention mixed feedback on the rulebook, which can be challenging to navigate.

Steep Learning Curve: Requires a good understanding of naval warfare tactics and the game’s mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Picket Duty: Kamikaze Attacks against U.S. Destroyers – Okinawa, 1945

**Picket Duty** is ideal for solo players who enjoy deep, tactical wargames and are interested in World War II naval warfare. It offers a unique blend of strategy and resource management, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate historical accuracy and immersive gameplay. However, it may not be the best fit for players looking for a simpler, more casual gaming experience due to its complexity and detailed rules.

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