Force on Force: Modern Wargaming Rules (2009) Board Game

Force on Force: Modern Wargaming Rules is a tabletop miniatures wargame that was first released in in 2009. Designed by Piers Brand and Ramiro Bujeiro, this game allows players to simulate modern warfare scenarios using miniature figures and dice rolling mechanics. The game is published by Ambush Alley Games and Osprey Publishing, known for their high-quality wargaming products.

Game Components of Force on Force: Modern Wargaming Rules

Miniatures: No prescribed model set; can use models from 6mm to 28mm scale, including plastic army men.

Dice: D6s, D8s, D10s, D12s to represent different troop qualities and morale.

Terrain: Boards with 50%-75% terrain coverage, emphasizing infantry combat scenarios.

Rulebook: A 224-page hardback book with full-color photos and illustrations.

Fog of War Cards: Add randomness and dynamic elements to the game.

Hot Spot Counters: For randomizing entry points of reinforcements.

Supply and Body Armor Tokens: To track supply levels and body armor benefits.

How To Setup Force on Force: Modern Wargaming Rules

Setting up Force on Force involves several steps:
1. **Choose a Scenario: Select a predefined scenario or create a custom one.
2. **Set Up the Table: Arrange terrain to cover 50%-75% of the board.
3. **Draw Fog of War Cards: If the scenario dictates, draw these cards to introduce random events.
4. **Set Up Units: Deploy units according to the scenario, including hidden and overwatch units.
5. **Declare and Test for Unbuttoned AFVs and Hidden Units: Follow specific rules for armored vehicles and hidden units.
6. **Determine Initiative: Roll initiative dice to decide which player acts first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Initiative System: Players roll initiative dice; the player with the most dice rolling 4+ gains initiative.

Act and React Mechanics: Players alternate actions and reactions, allowing for real-time engagement and counter-engagement.

Troop Quality Checks: Use different dice types (D6, D8, D10, D12) based on troop quality; a roll of 4+ is required for success.

Opposed Checks: Players roll dice against each other to resolve conflicts; the higher roll wins.

Supply and Support Weapons: Modify the number of dice rolled based on supply levels and support weapons.

Reinforcements and Hot Spots: Use Hot Spot counters to randomize entry points for reinforcing units.

Player Experience

Force on Force offers an immersive and dynamic experience, particularly suited for players interested in modern warfare and asymmetric combat. The reaction system ensures minimal downtime, keeping players engaged throughout the game. The game’s mechanics emphasize the importance of training, leadership, and equipment, making it feel more realistic and tactical.

Pros

Highly Adaptable: Can be played with various model scales and scenarios.

Interactive Gameplay: The act and react mechanism keeps players engaged.

Realistic Mechanics: Emphasizes troop quality, supply, and leadership.

Variety of Scenarios: Includes scenarios for modern, future, and even supernatural conflicts.

Easy to Learn: Simple core mechanics with a consistent target score (4+).

Cons

Steep Learning Curve for Advanced Rules: While core mechanics are simple, advanced rules and modifiers can be complex.

Requires Terrain Investment: A significant amount of terrain is necessary for an authentic experience.

Dependency on Scenarios: The game is designed to be played with scenarios, which can limit improvisation.

Personal Thoughts on Force on Force: Modern Wargaming Rules

Force on Force is ideal for wargamers who enjoy tactical, modern combat scenarios and appreciate the nuances of asymmetric warfare. It’s particularly good for those who value realism and interactive gameplay. While it may require some investment in terrain and miniatures, the game’s adaptability and depth make it a rewarding experience for both new and veteran wargamers. If you’re into modern military conflicts and enjoy strategic, reactive gameplay, Force on Force is definitely worth exploring.

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