Ambush! (1983) – Board Game Guys

Ambush!

“Ambush!” is a man-to-man wargame developed by Avalon Hill and released under their Victory Games label in 1983. The game was designed by Eric Lee Smith and John Butterfield, and it was innovative at the time for exclusively being designed for single-player play. The game has been out of print since its initial release, but it has seen various translations to computer platforms and has maintained its popularity among board game enthusiasts.

Why is Ambush! Popular?

“Ambush!” is significant because it was the first solitaire wargame to gain widespread popularity. Prior to its release, wargames typically required at least two players, as one player had to control the opponent. “Ambush!” solved this problem by having the game scenario itself control the opponent, using tables, charts, and a “paragraph book” that the player referred to see how the opponent was reacting. The game’s success led to a follow-up game called “Open Fire!”, which was less successful and had a less elegant design. Additionally, a two-player version called “Shell Shock” was released in 1990.

Game Components of Ambush!

Rulebook: A thick and detailed guide with lower standards of clarity compared to modern games.

Paragraph Book: A key component where players refer to paragraphs to determine enemy actions.

Chits and Counters: Standard perforated cards used to represent soldiers and other game elements.

Cardstock Inserts: Used in conjunction with a sleeve to facilitate paragraph lookups.

Maps and Scenarios: Detailed maps and pre-designed scenarios that control enemy actions.

How To Setup Ambush!

Setting up *Ambush!* involves preparing the game board, laying out the maps, and organizing the various components such as chits, counters, and the paragraph book. Players must refer to the rulebook to ensure correct setup, as the process can be complex and time-consuming. The setup includes placing the cardboard sheet into the cartridge folder to access the correct paragraph entries, which is a unique and somewhat cumbersome mechanic.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Single-Player Design: The game uses tables, charts, and the paragraph book to control enemy actions, eliminating the need for a second player.

Hidden Enemy: Enemies are not marked on the board until they become visible, usually by attacking the player.

Operations Phase: Players move individual soldier chits into new hexes, referencing the paragraph book for enemy reactions.

Combat Mechanics: Enemies are controlled by rolling against charts and referencing paragraphs, with different enemy types behaving uniquely.

Game Objective: Survive and complete the scenario objectives while managing the fragility of the soldiers.

Player Experience

Playing *Ambush!* is an immersive and often intense experience. The game combines elements of adventure and war, with a strong narrative focus that makes each game session feel unique. Players name their soldiers, which adds a personal touch and makes losing a squad member emotionally impactful. The combat, though slow and demanding, produces dramatic moments that highlight the horrors of war.

Pros

Innovative Design: Pioneered solo play in wargames with its unique system of controlling enemies.

Immersive Experience: Combines adventure and war elements, creating a deeply engaging narrative.

Personal Connection: Naming soldiers adds emotional depth to the game.

Historical Significance: Awarded the Origins Award for Best 20th Century Boardgame of 1983.

Cons

Complex Setup: The setup process is intricate and time-consuming.

Limited Replayability: Scenarios can become repetitive due to the structured nature of the paragraph system.

Outdated Mechanics: The ruleset and components may feel cumbersome compared to modern games.

Personal Thoughts on Ambush!

*Ambush!* is a game for those who appreciate historical significance, innovative game design, and a deep narrative experience. It is ideal for fans of solo wargames and those willing to invest time in understanding its complex mechanics. While it may not be as streamlined as modern games, it offers a unique and emotionally charged experience that makes it a classic in the board game community. However, it is not for everyone, particularly those seeking quick or straightforward gameplay.

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