Chain of Command (2013) Board Game

Chain of Command is a World War II themed wargame that was released in 2013 by Too Fat Lardies, known for their innovative and detailed historical miniatures games. The game focuses on small unit tactics and emphasizes realistic combat situations in the context of historical battles.

Game Components of Chain of Command

Miniatures: 15mm, 20mm, or 28mm figures representing infantry, vehicles, and support units.

Patrol Markers: Large 2.5” round markers used during the Patrol Phase.

Jump-Off Points: Markers indicating entry points for units on the table.

Command Dice: Used for unit activation and phase control.

Force Lists: Pre-defined lists for various forces, including Germany, Great Britain, the United States, and the Soviet Union.

Terrain and Table: A 6’ x 4’ table for typical scales, with terrain features and cover.

How To Setup Chain of Command

Setup begins with the **Patrol Phase**, where players move patrol markers to scout the terrain and enemy positions. Each player has 3 or 4 patrol markers, which must be moved within 12 inches of each other. When a marker comes within 12 inches of an enemy marker, both are locked down, and this process continues until one side’s markers are all locked. Once locked, players determine their **Jump-Off Points**, which must be at least 6 inches away from the closest enemy markers and in cover. If cover is not available, these points are placed at the table’s edge.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Patrol Phase: Initial scouting phase to determine Jump-Off Points.

Command Dice: Rolled to activate units, leaders, or accumulate Chain of Command points.

Dice Results:
– 1: Activate a team.
– 2: Activate a squad or section.
– 3: Activate a junior leader.
– 4: Activate a senior leader.
– 5: Gain a Chain of Command point.
– 6: Alter phase sequence or end the turn.

Chain of Command Points: Accumulated points allow special actions like interrupting opponents, ending turns, or relocating snipers.

Movement and Combat: Movement distances rolled for, with terrain and other factors influencing outcomes. Combat involves rolling dice based on the type of weapon and target cover.

Game Objective: Win by reducing the opponent’s Force Morale to zero or achieving scenario objectives.

Player Experience

Chain of Command offers a dynamic and unpredictable game experience due to its randomized command dice system. This mechanic simulates the friction and unpredictability of real-world combat, where simple orders can become complicated. The game requires strategic planning and adaptability, as players must navigate the unpredictability of dice rolls to execute their tactics. The Patrol Phase adds a layer of strategy, as positioning Jump-Off Points can significantly impact the game’s outcome.

Pros

Dynamic Turn Structure: Phases vary in length and number, adding unpredictability.

Simple yet Deep Mechanics: Easy to learn but rich in strategy.

Scalability: Works well with various miniature scales.

Historical Accuracy: Focuses on platoon-level combat with realistic force structures and morale systems.

Flexibility: Can be adapted for modern or sci-fi settings with minimal adjustments.

Cons

Randomness: Some players may find the dice rolls too random or unpredictable.

Steep Learning Curve for Some Mechanics: While core mechanics are simple, some advanced rules can take time to master.

Dependence on Miniatures: Requires a collection of miniatures, which can be a significant investment.

Personal Thoughts on Chain of Command

Chain of Command is ideal for wargamers who enjoy tactical, platoon-level combat and are looking for a game that simulates the complexities and unpredictabilities of real-world warfare. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate historical accuracy and the flexibility to adapt the game to different settings. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer more deterministic gameplay or are new to miniatures wargaming due to the initial investment in miniatures and the learning curve of some advanced mechanics.

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