Chainmail (1971) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Chainmail is a classic tabletop wargame that was first released in 1971 by Guidon Games, later acquired by Tactical Studies Rules (TSR). It was designed by Don Lowry and has become a staple in the world of miniatures gaming. The game is set in a fantasy medieval world, where players control armies and battle for supremacy on the tabletop battlefield.

Game Components of Chainmail

Miniature figures representing different types of troops (infantry, cavalry, etc.)

Terrain blocks or maps for battlefield setup

Dice (six-sided) for resolving combat and morale checks

Rulebook with detailed sections on medieval miniatures, man-to-man combat, and fantasy supplement

Tables and charts for combat resolution, missile fire, and morale checks

Optional: artillery and gunpowder weapons rules

How To Setup Chainmail

To set up Chainmail, players begin by laying out the terrain blocks to form the desired battlefield. This can include various features such as hills, forests, and rivers. The terrain selection is crucial as it can significantly impact the game, with the side having a terrain advantage often needing to balance this with a weaker army. Players then deploy their miniature figures on the battlefield, organizing them into formations as medieval military commanders would. The game can be set up to recreate historical battles or fictional scenarios, offering a high degree of flexibility and creativity.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Turn Sequence: Players take turns moving their units, with options for simultaneous movement or a move/counter-move system.

Combat Resolution: Mass battles are resolved using tables and dice rolls, with different types of units having unique combat capabilities (e.g., heavy cavalry vs. light infantry).

Man-to-Man Combat: Skirmishes are resolved using separate tables, focusing on individual combatants and their equipment.

Morale Checks: Units must make morale checks after suffering casualties, which can lead to retreat or surrender.

Missile Fire: Ranged combat is resolved using cross-referenced tables based on the number of shooters and the target’s armor weight.

Artillery Fire: Additional rules for artillery and gunpowder weapons.

Game Objective

The objective is to defeat the opposing army by reducing their strength below a certain percentage or by driving them off the battlefield.

Players can also assign points to terrain features and troop types, with the side accumulating the most points declared the winner.

Player Experience

Playing Chainmail is a complex and immersive experience that combines strategic planning with the unpredictability of dice rolls. The game requires a significant amount of setup and planning, making it more suited to players who enjoy detailed wargaming. The morale system adds a dynamic layer, as units can quickly turn from combat-ready to fleeing in panic. The game’s flexibility allows players to recreate historical battles or invent their own scenarios, making each game unique.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Chainmail aims to simulate medieval warfare closely, incorporating historical characteristics and combat probabilities.

Flexibility: Players can create a wide range of scenarios, from historical battles to fictional ones.

Strategic Depth: The game requires careful planning and strategy, making it appealing to players who enjoy tactical gameplay.

Influence on D&D: Understanding Chainmail provides insights into the early days of D&D and its combat mechanics.

Cons

Complexity: The game has multiple, sometimes incompatible combat systems, which can be confusing and time-consuming to manage.

Morale System: The morale checks can be particularly complicated and may require additional tools like spreadsheets to simplify.

Learning Curve: The rules are densely packed and require a significant investment of time to understand fully.

Personal Thoughts on Chainmail

Chainmail is a game for the dedicated wargamer and those with a strong interest in the historical and mechanical roots of D&D. It is not a game for casual players or those looking for a quick, simple experience. Instead, it caters to enthusiasts who appreciate the complexity and depth of miniature wargaming. For those willing to dive into its intricate rules and mechanics, Chainmail offers a rich and rewarding experience that combines strategy, history, and imagination. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a more streamlined or modern RPG experience.

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