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

Rulebook

Miniatures (soldiers, knights, monsters, etc.)

Dice

Measuring tape

Terrain pieces (trees, buildings, etc.)

How To Setup Chainmail

Set up the battlefield terrain pieces.

Place your miniatures on the battlefield according to the scenario or rules.

Determine the starting positions and any special conditions for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Chainmail, players take turns moving their miniatures across the battlefield and engaging in combat with their opponents. The game uses dice rolling to determine the outcome of battles, with various factors such as terrain and unit abilities affecting the combat results. The objective of the game is to defeat your opponent’s army and emerge victorious on the battlefield.

Player Experience

Pros:

Deep strategy and tactical gameplay

Immersive fantasy world

Customizable armies and scenarios

Cons:

Steep learning curve for new players

Long gameplay sessions (up to 6 hours)

Limited availability of miniatures and terrain pieces

Personal Thoughts on Chainmail

Chainmail is a classic wargame that offers a rich and immersive experience for tabletop gamers. The game’s build quality is solid, with detailed miniatures and well-written rules. However, the game’s category of fantasy medieval wargaming may not appeal to all players, and the pricing and availability of used and new copies can vary.

For fans of miniatures gaming and medieval fantasy settings, Chainmail is definitely worth your time. However, newcomers to the genre may find the game overwhelming and time-consuming. Players who enjoy deep strategy and tactical gameplay will appreciate Chainmail, while those looking for a quicker and more casual gaming experience may want to skip this one. Overall, Chainmail is a classic game that has stood the test of time in the world of tabletop wargaming.

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