Close Action: Naval Warfare in the Age of Napoleon, 1793-1815 (1987)

Close Action

Close Action is a naval board wargame designed by Mark A. Campbell and published by Clash of Arms in 1997. The game replicates naval warfare of the 18th and early 19th centuries and was inspired by and shares superficial similarities to the Avalon Hill game Wooden Ships and Iron Men. Close Action was first imagined in the 1980s by Mark Campbell and other avid Wooden Ships and Iron Men players as a “fix” to WS&IM’s unrealistic simulation of Age of Reason naval combat. Campbell changed the game mechanics significantly in order to create a more realistic simulation of period naval conflict, and the initial rule set was published by Tempest games in 1987. Over a decade was spent designing the game and play-testing in both small and large games, chiefly along the Eastern Coast of the United States.

Why is Close Action Popular?

Close Action is considered especially good with large fleet actions, replicated by numbers of players generally in the tens and twenties, but sometimes expanding into the forties or larger. The game is popular among board gamers who enjoy historical wargames and naval simulations.

Game Components of Close Action: Naval Warfare in the Age of Napoleon, 1793-1815

Ship logs: For plotting movements and actions.

Ship models or counters: Representing various naval vessels of the period.

Game boards: Depicting sea battles and tactical maps.

Rulebook: Detailed instructions on gameplay mechanics.

Dice: For resolving combat and other random events.

Markers and tokens: For tracking damage, morale, and other game states.

How To Setup Close Action: Naval Warfare in the Age of Napoleon, 1793-1815

Setting up the game involves preparing the game boards, distributing ship logs to players, and placing ship models or counters on the board according to the scenario being played. Players must then plot their initial movements and actions on their ship logs. The game requires careful planning and setup to ensure a realistic and engaging naval battle simulation.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous movement: Players plot their actions for each turn on their ship logs, which are then resolved simultaneously.

Impulse movement: Actions are taken in a sequence determined by the plotted moves, adding a level of unpredictability.

Plotted moves: Players pre-plan their actions for the turn, which are then executed in a specific order.

Combat resolution: Using dice and rules to determine the outcomes of cannon fire, boarding actions, and other naval engagements.

Objective: To defeat the enemy fleet by sinking or capturing their ships, while protecting your own.

Player Experience

Playing **Close Action** can be a deeply immersive and strategic experience. The game requires players to think ahead, anticipating their opponents’ moves and adjusting their strategies accordingly. The simultaneous movement mechanic adds a layer of realism, mimicking the chaos and unpredictability of historic naval battles. Players must manage resources, make tactical decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances on the battlefield.

Pros

Historical accuracy: The game is meticulous in its representation of naval warfare during the Napoleonic era.

Strategic depth: Requires careful planning and execution of moves.

Realistic simulation: Simultaneous movement and plotted actions create a realistic battle environment.

Replayability: Different scenarios and the randomness of combat ensure no two games are alike.

Cons

Complex rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to its detailed mechanics.

Time-consuming setup: Preparing the game and plotting initial moves can take a significant amount of time.

Limited accessibility: May not be suitable for newcomers to wargaming or those seeking a quick, casual game.

Personal Thoughts on Close Action: Naval Warfare in the Age of Napoleon, 1793-1815

**Close Action** is ideal for experienced wargamers and history enthusiasts who appreciate the intricacies of naval warfare during the Napoleonic era. It offers a rich and challenging experience that rewards strategic thinking and historical knowledge. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a quick or easy-to-learn game. For those willing to invest the time and effort, **Close Action** provides a deeply satisfying and immersive gaming experience.

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