Fast Attack Boats: A Game of the Arab-Israeli Naval War 1973 (1980)

Fast Attack Boats

“Fast Attack Boats” is a two-player combat board game published by Yaquinto Publications in 1980. The game simulates naval combat between Arab and Israeli forces during the Arab-Israeli War of October 1973. It is a hex and counter wargame that covers the flavor of naval actions during this conflict. The game was designed to be easy to learn, fast, and fun to play, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Why is Fast Attack Boats Popular?

The game is popular and significant because it:
– Simulates real-life naval combat during a historically significant event, the Arab-Israeli War of 1973.
– Provides an engaging and immersive experience for two players, allowing them to reenact historical encounters.
– Is easy to learn and play, making it accessible to a broad range of players, from casual board game enthusiasts to wargaming aficionados.

Game Components of Fast Attack Boats: A Game of the Arab-Israeli Naval War 1973

Mapboard: A rectangular mapboard representing open seas.

Naval Units: Arab and Israeli fleets, including Komar and Osa boats, P4 torpedo boats, and Saar boats equipped with Gabriel Mk1 and Mk2 missiles and torpedoes.

Counters: Representing various naval units and their attributes.

Dice: For resolving combat and movement.

Rulebook: Includes a brief historical summary and game rules.

How To Setup Fast Attack Boats: A Game of the Arab-Israeli Naval War 1973

To set up the game, players select naval units within a predetermined point limit. In the Battle Game, Arab units form a line on one side of the mapboard, and Israeli units on the other. For the Strategic Game, the Arab player divides the Egyptian and Syrian fleets, while the Israeli player prepares to face both Arab fleets over multiple rounds. Units are deployed immediately, and the game is ready to begin once all units are placed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat and determining movement.

Grid Movement: Units move on a hexagon grid.

Movement Points: Units have specific movement factors.

Paper-and-Pencil: For tracking unit stats and damage.

Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game: Players can engage in various scenario-based games.

Simulation: The game simulates naval combat between Arab and Israeli forces.

Objective: In the Battle Game, the objective is to be the last player with surviving boats. In the Strategic Game, the goal is to achieve six victories or lose the fewest points in eliminated boats.

Player Experience

**Fast Attack Boats** offers a fast-paced and relatively simple gameplay experience, especially in the Battle Game, which can be completed in 15-30 minutes. However, the Strategic Game is more complex and can take three or more hours to resolve. The game is known for its high degree of luck, with cruise missiles often dominating the engagements. Despite its simplicity, it captures the flavor of the 1973 Arab-Israeli naval war, though it does not accurately simulate historical events or tactics.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Quick Battles: The Battle Game can be played quickly.

Strategic Depth: The Strategic Game offers more complexity and longer gameplay.

Historical Theme: Although not historically accurate, it provides a unique thematic experience.

Cons

Luck-Driven: The game relies heavily on dice rolls, which can make it less skill-based.

Simplified Tactics: The game does not include historical tactics like electronic countermeasures.

Limited Maneuverability: The mapboard’s confines and rules can lead to simplistic head-on engagements.

Personal Thoughts on Fast Attack Boats: A Game of the Arab-Israeli Naval War 1973

**Fast Attack Boats** is ideal for those interested in modern naval warfare and wargames. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy quick, action-packed games or those who are willing to invest time in a more strategic experience. However, it may not be the best choice for players seeking historically accurate simulations or games that heavily emphasize strategy over luck. Despite its limitations, it offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of naval combat games.

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