Fields of Fire (2008) Board Game

Fields of Fire is a tactical wargame that was first released in in 2008. Designed by Donal Hegarty and Rodger B. MacGowan, this game is known for its immersive solo gameplay experience. Set in various historical conflicts such as the Korean War, Modern Warfare, Vietnam War, and World War II, Fields of Fire allows players to take on the role of a military commander making strategic decisions on the battlefield.

Game Components of Fields of Fire

Terrain Deck: Used to build maps for missions based on specific regions.

Action Deck: Controls combat, command and control, and various activity attempts.

Counters: Represent headquarters elements, squads, weapons teams, forward observers, individual vehicles, or helicopters.

Mission Books: Include campaigns such as Normandy, Heartbreak Ridge, Naktong River, and Vietnam.

Elevation Cards: Enhance the Heartbreak Ridge campaign.

Player Aids: Include new charts, logsheets, Command Display, and air assault planning cards.

Field Manuals: Basic Training and Advanced Operations manuals for learning and reference.

How To Setup Fields of Fire

Setting up **Fields of Fire** involves several steps. First, prepare the necessary components, including the Terrain Deck and Action Deck. Build the map for the mission using the Terrain Deck, and organize the counters and other game materials. The setup time is approximately 10-15 minutes. The game includes detailed field manuals to guide new players through the setup and rules, making it easier to get started even for those new to tactical wargames.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card-Based System: Uses two decks (Terrain and Action) for gameplay.

Diceless: No dice are used; instead, cards determine outcomes.

Turn-Based: Players take strategic actions in turns.

Mission Structure: Each game consists of several missions from a historical campaign.

Unit Management: Manage squads, HQs, teams, and weapons crews.

Objective: Close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver to destroy or capture them, or repel their assaults through fire, close combat, and counterattack.

Player Experience

Playing **Fields of Fire** immerses you in the role of a rifle company commander, navigating through historical battles. Each mission can take about 1-5 hours to complete, and the game demands strategic thought, resource management, and military campaign knowledge. The game’s complexity and depth make it challenging but rewarding, especially for fans of tactical wargames. The Deluxe Edition includes improved rules, training materials, and redesigned mission books to enhance the learning and playing experience.

Pros

Historical Depth: Simulates actual campaigns experienced by the 9th US Infantry Regiment.

Detailed Mechanics: Offers a rich and immersive tactical experience.

Improved Rules: The Deluxe Edition clarifies and expands the rules for easier learning.

Training Materials: Field manuals help new players learn the game incrementally.

High Replayability: Multiple missions and variable rules ensure long-term engagement.

Cons

Complexity: Can be difficult to learn for new players.

Time-Consuming: Missions and entire campaigns can take several hours to complete.

Solo Play Only: Limited to single-player experience.

Personal Thoughts on Fields of Fire

**Fields of Fire** is ideal for enthusiasts of tactical wargames and historical military simulations. It offers a unique, challenging, and rewarding experience that is well-suited for those interested in military strategy and history. While it may be daunting for newcomers due to its complexity, the improved rules and training materials in the Deluxe Edition make it more accessible. This game is not for casual gamers but is a gem for those who appreciate the depth and realism of military simulations.

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