Patrol!: Man-to-Man Combat in the 20th Century (1974) Board Game

Patrol!: Man-to-Man Combat in the 20th Century is a wargame released in 1974 by designer Redmond A. Simonsen and published by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.). The game is set in the 20th century and focuses on man-to-man combat in various historical conflicts such as the Civil War, Korean War, Modern Warfare, and Vietnam War. With a playing time of 240 minutes and suitable for players aged 12 and up, Patrol! offers a deep and immersive tactical experience.

Game Components of Patrol!: Man-to-Man Combat in the 20th Century

Six 9 in × 9 in (230 mm × 230 mm) geomorphic paper maps, scaled at 5 meters (5.4 yards) per hex

400 double-sided die-cut counters

32-page rulebook

Four player aid cards

Two 6-sided dice

How To Setup Patrol!: Man-to-Man Combat in the 20th Century

To set up the game, players first select a scenario, which defines the terrain, the number and type of soldiers each player controls, and the objectives. Each player receives a set of counters representing their soldiers and equipment. The geomorphic maps are arranged to create the scenario’s terrain, and each player secretly plans their actions for each counter using the Movement Points (MP) system. The game is ready to start once both players have finalized their action plans.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Movement Points: Each counter has 10 MP per turn, used for moving, standing up, throwing grenades, firing, or reloading.

Panic: Units check for panic after actions are planned; panicked units may do nothing or move randomly.

Simultaneous Actions: Actions are performed in three phases: combat, movement, and grenades/artillery.

Objective

The objective is to complete the scenario’s specific goals, such as eliminating the enemy, securing a position, or completing a mission within the time frame of the scenario (1–5 minutes).

Player Experience

**Patrol** offers a gripping and detailed simulation of man-to-man combat, forcing players to make tactical decisions quickly. Players must balance the need to move, fire, and use special actions like grenades, all while managing the risk of panic affecting their units. The variety of scenarios, from a Cossack raid in the Russian Civil War to an ambush in Vietnam, adds depth and replayability.

Pros

Detailed Scenarios: Offers a wide range of historical and hypothetical scenarios.

Tactical Depth: Requires strategic planning and quick decision-making.

Historical Accuracy: Simulates real-time combat encounters accurately.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable outcomes ensure high replay value.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to its detailed ruleset.

Outdated Design: Some critics find the simultaneous movement system cumbersome compared to more modern designs.

Weak World War I Scenarios: Some scenarios for World War I are considered weak and unimaginative.

Personal Thoughts on Patrol!: Man-to-Man Combat in the 20th Century

**Patrol** is ideal for wargaming enthusiasts who enjoy tactical, low-level combat simulations. It is particularly suited for those interested in the historical aspects of infantry combat across various 20th-century conflicts. However, due to its complexity and older design, it may not be as appealing to newer gamers accustomed to more streamlined rules and modern game mechanics. Despite this, it remains a classic in the wargaming genre, offering a unique and immersive experience for those willing to delve into its detailed world.

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