Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam – 1965-1966 (1975)

Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam 1965-1966

“Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam 1965-1966” is a 2-player wargame published by Simulations Publications, Inc. (SPI) in 1975. The game simulates non-urban squad
– or platoon-level combat between American forces and Viet Cong guerilla forces during the period of American involvement in the Vietnam War. The game was initially released as an expansion to SPI’s earlier game “Grunt,” which was also designed by Terry W. Tucker.

Why is Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam 1965-1966 Popular?

The game is popular among wargamers who are interested in historical accuracy and the Vietnam War era. It provides a more realistic and immersive experience compared to other wargames of its time, with its focus on squad-level combat and historical accuracy. The game has been praised for its depth and complexity, as well as its attention to detail.

Game Components of Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam – 1965-1966

Map: A three-color map depicting a generic coastal area in central south Vietnam, featuring broken terrain, jungle, villages, and rivers, with 50 meters per hex.

Counters: Simple but functional counters, including U.S. squads marked as squads, upgraded status counters (KIA and WIA), and medic counters.

Charts and Tracks: Terrain Effects Chart, Combat Results Charts (CRTs), Victory Point Record, and Turn Record Track.

How To Setup Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam – 1965-1966

Setting up the game involves placing the map board, deploying the counters according to the variable orders of battle, and determining the initial victory conditions. The American player must position their forces to search for caches of equipment and food, while the Viet Cong player sets up to prevent this or to inflict unacceptable casualties. The game includes rules for deployment and initial setup, ensuring a balanced start for both players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Board wargame, tactical-level combat.

Objective: The American player aims to capture or destroy caches and certain types of units to earn victory points. The Viet Cong player seeks to prevent this and cause casualties to the American forces. Points are also deducted for civilian casualties.

Movement: Infantry movement allowance is doubled compared to the predecessor game “Grunt,” and unit stacking is eliminated.

Combat: Field of fire rules are simplified, and booby traps have decreased lethality.

Leadership: Unique leadership rules where U.S. units depend on radio communication, and VC units must be within range of cadre units.

Player Experience

Playing **Search & Destroy** can be a tense and realistic experience, reflecting the complexities of the Vietnam War. Players must make decisions based on limited information, which adds to the uncertainty and realism of the game. The game requires strategic planning, especially in managing command structures and avoiding civilian casualties. Reviews highlight the game’s ability to simulate the political consequences of small unit actions and the frustrations inherent in such conflicts.

Pros

Realistic Simulation: The game accurately reflects the command structures and challenges faced during the Vietnam War.

Improved Mechanics: Significant improvements over its predecessor “Grunt,” including better-organized rules and enhanced game components.

Strategic Depth: Players must balance military objectives with the risk of civilian casualties, adding a layer of complexity and realism.

Cons

Limited Appeal: The game’s focus on realistic, politically nuanced objectives may limit its appeal to some gamers who prefer more straightforward victory conditions.

Complex Rules: While the rules are better organized than in “Grunt,” they still require careful study to master, which can be daunting for new players.

Frustrations: The game can be frustrating due to the uncertainty and the potential for significant loss of leadership and combat capabilities.

Personal Thoughts on Search & Destroy: Tactical Combat Vietnam – 1965-1966

**Search & Destroy** is a game tailored for historical wargamers and those who appreciate the tactical and strategic intricacies of the Vietnam War. It is not for casual gamers seeking quick, simplistic victories but rather for those who value realism, complexity, and the historical context of the conflict. The game’s unique mechanics and focus on command structures make it a compelling addition to any serious wargamer’s library.

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