Sniper! (1973) – Board Game Guys

Sniper!

“Sniper!” is a two-player board wargame about man-to-man combat in urban environments during WWII, originally released in 1973 by Simulations. The game was designed by James Dunnigan and featured additional material from various developers, including Hank Zucker, John Young, Ed Curran, Bob Felice, Bill Sullivan, Angel Gomez, and Hal Vaughn. The game has since been adapted into a video game and has seen several revisions and expansions.

Why is Sniper! Popular?

“Sniper!” is popular and significant because it is a wargame that simulates urban combat during WWII, which is an interesting and unique topic for a board game. The game has a rich history and has been adapted into various versions, including a video game and solo rules. Additionally, the game has been well-received by players and reviewers, with positive reviews on BoardGameGeek and Meeple Mountain.

Game Components of Sniper!

Map: 34″ x 22″ map (paper in white box and counter tray editions, mounted in the Designer’s Edition)

Sniper Charts and Tables: 2 charts for gameplay resolution

Game Rules: Comprehensive rulebook

Simultaneous Movement Sheets: 1 pad for planning actions

Counter Tray: To hold game pieces

Vehicles: 2 tanks, 2 armored personnel carriers, and 2 trucks (printed on cardstock)

Counters: 400 die-cut counters (olive green for Allies, grey for Germans)

How To Setup Sniper!

To set up Sniper!, players first arrange the map to represent the urban battlefield. Each player then deploys their counters, which typically represent individual soldiers or vehicles, according to the scenario rules. The game includes various sheets and charts that need to be within reach for reference during gameplay. Players also need to prepare the Simultaneous Movement Sheets to plan their actions secretly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement Points: Each counter has 10 Movement Points (MP) per turn; actions like moving, standing up, or throwing a grenade use specific MP.

Panic: Units can become panicked, causing them to do nothing or move randomly.

Actions Phases: Actions are performed in three phases: combat, movement, and finally grenades and artillery.

Objective: The objective is to eliminate the opposing forces or complete specific mission objectives in the urban environment.

Player Experience

Playing Sniper is an immersive and tactical experience that simulates the intense and unpredictable nature of urban warfare. Players must carefully plan their actions, managing movement and combat while navigating the risks of panic and random events. The game requires strategic thinking and attention to detail, making it engaging for fans of tactical wargames.

Pros

Historical Significance: First commercial game to focus on man-to-man combat in WWII.

Detailed Mechanics: Comprehensive rules and components simulate real urban combat scenarios.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and execution.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable setup ensure different experiences each time.

Cons

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

Time-Consuming: Games can be lengthy due to the simultaneous movement planning and resolution phases.

Outdated Components: Some versions may have older, less durable components.

Personal Thoughts on Sniper!

Sniper is ideal for experienced wargamers and those interested in historical military tactics. It provides a unique and challenging experience that simulates the complexities of urban warfare during World War II. However, its complexity and time requirements make it less suitable for casual gamers or those new to tactical wargames. If you’re looking for a deep, strategic game that delves into the intricacies of combat, Sniper is an excellent choice.

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