Submarine (1976) – Board Game Guys

Submarine Board Game

Submarine is a board game that simulates submarine warfare. The game includes rules for different nationalities, various anti-submarine warfare systems, historical scenarios, night-fighting, and Design Your Own scenarios. The game is significant because it allows players to experience the challenges and strategies involved in submarine warfare.

Game Components of Submarine

Map Board: A blank isomorphic hex grid in three sections, allowing for new map space if the battle moves off the original board.

Counters: Various counters for submarines, targets (e.g., freighters, aircraft carriers), and anti-submarine defenses (e.g., destroyer escorts).

Hidden Movement System: Used by the submarine commander to plot the submarine’s movement one turn in advance.

Rules Booklet: Includes basic and advanced rules.

Dice: For resolving combat and other game-related events.

Worksheet: For tracking game progress and scenarios.

How To Setup Submarine

Setting up *Submarine* involves arranging the hex grid map, placing the appropriate counters based on the chosen scenario, and distributing the hidden movement sheets. Players must also prepare the rules and worksheets. The game includes several pre-defined scenarios, and players can combine these into a long campaign game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hidden Movement: The submarine commander plots movement one turn in advance, while the anti-submarine player plots the target’s movement three turns ahead.

Simultaneous Movement: Both players move their units simultaneously.

Sonar, Radar, and Visual Detection: The submarine is revealed when detected by these means.

Variable Scenarios: Scenarios can be combined into a long campaign game, with technology and weapons varying by year.

Objective: The submarine player aims to sink the target, while the anti-submarine player must protect it.

Player Experience

Playing *Submarine* can be a deeply strategic and immersive experience, particularly for fans of naval warfare simulations. The game requires careful planning and outguessing of the opponent, which can make it engaging but also somewhat predictable over time.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers both basic and advanced rules, catering to different levels of players.

Historical Accuracy: Praised for its accurate simulation of tactical undersea warfare.

Customizable Scenarios: Allows players to create their own scenarios using extra counters.

High Replayability Potential: Despite some sameness in scenarios, the game’s complexity keeps it engaging.

Cons

Complexity: The advanced rules can be complex and time-consuming to learn.

Predictability: The game can feel repetitive, with scenarios not being sufficiently diverse.

Lengthy Gameplay: The complete game can take upwards of 40 hours to finish.

Personal Thoughts on Submarine

*Submarine* is ideal for enthusiasts of wargames and naval warfare simulations. It offers a rich, detailed experience that can be particularly appealing to those who enjoy strategic planning and historical accuracy. However, its complexity and lengthy gameplay might deter casual gamers. Overall, it’s a game that rewards dedication and strategy, making it a great addition to any serious wargamer’s collection.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.