Tactics II (1958) Board Game

Tactics II is a classic board game that was first released in 1958 by The Avalon Hill Game Company. It falls under the category of modern warfare and is considered a wargame. The game is designed for two players and has a runtime of around 120 minutes. With its focus on strategic gameplay and simulation of combat scenarios, Tactics II has gained a reputation for being a challenging and immersive experience for players.

Game Components of Tactics II

Game board: A 14 3/8” x 11 1/2” board with a map that includes various terrains and cities.

Unit counters: Representing modern divisions of infantry, armor, airborne, and special forces units.

Rules of Play Manual: A 16-page digest-sized booklet with detailed rules.

Combat Results Table: Used to resolve battles based on odds and realistic outcomes.

Optional components: Include rules for seasonal changes, amphibious drops, nuclear weapons, and airborne drops.

How To Setup Tactics II

To set up Tactics II, players first determine who moves first, either by rolling a die or agreeing beforehand. The game does not use the term “set up,” but this section of the rules effectively covers this action. Players deploy their units on the board according to the initial deployment rules. The rules are relatively straightforward, with most of the setup explained in the first few pages of the manual.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Turn-based: Players alternate turns, executing movement followed by combat.

IGO-UGO: Each player moves all their units in one turn.

Combat Results Table: Battles are resolved using a table that reflects realistic outcomes.

Voluntary Movement: Players can move none, some, or all of their units in a turn.

No Chance Elements: Except for the uncertainties reflected in the Combat Results Table.

Game Objective

Capture at least one square of each enemy city without the enemy capturing any of your cities.

Alternatively, destroy the entire enemy army.

Player Experience

Playing Tactics II can be a mixed bag. On one hand, the game is praised for its simplicity and introductory nature to wargaming, making it accessible to new players. It allows for creative freedom and strategy, with a relatively light set of instructions. However, some critics have pointed out significant flaws, such as a defender’s advantage that makes attacking nearly suicidal and a tendency towards stalemates.

Pros

Introductory Wargame: Great for new players to learn wargaming mechanics.

Simple Rules: Easy to pick up, with a short 16-page rulebook.

Creative Freedom: Players can create their own narratives and strategies.

Historical Importance: One of the first commercial board wargames, influencing later game designs.

Cons

Defender’s Advantage: Makes attacking highly risky and often futile.

Stalemate Tendency: The geography and rules can lead to inevitable stalemates.

Outdated Mechanics: Some mechanics, such as the Combat Results Table, may seem archaic and unfair to modern players.

Limited Replayability: Criticized for lacking variability and depth in gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Tactics II

Tactics II is a game that, while historically significant and influential in the wargaming genre, may not appeal to everyone due to its outdated mechanics and inherent flaws. It is best suited for those interested in the history of board games and wargaming, or for new players looking for a simple introduction to wargame mechanics. However, for players seeking more complex and balanced gameplay, other options might be more satisfying. Despite its criticisms, Tactics II remains a nostalgic favorite for some and a valuable piece of gaming history.

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