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Tractics (1971) Board Game

ByMichail

Tractics is a wargame that was first released in in 1971. It was designed by Don Lowry and features gameplay that focuses on tactical military combat, specifically set during World War II. The game is intended for two players, but can also be played with more for a larger strategic experience.

Game Components of Tractics

  • Rulebooklets:** Three booklets with illustrations by Don Lowry.
  • Miniatures:** Originally designed for 1/87 scale miniatures, later adapted for 1:285 scale micro armour.
  • Dice:** Uses a 20-sided die.
  • Terrain:** Players must build their own terrain.
  • Charts and Tables:** Detailed charts for movement, armor thickness, and rate of fire.

    How To Setup Tractics

    Setting up Tractics involves several steps. First, players must acquire and prepare the miniatures and build the terrain to simulate World War II battlefields. The terrain should be detailed to reflect real-world combat environments. Next, players need to read through the rulebooklets to understand the mechanics, especially the data on tank movements, armor thickness, and fire rates. The game requires a judge to manage the game state, as it is not a perfect information game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Combat Resolution:** Uses a 20-sided die with a base 30% chance to hit a target, modified by factors like concealment.
  • Movement and Armor:** Detailed data on tank movements and armor thickness.
  • Infantry and Airstrikes:** Rules for infantry combat and airstrikes, contributed by Gary Gygax.
  • Game Objective:** Simulate realistic World War II combat scenarios, emphasizing accuracy and strategy.
  • Judge System:** A judge is required to manage hidden information about enemy positions.

    Player Experience

    Playing Tractics is an immersive experience for dedicated wargaming enthusiasts. The game demands attention to detail and a significant investment in time and effort to set up and play. Players must be willing to engage in a slower-paced game compared to board wargames, as the focus is on accurate simulation rather than quick turns. The game’s complexity and realism make it appealing to those who enjoy deep strategic play.

    Pros

  • Detailed Simulations:** Provides a highly accurate simulation of World War II combat.
  • Historical Accuracy:** Covers a wide range of tanks and infantry from 1940 to 1970.
  • Strategic Depth:** Encourages strategic thinking and planning.
  • Customization:** Allows players to build their own terrain and scenarios.

    Cons

  • Complex Setup:** Requires significant time and effort to set up and learn the rules.
  • Slow Paced:** The game is slower compared to other wargames due to its detailed mechanics.
  • Judge Requirement:** Needs a judge to manage the game, which can add complexity.

    Personal Thoughts on Tractics

    Tractics is for the serious and dedicated wargamer who values historical accuracy and strategic depth. It is not a game for those looking for a quick, casual experience. The game’s detailed mechanics and requirement for a judge make it more suited for enthusiasts who are willing to invest time and effort into creating a realistic World War II combat simulation. For those who enjoy the intricacies of miniature wargaming and are looking for a challenging, immersive experience, Tractics is an excellent choice.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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