Retro (3rd Edition)

Retro 3rd Ed. is a simple variant for popular WWII tactical wargames. It consists of a 52-page booklet, a sheet of 70 uncut color information counters, two Reference Cards, and eight scenarios, containing everything you need to convert the standard ASL (or similar) host game system into a simplified format that emphasizes speed and playability. Its goal is to provide occasional players with easy and straight-forward rules that will allow them to use the game system's components and system modules to experience the "feel" and fun of ASL without having to implement hundreds of pages of rules. This 3rd Ed. is largely unchanged from the 2nd edition, except that several optional rules have been added, a sheet of info counters have been provided, the wording in several sections has been tweaked and clarified, and two new scenarios have been added. The variant presumes that gamers own the regular game rules and components, and is not authorized or endorsed by the publishers of ASL. As such, the variant is not for the gamer who prefers more and more chrome and ever more weapon distinctions, but should appeal to those who think that, at times, "less is acceptable" when it comes to setting up a quick scenario and having some fun.

Basic familiarity with the mechanics and terminology of Squad Leader are assumed, and all the boards, counters, and ratings of the SL/ASL system are retained. Gamers have, however, commented that the variant is adaptable to other tactical game systems, such as Critical Hit's Combat! series, and the Panzer Grenadier series. But the variant assumes the SL/ASL universe as its starting point.

The biggest changes within the Retro variant are: (1) a simplified sequence of play that provides an "I go/you go" format via "hesitation" rolls, and (2) a new a Infantry Fire Table that cuts down on dice rolls by making morale checks unnecessary. For example, two German squads with a firepower of 8 fire on a brush hex containing an American 6-6-6, 6-6-7, and a 9-1 leader. Two dice are thrown on the "8" column of the Retro IFT, and say the final DR is 5; the result of "8" on the table indicate that all personnel in the target hex with a morale rating of eight or less are broken (or are eliminated if already broken). Simple as that.

Variant rules cover all the important game areas, such as rallying, stacking, portage, machine guns and other support weapons, ordnance, vehicles, and many other items.

Armor combat is likewise simplified. All important factors are considered, such as Gun factor, armor factor, range, and terrain, and the Armor Combat Table will give a single To Kill number; roll this number or less and the target is eliminated. For example, a French B1-bis firing at the side of a German PzKpfwIIF in woods, with a -1 armor leader directing the attack, at a range of 14 hexes, produces a Kill number of 6 (a 42% chance of elimination). The table does not contain endless DR modifiers, and is easy to read.

Also included are full instructions on how to construct your own scenarios, DYO Generation Tables, and eight scenarios specifically created for the Retro variant.

Ideally, Retro should appeal to the gamer who owns some game/historical modules but is not a "lifestyle ASLer". With this variant, the occasional player may utilize all the components of the system without having to worry about a tremendous body of rules. If you prefer simple, classic style wargames, then perhaps you should give this variant a try.