FrankH.
Member
[Prefatory Note: I wrestle with the wisdom of this post and with the process it implies, given the times in which we are living, the many concerning issues (I won't list them). However, on balance it seems positive (also, I don't want to, and see no reason to, sit on this any longer). And to the extent that this "project", and the game itself is not taken toooo seriously, here goes...]
I am looking for comments and suggestions (and, at some point?) playtesting from a few (to a maximum of 6 or so), ideally very experienced and/or top ranked ASL players, game and scenario designers, and publishers, in reference to a set of experimental/optional/supplemental/variant rules, divided in my current terminology into two groups:
The intent of the In-hex Factors rules is to simulate more acutely, in a more nuanced environment, and with greater detail, the effects of a wide range of circumstances within each hex on unit effectiveness. This includes most especially the ability of units individually and/or in coordination with others to make and communicate tactical decisions of all kinds, in order, among other processes, to motivate, organize, move, realign, wheel around, and to identify, sight, target, and concentrate firepower on enemy units, as impacted by the particular characteristics of the terrain-, weather-, and related- specific features immediately in the hex. The quality and quantity of useable physical space, the obstructive density of any terrain features, the utility of the footing as modified by environmental circumstances, and the visibility and audibility conditions within the hex are key examples. Thusly portrayed, given the preceding, includes a unit’s ability to aptly perform such coordinated and concrete actions as Rallying, Clearance, Entrenchment, Attack/Defense, etc., and including various implied tasks and activities. Typically, existing ASL concepts and rules remain valid while being supplemented with new ones; however in some cases for certain associated rules modifications and/or revisions are suggested.
Pursued for "In Greater Detail" is a wide and varied list of topics and issues. Due to the great variety,
there should be at least one item of interest for most anyone. Here are just a few examples:
DEGREE OF UTILIZATION OF AVAILABLE TERRAIN
DUST
AIRCRAFT POSITIONING
BOAT PASSENGERS/SWIMMERS/CLIMBERS
EXTREME HUMIDITY
LOW INTENSITY COMBAT
there are many others...
In fact, these synergistic and interconnecting yet mostly independent rule options taken together may
possibly be the most notable evolutionary advance to the game since the introduction of the HASL system. (You decide.)
If interested please send me a note. Give me a week or so to respond to everyone. I will be sending out a MS Word document. My only other request would be to ask that everyone limit their responses and questions, at this time, to those who need see how to get a copy.
Somewhere in here I should mention my philosophy not specific to ASL but to all conflict simulation gaming. These games should promote the study of history and or geography, at a minimum, but in an entertaining, dramatic, visual and imaginative way. However, they should be used in conjunction with other methods of promoting study.
Thank you in advance for your interest.
I am looking for comments and suggestions (and, at some point?) playtesting from a few (to a maximum of 6 or so), ideally very experienced and/or top ranked ASL players, game and scenario designers, and publishers, in reference to a set of experimental/optional/supplemental/variant rules, divided in my current terminology into two groups:
- IN-HEX FACTORS
- IN GREATER DETAIL
The intent of the In-hex Factors rules is to simulate more acutely, in a more nuanced environment, and with greater detail, the effects of a wide range of circumstances within each hex on unit effectiveness. This includes most especially the ability of units individually and/or in coordination with others to make and communicate tactical decisions of all kinds, in order, among other processes, to motivate, organize, move, realign, wheel around, and to identify, sight, target, and concentrate firepower on enemy units, as impacted by the particular characteristics of the terrain-, weather-, and related- specific features immediately in the hex. The quality and quantity of useable physical space, the obstructive density of any terrain features, the utility of the footing as modified by environmental circumstances, and the visibility and audibility conditions within the hex are key examples. Thusly portrayed, given the preceding, includes a unit’s ability to aptly perform such coordinated and concrete actions as Rallying, Clearance, Entrenchment, Attack/Defense, etc., and including various implied tasks and activities. Typically, existing ASL concepts and rules remain valid while being supplemented with new ones; however in some cases for certain associated rules modifications and/or revisions are suggested.
Pursued for "In Greater Detail" is a wide and varied list of topics and issues. Due to the great variety,
there should be at least one item of interest for most anyone. Here are just a few examples:
DEGREE OF UTILIZATION OF AVAILABLE TERRAIN
DUST
AIRCRAFT POSITIONING
BOAT PASSENGERS/SWIMMERS/CLIMBERS
EXTREME HUMIDITY
LOW INTENSITY COMBAT
there are many others...
In fact, these synergistic and interconnecting yet mostly independent rule options taken together may
possibly be the most notable evolutionary advance to the game since the introduction of the HASL system. (You decide.)
If interested please send me a note. Give me a week or so to respond to everyone. I will be sending out a MS Word document. My only other request would be to ask that everyone limit their responses and questions, at this time, to those who need see how to get a copy.
Somewhere in here I should mention my philosophy not specific to ASL but to all conflict simulation gaming. These games should promote the study of history and or geography, at a minimum, but in an entertaining, dramatic, visual and imaginative way. However, they should be used in conjunction with other methods of promoting study.
Thank you in advance for your interest.