Hello from Indianapolis. I'm new to ASL but I actually played my first wargame in 1970 (AH Anzio). Although I played a lot of Avalon Hill and SPI games back in the 70's I was not playing much by the time SL and ASL got going. For the last 15 years or so I've primarily played historical miniatures, as well as Mechwarrior. Then last couple of years my interest in boardgames has returned, but while I was aware of ASL it seemed a bit intimidating to figure out where to start, and it was obvious you could spend a lot of money before playing a single game.
A couple of months ago I noticed Starter Kit #1 on the shelf of a local shop and for $21 thought this was a chance to get a feel for ASL without making a major investment. I was fortunate to hook up with another player who was returning to ASL after an absence and was looking to ease back into things. We started up a game of the old scenario Guards Counterattack on VASL and he has been teaching me the game, and explaining things to me has hopefully helped him out as well. We plan on continuing to play on VASL and there is a local wargame club where I am sure I can get a FtF game going at some point.
I can already feel the addiction growing. I not only ordered SK #2 but have pre-ordered Beyond Valor with MMP and have acquired some other modules when I think I find a reasonable price. So far I have Yanks ($30), Paratroopers ($16) and The Last Hurrah ($20).
I do have some questions you can probably help me out with. First, do I need to acquire the Squad Leader boards 1-4 or will those be the same as the 1-4 boards that will be included in the new Beyond Valor?
Next, several modules available now require boards and counters from modules currently out of print. So the debate is whether I should pick up the modules that are in print now hoping modules like West of Alamein and Code of the Bushido will eventually be back in print or just play the ETO scenarios and worry about the PTO and north Africa later. While I've been in a buying frenzy lately, I'm still not willing to pay $200+ for some of the out-of-print stuff.
Three, I'm confused on West of Alamein vs. For King and Country, and do you really need WoA if you have FKaC.
Finally, do you guys keep your counters separated by modules? I was thinking of setting up fishing tackles boxes, but organizing by nationality seems the most logical way to go. I'm also mulling over some thoughts on organizing scenario cards, overlays, etc.
Now if I can just find someone looking to trade ASL stuff for a ton of Mech Warrior miniatures I'll be set.