Instructions Squad Leader

Objective of the Game

Squad Leader is a strategic board game where players command infantry units during World War II. The primary objective is to achieve mission goals set by scenario cards, by eliminating enemy units, capturing important terrain points, or other specific goals that vary depending on the scenario.

Game Components

• Board: A grid board representing terrain such as forests, buildings, roads, and open fields.
• Counters: These represent infantry squads, officers, and vehicles. Each counter displays critical statistics such as firepower and movement points.
• Scenario Cards: These provide specific information about the scenario, including starting positions, victory conditions, and special rules.
• Markers: For statuses such as suppression, wounds, or movement actions.
• Dice: Two six-sided dice are used to determine the outcomes of combat rolls and other random-based actions.

Basic Gameplay

1. Scenario Selection: Choose a scenario to play and set up units on the board according to the instructions.

2. Round Structure: Each round is divided into several phases:

   • Movement Phase: Players move their units based on their movement range. Some terrain types require extra movement points to cross.
   • Fire Phase: Units can attack targets within their range. Attacks are resolved using dice and the results compared against a hit table.
   • Close Combat Phase: When units are adjacent, they can engage in close combat, which has specific rules for determining the winner.
   • Recovery Phase: Suppressed units attempt to recover by rolling against morale tables.

3. Switching Play Roles: After a full round, players switch roles as attacker and defender, and a new round begins.

Victory Conditions

Achieving victory conditions varies by scenario – it could be eliminating all enemy units, holding specific map positions, or fulfilling special mission tasks.

Important Rules

• Cover and Line of Sight: Terrain can provide units with cover, reducing the likelihood of being hit.
• Morale: Units may need to pass morale checks to avoid suppression. Suppressed units perform less effectively.
• Command Structure: Officers have special abilities to influence adjacent troops and provide morale bonuses.

Strategic Considerations

Players should carefully plan movements, utilize cover, and coordinate attacks to exploit enemy weaknesses. Controlling key positions and maneuvering units with awareness of sightlines and firing ranges are crucial for success.

Squad Leader offers a deep and tactical simulation of battlefield conditions, requiring detailed attention and strategic thinking.