Close Assault (Basic Game)

[heruca]

Game Summary:
A game of man-to-man combat in WWII. Soldiers can be standing, crouching, or prone, and each posture affects their vulnerability and lines of sight. "Random sequencing" mechanics (a "chit-pull" system) simulate simultaneous movement, the fog of war, and combat friction without the bother of written orders.

Game Scale:
Each unit represents an individual soldier
One hex = 5 yards
One turn = ~30 seconds

Number of Players:
2 (but can also be played solo)

Estimated Playing Time:
1-2 hours (use of VOIP is highly recommended for online games)

Complexity Level:
Average

About the Game:
"Close Assault" is a long out-of-print wargame by S. Craig Taylor. It was originally released in 1983, shortly before Yaquinto's game publishing division went out of business. The game contained a 4-page folder of "quick-start" rules, known as the Basic Game. A separate rulebook contained Advanced and Optional rules, which players could choose to use or not, depending on the level of detail and realism they preferred. This conversion covers only the rules, game components, and scenario for the Basic Game, and does not include the Advanced or Optional rules, nor many of the game components, charts, and tables required to play with those rules. Close Assault was the precursor to Avalon Hill's "Firepower". For more information on the original game, [urlx=http://www.boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/4964/close-assault]click here[/urlx].

This digital conversion of Close Assault for use with BRPG is being released with permission from the original game designer.

Click on the thumbnails below to see the screenshots at full size:

[urlx=http://www.battlegroundsgames.com/images/Close_Assault_Sample_Game_Setup.png][/urlx] [urlx=http://www.battlegroundsgames.com/images/Sequence,_Info_Units,_View_Chart.png][/urlx]

[urlx=http://www.battlegroundsgames.com/images/Grenade_Spread_Example.png][/urlx] [urlx=http://www.battlegroundsgames.com/images/Resolving_Grenade_Blast.png][/urlx]

Download:
Close Assault (Basic Game) for BRPG (38.5 MB)

This digital conversion includes a BRPG-specific rulebook in PDF format (so it's easily searchable), and everything needed to play the Basic Game, if you already have at least one GM Client license (v1.6m or higher). For multiplayer games, the extra players will need a Player Client or a GM Client. A player can also use the free BRPG Demo if the person hosting the game has a Floating License for them to use.

Installation instructions are included in the download.

Enjoy!

[heruca]

I uploaded a new version of this game conversion. Use the download link in the OP to get it.

This new version adds support for BRPG v1.6m or better, taking advantage of new features such as Views and antialiasing, which were not available when this conversion was first released. I also fixed a couple of mistakes I found in the rulebook and in the media bundle.

[heruca]

Sad news. I just learned (from here) that S. Craig Taylor, the designer of this game, recently passed away.

He was better known for some of his more popular game titles, such as "Wooden Ships & Iron Men", and "Flat Top", but I'll always remember him for Close Assault. It was a pleasure working with him on this digital game conversion.

[severin]

Sad news indeed.

I really loved Flat Top. Hidden movement, search planes, different readiness boxes for air bases and carriers. It is a great game.

[dougputhoff]

I have a question about Close Assault: Does it have an AI so I don't have to play two squads at once?

[heruca]

Welcome Dougputhoff,

No AI, but the idea is that you would play this with a friend, usually online.