Gaming the Old West in Miniature

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Gaming the Old West

in MiniaturePart One:

Issues, Figuresand Accessories

By Rob Lusk

Although miniatures games set in the Old West have been around for many

years, recently there has been a dramatic increase in figures, rules, and

accessories for this period. As I imagine is the case with many MWAN readers,

I started playing with cowboys and Indians when I was very young and got Fort

Apache as a gift; I've been fascinated by the Old West since then. The Boot Hill

game came out when I was in high school, and I began to wargame with Airfix

plastic cowboys. I have enjoyed games set in this period ever since. While there

has always been a lot of source material available, rules and figures have been

relatively scarce until the past couple years. The variety of items now available,

coupled with the appeal of the Old West and the small scale of many

gunfights/battles makes this period all the more enticing.

In this article, I will discuss some of the issues and dimensions to consider

when gaming the Old West. I will then review some of the figures and

accessories that are available. I'll review rules in a subsequent article, which I'm

currently working on; I may also include a copy of my own "Ghost Riders"

rules (to add to the proliferation of home grown rules for this period). I amcertainly not an expert on the Old West; what follows are mostly my opinions,

which you may certainly disagree with. That's OK, pardner; this town's big

enough for more than one opinion.

The Question of Scale

Two related issues here are figure size and scale/ratio. The three main types of

metal Old West gaming figures available are 15mm, 20mm (1/72 scale plastics



are pretty comparable to these), and 25mm (I include 28 mm in this category,

since most figures advertised as 25mm are really closer to 28). Obviously,

detail and animation are typically better with larger figures, but you can only fit

so many on a tabletop. In my opinion, 15mm or 20mm is the way to go if you

want to recreate Indian battles in a historical fashion. Unless you have a LOT of

space available (not to mention cash), you will simply not be able to recreate

something like The Battle of Little Big Horn in 25mm. 15mm figures in

particular look good in numbers on the wargame table, and you can have some

pretty awesome scenery dwarfing the figures (mesas, etc.), giving a realistic

feel of the West on a grand scale. This also allows for a lot more

maneuverability, particularly of cavalry.

On the other hand, for smaller skirmishes and gunfights, 25mm tends to have

the most appeal. If you want to have a 1:1 scale gunfight, players tend to relate

better to figures with a lot of detail and animation, especially when each figure

is different. I think the most impressive Old West games I have seen are those

that use a handful or two of 25mm figures with some buildings and other

appropriate terrain (e.g., games run by Keith Leidy -- as pictured in the

November 1997 issue of Wargames Illustrated; and games by Leo Walsh of

TCS run at GENCON and other conventions).

I personally use both 15mm and 25mm scales, and enjoy both, but find myself

increasingly daydreaming about (and spending money on) 25mm. I should put

in a plug at this point for the increasing number of high quality 20mm Old West

figures being produced. Some have enough detail that they are very satisfyingeven in 1:1 scale games, but are cheaper than 25's. They have the added

advantage that they fit in very well with HO scale railroad buildings and

accessories. If I were to start over, I'd probably go with 20mm instead of 15mm.

Regarding the figure:men represented ratio, Old West games vary from 1:1 to at

least 1:5 (still a relatively low ratio compared to most periods). Further, there

are some games where players are expected to take no more than 1 or 2 figures.

These games often assign different characteristics to the figures (e.g., weapon

skills, bravery), and have a relatively complex turn sequence and system fortracking wounds. If you enjoy role-playing, this type of game will probably

have a lot of appeal.

Other games are unit based, and one figure may represent many soldiers,

Indians, etc. Again, this is largely a matter of personal preference, and relates to

the type of action you want to recreate. The gunfight at the OK Corral is clearly

a 1:1 affair; larger Indian battles typically are not. Ground scale and weapon

ranges also vary a lot (this is, of course, not unique to Old West games). The



1:1 games sometimes have a "true to figure" ground scale (e.g., 1" = about 6

feet for 25mm), which can help players get a better feel for what is actually

happening in a game. I've had players tell me that when their figure runs across

a street, they want to be able to visualize what it would be like if they were in

the same situation, and this sort of ground scale helps.

At the same time, rules that use this ground scale often dramatically shortenactual weapon ranges for the sake of playability. Thus, it is not uncommon to

find pistols that can only fire the equivalent of perhaps 25 yards. If you can live

with this, the "true to figure" ground scale can be a lot of fun, especially with

25mm figures. In my experience, younger players, role-players, and those used

to sci-fi and fantasy games enjoy this better than more abstract (albeit realistic)

scales.

History vs. Hollywood

The related issues of realism, playability, complexity and enjoyment of a game

have been discussed concerning other periods in MWAN; Old West gaming

certainly provides more fuel for this discussion. There are a few Old West

games that reflect history; far more that reflect Hollywood's view of history;

and the majority fall somewhere in between. Part of the issue is that the Old

West is such an important part of American folklore, it is often hard to tell what

really happened in many gunfights and battles -- the folklore is hopelessly

intertwined with history.

Also, since many of us were raised with the Hollywood version of the Old

West, we may not care that much about what really happened. In my

experience, Old West gaming is "on the fringe" of true historical gaming, in that

most Old West games really are not very realistic. Does this bother me

personally? Not in the least. To quote the Very Rev. Aelred Glidden, who in

turn was quoting Donald Featherstone, "Never let history get in the way of a

good game". On the other hand, historical purists need not feel too discouraged.

There are more authentic figures available than ever before, and a few rules sets

really do try to recreate history, particularly with Indian battles.

The complexity level of Old West games also varies dramatically. There are

rules sets varying in length from one page (e.g., Keith Leidy's home grown

rules) to over 100 pages in multiple volumes (e.g., Once Upon A Time In The

West). One thing that MWAN has taught me is that complexity does not always

positively correlate with historical accuracy, and sometimes negatively

correlates with players' enjoyment. At the same time, the shortest rules sets

often leave a fair amount open to interpretation, and therefore tend to run most



smoothly when a gamemaster is present to arbitrate when questions arise.

Ironically, the longest sets are often so complex that you need a gamemaster

who is very familiar with the rules, or play tends to bog down as disagreements

arise over the finer points. The issue of complexity of rules has been discussed

several times in MWAN; I will just note that there are dramatic differences

among rules sets in this period, so be sure to take this into consideration as you

are choosing a set for yourself.

The one place where this seems to make the most difference, in my experience,

is when you are trying to recreate gunfights. A simple move-countermove

system doesn't work well for this purpose -- players know when they will shoot

relative to the enemy, and will naturally take advantage of this. There are

several ways that rules address this issue. The most common is to use a card

system for variable determination of action sequences -- this keeps the suspense

up. Another way is through the use of written orders which are simultaneously

revealed; this works well when you are focusing on one or two figures, but

tends to bog down with larger numbers. Finally, some rules have players roll for

initiative.

Setting

A final issue to consider is the setting for your game. Old West games can be

set anytime from around 1850 to 1890, but most focus on the 1870's-1880's.

Participants, weapons, uniforms, Indian tribes, etc. can obviously vary a lot

depending on the period you choose. The two main geographic settings for OldWest games appear to be the Plains and the Southwest. This is one of those

things I really didn't think much about when I started collecting and painting

figures and terrain, but from a reality standpoint can make a lot of difference. If

you are planning on including Indians or Mexicans, this is an important issue.

Plains Indians tribes sometimes did not look that much different from each

other, but they sure look different than Apaches! Further, there weren't very

many Mexicans in, say, Kansas in the late 1800's.

Terrain features also differ a lot based on location. If you are creatingSouthwestern terrain, you'll want to consider including mesas, cacti, adobe, and

a sand/clay colored table and bases for figures. If you're in the Plains, more

"traditional" wargame terrain is generally usable. I discovered this the hard

way, as I decided to place most of my games in southeastern Arizona territory,

and then realized that I didn't have very much appropriate terrain. Players are

still very forgiving, as I continue to mix in features that really shouldn't be

there. If you're like me and have existing terrain that you'd like to use, consider

what you already have in deciding which setting to use.



Now, on with the reviews!

Figures

The last few years have seen a virtual explosion in the number of Old West

figures available. 1996 was truly a banner year -- both Old Glory and GuernseyFoundry released the start of two extensive figure lines in 25mm, including

some of the best Old West figures ever produced. I'll provide an overview of

the figure lines that I'm aware of (in alphabetical order). Much of this

information has been gleaned from the pages of MWAN.

Brittania Miniatures, manufactured in England, available in the U.S. from

Elite Miniatures, c/o Keith Leidy, 2625 Forest Glen Trail, Riverwoods, IL,

60015, as well as some hobby shops. These are 25 mm figures, tending to the

large, "chunky" side, but I love their animation and variety. Brittania offers U.S.cavalry, Apaches, Mexicans, an increasing selection of gunfighters (both

mounted and on foot) and townspeople, and some accessories (e.g., wagons,

longhorns, cannons and gatling guns). I really like this line! The covered

wagons in particular are outstanding.

Complete Brigade, available from Frying Pan and Blanket Amalgamated

(gotta love the name), 2283 Apache Street, Mendota Heights, MN, 55120 (send

SASE for list). They advertise 20mm U.S. cavalry and Plains Indians. I haven't

seen these figures, so I cannot comment further.

Connoisseur Historical Miniatures, previously just manufactured in England,

now manufactured in the U.S. as well by J & T Miniatures, HC 83, Box 15,

Pequot Lakes, MN, 56472 (218-568-7447). They offer a 25mm Pony Wars line,

with U.S. cavalry, Plains Indians, Apaches, civilians, and gunfighters. These

figures are close to 28 mm in size; the poses are quite good, though the level of

detail and animation vary.

Dixon Miniatures, manufactured in England, available in the U.S. fromWargames Inc., Box 278, Route 40 East, Triadelphia, WV, 26059 (send $3 for

listing). Also available at some hobby shops. Dixon produces a variety of

25mm Wild West figures and accessories (e.g., a really nice stagecoach). Their

figures are typically around 28mm. They generally have very good animation

and detail. Dixon carries more mounted cowboys than most other companies,

and has an extensive line of gunfighters, townsfolk, and some Indians.

Freikorps 15, 25 Princetown Road, Bangor, Co. Down, BT 20, 3 TA, Northern



Ireland, UK. Also available at some hobby shops. Freikorps 15 produces a very

extensive line of 15mm Old West figures. These are "true" 15mm scale, and

therefore somewhat small relative to other larger 15's. The variety is truly

outstanding, with 105 different figures in the range, including U.S. cavalry,

U.S. infantry (hard to find for this period), Apaches, Plains Indians, gunfighters,

and townspeople. Don't let the UK address put you off -- service is fast, and

they take U.S. $.

Frontier Miniatures, available from Modeler's Mart, 1555 Sunshine Drive,

Clearwater, FL, 34625 (800-223-5260) ($5 for catalog, which has a LOT of

stuff in it). Frontier produces both 15mm and 25mm figures, including U.S.

cavalry, Indians, and gunfighters. These are "true scale" figures, and therefore a

bit small compared to many others (the 15's fit well with Freikorps 15's and

Minifigs; the 25's fit well with Pass of the North). These are relatively

inexpensive, basic gaming figures.

Grenadier, no longer in business, but the "Western Gunfighters" boxed set

(produced in 1992) is still available at some hobby shops. This is a very nice set

of 10 25mm figures, including gunslingers and townspeople. The figures are

"large" 25's (closer to 30mm in some cases), but fit in well with many of the

28mm figures available. Animation and detail are superb; in my opinion, these

were the best 25mm Old West figures available for a number of years.

Guernsey Foundry, manufactured in the U.K., available in the U.S. from The

Foundry, 1549 Marview Drive, Westlake, Ohio, 44145 (440-871-4587). Anextensive 28mm Old West range, including U.S. cavalry, Plains Indians,

Mexicans, Apaches, cowboys, gunfighters, and "Victorian bystanders". These

are excellent figures for the most part, are very reasonably priced, the selection

is great, and many come both mounted and on foot (perfect for skirmish

games). See their ads in MWAN, and reviews by David Barnes (MWAN 88,

90, 92) and Hal Thinglum (MWAN 80, 88, 89, 90). In my opinion, this is the

premiere Old West line available today.

Mayhem Miniatures, manufactured in England, available from hobby shops orfrom the UK at P.O. Box 3064, Milton Keynes, MK13, OJP, England..

Mayhem makes 25mm gunfighters and townspeople as well as accessories (e.g.,

a resin bar) which are slightly larger than true 25mm, but very well animated

and proportioned. They are pretty comparable to Guernsey Foundry figures, but

the line is less extensive (and a bit more expensive).

Minifigs, manufactured in England, available from Modeler's Mart (see

Frontier for ordering information). Though I haven't ordered any for several



years, I believe 15mm Minifig Old West figures are still available. These are

"true" 15mm scale, and relatively well detailed and animated. They fit in well

with Freikorps 15 and Frontier miniatures. I have some of their gunfighters; I'm

not sure what else is available.

Old Glory, available from Emperor's Headquarters, 5744 W. Irving Park Road,

Chicago, IL, 60634 (312-777-7307). Also available at some hobby shops. TheWarpaint range is an extensive line of 25mm settlers/townspeople, U.S. cavalry,

Plains Indians, Apaches, gunslingers, lawmen, and accessories (e.g., teepees, a

stagecoach, and wagons). Very nice figures for the most part (details tend to be

very good; animation is not as good on some), typically between 25 and 28 mm.

The variety and price are simply outstanding! Reviewed by Stephen Lawrence

in MWAN 89.

Pass of the North, Jeff Caruso, 1060 Esplanada, El Paso, TX, 79913 (915-581-

3282). Catalog $2 + SASE. An extensive line of U.S. cavalry, Indians,gunfighters, Mexicans, and townspeople in 25mm, including some specialty

sets like the Magnificent Seven. True 25mm scale figures. Excellent poses,

detail and animation; the only problem is that they tend to be small relative to

most other "25mm" figures. Apaches were reviewed in MWAN 84 by Stephen

Lawrence.

Peter Pig, manufactured in England; available from Brookhurst Hobbies,

12188 Brookhurst Street, Garden Grove, CA, 92640 (714-636-3580). Peter Pig

makes an extensive line of 15mm Old West figures and accessories, includinggunfighters, Plains Indians, townspeople, characters, resin buildings, and even a

train! A little chunky, but very good detail and animation; they fit well with

most other lines of 15mm figures.

Pinnacle Miniatures, available from hobby shops or from Pinnacle

Entertainment Group, P.O. Box 10908, Blacksburg, VA, 24062-0908 (800-214-

5645). These are 28 to 30mm figures designed for the Great Rail Wars

miniatures game and the Deadlands roleplaying game. These games are set in

an alternate history Old West, where magic, monsters, and advanced steamtechnology exist, and the Civil War has continued into the 1870's. There are

gunfighters, Indians, townspeople, artillery, special characters, monsters, and

even undead gunslingers if you want to add a weird twist to your game!

Animation and detail are somewhat uneven, but tend to be excellent.

Qualiticast, manufactured in England, but available from Brookhurst Hobbies

(see Peter Pig for address/phone number). Qualiticast makes 20mm Indians,

settlers, and gunfighters. These are very nice, well detailed and proportioned



figures. They are reviewed by David Barnes in MWAN 89.

Raventhorpe Miniatures, imported from the U.K., available from RLBPS,

4827 Treeview Terrace, Rockford, IL, 61109-4135. These are 20mm Mexican

Revolution figures, many of which are suitable for the Old West as gunfighters

and Mexicans. These are excellent figures, with very good animation and detail.

I bought a few at Little Wars; these figures have tempted me to get into yetanother scale in this period!

Stone Mountain, P.O. Box 675, Brighton, CO, 80601. One of the first 25mm

Old West lines that I encountered; these were one of the few lines available

until relatively recently. I still see them at hobby shops and conventions, but

don't know if they are still being produced. These are true 25's, and therefore

smaller than many other lines. They have gunfighters (including mounted),

townspeople, and some personalities. Proportion and animation are not as good

as more recently produced figures. They also make some excellent 25mm cacti.

Valiant Miniatures, 106 Foxcraft Drive, Winborne, Dorset, BH 21 2 LA, UK.

25 mm gunfighters; I haven't seen them, but David Barnes (in MWAN 89)

notes that they are "slim fellows but well in keeping with the era and excellently

animated and cast" (p. 17).

Accessories

Just as with Old West figures, there has been a recent dramatic increase inavailable accessories. While I'm sure there are many that I am not aware of,

here is a listing of those that I'm familiar with.

Airfix, available at many hobby shops. Makes a plastic 1/72 scale fort (Fort

Apache) that works well for 20mm figures. Decent detail. Comes with plastic

U.S. cavalry and Indians.

Dixon, see figures section for address. Dixon makes Wild West 25mm

buildings ("every single one built from scratch and fully painted") which look

very impressive. They appear to be made of wood.

The Drum, available from some hobby shops, including The Emperor's

Headquarters (Chicago). The Drum makes 15mm scale resin buildings,

including a log fort with towers. This fort is very nicely detailed, and makes a

great centerpiece for a (probably fictitious) attack on a fort. (Note: the only

25mm scale fort like this that I've seen was made by Greenfield many years



ago, and is no longer in production. If anyone knows of someone else who

produces a "Fort Apache"-style fort for 25mm, I'd love to hear about it!)

Ertl Western Cowtown, Longhorn Ranch, and assorted barns, etc. Available in

department and toy stores (sets with one BIG building or several good-sized

buildings are typically $25-$30). These plastic buildings are remarkably well-

suited for 28mm figures, and are relatively well-detailed and inexpensive. Someof the accessories they come with can be used as well (e.g., cattle). They have

lift-off roofs, and some even have semi-detailed interiors. However, some of

these interiors are amusing -- a staircase leading to a balcony that leads

nowhere, and a jail cell with a back door(!) These paint up pretty well (Stephen

Lawrence had some at Little Wars that looked very nice). They were favorably

reviewed by Mr. Lawrence in MWAN 84.

Frontline Wargaming, manufactured in England; available in the U.S. from

RLBPS (see Raventhorpe Miniatures for address). These are 25mm resin WildWest buildings and accessories (e.g., furniture, graves, horse troughs, derelict

wagon, and a mine entrance). Buildings start at around $12; accessories start at

around $3. Some of these (e.g., the graves and mine entrance) are closer to

"true" 25mm scale; others are fine for 28mm (e.g., much of the furniture; the

trough). Detail varies. These were favorably reviewed by Hal Thinglum in

MWAN #88.

H.G. Walls, 3026 Springbrook Drive, South Bend, IN, 46614 (219-299-0352).

H.G. offers 25mm Old West building kits from about $25-$40. Someaccessories are also available (e.g., signs). These take awhile to finish, but are

gorgeous -- among the best looking Old West buildings available, in my

opinion. They are suitable for 25-28mm figures.

Historical Pursuits, P.O. Box 9462, Fayetteville, NC, 28311 (910-822-1813).

These folks make 25mm resin buildings; they do not have interiors, but are

extremely well done. Some of the Civil War buildings (e.g., outhouses) are

perfect for the Old West. These buildings are reviewed by Curt Murff in

MWAN 89. They are suitable for 25mm-28mm figures.

Howard Whitehouse, 312 Ridgecrest, LaFayette, GA, 30728. Howard

advertises a variety of scratch-built accessories for the old west, including a

Mexican hacienda, a gold mine, and rock formations (price about $25 and up). I

saw some of his terrain at a convention, and it looked great!

Kibri, HO scale buildings available from train shops (actually, I haven't seen

them in our local shop for awhile -- they could be out of business). This is an



extensive line of Old West buildings which are perfect for 20mm figures, and

suitable for 15mm figures. They are traditional plastic model kits, and look

excellent when finished and painted.

London War Room, 41 Beverly Hills Loop, Petal, MS, 39465. While I have

not seen their work, they advertise 25mm buildings including Western stores, a

saloon, and others ($50 and up). These buildings are described as accessible andplayable.

Musket Miniatures, P.O. Box 1976, Broomfield, CO, 80038-1976 (303-439-

9336). Send $2 for catalog. Musket makes 15mm American Civil War and Old

West resin and metal buildings and accessories, including wagons and cacti.

These are very nicely done, with excellent detail. They work very well with

15mm figures.

Pass of the North (see figures for address) offers 25mm scale cacti -- saguaro,barrel, and prickly pear. These are available finished for $2-$8, and are

described as "the hit of Historicon".

Peter Pig (see address under miniatures). In addition to their figure line, Peter

Pig makes an extensive line of buildings and accessories in 15mm scale. The

buildings are relatively well detailed (no interiors); accessories are very

extensive, and include a train. They work very well with 15mm figures.

Signifier, 2001 E. Lohman, Suite 149, Las Cruces, NM, 88001 (505-525-2378).Signifier offers 15mm and 25mm scale flags, including U.S. cavalry, Custer,

and Buffalo Soldiers flags. Send an SASE for a listing, or $3 for a catalog.

These are excellent flags, with brilliant colors, and to my knowledge are the

only flags available specifically for this period. Hal Thinglum reviews Signifier

flags in MWAN 91, and states that they are "highly recommended"; I agree.

Snapdragon Studios, 3, Norleaze, Heywood, N. Westbury, Wiltshire, BA13,

4LQ, UK. They offer 25mm resin Wild West building facades. They were

reviewed by David Barnes in MWAN 83; while I have not seen them, theysound very nice.

Tactical Conflict Systems, 545 Newport Drive, Suite 155, Pawtucket, RI,

02861 (401-437-9820). Send $1 for catalog. This is a very extensive line of

25mm Old West buildings and accessories made of hard plaster (I believe) and

metal. There is a variety of buildings to choose from (including a Cowtown

series and a saloon). The buildings are well-detailed, with open interiors for the

most part. You can add windows, staircases and other details; in fact, many of



the buildings are modular, and you can combine different pieces to make a

customized town. They take awhile to assemble and finish, but look great! The

accessories include fences and outhouses. Price range is about $4 to $50.

Favorably reviewed by Hal Thinglum in MWAN #86 and #91. They work well

with 25-28mm figures.

Wild Walls, available from hobby shops; manufactured by Sci-Fi Supply(address unknown). These are 25mm scale thin plastic building kits. A barn,

jail, log cabin, and saloon are available. These are relatively well-detailed and

inexpensive, but require a fair amount of work (including cutting out the parts

of the building) to finish, and will blow away in a stiff breeze. Still, they look

good when finished!

A Note on Trains

There are several train sets that can be used to add a nice touch to a game, oreven help you recreate a train robbery! HO scale trains work very well with

20mm figures, and (in my opinion) work well with 15's as well. The "Old

Timer" by Bachman is a very nice HO scale train. O scale trains fit perfectly

with 28mm figures, though they are hard to find (and expensive) for this period.

A couple of Lionel 4-4-0 engines, the General and the engine from the Virginia

and Truckee 1988 Service Station Set, are ideal, and can still be found at train

shows; there are also train cars from Lionel that are suitable. Since these are too

pricey for many gamers who are not also railroad enthusiasts, a cheap

alternative is the battery powered trains that come out in droves aroundChristmas; but can often be found at Toys-R-Us throughout the year. While

these are a bit large even for 28mm, and may not be the most realistic, they can

work quite nicely, and typically cost around $25-$30 (less in after Christmas

sales).

Old West Part Two: the Rules

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Gaming the Old West

in MiniaturePart Two: The Rules

By Rob Lusk

Old West Part One: Issues, Figures and Accessories

Welcome back, pardners! Here is the second part of my article on Old Westminiatures gaming. In the first article (which appeared in MWAN #94), 1

discussed some of the issues that arise in gaming this period, and reviewed

some of the figures and accessories available. In this article, I will provide an

overview of published Old West rules sets that I am aware of. I will also briefly

discuss some of the factors that I feel should be considered in designing or

evaluating rules for this period.

I would like to stress that I am really providing overviews of rules sets rather

than reviews per se. I will attempt to give the reader a good idea of themechanics and important aspects of the rules, without a lot of critical analysis.

If someone publishes a rules set for a period I love, I'm not going to be too

critical! I have used the same overview format for most of the rules in order to

allow for comparability; these are the features that I feel are most important in

evaluating an Old West rules set. While I have playtested many of these rules, I

haven't tried all of them, so I apologize in advance if I have not represented

them accurately.

There are a number of sources for Old West rules these days. One of the best isMWAN; as you will see, many of these rules sets were published in MWAN,

and I learned about several others via ads. Another great source is MagWeb on

the Internet, which has several publications that contain Old West rules.

Locally, there are a few hobby shops that carry Old West rules, including some

out of print rules (e.g., The Game Room in Washington, IL, Bear Productions in

Champaign, IL, and Beyond Eternity in Peoria, IL); I imagine this is true for

game specialty shops throughout the country, especially those that have been

around for a while. I am always looking for other rules, and would be happy to



correspond with others who share an interest in this period. My E-mail is

[email protected]). Now, on with the rules!

Title: A Fistful of Lead, Miniature Wargaming in the Old West, A Quick &

Dirty Set of Rules

Author : Forrest Harris

Publish : the author; out of print but still available in a few Central Illinois gamestores

Date Published: 1993

Format/Pages: Spiralbound, 32 pages plus drawings of buildings, etc. that can

be cut out and used, plus play charts.

Cost: around $12

Focus/Setting: Small scale gunfights of either the historical or Hollywood

variety. Use of a judge is recommended; players' and judges' sections are

included.

Scale: Designed for 25mm figures (but can easily be adapted to other scales), 1:

1 figure to man ratio, ground scale is 1 " = 2 yards. Turns are five seconds long.

Troop Characteristics: Nerve, Marksmanship, Agility, Strength. Most vary from

0-100. Great descriptors included -- e.g., "Molasses in January" to "Greased

Lightning" for Agility. Percentile dice are rolled to generate these.

Action Sequence: Turns are five seconds long. Orders are written on a notepad

at the start of the turn; enough actions are recorded to fill the five seconds. The

judge calls out first second actions, then second, etc. If two actions occur during

the same second that could affect each other (e.g., a shootout), both figures roll

Agility to see who goes first. Lists of allowable actions are provided, as well as

the number of seconds they take. Figures may also react to others' actions (there

are a limited number of options here).

Movement: Simple, fixed movement system, based on type of move (e.g., walk

4" in two seconds).

Missile Fire: Figures roll percentile dice to achieve a target number based on

range and weapon type (with modifiers) -- shots can wound or kill. Ammo is

tracked. Wounds are rolled on a chart to determine location and effect.

Melee: The attacker rolls percentile dice based on Strength (with modifiers).

The defender rolls percentiles based on Strength on another table to determine

additional modifiers to the attacker's roll. This can result in no effect, or being

knocked down, subdued, or killed.

Morale: Nerve must be rolled before a figure makes his first shot, when a figure

is shot at, before attempting to shoot a figure with greater Nerve, or when an

enemy with Nerve at least as good as yours within 6" spits or glares.

Other Features: The judge's section has good advice on how to run games,

character creation, objectives, and setting. A sample scenario is included, as

well as sample characters (both historical and Hollywood variety).



Evaluation: The rules are clear, relatively concise (the rules themselves really

only take up about 11 pages; the rest is scenarios, etc.), and have a very tense,

realistic feel to them. Highly recommended for very small games (no more than

two figures per player).

Also of interest is Forrest's interactive Old West adventure called "The Devil's

Addition," which is like a novel but allows the reader (as the main character) tochoose different options and determine their consequences with the aid of dice.

This is very entertaining and very highly recommended. Available from

Knuckleduster Publications, P.O. Box 1024, Normal, IL, 61761.

Title: Bleeding Kansas, Skirmish Wargame Rules, 1850-1890 Author:

Kenneth M. Van Pelt

Publisher : Lion's Den Wargames; available in some game specialty shops

Date Publisher : 1995

Format/Pages: Good quality paper in plastic sheet cover; eight pages plus areference sheet on cardstock.

Cost: Available for $5 from LDW, 1205 Allendale Drive, Greenwood, MO,

64034

Focus/Setting: Small scale skirmishes of the historical or Hollywood variety.

Scale: Suitable for 15, 20, 25 or 54mm figures on a 1: 1 figure to man ratio (a

pace is anywhere from 1 cm to 1 inch). Time scale is "a small elastic unit of

measure."

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se, but five types of figures

(Novice, Average, Veteran, Elite, or Hero).Action Sequence: The turn sequence is randomized, using either cards assigned

to figures or an initiative roll. There are simple but comprehensive options for a

unit's actions.

Movement : Move allowance is determined by a figure's beginning and ending

stance (from 2-12 paces).

Missile Fire: Shooting uses d10's with modifiers. Figures that are hit must make

a saving throw or are wounded; rules are included for variable wounds based on

the type of figure (Novice, Average, Veteran, Elite, or Hero). Rules are also

included to carry wounds over from game to game if desired.

Melee: Combat uses dl O's in an opposed roll with modifiers; the difference

between rolls determines the result.

Morale: Not a factor.

Other Features: Rules for ambushes and surprise are included.

Evaluation: I found these rules a little confusing at times, but overall they are a

very good set for smaller scale skirmishes. Very playable. Highly

recommended.



Title: Boot Hill

Author: Brian Blume and Gary Gygax

Publish : TSR (out of print)


Format/Pages: Printed cardstock cover, 34 pages plus a cardstock reference

sheet, illustrated.

Cost: around $5 originally (quite a bit more now)

Focus/Setting: Wild west gunfights and campaigns. Basic and advanced game

rules are included.

Designed for 25-30mm figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. One turn = 10 seconds,

one inch = six feet.

Characteristics: Speed, Accuracy, Bravery, Strength (with 8-13 subcategories in

each). Action Sequence: Each player Moves in turn, then Shooting, then

Brawling. The advanced game has simultaneous movement.

Movement: A fixed distance, with modifiers (e.g., run 24"). The advanced game

adds vehicles.

Missile Fire: Roll on a First Shot Chart to determine who gets the first shot (as

applicable), modified by speed, weapon type, and surprise factors. Base chance

to hit is 50% ñ modifiers. There are two hit location methods, a fast method

(roll percentiles to determine if wound is Light, Serious, or Mortal), and an

exact hit location method with a variety of wound effects. The advanced game

adds fire during movement, and other optional rules.

Melee: Choose punch or grapple. Roll 2d6 + modifiers and consult a table for

the results.

Morale: Optional advanced rules for minor characters. Roll percentiles +

modifiers; must roll < Bravery or "act to avoid the confrontation."Other Features: Rules for miscellaneous characters, rules for sharpshooting,

stuns, intoxication, gambling, dynamite, misfires, stray bullets, artillery, simple

campaign rules, two scenarios, prices/wages, town diagrams, and suggested

readings.

Evaluation: A classic game. The mechanics are a bit too complex in places, but

some great ideas. Highly recommended. (Note that subsequent versions are role-

playing games, but still have some great source material, and can be found more

easily.)

Title: Bullets & Boots, Wild West Shootout Miniatures Game Rules

Author : Steve Carroll

Published: Appeared in MWAN #83


Format/Pages: Five pages

Cost: Included in MWAN

Focus/Setting: Small scale gunfights of the Hollywood variety.



Designed for 25mm. figures with 2-4 figures per player, 1: 1 figure to man

ratio. Time and ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se, but three grades of figures:

Veteran types, Lesser Gunfighter types, and Women/children/elderly.

Action Sequence: These rules use a card activation system. Figures act when

their card is drawn, and get 2-8 actions per turn based on the type of action,

type of figure and a d20 die roll divided by three (e.g., moving 2" = one action,

shooting or fighting = two actions).

Movement: 2" per action.

Missile Fire: Simple but creative system for determining hits and wounds

simultaneously. A detailed wound location table is included. Characters can

take multiple wounds in body parts (noted on character sheets, which are

included for photocopying). Ammo is tracked.

Melee: Opponents dice off using a d20 with modifiers. The loser takes one hit.


Other Features: Whimsical special rules are included (e.g., for Dusty the Dog).

Evaluation: Overall these are a fun set of rules for small scale skirmishes.

Recommended.

Title: Cowboys N' Indians

Author: Paul Arden Lidberg

Publish : Crunchy Frog Enterprises


Format/Pages: Two pages (I found it on the Internet)

Cost: free with Internet access.

Focus/Setting: A very simple but fun format for skirmishes with a bag or two of

cheap plastic 54mm cowboys and Indians. A game with around 15 figures per

side takes about 30 minutes.

Designed for 54mm plastic figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground

scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: No individual characteristics. Cowboys and Indians are

the two troop types.

Action Sequence: (1) Roll Initiative with d6 -- the high roller chooses who goes

first. The player to their left goes second, etc. (2) Move. (3) Combat. (4) Dead

Guy Clean Up. Movement: Cowboys move one paper edge (8 1/2"), Indians

move two paper edges (17"), Horses and Wagons move three paper edges (25

1/2").

Missile Fire: Range = one paper edge (8.5"). Roll 1d6 per figure. Cowboys hit

on odds, Indians on even rolls. Cowboys can move and fire, Indians cannot.

Troops in cover are hit on a 5-6. Hits eliminate the target.

Melee: Same as missile fire.

Morale: Not a factor. Other Features: Four brief scenarios are presented.



Evaluation : A great introduction to more formal gaming for young people or

for a fun "back to basics" game. Could easily be run at a convention. Highly

recommended for its elegant simplicity.

Title: Cowboyz

Author: Mitru Costea III

Publish : Appeared in MWAN #71Date Published: 1994

Format/Pages: Three pages


Focus/Setting: Simple but effective rules for small scale gunfights of the

Hollywood variety.

Scale: Designed for 25mm. figures (can easily be modified for other scales), 1:

1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Each figure has statistics for Shooting, Melee, and

Speed.

Action Sequence: Each figure's statistics are written on a card, and these cards

are shuffled. The cards are drawn one at a time, and the figure whose card is

drawn acts. There are also special event cards (e.g., take an extra turn) that are

rolled for during each action (1/6 chance of getting one). Examples of these are

given, but the gamemaster must make up the rest.

Movement: A figure can run twice per game at 9", 10", or 11 " depending on its

Speed. Otherwise, figures can move half this distance per turn.

Missile Fire: Shooting uses a d6 roll with modifiers. Hit locations are rolled for,

as well as the effects of hits. Ammunition is tracked.

Melee: Both opponents roll a D6 + the figure's Melee value. The high score

wins; ties are rerolled. The winner decides the fate of the loser.


Other Features: Special event cards (see Action Sequence above).

Evaluation: These rules are well written and work very well for games with up

to about 12 figures. I really like the use of the action deck and the event cards.

Note that in MWAN #8 1, David Barnes reports on a gunfight using these rules,

and recaps most of the rules themselves. This is an excellent account of the

game, and gives a great feel for how it is played. Highly recommended.

Title: Death on the Prairie, Man to Man Combat on the Western Plains (1860-

1890)

Author: Martin Fenelon

Publisher: Appeared in MWAN #42

Date Published : 1989

Foemat/Pages: 16 pages




Focus/Setting: Recreates small unit actions (U.S. Army vs. Indians); according

to the author, it is a "light hearted simulation of small unit warfare on the

western plains."

Uses a 1: 1 figure to man ratio and 10 second turns. Written for 25mm figures,

but can be modified for other scales. Ground scale is I inch = approximately 4

yards.

Troop Characteristics: Figures have ratings in six different skills (Fire, Melee,

Morale, Strength, Speed, and Aim).

Action Sequence: Cards or chits with unit names on them are drawn each turn,

and when a unit comes up, it gets one action. A variety of actions are available.

Movement: Fixed distances based on type of movement (e.g., move 6" on foot),

with modifiers due to Speed.

Missile Fire: Shooting uses a base chance plus range and other modifiers plus a

d20; the effect ranges from a graze to killed.

Melee: For melee, roll a d2O + Melee value + weapon rating + other modifiers.

The effect ranges from a graze to killed.

Morale: Morale is an important factor in this game; units roll a d10 with

modifiers. The morale rules work quite well, in my opinion.

Other Features: There are a number of optional rules, including tracking ammo,

night engagements, tracking, character advancement, and an appendix on U.S.

military organization.

Evaluation: A very nicely done rule set, clearly written, and works very well

with small scale battles. Very highly recommended.

Title: Desperado, Skirmish Gaming in the Old West

Author: Tom Kelly and "The Posse"

Publisher : The authors; available in many game specialty shops

Date Published : 1992

Format/Pages: Spiralbound, cardstock cover, 22 pages plus play chart.

Cost: around $8

Focus/Selling: Desperado is a "lighter" rules set for 1-2 gunfighters per player

to recreate gunfights of the Hollywood variety.

Scale: Designed for 25mm figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground


Troop Characteristics: No individual characteristics for troops.

Action Sequence: You start by compiling a deck of cards with each figure's

name; each figure has from 2-5 cards depending on the figure type. Figures act

when one of their cards comes up. Actions include move, fire, move and fire (at

a minus), do nothing, reload (and walk), and move/mount/ride (and fire at a big

minus).

Movement: Movement is randomized -- players roll a number of d6 that

depends on the type of move (1d6 for crawling to 5d6 for mounted galloping).



Players must declare their move before rolling, so it is possible to get stuck out

in the open. A figure can only run two moves in a row.

Missile Fire: Shooting is percentile based, depending on the range and

applicable modifiers. If a figure hits, the player rolls percentile dice for hit

location and effects. When a figure reaches 100 damage points (or rolls a fatal

result), they are removed. Ammunition must be tracked. Figures can call out

other figures for a showdown; if it is accepted, both move into the street and

fire simultaneously at each other.

Melee: For combat, each figure rolls a d6 with modifiers; the high roll wins and

determines the result (from run away to killed).

Morale: Optional morale rules are included; these are used when a figure is shot

or called out (2d6 are rolled and modifiers are added).

Other Features: Suggested scenarios, character names, and optional rules for

dynamite, fire, and using animals are included.

Evaluation: Desperado is a very fun, fast playing rule set. These are very good

rules for conventions and a fun diversion from hard core gaining. There are a

few ambiguous spots, but they are easy enough to resolve. This is one of the

most popular Old West rule sets available, and with good reason. Very highly

recommended.

Title: Desperado II

Author: Tom Kelly

Publisher: Tom Kelly; available in many game specialty shops


Format/Pages: Spiralbound, 28 pages.

Cost: around $7

Focus/Setting: This is a supplement for Desperado. I will skip to Other Features

to describe it.

Other Features: A quiz about famous lines from Westerns, rules for

showdowns, clarification on calling someone out, extra movement cards (e.g.,

trains, stagecoaches), leader cards (units can use these to move as a unit), agility

rolls, stampedes, burning buildings, breaking down doors, opportunity fire,

using an umpire, 10 scenarios (excellent variety), and an updated list of Old

West game supplies.

Evaluation: Most (if not all) of these rules are worth using, and add to the game

without slowing it down significantly. The scenarios are very well done. Highly

recommended.

Title: Dog Soldiers: Not Too Fussy Injun Fighting Rules

Author: Mark Hannam

Published: Appeared in The Gauntlet #9




Format/Pages: Four pages.

Cost: Included in The Gauntlet

Focus/Setting: U.S. Army versus Indians (actually created to refight the

engagement between Col. Gibson and the Indians at Big Hole). Most figures are

organized into stands of 3-6.

Scale: For 25mm figures, 1 inch = 1 yard; for 15mm. figures, 1 cm = 1 yard. 1:

1 figure to man ratio. Time scale not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Uses EDNA, a numerical indicator of morale/fatigue/will

to fight/guts, which can rise and fall during the game. In the scenario, the

EDNA for the army is 7, scouts 8, and Indians 6. When EDNA reaches 2 the

unit is eliminated.

Action Sequence: Each stand is allotted a playing card shuffled into a deck.

When the card is drawn, the stand performs an action. Mounted troops get an

extra action for every third card drawn. Actions: fire, move, mount, dismount,

melee.

Movement: Base move is EDNA + d6 yards; can charge an additional d6

inches. Mounted move adds +one averaging die. Mounted charge/gallop =

EDNA + averaging die + Leadership for U.S. Army, EDNA + two averaging

dice for Indians.

Missile Fire: U.S. Army carries 9 rounds of ammo per figure, which must be

tracked. Roll 2d6 per Army stand, +1d6 if an officer uses his Leadership bonus.

Indians and Scouts roll 3d6. U.S. Army fires one or two rounds per turn

(Indians fire one round). To hit, the score from any two dice chosen from all

rolled must be < the current EDNA or the number of rounds fired, whichever is

lower (-1 die for cover). Hits cause modifiers to the target's die rolls, EDNA, or

can kill.Melee: Both sides roll < EDNA as for firing, +one die for each figure the

enemy is outnumbered by. Can lower EDNA or kill up to two enemies.

Morale: Must roll < EDNA on d6 to move out of cover or charge. Officers can

add a die roll. Must roll:5 EDNA to face a charge (with modifiers) or fall back.

You must also roll < EDNA during subsequent rounds of combat or pull out.

Other Features: None included.

Evaluation: The unique use of EDNA for Old West rules is interesting and

gives a realistic feel in larger games. Relatively simple, straightforward rules.

Highly recommended.

Title: Fire and Steel, Skirmish Wargames Rules 1700-1900 (Old West section)

Author: Mark Evans and Dave Wilson

Publisher: Wargames Research Group; available at many game specialty shops.

Date Publisher: March 1996

Format/Pages: Professionally printed color cover, 31 pages plus a page of

counters to be cut out.



Cost: around $14

Focus/Setting: Covers a broad historical period, but includes a Hollywood style

gunfight scenario. Best for small skirmishes, with around eight figures per side.



Troop Characteristics: Each figure has a skill level that ranges from 1-3.

Further, they can have a 1 or 2 on morale rolls or to hit in combat or with

missile weapons.

Action Sequence: Draw cards or chits for each figure (can have units act

together in larger games). Get three actions (Impulses). Can move, fire, reload,

and perform other actions. There are Move and Combat phases.

Movement: 3" on foot, 5" mounted, with modifiers. Can fire during the Move

phase if have previously placed an Aim marker.

Missile Fire: Roll a d6 + Skill level + Weapon/Range Factor (from a table) ñ

modifiers. Find the resulting number on a table; the result can be no effect, a

morale check, or a Type 1-3 hit (roll again to determine if you have just taken a

wound or are removed from play). Figures are automatically removed when

they have taken three wounds. Figures go in the order of their Initiatives. If you

have taken an action to Aim, you can shoot at any time.

Melee: Roll Initiative on d6 + modifiers, go in order (from highest to lowest).

Roll d6 + skill level ñ modifiers. The rest is the same as missile fire.

Morale: Roll d6 + modifiers when a figure takes a wound or as otherwise

directed. Can be pushed back, go to ground, or be okay. Gain Morale Markers

for failing morale checks. These mean you can only go to cover, run away, or

surrender while you have them. You lose one at the end of each turn.

Other Features: Rules for hidden moves, standard troop types, examples ofplay, explosives, machine guns, scenario design, and a number of scenarios

including a gunfight.

Evaluation: Well written, these rules play well and have a realistic feel. Highly

recommended.

Title: Garry Owen, Wargames Rules for American Indian Wars

Author: Paul Beck

Publisher: Frontier Miniatures (no longer in print, but still available at some

conventions)

Date Published: Unknown

Format/Pages: Cardstock cover, 26 pages.

Cost: around $5

Focus/Setting: These rules cover the Indian Wars from 1865-1890. There is a

nice seven page introduction which describes the U.S. Army and Indian tribes

in some detail.

Scale: Written for 15mm figures, and use a 1:5 figure to man ratio. A cavalry



troop consists of 12 figures, an infantry company is 16 figures, and an Indian

warband is 20 figures. Time and ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Troops have a Weapon Ability from 1-4 depending on

troop type and whether they are mounted or dismounted.

Action Sequence: Movement, Artillery Fire, Regular Fire, Melee, Morale,

Rally. Movement and missile fire are simultaneous (although I find that it is

very difficult for players to truly move simultaneously when another player has

troops nearby -- it is too tempting to react to each other).

Movement: There are two movement rates: regular and charge (e.g., 10" and

15" respectively cavalry). There is a good system for mounting and

dismounting.

Missile Fire: Shooting uses a formula: [# figures firing x (maximum range -

distance fired) x Weapon Ability] divided by 100 = number of kills (modifiers

for cover subtract from the number of kills). If there is a remainder, roll this

number or less on percentile dice to get an additional hit. Simple rules for

artillery are included. Ammunition is limited and must be tracked.

Melee: In combat, each side rolls a d6, and adds their weapon's value (from 1-5)

and modifiers. The high roller kills their opponent.

Morale: Morale is rolled when casualties occur based on the number of figures

lost -- the greater the number, the more likely a unit is to rout. In addition,

troops must roll for control when they get close to the enemy. A unit may do

what they want, charge, stay put, or even retreat, depending on the roll.

Other Features: Historical scenarios are included, as well as supplementary

rules (e.g., for civilians).

Evaluation: Overall, a fast-paced, fun set of rules. The missile fire formula is a

bit too complex for my tastes, but works okay. Highly recommended.

Great Rail Wars, The

Author: Shane Hensley

Publisher : Pinnacle Entertainment Group; available in many game specialty

shops


Format/Pages: Boxed set with 80 page rulebook, 16 page army book (with troop

types), 33 Troop Cards, counters, templates, 17 nicely sculpted pewter figures,

dice, 35 plastic Fate Chips, and four cardstock Western buildings.

Professionally printed.

Cost: around $60

Focus/Setting: Set in the year 1876 in an alternate history where magic,

monsters, undead, and advanced steam tech exist. These were voted Best

Miniatures Rules at Origins '98, and can be played using only historical

characters/units if desired, so I decided to include them.

Designed for 25-30mm figures, 1:1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground scales



are not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Strength, Smarts, Vigor, Shootin', Fightin', and Guts.

Each has a dice type associated with it (from d4 to d12, with d6 being average).

There are two target numbers for rolls -- Easy (4) and Hard (8). For example,

hitting at short range is Easy, while it is Hard at long range. If you get the

highest possible roll on a die, it is rerolled and added; in other words, if you roll

a 6 on a d6, you roll again and add the second roll; if it is a 6, you add both and

keep going. This creates some interesting probability-related issues (e.g., it

becomes easier to roll an 8 on a d6 than a d8), but seems to work well overall.

Action Sequence: Each player or side uses a poker deck to determine the action

sequence (count down from Ace). Units and individual figures have a Speed

factor that determines the number of cards drawn each turn (usually one for

units and two for heroes). Units/figures act when their card comes up. You can

hold one action and use it to interrupt another's action. Normally units can move

and fire.

Movement: 6" on foot, 15" mounted (with modifiers for terrain). If a figure

runs, it gets no other actions, but gains d6" on foot and d10" mounted. Rules for

unit coherency are included.

Missile Fire: The Shooting die is rolled, with the target number based on range

and modifiers. If you hit, the target rolls its Vigor. Depending on how much the

damage done exceeds this roll, the target is either Eatin' Dirt (prone until

recovers) or Put Down (out of the game). Rules for artillery and dynamite are

included.

Melee: Opponents roll Fightin'; if the attacker rolls higher than the defender, he

hits (proceed as in Missile Fire); otherwise there is no effect.

Morale: Under certain circumstances (e.g., excessive casualties), units mustmake Guts checks. If they fail, they become Shaken (-I to rolls) and may then

become Panicked if they fail a subsequent test.

Other Features: An interesting addition is the use of "Fate Chips" (you start

with three, and can earn more during the game), which are cashed in to improve

dice rolls. There are rules for horses, scenarios, victory conditions, experience

and advancement, strange occurrences (when Jokers are drawn), and detailed

rules for creating and advancing heroes. A couple of supplements are now out --

Derailed!, which includes rules for vehicles and a few rules additions; and A

Fist Full 0' Ghost Rock, which features a campaign plus some rules additions.More supplements are due shortly.

Evaluation: The rules are very well written in a campy Western style, clear,

relatively easy to learn, and a lot of fun! They are not really complex, but are

rich in detail. The fantasy/horror element and simplicity of some of the rules

(e.g., you can unlimber and fire a 6 lb. cannon in the same amount of time you

can fire a rifle once or a pistol twice) will put off many historical gamers, but

there are many great ideas here. Very highly recommended -- one of my

favorite games.



Gunfighters, Gamblers and Villains of the Old West

Author: Aldo, Ltd. (specific author unknown)

Publisher: Dixon Miniatures; available in some game specialty shops


Format/Pages: Printed on thick paper, seven pages.

Cost: around $4Focus/Setting: Old West gunfights of the Hollywood variety, using playing

cards instead of dice.

Scale: Designed for 25mm figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time scale not

specified. Ground scale is 1 cm = 1 meter.

Troop Characteristics: Characters have nine abilities that are generated using

playing cards. Compulsory abilities are Class, Agility, Strength, and Morale. Up

to five additional abilities can be chosen (e.g., Pistol, Hand-to-Hand Combat,

Rifle, Wagon Driving, Gambling). Figures can also use cards to get starting

money to buy equipment.Action Sequence: In gunfights, characters use playing cards to determine

movement order. The turn sequence is not specified outside of gunfights, but

can be created easily.

Movement: Fixed distance for crawl, walk, and trot (e.g., walk 5 cm). Fixed

distance plus a card pull for run, canter, and gallop.

Missile Fire: To hit, draw a card < the appropriate weapon factor, with

modifiers. If you hit, draw another card (with modifiers) for effect and location.

Melee: Same procedure as for missile fire.

Morale: If a figure is shot at or charged, draw a card -- must be < Morale, or thefigure runs and hides (face cards always fail).

Other Features: There are brief sections covering campaigns, jobs and income,

and costs of items.

Evaluation: The system for gunfights works well and maintains suspense.

Overall, these rules make a very good basis for a game, but you'll have to add

some of your own ideas to flesh them out and make them fully playable. Best

for games with relatively few figures due to the number of abilities per figure.

Recommended, particularly for some of the ideas.

Title: Hey You In The Jail!

Author: Martin Goddard (with additions by Henry Tremblay)

Publisher: Brookhurst Hobbies; also available in game specialty shops


Format/Pages: Spiralbound, cardstock cover, 24 pages.

Cost: Around $ 10

Focus/Setting: Rules for small unit-based battles (about 30-50 figures per side)

in the American West, 1850-1890. These rules allow for the use of a number of



different types of forces (rules for 10 are included). A unique feature is the use

of an "off table" game, played on a map grid, which influences the forces

available in the tabletop game. Can be used for both historical and Hollywood-

style skirmishes.

Designed for 15mm figures, but can be adapted to other scales. 1: 1 figure to

man ratio. Time and ground scales not specified. Figures are organized in

groups of three per base; leaders are individually based. The point system

included, as well as restrictions on certain types of forces, leads to well-

balanced sides. (Note that base sizes are specified, but when I playtested I didn't

use them, and I don't think it mattered much).

Troop Characteristics: Off table, some forces get bonuses to die rolls (e.g.,

Plains Indians get +1 on information and movement). Leaders have Command

Value.

Action Sequence: The off table game is quick and fim, involving both strategy

and luck. This game determines force sizes used in the tabletop game, as well as

the reinforcement arrival schedule. The author makes a point of suggesting that

gainers try this approach instead of just using the tabletop rules, and I agree that

it makes for a more interesting game. Initiative is rolled to determine who goes

first. Units alternate movement in the tabletop game.

Movement: Foot troops move 4"; mounted move 6"+d6"; wagons move 3"+d6"

at a gallop (which is risky).

Missile Fire: Shooting is simple, and uses d6s; units that are hit get a saving

throw. If they do not save, they are removed.

Melee: Similar to missile fire.

Morale: Test if a leader dies, a group is killed, or you are targeted by another

player. A nice system, which uses the leader's Command Value and the numberof groups in the command to determine a base number to roll. Then modifiers

are added, and a player must roll < this number to hit on a d6. If the roll fails,

the command becomes Pinned (cannot advance). If they fail again, they become

double-pinned and must retreat. They only improve one grade per turn.

Other Features: Victory points (gained for both the off table and tabletop game)

determine the winner and level of victory. Many optional special rules are

included (e.g., trains, dynamite).

Evaluation: These rules are very well written, with lots of color (e.g., a section

on good cliches is included). This is a very fun game, and works well for 15mm figures. The off table game adds a fascinating twist, and makes the tabletop

game more exciting; it forces players to use more strategy than a typical "shoot

'em up" game. These are currently my favorite rules for 15mm figures. Very

highly recommended.

Title: High Noon, Under Fire in the Wild West

Author: Maurice V. Holmes and Leo A. Walsh



Publisher: 1:1 Games, c/o TCS, 545 Newport Avenue, Suite 155, Pawtucket,

RI, 02861; also available in game specialty shops


Format/Pages: Cardstock cover, stapled, 40 pages plus cardstock play sheets,

wound cards, and counters.

Cost: around $12

Focus/Setting: These are highly detailed, intense rules for smaller gunfights (no

more than three figures per player are recommended); the rules have a realistic

feel to them.

Scale Written for 25min scale figures, but can be adjusted to other scales. 1: 1

figure to man ratio. One turn is 3-5 seconds. Ground scale is 1 inch = 6 feet.

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se, but activation chance (see

below) varies based on the type of figure -- from 10% (female civilian) to 35%

(bounty hunter).

Action Sequence: The turn system uses an alternating move sequence, but

figures must make an Activation roll to fire or light a dynamite ftise. This

results in some tense, exciting moments during gunfights.

Movement: There is a detailed movement system (the stance you use at the start

and end of your turn determines your maximum move).

Missile Fire: Shooting is percentile based, with a number of modifiers. Hits can

cause minor or serious wounds. Cards are included which are drawn to

determine wound effects; this is an ingenious system, and makes it easy to keep

track of wounds as well. Rules for suppression fire are included -- activation

chance and chance to hit are reduced when a figure is under fire. Ammo is

limited, and must be tracked.

Melee: Melee is also percentile based. Rolls (with modifiers) are compared firstto a chart, then to each other, and the difference determines the seriousness of

the wound.

Morale: No morale rules per se, but activation and suppressing fire mean

figures don't always do what you want them to.

Other Features: A variety of colorful rules are included, such as rules for

dynamite, dressing wounds, and statistics for many weapons. Historical and

Hollywood scenarios are included.

Evaluation: Overall, these rules are clear and very well written. This is a very

good set of rules for small scale skirmishes, though the often relatively smallpercentage chance of activation can be frustrating (albeit suspenseful). Due to

the high level of detail included, I'd limit games to a handful of figures. Highly

recommended.

Title: Hoka Hey! The Indians of the Plains, 1850-1890

Author: M. Goddard of Rules for the Common Man

Publisher : Rules for the Common Man (I got my copy from Modeler's Mart



years ago; it appears they are out of print).


Format/Pages: Stapled, eight pages plus cardstock play sheet.

Cost: unknown

Focus/Setting: For recreating small battles of the Plains Indian Wars. These

rules were written for 15mm figures (base sizes are specified), but are easily

converted to 25mm. They are intended for games with about 30 figures per side.

1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: There are three main troop types: Veteran, Average, and

Raw. Point costs for each type are included (a nice feature).

Action Sequence: There is a system for initial placement of troops and starting

the game. A chart is used to determine terrain. The last turn of the game is

determined by rolling 2d6 each turn; if a 10-12 is rolled, a further d6 is rolled to

determine the number of turns remaining. There is a victory point table to

determine the winner. The actual turn sequence is never specified, as far as I

could determine; either a card-based or move-countermove by unit system

works well.

Movement: Movement is relatively simple and straightforward; troop types

have a fixed move. Base foot move is 3", and mounted move is 6". Missile Fire:

When a figure fires, it rolls 2d6; the basic firing factor is the difference between

the two dice. Modifiers are added or subtracted; scoring above a certain number

wounds or kills the target.

Melee: Each figure type has a melee points value -- the figure with the highest

value gets a die roll for each point greater than his opponent. If you roll a 6 you

have wounded your opponent; two wounds kills an opponent.

Morale: Rules for counting coup and morale (if a figure takes a wound or anearby ftiendly figure dies) are included.

Other Features: There are some interesting rules for using cannons, ambushes,

rivers, trains, stagecoaches, fire arrows, heroes, and wild animals. Finally, a few

scenarios are included.

Evaluation: These are straightforward, fast playing rules. While the mechanics

are simple, they are relatively comprehensive. Highly recommended.

Title: Hollywood Western for Wargamers

Author: Henry Thomson

Publish : Appeared in MWAN #92


Format/Pages: Seven pages.

Cost: Included in MWAN.

Focus/Setting: Written for large scale skirmishes of the Hollywood Western

variety. A specific scenario is presented, but the game can be adapted to others.

Uses U.S. cavalry, militia and sheriff, a wagon train and cattle, miners,



stagecoaches, a hero (the player must be 18 or younger to encourage younger

players to join in -- a nice idea), settlers, U.S. infantry, Indians (not controlled

by players), bandits, outlaws, etc.

Scale: Designed for 15 min figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground

scales not specified. Uses LOTS of figures (e.g., 250 mounted Indians, 150

Indians on foot).

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se, but different troop types have

different moves, shooting, and melee dice.

Action Sequence: Each player gets a reinforcement card and a special event

card; then player movement occurs; then Indian reinforcements and entering

locations are rolled for; then Indian reactions are rolled for on a table (using

2d6); then missile fire; and finally, melee.

Movement: Movement is a variable number of d3 or d6, depending on the troop

type and terrain; Indian movement is fixed at 6" on foot and 12" mounted;

modifiers are applied.

Missile Fire: Two tables are consulted. The first tells the number of d6's to roll

per a certain number of figures/stands, depending on the troop type, range, and

cover. The second tells the chance to hit or force back your target.

Melee: Similar to missile fire.

Morale: No morale rules are included (but Indian reactions are rolled for).

Other Features: Rules are included for reinforcements, ambushes, Indian

reactions, and humorous special events (e.g., army units can run out of beans

and must return to the fort). Victory conditions and rules for the hero's wounds

are also included.

Evaluation: The rules are a bit confusing at times, but have some great, colorful

ideas. This would be a very good convention game. Recommended.

Title: Let Chaos Reign

Author: Gerald Quinn

Published: Appeared in MWAN #85


Format/Pages: One page

Included in MWAN.

Focus/Setting: Can be used for a variety of Old West skirmishes of the

Hollywood variety with a fairly large number of figures.

Designed for 25 or 15mm figures. 1:1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground


Troop Characteristics: No troop characteristics per se, but troop type affects

movement and adds modifiers to melee.

Action Sequence: Card based turns are used for movement and fire. Each side

has one move card, one fire card, and one shuffle card which are placed in a

deck and drawn to determine who can do what, and when the deck must be



reshuffled.

Movement: Movement is randomized; dice are rolled to determine distance,

with a greater number of dice for mounted troops and Indians.

Missile Fire: Shooting is simple, with a d6 rolled and modifiers added. Hits

automatically kill.

Melee: Both figures in melee roll a dl 0 with modifiers; high roll kills the

opponent. Ties are rerolled.


Other Features: Rules for artillery are included.

Evaluation: These are very simple but fun (and bloody!) rules. Because they are

so short, some situations require improvisation, but overall this makes for a

great game with a fairly large number of figures. Highly recommended.

Title: Long Knives

Author: Jim Birdseye

Published: Greenfield Hobby Distributors (out of business); still available in a

few game specialty shops


Format/Page.a: Paperbound, professionally printed color cover, 28 pages.

Cost: around $5

Focus/Setting: The Pony Wars; there is an excellent five page historical

introduction included.

Designed for 25mm figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Ground scale is one inch

equals four yards; one turn equals 20 seconds.

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se, but unit type (Civilian,

Cavalry, Indian, Scout, or Cowboy) determines number of action cards,

movement, morale rolls, and other modifiers.

Action Sequence: Actions are card-based, with 1-3 cards in a deck per unit

(depending on the type of unit). Each unit gets two actions per card (e.g., move

and fire or fire twice). Movement: Movement is determined based on rolling

different numbers of d6 (e.g., mounted cavalry roll 3d6), and moving this many

inches. This creates some appropriate disorder on the field, but I was a little

disappointed when my cavalry moved a whopping 3" one turn, and watched

some infantry race past them.

Missile Fire: Firing uses a percentile system, with the target number based on

the weapon used, range, and relevant modifiers (e.g., cover). If you hit, you roll

again to see if the target is wounded, pinned, or killed. There are optional rules

given for tracking ammunition.

Melee Two rounds are fought each turn. Opponents both roll a d6 and add

modifiers. If you hit, you roll again to see if your opponent is wounded, pinned,

or killed.

Morale: Morale can be an important factor in this game, and is rolled using I d6



with modifiers. Tests are made when a unit is charging or being charged, or

takes 10% casualties. Test results range from no effect to stand in place to rout

to 50% of the units commits suicide.

Other Features: Another important factor in the game is determining visibility

of hidden Indian units due to ambushes; this certainly adds to the suspense

level. An optional move sequence is provided (which I prefer).

Evaluation: A sample game is presented, and great examples are provided

throughout the text. This is a very well-written and fun game, and plays well

with up to about 20 figures per player. Many of the game mechanics are simple

but elegant. This game is best suited to U.S. Army vs. Indian skirmishes.

Highly recommended.

Title: Old West Skirmish Rules, 1816-1900

Author: Steve Curtis, Mike Blake, and Ian Colwill

Publisher: Newbury Rules; available in some game specialty shops

Date Published: Originally 1970; 4th edition in 1990.

Format/Pages: Originally published in one rulebook; later in two. Part I (basic

rules) is 48 pages plus a cardstock reference sheet. Part II (additional and

optional rules) is 40 pages and includes cardstock Showdown cards.

Cost: around $15.

Focus/Setting: Apply to a variety of Old West settings with relatively few

figures involved. The emphasis is on realism and detail.

Scale: Originally designed for 54mm figures, but can be used with figures as

small as 15mm. They state that you can have up to 50 figures per side, but I'd

recommend far fewer. 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Regarding ground scale, one

inch = one yard for 54mm; one cm = 1 yard for 20-25mm.

Troop Characteristics: Three troop types -- Novice, Average, and

Professional/Veteran. Points values for each type are included (along with

values for weapons and horses). Abilities range from 1-10 in Hand-to-Hand

Combat, Revolver, Rifle, Bow, Throwing, Lariat/Whip, Horsemanship, and

Draw Speed.

Action Sequence: Games are divided into Phases, which represent "a very short

period of time." Orders are written on a record sheet for each phase, followed

by target nomination, movement, fire, melee, observation tests, and reactions. A

number of possible actions are specified with the number of Phases needed for

each.

Movement: Rate and direction are written on orders. A simple system for foot

movement is included (e.g., walk 1.5 yards per phase). Mounted movement is

more complex, and involves different rates of deceleration and turning based on

rider type. There is lots of terrain differentiation with various effects and risks

involved (e.g., getting stuck in the mud).

Missile Fire: There are two main types of shooting -- Snap firing and Aimed



fire (which takes longer but gives better accuracy). There are rules for fanning

and cover fire. Information on a large number of weapons is included. The

chance to hit is a percentile roll based on the range, target status, and modifiers.

The to hit roll is cross-referenced with the chance to hit on another table to

determine the type of wound. There is an extensive discussion of cover types

and effects.

Melee: Cross reference the attacker's weapon with the defender's weapon to

determine the percentile chance to hit. Then apply modifiers. If one man hits, he

causes a wound; if both hit, no wound is caused. Type of wound is determined

as described above in Missile Fire.

Morale: Reactions are an important factor. They refer to a momentary pause,

for the most part, before you can act again or respond to something that just

happened. They are fastest for Professionals, and slowest for Novices.

Other Features: Part I includes rules for falling, hidden moves, visibility and

observation, and showdowns. Part II has many additional features, including

marksmanship, more rules for wounds, medical treatment and recovery,

drunkards, fire and explosions, brawling, expanded showdown rules (actually a

mini-game called "The Fastest Gun"), using bodies of water/boats/ships,

combat on boats/ships, trains, roping and whipping, animals, gaining experience

(for a campaign), adding personality characteristics (Bravery, Intelligence,

Disposition, Reliability, Morale), civilians/bystanders, and buildings.

Evaluation: Some great ideas, but too many contingencies have been taken into

account, in my opinion. Plays well if some of the details are ignored.

Recommended.

Title: Once Upon A Time In The West, Rules for gunfight wargames 1830-

1880

Author: Ian S. Beck and John D. Spencer

Publisher: Tabletop Gaines; available from Brookhurst Hobbies


Format/Pages: Cardstock cover, professionally printed. Includes a quick

reference sheet, and an "AGRO" -- Advanced Gunfight Recreation Disc (a

multi part cardstock disc that is used to determine chance to hit). The rules have

four categories of complexity; there are also four parts/booklets (three original

and one supplement). Part one (The Stage is Set) is 58 pages, and contains the

basic rules. Part two (The Plot Thickens) is 26 pages, and adds a number of

optional rules as well as "public participation" rules -- a simple, four page set

for conventions. Part three (With a Cast of Thousands) is 56 pages, and adds

abilities (Weapon, Mental, and Physical), a point system, lots of information on

weapons, "army lists" (mainly from movies and TV shows), and game

suggestions. Part four (The Return of Once Upon a Time in the West) is a

supplement authored solely by Ian Beck and is 48 pages. It contains rules for



role playing with characters, and includes rules for experience, characteristics

advancement, income, weather, ricochets, new weapons, new army lists, and

other information.

Cost: around $20 for parts 1-3, and $8.50 for part four.

Focus/Setting: Primarily gunfights of the Hollywood variety, but these are

adaptable to many situations.

Designed for 25min or 54mm figures using a 1: 1 figure to man ratio. One turn

= two seconds. Ground scale is 1cm = 1 yard for 25mm, 1" = one yard for

54mm.

Troop Characteristics: Depending on which aspects you use, there are a number

of variables that could be considered characteristics. These are primarily

grouped as Weapon, Mental, and Physical Abilities. There is a point system in

Part 3.

Action Sequence : Turns are divided into two Phases of one second each. There

is a large table of actions including the amount of time each takes using the

favored hand, unfavored hand, and both hands, as well as modifiers for wounds.

Movement: A simple system based on type of move (e.g., walk 4 yards per

phase).

Missile Fire: Four types of shots -- snap, deliberate, aimed, and panic. The

AGRO is used to determine percentage chance to hit and the effects of a hit.

The AGRO takes a LOT of variables into account and is exceedingly complex

to use (it was for me, anyway). There are rules for wound locations, four types

of wounds, various wound effects, and rules for recovery from wounds. This is

too much detail for my tastes.

Melee: Melee is percentile based and very complex. Start by determining the

"Combat Potential" of a figure. To illustrate how complex this is, here is aquote: "To find this, compare the Close Combat factor of the figure to the Close

Combat factor of the opponent. Subtract the lower from the higher and multiply

by 10. Add this to 80. The result is the potential of the figure with the highest

Combat factor." This can be allocated in different ways. Then, both opponents

write down how their potential is distributed, and apply the relevant modifiers.

There are additional optional rules as well. Finally, percentiles are rolled, and a

chart is consulted to determine effects.

Morale: A relatively complex system is included.

Other Features: Rules for the following are included: perception (e.g., "a cigarcan be smelt at a range of 10 yards in the open"), falling, impulse fire, duck

backs, fanning, horses and wagons, dogs, surrendering, explosives, and fast

draws. Many other areas are covered as well. As already mentioned, there is a

simple set of rules for conventions included in the main set.

Evaluation: Overall, these are by far the most complex Old West rules I've ever

encountered. In my opinion, they provide rules for many, many things that you

don't really need rules for. However, they provide some outstanding reference

material for those designing their own rules. Recommended.



Title: Pony Wars, or B Troop Ain't Coming Back

Author: Ian S. Beck Publisher: Tabletop Games; available from Brookhurst

Hobbies (or via E-mail from [email protected])


Format/Pages: Cardstock cover, 33 pages plus play sheet.

$9.50Focus/Setting: These rules are for VERY large scale games involving U.S.

troops, Indians, and civilians. The U.S. cavalry is clearly the Hollywood version

(and meant to be). All of the players are on one side, commanding U.S. troops

and civilians; the Indians' strength and moves are determined randomly. Pony

Wars can also be played solo due to this feature. The rules recommend that you

have more than 100 U.S. troops, more than 100 civilians, and more than 700 (!)

Indians available (not all are used, but can be in a game; I found the rules

workable with far fewer figures. I divided by up to 10 in some cases).

Scale: Designed for 15mm figures at a 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time andground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se, but troop type affects missile

fire, melee ability, and morale.

Action Sequence: Cards are drawn each turn from a deck with various numbers

of U.S. and Indian reinforcements, as well as ambush, liability, and special

cards (examples of cards are 20 hostiles, 10 troopers, wagon train, avalanche).

Movement: Movement is straightforward -- there are three rates per troop type

(normal, charge, and pursued). For example, infantry normally moves 6".

Missile Fire: Shooting is percentile-based, and the target number depends onthe type of firer, range, and target type. Ammo is tracked by unit/figure. Figures

that are hit are removed.

Melee: Melee is also percentile-based, and depends on who is

attacking/defending. Characters (e.g., Ringo, Dando, and The Lone Ranger) get

saving throws. Figures that are hit are removed.

Morale: Indians roll for reactions on 2d6; reactions vary by different situations,

with a number of interesting results. Civilians must also roll reactions, but can

be brought "under orders" by proximity to U.S. troops.

Other Features: There are colorful rules for characters, stagecoaches, wagon

trains, etc. Due to the reinforcement arrival system, the rules call for table edges

to be marked with numbers at different intervals. Information is provided on

how to make table edges and other scenery. (I used a diagram of the table to roll

for reinforcements, which worked well, so you don't really need to have the

numbers on the table.)

Evaluation: I don't think most of us will ever have all of the figures called for,

but the rules still work out relatively well on a smaller scale. Some quirky

things can happen with the random/table-driven arrival of troops, but overall



this is a fun game, creative and well written. Highly recommended.

Title: Red Indian Rules for The Sword & The Flame, by Frank Chadwick,

MWAN #20, p. 18. A brief overview of statistics to use with TSATF, which is a

fim, fast paced colonial rule set. Rules are not included for U.S. troops, but stats

for the British can be used. TSATF is a fun game, and the Indian wars make a

good adaptation for it.

Red Indian Uprising, Wild West Rules circa 1860-1890

Author: Tony Duckenfield

Publisher: Appeared in Practical Wargamer, "American Wars" special issue

Date Published: January/February issue, 1996

Format/Pages: Six pages, including campaign map, charts, and photos

Cost: Included in Practical Wargamer

Focus/Setting: U.S. Army versus Indians in the context of a campaign in which

one player is a U.S. Army General protecting the civilians, and other playerstake Indian tribes.

In the campaign, one move = one week, one figure = 10 men, and one map hex

= 5 miles. In the tabletop game, the figure to man ratio is 1: 10, the ground scale

is 1: 1000 (1 cin = 10 yards), and one turn is 2.5 minutes. The rules appear to be

designed for 25mm figures, but can be used with any scale with modifications.

Troop Characteristics: No characteristics per se. Troop types (e.g., for morale)

include Novice Army/Civilian, Experienced Army, Veteran Army, and Indian.

Troop type affects Movement, Fire, and Morale.

Action Sequence: Morale tests for status change, Army move, Indian move,Fire (simultaneous), Army morale, Indian morale, combat.

Movement: A fixed amount based on troop type and terrain type (e.g., 10 cm on

a track for infantry).

Missile Fire: The number of figures firing is divided by a number based on type

(Army or Indian/Civilian) and range that is looked up in a chart. For example,

at close range, Army divides by two, while Indians and civilians divide by

three. This gives the number of d6 to roll for casualties on a table that takes

amount of cover and range into account. For each casualty, a d6 is rolled on a

Casualty Category table to determine the effect of the wound (fatal, bad, or

light). Rules for Gatling guns and artillery are included.

Melee: Each figure in melee rolls a d6 with modifiers; if one combatant scores

two or more than his opponent, a d6 is rolled on a Casualty Category table to

determine the effect of the wound (fatal, bad, or light).

Morale: Tested when contact with the enemy is imminent, 20% of one's force is

lost in one move, and after each round of melee where you have suffered at

least 25% more casualties than your opponent. Indians and civilians roll a d6;

Army rolls an average die; this number is added to the unit's Morale Point. As



an example, the basic Morale Point of Experienced Army troops is 4. There are

a number of modifiers to this roll. The final result is looked up on the Morale

Effects Table, which determines what the unit will do (options are Stand, Halt,

Retire, Retreat, Rout, Advance, Charge).

Other Features: Rules for "tiredness" are included. A sample skirmish is also

included, which is very helpful in understanding the game mechanics.

Campaign rules are included, with rules for movement on the strategic map,

events, and Indian action cards. Rules for morale and victory conditions are

included.

Evaluation: The rules are well written and creative. My only concern is that

they are more complex than they need to be (some of the mechanics could be

simplified). The campaign rules sound like they would provide a nice

framework for skirmishes. Recommended.

Title: Skirmish Wargaming (Old West section)

Author: Donald Featherstone

Publish :Time Rover Press, 40124 Lone Oak Rd., Zion, IL 60099-9581;

available from Emperor's Headquarters

Date Published: 1995 (originally published 1975)

Format/Pages: Paperback, professionally printed, 128 pages. General rules are

10 pages, and the Old West section is 10 pages; there are many other periods

covered as well.

Cost: around $20

Focus/Setting: Gunfights in the late 1880's, but can be applied to other Old

West settings.

Scale: No specified figure size. 1: 1 figure to man ratio. One cm = one pace, one

phase is about five seconds. Ground scale can be modified as needed.

Troop Characteristics: Three types of men -- Veteran, Average, and Novice. No

characteristics per se, but figure type results in modifiers to rolls.

Action Sequence: Write orders, move, fire, melee, note reactions. At the start of

the game, give each side an objective and general orders which apply until

changed (changing takes one phase). Most actions take one phase.

Movement: A simple system with fixed movement (e.g., walk four paces);

figures move a certain distance each phase based on type of movement and

terrain.

Missile Fire: Two types of fire -- aimed (takes two phases) and snap fire (takes

one phase). Roll percentiles to hit based on range and target status (with

modifiers). If hit, consult a chart for effects based on the number needed to hit

and the number you rolled to hit.

Melee : Both parties involved roll percentiles on a table with the TN based on

the weapons they are using. If both or neither hit, there is no effect. If one hits,

wounds are calculated as with shooting.



Morale: No morale per se, but rules for Reaction are included. You must React

on the phase after you fire, fight, spot an enemy, or have a sudden or

unexpected occurrence. When reacting, Average and Novice figures take

deductions from rolls.

Other Features: A short story set in Kansas, 1888, provides the background for

a scenario, characters, rules for weapons specific to this period, and rules for

drawing and firing.

Evaluation: Simple but elegant rules, very well written, lots of fun. These work

best with relatively few figures due to the use of written orders. Highly

recommended.

Some Dance at Duckardy

Author: Chris Scott

Publisher: Appeared in Miniature Wargames #181

Date Published: June 1998

Format/Pages: Six pages, including photographs and a diagram of the town, and

a copy of the Gunfight Gazette (a newsletter provided to players prior to the

game); the actual rules take less than a page.

Cost: Included in Miniature Wargames

Focus/Setting: Wild west shootouts of the Hollywood variety



Troop Characteristics: Figures have Personality Points, which range from 1-3.

Action Sequence: Simultaneous movement, then combat.

Movement: Run 30 cm, Walk 20 cm, Crawl/Skulk 10 cm.

Missile Fire: Roll d2O + Personality Points + modifiers; 0-10 = misses, 11-20 =

grazes to kills (depending on the total).

Melee: Roll d20 + Personality Points + modifiers. Effects are the same as

Missile Fire.


Other Features: There is a point system for determining the winner of the game.

The number of points gained depends on who kills whom (e.g., Lawmen get

five points for killing "baddies," but zero for townsfolk). This is looked up on

the Corpsing Table (!). You can also "apply to the umpire" for more points for

role playing, etc. Contains colorful descriptions of 13 groups that can be used.

Game description is included.

Evaluation: The Gazette is a neat idea. This is a simple, straightforward set of

rules. I usually find simultaneous moves to be a problem, even with very fair

players. Great descriptions of groups and special objectives. Recommended for

a convention game.

Title: The Rules With No Name, A Straightforward Set of Rules for



Triggernometry, Bloodshed and Mayhem in the Old West

Author: Bryan Ansell

Publishe : The Foundry (U.K.)

Date Published: I have a copy of the playtest edition dated 5/29/96; a playtest

version also appeared in MWAN #82.

Format/Pages: Photocopied, 18 pages.

Cost: This edition was available for $6, or $2.50 with a miniatures order

(though actually, they sent me a copy for free, and have done so with others

who have ordered as well). Also, a free copy can be requested via E-mail --see

www.icenter.net/-gisby for details.

Focus/Setting: Old West gunfights of the Hollywood variety, with relatively

few figures.

Designed for 25min figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio. Time and ground scales

not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Four character types: Citizen, Gunman, Shootist, and

Legend. Optional rules for skills are also included.

Action Sequence: Actions occur based on cards drawn from a Fate Deck. This

deck consists of one card for each figure and special cards with character types

on them (Citizen, Guninan, Shootist, and Legend). Each figure is one of these

types. When a special card is drawn, it stays on the table until a character of this

type (or a more powerful type) has their card drawn. This character may take

the special card and play it immediately or hold it and use it to interrupt

another's action. This works well to increase suspense and the feeling of

simultaneous movement without the liabilities that occur if anyone can hold any

action. There is also a Joker card, which causes a player to discard and shuffle

the deck.Movement: Movement is randomized; figures on foot can move a maximum of

3d6 inches (but citizens must move the actual distance rolled if possible, which

can lead to some humorous situations).

Missile Fire: To shoot, players roll a variable number of d6 based on the

weapon used, range, and modifiers. If any rolls are 6's, the shot hits. Characters

can "blaze away" and hit multiple times, but this can cause them to jam their

weapon or run out of ammo. Hits and near misses cause characters in cover to

duck back (seek cover), and they must then recover; this is a nice way to handle

suppressing fire. Rules for fast draws are also included.Melee: For melee, both sides roll a d6, add modifiers, and consult a table for the

result (knocked down or wounded). To determine wound types, players can roll

the location and severity on a chart, or (my preference) draws chits with the

wound types printed on them. Wounds range from graze to serious to dead.

Morale: Optional rules for morale (called Nerve) are included.

Other Features: Optional rules for experience, skills (e.g., crack shot),

additional action cards, and event cards are included. These rules are ftm but

make the game more complex, and I recommend that you use them for games



with very few figures. Note that Walter O'Hara and

David Markley created some excellent (albeit unauthorized) supplementary

material for these rules (see MWAN #96). Their article includes rules for hiding

and detection, dynamite, NPC's, rapid fire weapons, doctorin', cattle stampedes,

prone actions, fumbles, and.instructions for a shotgun template.

Evaluation: These are very enjoyable and creative rules for smaller scale

gunfights. I look forward to the final version. Highly recommended.

Title: U.S. Indian Wars 1870-1890

Author: Max A. Ray

Publish : Appeared in The Courier Vol. 2 #4.


Format/Pages: Eight pages.

Cost: Included in The Courier.

Focus/Setting: As the name implies, the focus is on skirmishes between the U.S.

Army and Indians. "The intent of the rules was to provide a game somewherebetween the Skirmisher and the one figure equals one Troop type."

Designed for l5mm figures, 1:5 figure to man ratio, l5mm = five feet, one turn =

one minute.

Troop Characteristics: Troops types have different morale bonuses (+0 to +10).

Action Sequence: Morale, Orders, Movement (simultaneous), Firing, Melee.

Simple orders must be written for each turn to cover movement and reaction.

Alternatively, players can dice for initiative and alternate movement.

Movement: Fixed move based on type of movement (e.g., slow walk =

150mm). Formations are used for regulars and militia.Missile Fire : Fire 1-3 rounds per turn depending on the weapon. Roll

percentiles to hit based on range, type of weapon, and whether or not the firer

and/or target are moving. Ammunition is a factor. Hits eliminate the opponent.

Each figure comes up with a total based on troop type, weapon type, being

mounted or in cover, and whether or not you are charging. The difference

between the totals determines the percentage chance to hit. Hits eliminate the

opponent.

Morale: Checked only if the unit is surrounded and outnumbered 4:1 or better,

or they are ordered to perform a suicidal or heroic act. Add the number of

figures remaining in the unit to a troop type modifier; the total determines the

outcome (varies from charge to run away).

Other Features: Rules for fatigue, carrying water, ambushes, artillery,

entrenchments/cover, smoke and fire, terrain, and weather are included. There

are also notes on organization, and brief information on some famous

skirmishes.

Evaluation: The rules play relatively quickly despite some unique mechanics.

Though I felt they needed some tinkering, they provide a very good foundation



for a historical game. Recommended.

Title: Warpaint

Author: Stephen Lawrence (who, by the way, runs very entertaining games and

paints Old West figures incredibly well)

Publisher: Emperor's Press (312-777-7307); available in many game specialty

shopsDate Published: 1996

Format/Pages: Cardstock color cover, professionally printed, 32 pages.

Warpaint actually consists of two rules sets, a Battle Game and a Skirmish

Game (see below).

Cost: around $15

Focus/Setting: The Battle Game mainly covers U.S. Army vs. Indian battles,

and works well with a fair number of figures per side; the Skirmish Game is

best for gunfights on a smaller scale.

Scale: Designed for 25mm figures, 1: 5 figure to man ratio for Battle Game, 1:

1 figure to man ratio for Skirmish Game. In the Battle Game, the time scale is

one turn = one minute; in the Skirmish Game, turns are 30 seconds long. in the

Battle Game, 1 inch = 10 yards; in the Skirmish Game, 1 inch = 5 yards.

Troop Characteristics: Both sets feature the use of Quality Dice, where more

skilled figures (e.g., veterans) use a larger dice type (e.g., eight sider vs. six

sider) to roll a target number. This concept (used in some role-playing games,

but I've rarely seen it applied to miniatures) allows for quick play and good

differentiation among figures at the same time. In the Skirmish game, players

have Quality Dice in five categories: Rifle, Handgun, Hand-to-hand, Riding,

and Morale. In the Battle Game, each figure has a specified Quality Dice type

for all rolls.

Action Sequence: The Battle game employs a move-countermove system with

the order varying based on who has initiative; the Skirmish game adds Quick

Draws where players must roll to see who goes first.

Movement: A fixed amount (based on terrain type) plus d6" with modifiers

(e.g., mounted cavalry move 10" + d6" on Normal Ground).

Missile Fire: There are three ranges -- Close, Effective, and Long. Each weapon

has a target number for each range (plus modifiers); the Quality Die is rolled to

hit.

Melee: Each figure rolls a Quality Die with modifiers. The difference between

the dice results in outcomes ranging from the attacker being disarmed to the

defender being wounded or killed (figures are killed if they take two wounds).

Morale: Tests on Quality Dice are taken in five situations (e.g., after taking a

casualty). The target number is based on troop type. The results of a failed

morale test vary based on the cause of the test.

Other Features: Scenarios are included. There are rules for counting coup,



artillery, sample unit organizations, playcharts, and designer's notes.

Evaluation: The rules are clear, relatively concise (the rules themselves really

only take up about 11 pages; the rest are scenarios, etc.), and have a realistic

feel to them. The scenarios are very diverse and entertaining. If you want a

good balance of historical realism and fun, get these rules! Very highly

recommended.

Title: West of the Pecos

Author: Sam Maxwell

Publisher: appeared in MWAN #68


Format/Pages: Six pages.

Cost: included in MWAN

Focus/Setting: Designed for classic Old West gunfights and brawls of the

Hollywood variety.

Scale : 1: 1 figure to man ratio; can be used with any size figures. Time and

ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: No troop characteristics.

Action Sequence: Each figure gets three actions per turn, using either chit

markers or written orders. Figures may choose from five possible actions,

which occur in the following order during each turn: Grab, Shoot, Move,

Watch, Load.

Movement: Movement is variable (3d6 inches).

Missile Fire: Shooting uses a d20 with modifiers. A card from a normal playing

deck is pulled to determine the number of wounds inflicted (a figure has 100

total wounds).

Melee: There are simple rules for brawls. Roll a d6 (with modifiers) for

Initiative. The winner pulls a card to determine the number of wounds inflicted.


Other Features: Simple rules are included for using dynamite. Sheets are

provided for statistics and orders.

Evaluation: These are simple, well-written, and fun rules for relatively few

figures (no more than about three per player). Highly recommended.

Title: Western Gunfight Skirmish Rules

Author: Kevin White

Publisher: Appeared in Lone Warrior #114


Format/Pages: One page.

Cost: Included in Lone Warrior

Focus/Setting: Wild west gunfights or Indian skirmishes of the Hollywood

variety.



Designed for 25mm or 54mm. figures. For 25min figures, 1 cm = 1 yard. For

54mm figures, 1 inch = 1 yard. Time and ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Characters and units have a Hand-to-Hand Fighting

Factor and a Firing Factor. Both are created by rolling two average dice (one

positive and one negative). It is therefore possible to have negative Factors.

Characters are designated as Novice, Average, or Expert.

Action Sequence: A card-based system is used. Experts and Indians get three

cards, while Average and Novice characters get two. When a character's card

comes up he can perform an action. Experts and Average characters can move

and fire in the same action; novice characters can move or fire. There is also a

card labeled STOP placed in the deck (which means shuffle and start a new

turn).

Movement:54mm figures move 3" per action, 25mm figures move 3 cm. per

action.

Missile Fire: Weapons have Short, Medium, and Long ranges. Roll a d6 + your

Firing Factor with modifiers; you hit on a 4 or better. Roll again for wound

severity (light wound to dead).

Melee: Roll d6 per character involved, + their fighting factor and modifiers; you

hit on a 4 or better. Roll again for wound severity (light wound to dead).

Morale :Not a factor.

Other Features: None included.

Evaluation: Simple but fun skirmish rules, very playable. Recommended.

Title: Westward Ho

Author : Unknown

Publisher: Unknown (I got it from Modeler's Mart years ago)

Date Published: Unknown

Format/Pages: Cardstock with vinyl cover, seven pages (41/2 pages of rules, the

rest is an example of play).

Cost: Unknown

Focus/Setting: A lighthearted approach to small scale skirmishes of the

Hollywood variety (about three figures per player).

Scale: Apparently designed for 25min figures, 1: 1 figure to man ratio, time and

ground scales not specified.

Troop Characteristics: Move, Speed, Accuracy, Nerve, Hits, Melee. Roll dIO

(with modifiers) for each.

Action Sequence: Nerve Recovery, Townie/Critter Movement (random), Player

Movement, Shooting, Melee, Fight Fires, "General Mayhem" (e.g., whoops and

catcalls).

Movement: Lowest Move goes first (ties are simultaneous). Movement is

simple, and based on type of move (e.g., 10 cin for foot). Townies and critters

move randomly.



Missile Fire: Highest Speed goes first (ties are simultaneous). Roll percentiles

to hit -- base 100% chance, minus range and + modifiers. If hit, cause d10

wounds. When wounds exceed Health, the figure is removed. Rules for fire

arrows are included.

Melee: Opponents roll percentiles; the chance to hit is 100% with modifiers. If

hit, cause d10 wounds.

Morale: If wounded, must make a Nerve roll -- you may run or surrender if you

fail the roll.

Other Features: Very good example of play included.

Evaluation: Simple but playable rules. Missile fire formula takes some getting

used to. Recommended.

Title: Yellow Ribbon, Rules for Indian Wars 1850-1890

Author: Greg Novak

Publisher: previously Ulster Imports; I believe they are currently published by

Rafm. Can be ordered via E-mail from [email protected].

Date Published: 1989 (2nd edition; there may be a newer one)

Format/Pages: Cardstock cover, 48 pages plus two cardstock quick reference

sheets.

Cost: around $8

Focus/setting: Designed for historical simulations involving the U.S. Army,

civilians, and Indians. The author recommends 1-3 units for each Army player

and 2-5 units for Indian players.

Designed for 9nun - 30nun figures, although smaller scale figures are

recommended. I really like the following quote: "in the American west, terrain

should tower over the figures, rather than have the figures tower over the

terrain" (p. 7). Sliding figure to man ratio from 1:2 to 1:5. One inch = 10 yards.

Turns are approximately five minutes long. Units typically have between eight

and 18 figures.

Troop Characteristics: Movement/Exhaustion on foot, Movement/Exhaustion

on horse, Fieldcraft, Marksmanship, Close Combat, Morale (U.S. Army only),

and Medicine (Indians only). Most range from Poor to Crack, though a few are

number based.

Action Sequence: Consists of phases: Command Phase (orders are given -- up

to seven types are possible), Move Phase, Fire Phase, Morale/Medicine Phase,

Close Combat Phase, Second Medicine Phase.

Movement: Some is a fixed amount; other types (e.g., charge, skirmish) move a

variable number of d6 in inches.

Missile Fire: Roll a number of d6 that depends on the number of figures firing,

the range, and the type of weapon used. The chance to hit and use up ammo are

based on Marksmanship. Modifiers to the number of dice rolled as well as base

numbers needed to hit are included. This is a fairly complex system, but works



well. There are two methods to determine saving throws. One is a simple dice

roll; the other uses playing cards to determine the effects of hits (from none to

serious wound to kill; two serious wounds = dead). Melee: A d6 is rolled for

each figure involved, and modifiers are added. A 6 hits.

Morale: Command and control are very important. Generally, a leader must

truly be leading to ensure that units do what they are told. Indians tend to react

to circumstances instead of following prescribed orders. Morale is rolled with

2d6 plus modifiers.

Other Features: Suggested historical unit organizations are included. There are

optional rules for limiting communication between players on the same side.

Rules for artillery are included. Note that a companion volume, And

Continually Wear The Blue (also available for around $8), provides an

excellent historical overview of the army of this period. It discusses

organization, the officer corps, soldiers, tactics, gives lots of examples of forces

from campaigns, includes five scenarios, and a bibliography.

Evaluation: These rules take an excellent historical perspective on this period,

and are among the best to capture the "true" historical feel of Army/Indian

skirmishes. They are more complex than most Old West rule sets, but are very

well written, comprehensive, and have good examples throughout. They flow

well when mastered. Playing Indians can be frustrating since they often do not

do what you want them to, but the game has a very realistic feel. Highly

recommended.

Campaigns and Scenarios:

In addition to the scenarios provided in some rules sets, the following resources

provide background information and/or some good reasons to have a battle:

Hell Comes to Cow Town, a Wild West Gunfight Scenario, by Walt O'Hara

and Dave Markley, is a very well done scenario for The Rules With No Name,

including many colorfal characters and a recap of a convention game. It appears

in MWAN #96.

Howard Whitehouse presents a very amusing scenario in MWAN #87.

Massacre in Oldfield, a jailbreak scenario for the Bleeding Kansas rules by Jon

M. Haworth, appears in The Penny Whistle #38. It is a very nicely done

scenario with an excellent background.

Opening Shootouts: Wild West by John Mansfield, published in the Courier,

Vol. 2, #1. Contains three scenarios -- Shootout, Plots in a Hat, and Strangers



on a Train. The latter two include role-playing elements.

Plains Wars Campaigns and Skirmish Scenarios by Pete Panzeri. Cardstock

cover, 27 pages, published in 1996 by DPI Publishing (available from

Emperor's Headquarters). Contains chapters on campaigning the Plains Wars,

four skirmishes, and tactics. Very well written and researched; an excellent

reference.

Pony Wars Campaign of 1876 by Robin Thompson, published in 1996 by

Freikorps 15. Comes with a cardstock cover, a fold out map, illustrations, and

photos; 50 pages. Costs around $8. Contains a wealth of information about the

U.S. Army operations against the Sioux and Cheyenne Indians, which began in

1876. Includes detailed suggestions for gaming, modifiers to the Yellow Ribbon

rules set, unit record cards, and a bibliography. Very well written and

comprehensive.

Promise, El Dorado: A Wild West Campaign, Part One, by Mark McCall, in

Frontline's first issue. A very nicely set up campaign for six players. I haven't

seen part two yet, but am looking forward to it!

Range War! by Ian Barstow, three pages, appeared in Wargarnes Illustrated

#122 in November 1997. Campaign rules for a range war between rival

ranchers. Developed for Guernsey Foundry's Rules With No Name set. Relies

heavily on chance cards, which result in occurrences, opportunities, or

additional characters; 19 examples of chance cards are provided. Rules fordroving cattle, and scoring victory points are included.

Stephen Lawrence provides some good scenarios for Warpaint in MWAN #87.

Tiempo Caliente en la Pueblo Viejo, by Stephen Lawrence, in MWAN #63,

two pages. Modifications to Desperado to run a Magnificent Seven scenario.

Provides additional rules and statistics for characters as well as set up

instructions for the scenario. An excellent adaptation of this movie.

Western Scenarios by Kenn Hart, in MWAN #91 -- some very interesting and

amusing ideas.

Factors to consider when designing or evaluatingOld West rules:

Focus/Setting: Do you want to focus on man to man gunfights between



cowboys/gunslingers, or do you want to recreate larger skirmishes between the

U.S. Army and the Indians? This is the first question to ask when choosing or

designing an Old West rules set. Your decision about which you like best will

have implications for most of the factors that follow. Obviously, this is a matter

of personal preference. I personally enjoy both types of games. In my

experience, the gunslinger-type games are better at attracting new players and

tend to generate more enthusiasm among players.

Scale: I discussed the main issues here in Part I of this series. To recap a few

points, rules that recreate gunfights virtually always use a 1: 1 figure to man

ratio; rules that cover the Indian wars may have ratios as high as 1: 10. Smaller

figures work best with these higher ratios. 20mm is probably as small as you

would want to go for 1: 1 gunfights; some of the 28+mm figures available will

probably tempt you to seriously consider larger figures. A final note on scale: I

prefer it when time and ground scales are specified; they frequently are not.

Characteristics: Having a variety of characteristics that define a character

(e.g., Shooting Ability) brings figures to life and allows for better

differentiation of characters. However, they make the game more complex, and

tend to slow it down as players search for relevant characteristics on roster

sheets. Characteristics work best in games with relatively few figures (in my

opinion, no more than five per player unless entire units have the same

statistics, in which case players could have up to five units). Characteristics

appeal to role-players, and often help players get more involved in a game. I

prefer some character/unit differentiation in shootout type games (e.g.,characteristics for Shooting, Melee, and Morale).

Action Sequence: I recommend using a card-based movement system of some

sort. Old West games are usually small enough that a move-countermove

system is unnecessary and feels somewhat artificial. Written orders can work,

but games using them should be limited to one figure per player, in my opinion.

Rolling for initiative can also work, but I recommend alternating figures or

units rather than moving an entire side at once.

Card-based systems are easy to use, maintain suspense, and give games a fluid

feel (especially when held actions are allowed). You can write the name of the

figure/unit on a card, assign playing cards to figures/units, or deal cards to

figures/units and count down from Ace (this system, used in The Great Rail

Wars, is a personal favorite). I recommend allowing figures/units to "hold" a

card and use it to interrupt another's action later on.

Movement: Fixed movement is sometimes too predictable (e.g., you can tell



that you can make it to a building), whereas entirely random movement

sometimes leads to silly results. I prefer a combination of a fixed amount plus a

dice roll, with greater variability for faster movement (e.g., walk 3" + 0"; run 6"

+ D6").

Missile Fire and Melee: There are many different systems available; the one

you choose will largely be a matter of preference for the degree of realism (andresulting complexity). Hit location and differential wound determination work

very well in small games, where each player controls no more than about five

figures. For larger games, I'd recommend a simple system for casualties (e.g.,

most figures are removed if they take a wound; you can use a more elaborate

system for heroes and officers). Regarding mechanics, I like rolling one die per

figure (plus or minus modifiers); if you roll a target number you hit. The quality

dice idea (used in Warpaint and The Great Rail Wars) is a nice, simple way to

differentiate skills for different figures/units but maintain the same target

number. 98

Morale: Some rules have more traditional morale systems, where units can lose

effectiveness or rout due to casualties and other factors. Others include "nerve"

checks or the equivalent for individual figures, who may be unable to act if a

check is failed. Many Old West rules do not make morale or nerve an issue. I

personally prefer having some aspects of morale included, but also prefer

largely dictating what my troops do in a game. This may not be as realistic, but

in the Old West games I've played too many rules removing players' abilities to

control their troops tend to be frustrating, especially in gunfights. I recommenda simple system with a few specific causes (e.g., casualties) to check morale.

Other Features: I highly recommend using "event" cards or the equivalent -- for

example, at the end of each turn each side gets one, which can be played as

specified on the card. These can be humorous if desired, and can add very

interesting twists to play. They should be used sparingly, however. Artillery and

dynamite can also be fun, but should also be used sparingly. As usual, there is a

tradeoff between the number of details and the speed of the game in most cases.

That's all for now, pardners! Happy trails until we meet again!

Old West Part One: Issues, Figures and Accessories

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