GHQ Approves use of images for Firestorm

GHQ (a manufacturer of 6mm miniatures for the military and hobbyists) has approved the use of their images in Firestorm: Modern Edition game materials. Not only does this greatly increase the layout and speed at which army books can be produced, but it also allows for a large number of models to be immediately available for those who wish to use the rules. I have had nothing but good experiences when dealing with GHQ and their products.

They also carry a wide selection of naval, American Civil War, and railroad miniatures. Best of all, they have a regular, bi-monthly release schedule, so you know new miniatures are always around the corner.

In Firestorm news, the rules are coming along nicely. there are a few snags to work out, but the beta is shaping up for a mid-to-late April release. However, it does not look like the initial beta release will include the fire grid, but alternate rules for template based weapons. This will change when the templates are production ready.

Another topic I have been meaning to bring up is the issue of realism vs game play. Everyone knows (and hopefully understands) that simulating any complex mechanics in the real world is impossible. Game design is about translating these mechanics into easy to follow rules and methods for game play. It is mostly about balance the triangle of easy to learn/play, fun, and detailed. Tip too much in one direction and you will have a game that is boring or difficult.

To this end, issues like fielding a US Army mechanized infantry company become apparent. See, the US Army uses squads of 9, broken into 2 fire teams of 4 and a squad leader (sergeant). There are 3 infantry squads in a platoon. Sound easy? Well, a Bradly IFV only holds 7 passengers... and the numbers obviously don't add up! The Army accomplishes this by fielding 4 Bradleys and splitting the squads between them, then dismounting the platoon commander. This gives an even 28 men for 28 total passenger slots.

However, what if one Bradley is destroyed? Which squad takes casualties? How many casualties? One solution is to have unit cards and mark each Bradley so you know who is in it. That slows down the game substantially, and you couldn't remove specific models (a fire team is the smallest unit size in Firestorm: Modern Edition). Instead, a more generalized approach should be taken. Each Bradley will carry 2 fire teams (one squad of 7) and one Bradley will carry the CO. While this isn't the most realistic option, it does favor ease of game play and fewer headaches.

You can find more information on the US Army's mechanized infantry FOE here.