Bataan!

About this board game

Bataan! is a 1–2-player operational-level World War II game about the campaign for the Bataan Peninsula from January through April 1942, with a listed play time of 1200 minutes.

After the Allied retreat from Luzon, US and Filipino forces hold fortified positions on Bataan and Corregidor against an aggressive Japanese army. The Japanese seek to move quickly, outflank defensive lines, and drive the Allied units from their strong points, while the defenders can launch powerful attacks of their own—especially when the crack Philippine Scouts take the lead.

A chit-pull activation system determines which formations act during each turn. Formations, generally based on divisions, activate individually for movement and combat, with players alternating activations until all formations have played. Most Japanese formations receive two activations per turn, reflecting their preparation, combat capability, and offensive motivation.

Individual counters represent battalions or half battalions and include efficiency ratings used in combat comparisons and other functions. The game also captures the distinctive conditions of the campaign, including fortified positions, jungle fighting, supply, and disease. In this setting, the US Stuart tank is represented as the superior tank in the battle.

• Five scenarios, including a learning scenario and a campaign scenario
• Three early scenarios designed to reach a conclusion in one sitting
• A final-battle scenario depicting a Japanese set-piece offensive
• A campaign linking the battles through supply and disease considerations

With its unusual subject and emphasis on movement, timing, and sound military tactics, Bataan! presents a contest between two mismatched armies. The game includes a 22-by-34-inch map, 408 counters, player-aid cards, historical notes, rules, and a ten-sided die.