Retro: Tactical WWII Wargame Variant Rules

About this board game

Retro: Tactical WWII Wargame Variant Rules is a tactical World War II infantry combat variant for two players, with a listed play time of 30 minutes. Designed with solitaire players in mind, it offers a simplified way to recreate WWII battles using components from Squad Leader, Advanced Squad Leader, or other popular tactical wargames.

Retro significantly reduces the rules overhead found in ASL by streamlining the sequence of play, armor rules, and morale rules. Its central innovation is hesitation, a mechanic that replaces most ASL defensive-fire rules.

When units move in the open while within range of the enemy, they must test to see whether they hesitate. A unit that freezes in place does not carry out its move, creating a distinct tactical consideration during movement and combat.

• Simplified tactical World War II infantry combat rules
• Streamlined sequence of play, armor, and morale rules
• Hesitation tests for exposed units moving within enemy range
• Compatible with Squad Leader, Advanced Squad Leader, and other tactical wargame components
• Designed with solitaire play in mind

Originally published across issues #1–#4 of Panzerschreck magazine, Retro is collected here as a 48-page booklet with two pull-out charts. It presumes that players already own the official modules and rules needed for the components they wish to use.

Retro is an unofficial variant and is not endorsed or authorized by The Avalon Hill Game Co. or other publishers. For players who enjoy classic tactical wargames but want a more accessible rules framework, Retro provides a focused alternative for recreating infantry engagements with less procedural complexity.