Training Materials for GMT’s Fields of Fire

Fields of Fire is a great solitaire game system that gives players the challenge of commanding a rifle company – on a pretty detailed, low level. The game is different from many tactical games in that it uses no dice while at the same time utilizes cards in a pretty specific way. By specific way I mean that there are two decks used to play. The Terrain Deck is based on a specific region and is used to build a map for the various missions your company must perform. The Action Deck serves many purposes in controlling combat, command and control, various activity attempts.

The game by many was deemed as difficult, insurmountable and with many exceptions. Truth to be told, the initial versions of the rulebooks – both for first and second part of the game – might strengthen that impression. That is why I am so glad GMT decided to invest time (and for sure money!) into making this game more accessible with new, deluxe edition and revamped rulebook. However, let us be clear – more accessible does not mean that the rules will be changed or the game will lose its depth. It is more like streamlining the learning experience.

However, before we will get all those new editions with enhanced rulebooks / playbooks, I thought it will be a good to share with Dear Readers set of training materials which helped me – some of them created by myself in process of learning the game, some from external sources. Enjoy!

Video How to Play Materials

Fields of Fire 2 – Peleliu Mission 2 (Japanese Counter-Attack)

Let us start with the form which helped me greatly when I was starting my journey with Fields of Fire – namely videos. That way we can present the whole process – from planning, through initial set-up, up to the particular Turns resolution and final result. And believe me – so many things are happening during this game and so many elements were initially unclear to me, that this was definitely fastest way to get familiar with it.

As a training material I have chosen Fields of Fire 2 – Peleliu Mission 2 (Japanese Counter-Attack). This is rather short scenario, in which the opponent is hastily attacking, and we are trying to stop him. For me this is a very good entry level battle, which at the same time covers all important and needed elements and aspects. And we will play it in only 4 Turns! Make sure to check it!

Article How to Play Materials (Session Report)

While not so detailed nor stipulating every single step like videos, session reports in form of article gave a good insight into the overall gameplay and preparation. They are perfect for close-up pictures and explanations of particular mechanics and actions. They also can inspire you how to tackle a battle you had enormous problems with.

I have chosen for such type of material Fields of Fire 2 – Peleliu Mission 1 (Initial Assault) – the first mission in the first campaign of the game second volume. This is tough fight, with artillery pounding the beaches, MGs firing at landing marines but rules-wise it is not overly complicated so I thought it will also be a good training material. Enjoy! Link above!

Field of Fire Manuals

As you probably very well know, GMT is working on the new, Deluxe edition for Fields of Fire – not to mention new, third volume about Airborne forces. But this will not be only errata and some small graphical improvements. The whole rulebook / playbook / training materials approach is being significantly enhanced. So far we have only draft versions of two Manuals for the game, which explain to you piece by piece all the important game mechanics and the overall concept.

I especially like how they approach the planning phase and proper mindset to start the mission. I believe they are already in the form which can be easily used for you to familiarize with the game quickly. Links above!

Online help

One of the easiest ways to solve the problems or questions during the game is to reach to fellow boardgamers, who have experience with the game and can share their knowledge. There is a special, dedicated Facebook group – Online Support Site for Fields of Fire – where you for sure will find the answers to your most pressing issues. Members of this great community themselves created a lot of additional materials, which ease-up the learning path. Check it out!

Conclusion

Let us be frank – no matter how many training materials we produce, the Fields of Fire will not be a game for everybody. It requires decent amount of time investment, it puts a lot of pressure on the planning phase (you just do not jump to immediate into the action!). It is not easy to win and puts you under a lot of stress how to survive.

On the other hand, it gives one of the best feelings how small units, tactical combat on company level looks like. There is no place for heroes here but meticulous planning, execution and adaptation to ever changing conditions. And believe me Guys – this is so much worth all the time invested. Hope you will get hooked as much as I did!

PS. For those looking for a way to store and sort that great but counter intense game within the box (with lid closing) I suggest great, tailor-made Cube4Me storage solutions: Fields of Fire, Fields of Fire 2, Fields of Fire: The Bulge Campaign. Enjoy!