Advanced Squad Leader
- Players
- 2
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 480 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 14+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 4.7 / 5
- Year
- 1985
About the game
Advanced Squad Leader is the definitive tactical WWII wargame system, a reorganized and expanded successor to the original Squad Leader. This binder of rules covers everything from individual squads to machine guns, tanks, ordnance, paratrooper drops, and beach assaults, forming the backbone for an enormous library of scenario modules. Games are typically played on modular geomorphic mapboards or historical maps, with objectives ranging from securing buildings to inflicting casualties to exiting forces off the board. Combat is resolved through detailed dice-based combat results tables, line of sight, and secret unit deployment, giving battles a granular, simulation-level feel. Decades of expansions and a dedicated community have kept the system evolving since its release.
Hobbli's Notes
ASL is the gold standard of tactical WWII simulation wargaming, and it's not an exaggeration to call it a lifelong hobby rather than 'just a board game.' The detail is staggering, and the payoff for mastering the system is a level of tactical realism few other games can match. That said, this is strictly for committed wargamers: the rulebook alone is intimidating, and you'll need additional modules just to start playing. We recommend it wholeheartedly, but only to those ready for the deep end.
What we like
- Unmatched tactical depth and historical realism.
- Decades of scenario modules and community support.
- Highly detailed, granular combat resolution system.
- Endless replayability across countless historical scenarios.
Keep in mind
- Extremely steep learning curve.
- Very long play sessions, often many hours.
- Requires purchasing additional modules just to play.
- Inaccessible for casual or new gamers.
Who it's for
Exclusively for dedicated wargame hobbyists ages 16+ playing in pairs who want the deepest possible tactical WWII simulation.
