Advanced Squad Leader: Starter Kit #2
- 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.
- 180 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.8 / 5
- Year
- 2005
About the game
Advanced Squad Leader: Starter Kit #2 builds on the introductory infantry skirmishes of Starter Kit #1 by adding artillery, anti-tank guns, mortars, and bazookas to the beloved ASL system. A conversational, heavily illustrated rulebook highlights exactly what's new, so players who've already learned Starter Kit #1 can skip straight to the added rules. The box is fully self-contained, including two geomorphic maps, a full and half counter sheet, and eight new World War II scenarios featuring German, American, British, and Italian forces. Designed for two players, games typically run around 180 minutes and use grid-based movement, line of sight, and dice-driven combat resolution. It's a structured, approachable entry point into the legendary Advanced Squad Leader wargaming system.
Hobbli's Notes
The Starter Kit series does an admirable job of breaking down the notoriously deep Advanced Squad Leader system into manageable, self-contained chunks. We appreciate that Starter Kit #2 clearly highlights its new ordnance rules so returning players aren't stuck rereading familiar material. It's still a serious commitment in both time and rules complexity, but far more approachable than diving straight into full ASL. A great choice for wargamers ready to step up from basic infantry skirmishes.
What we like
- A gentle, well-organized on-ramp into the legendary Advanced Squad Leader system.
- Introduces artillery, anti-tank guns, and mortars on top of infantry basics.
- Eight new scenarios spanning multiple WWII theaters and nationalities.
- Fully self-contained box that doesn't require owning Starter Kit #1 first.
Keep in mind
- Still a fairly complex simulation for players completely new to wargaming.
- Strictly a two-player experience with long individual sessions.
- Continuing further into the ASL system eventually requires additional Starter Kits or the full game.
Who it's for
Best for wargaming enthusiasts aged 12+ who've outgrown basic skirmish games and want to explore ordnance-based WWII tactics as a two-player experience.
