Dirtside II
- Designer Mike Elliott , Jon M. Tuffley
- Publisher Ground Zero Games
- Illustration Peter Barfield , Barrie Quin
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Dirtside II, players command combined arms forces including infantry, armored vehicles, artillery, and aerospace support in a flexible, simulation-based system. The game covers battles from platoon to battalion level and uses a variable phase order that allows tactical adjustments during the round. Its chartless combat system and vehicle design rules offer detailed futuristic combat simulation. It is miniature-agnostic and supports various scales.
Who Is This Game For?
Dirtside II targets experienced players aged 12 and up who appreciate complex wargames with tactical depth. The approximately 120-minute playtime requires patience and prior experience with simulation-based miniature games. Beginners should familiarize themselves with similar systems first, as the rules lack simplified introductions.
How It Works
The core mechanics are simulation and variable phase order, which create a flexible round structure. Players perform actions with different unit types such as infantry, armored vehicles, and aerospace support. The chartless combat system facilitates smooth battles, while vehicle design and point systems add tactical variety. This results in a comprehensive depiction of futuristic battalion-level combat.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Mike Elliott and Jon M. Tuffley, Dirtside II stands out with its flexible, simulation-based gameplay and variable phase order mechanic. Being miniature-agnostic allows it to adapt to different scales, distinguishing it from many other sci-fi wargames.
Pro
- Flexible simulation-based mechanics
- Variable phase order for tactical depth
- Miniature-agnostic, adaptable to various scales
- Comprehensive unit types including infantry, vehicles, and aerospace support
Contra
- No solo mode included
- Complex rules require prior experience
- Approximately 120 minutes playtime demands patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates science fiction battles in an unspecified future, featuring infantry, vehicles, and aerospace support in a generic sci-fi universe.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the simulation and variable phase order mechanics before engaging with more complex units.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Dirtside II is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, depending on player count and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with simulation-based wargames.
How does this compare to similar games?
Dirtside II’s variable phase order and miniature-agnostic design make it more flexible than many other sci-fi wargames.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and a recommended age of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of simulation and variable phase order provides tactical flexibility and realistic combat flow.
Fazit
Dirtside II is well suited for experienced players seeking detailed futuristic combat simulation. However, its complexity and length demand patience and prior knowledge.


















