Ironbottom Sound
- Designer Jack Greene
- Publisher Hobby Japan , Quarterdeck Games
- Illustration Rodger B. MacGowan
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command warships in the Battle of Guadalcanal, making tactical decisions using simultaneous action plotting. Combat is resolved with dice on a hex grid. Ten scenarios offer historical and balanced tournament play, providing strategic depth and varied challenges.
Who Is This Game For?
Ironbottom Sound targets experienced players and wargame enthusiasts aged 12 and up who appreciate complex simulations. The roughly 120-minute playtime requires patience and strategic planning. Prior experience with tactical board games or wargames is recommended.
How It Works
Players simultaneously plot their actions which are executed on a hex map. Combat results are determined by dice rolls calculating hits based on gun turrets and torpedoes. Damage is tracked on individual ship sheets specifying armor and hit locations.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Jack Greene and winner of the 1981 Charles S. Roberts Best Initial Release Award, Ironbottom Sound stands out for its simultaneous action selection and detailed damage modeling. It belongs to the Pacific Ocean family and simulates WWII naval battles.
Awards
- 1981 Charles S. Roberts Best Initial Release — Winner
Pro
- Detailed simulation of historical naval combat
- Simultaneous action selection increases tension
- Winner of Charles S. Roberts Best Initial Release 1981
- Varied scenarios provide replayability
Contra
- Complex rules require experience and patience
- About 120 minutes playtime demands sustained attention
- No solo mode; designed for 2-4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates naval battles around Guadalcanal in World War II, focusing on key events of the 1942 Pacific campaign with historical accuracy.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with the historical scenarios to learn simultaneous action planning and damage management.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Ironbottom Sound supports 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 120 minutes, depending on the scenario.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with tactical or wargames is helpful due to the complex rules.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines simultaneous action selection with detailed damage mechanics on a hex grid, differing from traditional turn-based wargames.
Is this suitable for families?
With an age minimum of 12 and complex rules, it is better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of simultaneous action selection and dice-based combat on a hex grid defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Ironbottom Sound is recommended for fans of deep tactical wargames focused on historical naval combat, suitable for two to four players and longer play sessions.
