Publisher

Task Force Games

Task Force Games — US publisher active 1976–1994, focused on sci‑fi wargames using hex grids and simulation mechanics.

25 Games

Biography

Task Force Games was founded in 1979 by Stephen V. Cole and Allen Eldridge. The company published about 25 titles in our database and remained active until 1994. It issued many Pocket Games in resealable bags as well as folio and boxed editions. The publisher is no longer in business.

Career

Active mainly in the late 1970s and 1980s (1976–1994), Task Force Games released predominantly science‑fiction and wargame titles. The catalog emphasizes hexagon grid movement, grid movement, movement points, dice rolling and simulation — mechanics suited to tactical battles and space combat. From 1982 to 1987 the company published Nexus magazine. Some of its series (notably Star Fleet Battles) were later continued by other entities.

Most Famous Games

Notable releases include Star Fleet Battles (1979), Federation Space (1981) and Federation & Empire (1986). Other entries on the list are Starfire (3rd Edition, 1992), Liftoff! (1989) and Captain's Log #16 (1994). The publisher received recognition within the Charles S. Roberts award family.

Design Style

Task Force Games is characterized by tactical, simulation‑oriented wargames in a sci‑fi setting, often using hex‑based maps and dice‑driven combat. Many titles focus on modular series design and tactical fleet engagements.