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Miniatures Adventure => Future Wars => Topic started by: spect_spidey on 10 December 2017, 11:19:43 PM

Title: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 10 December 2017, 11:19:43 PM
I am looking for a good sci fi skirmish game. There are a few preferences that I have, but these items are not mandatory for me to consider a game.

1. I would prefer that the game allow you to use any 28mm miniatures rather than requiring the use of system specific models.
2. I would prefer a rules set with a campaign system whether a narrative one or an experience point driven one.
3. I would prefer something with between 5 to 20 models per side.
4. I would prefer something that is played on a 3'x3' area.

I have tried Rogue Stars and found it to be lacking with the way crews are created. I have read but not played Mutants and Death Ray Guns. I have also read This is Not a Test, but not played it either. Are there any suggestions that I might not be aware of?
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Billchuck on 10 December 2017, 11:56:03 PM
Unity Field Agent, by Nordic Weasel Games.

http://www.wargamevault.com/m/product/217649
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: NickNascati on 10 December 2017, 11:59:49 PM
Mutants and Rayguns or Flying Lead, both by Ganesha Games.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 11 December 2017, 05:29:27 AM
Pulp Alley!  ;)

Take a look at this thread about the PA ruleset in a Sci-Fi setting:

http://pulpalley.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=595 (http://pulpalley.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=595)

And in this gorgeous blog here for amazing AARs:

https://govgensectorsix.blogspot.com.br/ (https://govgensectorsix.blogspot.com.br/)

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6NOWPM3eQc/UuAirwzvJ9I/AAAAAAAAA4A/o-4J7IKcKoI/s1600/Peace+Talks+1+small.jpg)



Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on 11 December 2017, 09:36:08 AM
There is always 7TV, though that would be a SF television programme (There have been suggestions for an SF specific countdown cards set - hint, hint).

Here is the character cards for a SF background far far away...
http://www.crooked-dice.co.uk/wp/product/star-wars-programme-guide-pdf/ (http://www.crooked-dice.co.uk/wp/product/star-wars-programme-guide-pdf/)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: YPU on 11 December 2017, 09:55:26 AM
Another vote for Pulp Alley. It has a build in simple campaign system where you collect resources to be used in later games, but there are also published campaigns which include some tips on how to convert it to other settings. Personally, I think the perilous island campaign converts perfectly. Each of the set pieces to me immediately suggests a sci-fi counterpart.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: robh on 11 December 2017, 10:48:03 AM
Best one we have found is Void Pirates from 4ColorStudios.
Great fun, very easy to pick up and can fit in virtually any sci-fi setting you want to use.

 http://www.four-colorstudios.com/void-pirates.html (http://www.four-colorstudios.com/void-pirates.html)

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: NurgleHH on 11 December 2017, 02:22:43 PM
Maybe Scrappers from osprey? https://ospreypublishing.com/scrappers

A lot of interesting ideas in the system and easy to learn.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: vodkafan on 11 December 2017, 02:44:11 PM
I was going to say Void Pirates but someone beat me to the punch.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: KONNOC on 11 December 2017, 02:57:06 PM
Look into Core Space... it's running on Kickstarter now.... meets several of your requirements...
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Hobby Services on 11 December 2017, 03:08:35 PM
I was going to say Void Pirates but someone beat me to the punch.

Two people beat me to it, but I'll still say Void Pirates.  Blasters & Bulkheads is good too.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Froggy the Great on 11 December 2017, 08:39:07 PM
I've adapted FUBAR to squad-scale gaming.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B6HUGmJgXqKHMmJSNVhCYm5wSnM
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Harry von Fleischmann on 11 December 2017, 10:21:07 PM
Nordic Weasel do 3 sci fi skirmish rulesets and they all have campaign systems.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Battle Brush Sigur on 11 December 2017, 10:27:30 PM
I keep hearing good things about 7TV and Pulp Alley.

Something I've played and which would do well on all the points you list is 5150:Star Army by Two Hour Wargames.


1. Made by THW, and not a miniatures manufacturer (because why bother with rules sets made by people who use it as a marketing tool to sell figures?)
2. Excellent campaign system, also written to be played co-op or solo without any problem.
3. The game's squad-to-platoon level and includes rules for vehicles as well.
4. Hm. That's a problem in general with 28mm figures, but as long as you use enough terrain...




Any of the rules sets by Ganesha Games (Mutants and Rayguns, Flying Lead, etc.) will fit the bill as well. Good rules sets, circa squad-level games.

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: swiftnick on 11 December 2017, 11:03:31 PM
Necromunda
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: twrchtrwyth on 11 December 2017, 11:20:03 PM
Best one we have found is Void Pirates from 4ColorStudios.
Great fun, very easy to pick up and can fit in virtually any sci-fi setting you want to use.

 http://www.four-colorstudios.com/void-pirates.html (http://www.four-colorstudios.com/void-pirates.html)


+3
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 11 December 2017, 11:24:43 PM
Thanks for all the replies.

I have read through 7TV. I played a game of its offshoot Otherworld Skirmish. It seems intriguing. I am not sure if it would fit what I am looking for. It doesn't appear to be enough sci fi. It also seems to be one of those that is a bit pricey as you start to buy into the needed cards and such.

I see several people mentioned Void Pirates. It seems hard to find many details on this game. What dice are used? Are their stats? Is their weapon variety, etc.?

Pulp Alley looks intriguing. I am not sure about doing the sci fi I am looking for though. It also seems like it could get a bit pricey based upon the cost of their PDFs (individual price is ok @ $9.99 until you realize that it is only about 44 pages and then you need to buy cards as well). I would like to see some basic weapon types and maybe some equipment. Pulp Alley doesn't seem to care what weapon or armor that a character has. Am I wrong in this assumption?

Some people mentioned the Ganesha Games rules. I have two of their sci fi based games. I am not a fan of having just the two stats and everything else being done by skills/traits.

I guess the more I look at it, I would prefer something with maybe 4 to 6 stats for the members of a crew with a couple of skills sprinkled in with some variation in weapons, armor, and equipment.

A big plus would be a game that would give me reasons to buy certain plastic miniatures that I would love to play with but don't have the time or inclination to build big armies to use. Some examples of this would be things like Beyond the Gates of Antares miniatures, Heavy Gear Miniatures, or maybe even some of the Rebs/Brokkrs from Mantic.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: d phipps on 11 December 2017, 11:47:48 PM
I am looking for a good sci fi skirmish game. There are a few preferences that I have, but these items are not mandatory for me to consider a game.

1. I would prefer that the game allow you to use any 28mm miniatures rather than requiring the use of system specific models.
2. I would prefer a rules set with a campaign system whether a narrative one or an experience point driven one.
3. I would prefer something with between 5 to 20 models per side.
4. I would prefer something that is played on a 3'x3' area.


Pulp Alley definitely has you covered.

FYI -- The cost of the PDF also includes pages to make your own Fortune deck cards. Or you can simply download the Fortune deck pages for free --- http://store.pulpalley.com/product-p/f103.htm

Also, you can download our free Quickstart rules -- http://store.pulpalley.com/product-p/f100.htm


Quote
Pulp Alley doesn't seem to care what weapon or armor that a character has. Am I wrong in this assumption?

Players are expected to take a character's weapons/armor/whatever into account when they are selecting their Skills and Abilities. Basically this means that a Character Profile represents a fully outfitted character - not a naked character.

Of course you can also spend resource points to add on extra gear and gadgets, hire mercenaries, and so on...

This is a fairly low sci-fi scenario, but here's an example of Pulp Alley play ---

Video Scenario #2.1 -- Part 1 of a full Pulp Alley scenario play-through (turns #1 and #2)...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=2D4ATmTmX6k&list=PL5sjn64oN6aZcZNM2jQ-LU_WJNJDvIui0&index=7


HAVE FUN
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Warren Abox on 12 December 2017, 12:03:54 AM
I see several people mentioned Void Pirates. It seems hard to find many details on this game. What dice are used? Are their stats? Is their weapon variety, etc.?

I haven't picked up Void Pirates yet, but I'm looking through the fantasy version, GoalSystem Delves, and gearing up for some skirmishes.  It looks like a tight little system.

Figures have a few stats - not as heavy as 40k, nor as light as Mutants and Death Ray Guns - which I like because MaDRG compensates with an overreliance on special abilities that make the game hard to track with too many figures.

The meat of Void Pirates in play is the GoalSystem, which is basically a dice pool mechanic.  You roll a number of d6 dice (modified by figure stats and conditionals) and count the number that beat the target.  That will usually be 4+, but might be increased or decreased by modifiers.  For things like shooting and melee, this will be a contested roll.  Whoever gets the most success wins, with that difference adding to the results.

So in a melee, if I get 5 successes on my attack, and you get 3 on your defense, I hit you and do my weapon damage plus 2.  Then you have to make that many attempts to negate the damage by rolling against your toughness/armor.  Each failure costs an HP, and once those are gone, your dude is out of play. 

Here's a bit more detail:  http://deltavector.blogspot.com/2012/12/goalsystem-delves-rules-review-generic.html (http://deltavector.blogspot.com/2012/12/goalsystem-delves-rules-review-generic.html)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Alcide Nikopol on 12 December 2017, 12:12:45 AM
Pulp Alley +1.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: NurgleHH on 12 December 2017, 06:34:19 AM
Necromunda
+1, totally forgotten. The new version got some very good reviews and is still developed.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Genghis on 12 December 2017, 09:27:18 AM
Furthering the support for Necromunda, as well as the new edition, the Necromunda Community Edition (NCE) is a collective fan-written evolution of the classic Necromunda rules.  I've has a look through, although not played it myself, but it looks good - and also forms the basis for Inquisimunda, which uses the NCE as a base ruleset and then expands the setting/rules to the wider 40K universe.  If 40K per se isn't your thing, I'm sure you could tweak things to suit.

The NCE, Inquisimunda & all sorts of expansions, etc can be found at https://yaktribe.games/community/vault/ (https://yaktribe.games/community/vault/).
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Battle Brush Sigur on 12 December 2017, 11:25:23 AM
I was just about to mention that. Nobody needs GW in anything related to what used to be the "Specialist Games". It's nice that GW are re-releasing all the stuff now, but the communities took over a loong time ago and do an amazing job. 
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 12 December 2017, 11:59:44 AM
I was just about to mention that. Nobody needs GW in anything related to what used to be the "Specialist Games". It's nice that GW are re-releasing all the stuff now, but the communities took over a loong time ago and do an amazing job. 

Well said!

And GW now is using fan-made material without paying them the rights!  ;D

 

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Elk101 on 12 December 2017, 12:21:14 PM
Void Pirates sounds very interesting. Is it pretty flexible in terms of the types of characters you can create?
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 12 December 2017, 12:27:01 PM
I am definitely not considering any game or models made by GW. That community in my area is toxic. I will probably never play another GW game in my life!
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: YPU on 12 December 2017, 12:58:56 PM
I completely forgot to mention!
Our own forum member sSngennaru is soon publishing his own ruleset "round of fire" you can find more info here:
http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=71748.0

it can be played with 28mm miniatures on a 3x3 board fine!
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Sangennaru on 12 December 2017, 01:06:05 PM
I completely forgot to mention!
Our own forum member sSngennaru is soon publishing his own ruleset "round of fire" you can find more info here:
http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=71748.0

it can be played with 28mm miniatures on a 3x3 board fine!

Indeed something you might be looking for! We've got a facebook group too: www.facebook.com/groups/roundoffire/

(http://thelazyforger.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Wheel.jpg)

It's something quite different from the usual wargame, and generally people either love or hate it, a very quick overview on my site too: http://thelazyforger.com/games/round-of-fire/

For more traditional wargames, i'd endorse pulp alley if you're into RPGesque gaming!
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: robh on 12 December 2017, 01:12:53 PM
Void Pirates sounds very interesting. Is it pretty flexible in terms of the types of characters you can create?

Very flexible, we have not found any figures that cannot be "created" as characters using just the classes/attributes/skills in the game.

There are 6 basic character types (classes):
Hero, Lurker, Shooter, Specialist, Thug and Trooper.
Each of those has basic traits inherent to the class and one special trait which the player chooses from an extensive set of options.
Then you can choose one (single use) "boost" that adds dice to either attack, defence or non-combat skills. These are free form and players are encouraged to create unique boosts that suit the character or the figure.

So you get a good balance of stats, preset abilities and personal choice which means that you can pick up any or all of these amazing figures:
https://cpmodels.co.uk/product-category/28mm-ranges/sci-fi/alien-federation/ (https://cpmodels.co.uk/product-category/28mm-ranges/sci-fi/alien-federation/)
and be certain that you can build unique characters for each one.......other figures work as well ;)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: zemjw on 12 December 2017, 01:16:30 PM
I hadn't heard of Void Pirates either, but I do like the Goal System, so may give it a try. I like Goal System's dice pool mechanic for solo games, as it introduces a level of randomness that works for me.

There's also Five Core - link (http://www.wargamevault.com/product/144009/FiveCore-3rd-edition-Skirmish-Gaming-Evolved) - which I have read but not actually played. They seem to take the special rules over stats approach as well, which I'm not so keen on. I find trying to keep track of even 5 figures a side in a solo game to be challenging, and having to remember half a dozen different skills for each figure just removes my enthusiasm for the game.

There's a review of five core - here (http://deltavector.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/fivecore-skirmish-gaming-review.html), although I'm not sure if it's third edition
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on 12 December 2017, 01:20:57 PM
There is always Laserburn.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: n815e on 12 December 2017, 02:39:36 PM
I would suggest Pulp Alley, but I understand your reasons.

A game that is sort of forgotten and out of print, but you can find pdfs of the three books online for free, is Star Mogul: Ruins of an Empire.

The game had an official line of miniatures, some can be found in production still by Armorcast, but you can use anything that is fitting -- no need to worry about official.

In the game you control the crew of a salvage freighter, outcast alien nobles, alien headhunters, cybernetic scrappers or robots on a murderous rampage.

The game is built around a campaign, much like Necromunda.  For most players, the goal of the game is to earn money by competing over salvage.  That means getting to it, loading it onto your vehicles/mechs and then getting it to your dropzone.  Robotic rebels are more interested in killing everyone and the headhunters want to collect heads instead of salvage.   There are equivalent economies to salvage-collecting built into collecting heads or killing others if that is your faction's bag.

Use your money to hire more crew, purchase new equipment, etc.
Models have skill sets.  Equipment has attributes.  Each faction feels distinct.

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 12 December 2017, 04:03:40 PM
There is always Laserburn.

In which the spaghetti-western-spoofed scenarios are PRICELESS!!!  lol

I guess it's available free on the web nowadays, right?

I remember there was also a 2nd Ed. with several non-combat skills and ideas for a more RPG-lite game...

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on 12 December 2017, 06:19:51 PM
Not sure on the status of Laserburn.

I have a copy somewhere, though it inspired...
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6Ty6r0T5CI/WTzne2Gnj2I/AAAAAAAACYE/5wdU5AUwAY442azvA3_xK3G-lYO_Zi7VgCLcB/s1600/orbitalfusileer6-1.png)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on 12 December 2017, 06:32:54 PM
Alternative Armies are selling the range:
https://www.alternative-armies.com/collections/15mm-laserburn (https://www.alternative-armies.com/collections/15mm-laserburn)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Mako on 12 December 2017, 07:20:05 PM
FUBAR is a great option for a free set of rules, and is better than many for sale.

Some people dislike the high propensity for poor troops to not activate.

Switching to D10s will alleviate that considerably, and yet still provides for a good game.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Elk101 on 12 December 2017, 07:32:21 PM
Thanks for the information Robh, for the price I probably can't go wrong with the Void Pirates pdf.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Hobgoblin on 12 December 2017, 10:05:19 PM
Interesting discussion (I've just bought Pulp Alley on the recommendations here).

I'd certainly recommend Mutants and Death Ray Guns. I've never found the "false economy of only two stats" a problem with the Ganesha stable; I think the Song of Blades engine is really robust, and I've never found the traits to be burdensome. Most are committed to memory after a game or two, and they tend to work intuitively: "I'm C3, but you're Big, so I'm adding 4 to the die for this shot ...". And because most characters don't need many (or any) traits, the game is fast-flowing. We've had a lot of fun with MRDG. That said, I'd argue it works best with small warbands (three to six models), especially if you have more than two players.

I'd also stick up for Rogue Stars, with the caveat that it gives a very specific sort of game: intense, sweaty firefights with a high level of risk as characters dash from cover to cover. I think the ideal format for Rogue Stars is a band of heroes progressing through several scenarios - perhaps played with asymmetrical forces - to represent a raid deep into an enemy stronghold or whatever.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Momotaro on 12 December 2017, 10:45:57 PM
Shout out for Two Hour Wargames and their various SF games.

You want to try their free Chain Reaction rules on Wargame Vault first of all - they're not everyone's cup of tea.  The reaction system treats one figure as you, and the rest as your troops.  They don't always do what you want them to...

The rules have a reputation for pinging back and forwards endlessly between sides in a shootout, but the latest versions are much more streamlined and come to a conclusion pretty quickly.

What's good about them? 

1)  Reaction tables.  Different alien species behave differently.

2) Campaign.  Tons to do here, THW are famed for their detailed campaigns.  There's also same-side/solo rules built into the game - a warning, not every encounter will go your way.  Sometimes the answer is to get the hell off the table, not hang around and die.

3)  A 3x3 board is standard, and the game scales nicely from individuals to squads (I personally don't like the dice-fest that company-level games become).

Which games?

Star Army is a military SF campaign - the focus is on the grunts and their gear.  Detailed vehicle rules included.  This game is more a traditional THW game, and I kind of prefer the focus on the tabletop aspect.

Fringe Space and Urban Renewal are more abstracted, as the campaign is the thing here.  The board has dropped to 1x1, for one thing, as the tabletop encounters are only one part of a larger campaign universe.  Characters are less likely to be tooled up than in Star Army.

Fringe Space is basically a Traveller campaign - your characters fly around, trade, meet people, fall out with them.  Ground combat, boarding actions and ship combat are just part and parcel of life on the fringe.

Urban Renewal is more of an "underworld caper" game in the far future.  Meet people from different strata of society, find out heo needs "jobs" doing, travel round the city, get into scrapes.

Chain Reaction.  Free on Wargames Vault, no campaign but co-operative/ solo rules are included.  We're run some cracking "Low tech" SF games, so maybe that's a good starting point to see if you like the style of game.



Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Gibby on 12 December 2017, 10:52:56 PM
Very much agree with Momotaro. The THW rules, if you find their style to your taste, are excellent. Most of the books offer a full on campaign system which you can take as far as you want. It allows some real immersion, and the reaction system makes the figures seem more "alive".
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Hat Guy on 12 December 2017, 10:55:51 PM
I've had a lot of success with Judge Dredd Miniatures Game for SF skirmish. Played games of "40K", "Star Wars" and "Doctor Who" using the basic gangs and weaponry. There are also psychic powers and vehicle rules, a really underrated set of rules.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: twrchtrwyth on 12 December 2017, 11:08:38 PM
I've had a lot of success with Judge Dredd Miniatures Game for SF skirmish. Played games of "40K", "Star Wars" and "Doctor Who" using the basic gangs and weaponry. There are also psychic powers and vehicle rules, a really underrated set of rules.
Yes, good call.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 12 December 2017, 11:12:11 PM
I've had a lot of success with Judge Dredd Miniatures Game for SF skirmish. Played games of "40K", "Star Wars" and "Doctor Who" using the basic gangs and weaponry. There are also psychic powers and vehicle rules, a really underrated set of rules.

Agreed 100%, JDMG is an AWESOME and sadly underrated set of rules!

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/54/Bot%C3%B3n_Me_gusta.svg/1200px-Bot%C3%B3n_Me_gusta.svg.png)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Warren Abox on 13 December 2017, 12:17:54 AM

I'd certainly recommend Mutants and Death Ray Guns. I've never found the "false economy of only two stats" a problem with the Ganesha stable; I think the Song of Blades engine is really robust, and I've never found the traits to be burdensome.

My beef with Ganesha is that the system breaks down when used to model firefights.  Wait, that might not be right.  The system might be great at modelling firefights, but the game breaks down.  Our Flying Lead games were two turns of maneuver followed by everybody just hunkering down and trading dice rolls until hits were scored.  Which is probably a great model of a firefight, but it doesn't make for the kind of exciting game of fire *and* maneuver that we prefer.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Major_Gilbear on 13 December 2017, 01:26:23 PM
I'm surprised nobody has mentioned AE: Bounty yet. It has all the things requested in the original post!

Despite the game having some official models that were sporadically released over some indeterminate period, you can pretty much use whatever models you like just fine.

The rules are easy and cheap to buy (physical or digital), and there are plenty of reviews online too.

If I had any real criticisms of it, it's that action points are king, that certain fast flying melee builds are very powerful, and that not having points makes the list-building part more complicated than it needs to be (to me). These are all truthfully pretty minor issues though, and there are easy ways around them. :)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Hobgoblin on 13 December 2017, 02:04:49 PM
My beef with Ganesha is that the system breaks down when used to model firefights.  Wait, that might not be right.  The system might be great at modelling firefights, but the game breaks down.  Our Flying Lead games were two turns of maneuver followed by everybody just hunkering down and trading dice rolls until hits were scored.  Which is probably a great model of a firefight, but it doesn't make for the kind of exciting game of fire *and* maneuver that we prefer.

I have Flying Lead, but have never played it. I wonder if there's a clash between its "hard" take on modern warfare and the SoBH engine. In our MRDG games, manoeuvre plays a big part: dashing to objectives, rushing in to take out downed foes and lining up shooters for concentrated fire. The last two are so important in the game, we find, that staying still is rarely an option.

Rogue Stars strikes me as the game for a firefight, though, given the importance of pins, fatigue, etc.

I must say I'm very impressed with Pulp Alley so far. It prompted me to buy a few more D8s, D10s and D12s yesterday, just to be fully stocked!
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: DS615 on 13 December 2017, 03:47:37 PM
I am really enjoying Five Parsecs From Home.
http://www.wargamevault.com/product/226810/Five-Parsecs-From-Home
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Warren Abox on 13 December 2017, 08:49:04 PM
I have Flying Lead, but have never played it. I wonder if there's a clash between its "hard" take on modern warfare and the SoBH engine. In our MRDG games, manoeuvre plays a big part: dashing to objectives, rushing in to take out downed foes and lining up shooters for concentrated fire. The last two are so important in the game, we find, that staying still is rarely an option.

That makes sense.  We used Flying Lead for near future skirmishes, rather than the sort of science-fantasy of MDRG.  That could make a big difference.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Storm Wolf on 13 December 2017, 10:13:54 PM
Okay then if action point's are not taboo, then try combat zone by em4 miniatures, its cheap, adaptable and easily available!

Glen
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Papa Spanky on 13 December 2017, 10:43:09 PM
https://nolimitswargames.wordpress.com/
I don't think this was mentioned yet. It is points based, but you can use as much or as little of the rules as you want, hence the name.
I would also second:
Combat Zone
Pulp Alley
Flying Lead
Two Hour Wargames

Good luck!
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 13 December 2017, 11:31:23 PM
Okay then if action point's are not taboo, then try combat zone by em4 miniatures, its cheap, adaptable and easily available!

That's another really nice ruleset!

And with lots of free material: http://combatzonechronicles.net/ (http://combatzonechronicles.net/)

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/54/Bot%C3%B3n_Me_gusta.svg/1200px-Bot%C3%B3n_Me_gusta.svg.png)


Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Pijlie on 14 December 2017, 04:38:07 AM
I have tried Rogue Stars and found it to be lacking with the way crews are created.

Having tried Rogue Stars quite extensively by now and just being curious: what do you think lacks in the way crews are created? I found I could create almost anything.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 14 December 2017, 12:03:08 PM
Having tried Rogue Stars quite extensively by now and just being curious: what do you think lacks in the way crews are created? I found I could create almost anything.

Not lacking in options, but lacking in background. They were just a bunch of traits. I need some fluff, background, and stats. I find it hard to play a game in which the miniatures don't have stats. I was super excited for this game when announced and I preordered it right away. When I tried to play it, it just felt off for me. And overly complex. I did like the scenario generation system though.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 14 December 2017, 12:32:48 PM
I did like the scenario generation system though.

The only really good thing in the book IMHO!  :D

But as I see, lots of players like that rules exactly because of the lack of figures stats and the character generation system...

Independently of the rules system, to this time nothings beats a nice character card with stats and a picture matching the miniature, IMHO!  :D

(http://940ee6dce6677fa01d25-0f55c9129972ac85d6b1f4e703468e6b.r99.cf2.rackcdn.com/products/pictures/118489.jpg)
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: hummus on 14 December 2017, 09:50:23 PM
try grimdark firefight
https://onepagerules.com/
its free and has stats for all the forces you find in 0k
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 14 December 2017, 10:50:48 PM
I have been watching some of the Pulp Alley videos and I downloaded the free PDF quick start rules. While Pulp Alley doesn't seem to really be sci fi in its presentation or in its rules, I do find it intriguing. I may have to try and convince someone to give it a shot with me. I am still looking for pretty hard sci fi skirmish game. I mainly have to play in a store so are there any recommendations of games that would be available in a gaming store? My local store tends to frown upon games being played or demoed that he doesn't sell.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 15 December 2017, 03:23:58 AM
My local store tends to frown upon games being played or demoed that he doesn't sell.

So it's time to find yourself another store IMHO!  ;)

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Elk101 on 15 December 2017, 06:53:53 AM
Conversely, if a game they didn't sell was played and proved to be popular,  perhaps it's the ideal way to introduce prospective new products?
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 15 December 2017, 12:02:17 PM
Conversely, if a game they didn't sell was played and proved to be popular,  perhaps it's the ideal way to introduce prospective new products?

Yes that works except most of the suggestions here have been for games that are not available through retail distributors. I mean I could be wrong, but I don't think I could walk into a store and order say a copy of Pulp Alley or Void Pirates. I am not picking on these games. I am just using them as they were recommended several times and don't seem to have a retail presence.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 15 December 2017, 12:05:22 PM
So it's time to find yourself another store IMHO!  ;)



They are the only store around that sells games and has any real space to play at the store. And personally I can't blame him for not wanting to host people playing items that he doesn't sell. For one, the store loses your sales because you bought it somewhere else. Two, anyone who sees you playing the game and becomes interested in checking it out wouldn't be buying from the store either. It only makes sense to promote what you sell or can order to sell.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Tactalvanic on 15 December 2017, 12:37:38 PM
I might be way off, but hey, nothing unusual in that, but..

Would a boardgame set like Human Interface be a route that might suit?

http://www.hint-thegame.com/

Human Interface Nakamura Tower Sci Fi Cyberpunk style game?

Gives plenty of back story to the characters and environs, rather than simply leaving it open ended for the players to decide/makeup?

Or are you edging more towards a more space empire spanning sci fi environment.

They are actively expanding on the game to.

Plus its something a shop can get and stock I guess.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Malebolgia on 15 December 2017, 02:04:01 PM
Well..."actively" is pushing it a bit ;)
But it's a nice game with nice rules and great theme. It does need some tweaks here and there to play it as a standalone product instead of the enclosed board game. But should work.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Tactalvanic on 15 December 2017, 02:27:19 PM
Well..."actively" is pushing it a bit ;)
But it's a nice game with nice rules and great theme. It does need some tweaks here and there to play it as a standalone product instead of the enclosed board game. But should work.

I was being nice, but yeah, its taking them a while..... ::)

You put it quite succinctly though - its a nice enough enclosed game, which is what I was primarily suggesting, plenty of pre-created backstory etc
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: robh on 15 December 2017, 02:55:36 PM
My local store tends to frown upon games being played or demoed that he doesn't sell.

I have discussed this in the past with the owner of the FLGS we play at.
His view is that it depends on the game: You take in a big box "all included" game from a line/range he does not sell and it is a problem.
However you take in a $20 pdf of some rules he does not sell that uses $150 worth of miniatures and terrain he does, then he is more than happy.

We play Void Pirates in a store that does not sell it, using figures from Reaper, Corvus Belli, Games Workshop, and Mantic (all of which he sells) as well as online suppliers like Statuesque, Denizen and CPModels. Most of the scenery is bought or made for Infinity and is from the shops own selection.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: spect_spidey on 16 December 2017, 02:33:29 PM
If everything works out, I should be able to play my first game of Pulp Alley today using the free quickstart rules. I don't really have any minis from this era so I will probably just use my massive amount of Walking Dead All Out War miniatures. I am excited though. It might not be the sci fi game I was looking for, but it might be a game that I go to.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: zemjw on 16 December 2017, 04:57:53 PM
I was having a bit of a Christmas tidy yesterday and stumbled across another set of rules I'd forgotten I'd bought.

Black Ops from Osprey is ultra modern skirmish rules. However, just about everything SF I'm watching at the moment has pistols, rifles and swords in it, so if you're not looking for laser pistols it may be worth a look.

Also interested to hear how Pulp Alley plays with SF.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: dinohunterpoa on 16 December 2017, 06:14:20 PM
If everything works out, I should be able to play my first game of Pulp Alley today using the free quickstart rules. I don't really have any minis from this era so I will probably just use my massive amount of Walking Dead All Out War miniatures. I am excited though. It might not be the sci fi game I was looking for, but it might be a game that I go to.

Google "Pulp Alley Star Wars" and "Pulp Ally Sci Fi" for LOTS of insights and ideas!  ;)

Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Sangennaru on 16 December 2017, 06:23:26 PM
I think that a game like Pulp Alley works well with pretty much any setting! The pulp world is particularly full of characterful encounters and situations were a few unique characters might work well, but it's definitely not the only setting that fits in the description!


By the way, I apologize for the self-promotion in advance, but my skirmish game just hit the shelves of Wargame Vault today, and as I anticipated in my previous post (a couple of pages ago) it might be what you're looking for.

http://www.wargamevault.com/product/227996/Round-of-Fire--Core-Rules
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: NurgleHH on 16 December 2017, 08:20:42 PM
I think that a game like Pulp Alley works well with pretty much any setting! The pulp world is particularly full of characterful encounters and situations were a few unique characters might work well, but it's definitely not the only setting that fits in the description!


By the way, I apologize for the self-promotion in advance, but my skirmish game just hit the shelves of Wargame Vault today, and as I anticipated in my previous post (a couple of pages ago) it might be what you're looking for.

http://www.wargamevault.com/product/227996/Round-of-Fire--Core-Rules

Get my copy and it looks very good at the first view. I think you like rules fast and dirty.
Title: Re: Looking for a Sci Fi Skirmish Game
Post by: Pijlie on 17 December 2017, 01:35:31 PM
Not lacking in options, but lacking in background. They were just a bunch of traits. I need some fluff, background, and stats. I find it hard to play a game in which the miniatures don't have stats. I was super excited for this game when announced and I preordered it right away. When I tried to play it, it just felt off for me. And overly complex. I did like the scenario generation system though.

Ah, now I understand. With Rogue Stars you indeed have to bring your own background fluff and have to make your own stats using the generation system. If that's a problem, it's not for you.