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Miniatures Adventure => The Conflicts that came in from the Cold => Topic started by: jetengine on October 23, 2020, 05:30:31 PM

Title: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: jetengine on October 23, 2020, 05:30:31 PM
Amazon searching brings up a new ruleset written  by Jamie Gordon (author of Ospreys Crusader era wargame "Outremer: Blood and Faith" ) called Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III.

I've sent a message to Osprey asking if this is a Cold War Gone Hot kind of thing or more of a modern day thing. Either way its interesting. Due for release January 25th 2022.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Cypher226 on October 23, 2020, 06:34:36 PM
Oh that does sound interesting!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Rick F on October 23, 2020, 06:35:52 PM
Yes, it does sound interesting. I like most of the Osprey rules.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Splod on October 23, 2020, 11:49:55 PM
Hmm, I've got a number of the Osprey 'blue book' range and I find them to be rather hit and miss.

But I'll approach this with an open mind!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: commissarmoody on October 24, 2020, 03:35:05 AM
My bet would be on cold war gone hot. There was a cold war gone hot video game series called operation flash point so, might be inspired by it?
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on October 24, 2020, 03:22:50 PM
Sounds interesting but I'm not holding my breath. Not due for release for another 15 months!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Harry Faversham on October 24, 2020, 11:46:02 PM
Jamie can sometimes be found lurking in the 'Medieval Adventures' sub forum...
perhaps an Agent could be dispatched there to interrogate him?

:-X
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: NurgleHH on October 25, 2020, 05:17:19 PM
Hmm, I've got a number of the Osprey 'blue book' range and I find them to be rather hit and miss.

But I'll approach this with an open mind!
I am with you. A lot of them needed support and clarification, which never came. And the slowing frequency shows the interest of Osprey, I’m afraid.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Pan Marek on October 25, 2020, 05:55:06 PM
I'll put in another cautionary vote.  I found "World Aflame" hopelessly generic, and "Rebels and Patriots" a mere toolbox, and what was spelled out seemed overly complex. 
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on October 25, 2020, 07:04:46 PM
I'm afraid I can only echo the comment about the variable quality of the Osprey rules. "Dux Bellorum" has good ratings but were based on  an earlier ruleset. I have also heard good things about "The Men Who Would be Kings", and indeed plan to buy them myself for my Maori Wars project.  The "Rampant series and "Pikemen's Lament" also see good useage, albeit I must say "Lion Rampant" left me cold with no period flavour. Most of the others seem to have sunk without trace.       
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Sir_Theo on October 25, 2020, 08:01:59 PM
For the price of them (usually less than 8 pounds) I have only ever passed on ones that cover periods I have zero interest in. And of the ones I have bought more hits than misses (OGAM, IHMN, Gaslands, Zona Alfa, Black Ops, En Garde, TMWWBK, Lion Rampant, Fistful of King Fu) , even if I've never actually played them they have been interesting reads full of good ideas.

I will probably pick this up.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: jetengine on October 26, 2020, 01:22:41 PM
Sounds interesting but I'm not holding my breath. Not due for release for another 15 months!

Oh certainly, I just felt it relevant to let the group know of an upcoming ruleset from a prominent company
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on October 27, 2020, 09:40:46 AM
Sir Theo makes a good point. The Osprey rules are good value especially if you can get them for under £10. I have spent a lot more on other rule books that have proved “duds”. My only recommendation would be to wait and see what independent reviews make of them before purchasing. Unlike other rules where you can sometimes get tasters ( eg the TFL U-Tube videos) or debate on various forums or blogs there doesn’t seem to be much prior discussion pre-release for Osprey.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on October 27, 2020, 04:27:27 PM
.... Unlike other rules where you can sometimes get tasters ( eg the TFL U-Tube videos) or debate on various forums or blogs there doesn’t seem to be much prior discussion pre-release for Osprey.
Depends on the author.
Zona Alfa had articles prior to publication:
https://ospreypublishing.com/blog/tag/zona+alfa/ (https://ospreypublishing.com/blog/tag/zona+alfa/)
Plus the author (Dentatus of this parish) had blog articles.

I know that Frostgrave, Oathmark and Spacegrave are special cases (and not Osprey Blue Books) but they have plenty of coverage (Spacegrave is due for Salute next year : https://ospreypublishing.com/blog/stargrave_artwork_reveal/ (https://ospreypublishing.com/blog/stargrave_artwork_reveal/) but is getting blog articles).
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on October 27, 2020, 04:43:33 PM
All the pre-launch, post- launch, and everything in between is up to the writer of the rules.  Osprey provides access to some resources to help publish, such as artwork, some editing and (sometimes) photographs and that is about it.  They also have industry connections to help get some articles about your rules published in magazines and online, but those articles are going to have to be written by the author or the Authors connections.     

They have very long lead times since they are part of a much larger publishing company, and access to the printing press must be scheduled very early.  They run tight deadlines and page limits for their authors since they are trying to fit printing between other works.  I believe they only have space to do 2 Blue Books a year.   

That said, I love the "Blue Book" range as it allows easy access to Periods, ideas, and mechanics that I might never see if they are all hidden behind a $25+ plus book.  I own everyone and I will own everyone that gets published.  I want to support the model so it does not disappear!       
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: NurgleHH on October 31, 2020, 10:25:56 PM
Sounds interesting but I'm not holding my breath. Not due for release for another 15 months!
Exactly the problem! Zona Alpha became so uninteresting after these long time like all the stuff from osprey...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on November 03, 2020, 10:41:20 PM
I am not sure I understand this point......
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Arrigo on November 08, 2020, 11:30:31 AM
I am not sure I understand this point......

I think the point is... short attention span. People want the rules ASAP, and if they are not published immediately, they lose interest. Of course... no one consider author's time, publication lead time and so on... more to the point in case like this we see just an amazon announcement of something that it is not even mentioned in Osprey catalog or blogs...

At the same time people, often the same... complain that authors do not splurge details and blog posts years in advance to advertise their work...  o_o

Internet...  o_o

Anyway I am happy with Osprey Wargames... I recall a good one... Men of Bronze should be titled...  lol
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on November 09, 2020, 07:00:36 PM


Anyway I am happy with Osprey Wargames... I recall a good one... Men of Bronze should be titled...  lol

I see you are also a man of taste and sophistication!  Well met good sir!   

lol

Edit: Outremer: Faith and Blood has a very good campaign system attached to it.  Therefore, I wonder how this game will handle campaign play in such a different setting?
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: vodkafan on November 12, 2020, 11:25:37 PM
I will for one keep buying Osprey rulesets that interest me. I have enjoyed all those I have played, in particular Rebels and Patriots has proven to be a very flexible generic set.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: FlyXwire on November 13, 2020, 03:28:47 PM
I think the past months of the pandemic [and with extra time for hobby reflection] has reinforced my wargaming plans to do what I've already enjoyed doing for decades, but with an eye towards greater refinement (instead of waiting for new rules, and/or for anticipating collecting into new periods).

Example - Rebels and Patriots - how many [better] takes on AWI rules need there be I wonder?

Frankly, before the virus disruption, I can't say my gamer group had much time then to try out new rules - without a major commitment and admittance that if the endeavor ended up without much return, it was generally a distraction.  Before doing this, some ruleset must clearly offer appreciable gains in order to occupy our precious face-time.....and the pandemic has only reinforced this belief now.

Certainly, if someone is looking for rules to a new period they want to get into, and perhaps even collect as a new project, then maybe that new ruleset will be perfect.  On the flip side, how do favorite rules used for a period become dated - and then needing replacement?

Luckily, Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III (and used to play that FPS PC game series a lot in fact), isn't a miniatures period I'm into, so I can stay strong and true to my thinking here, but Good Luck ya'll!  8)



Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Pijlie on November 14, 2020, 07:34:00 AM
I bought quite a few good and interesting rulesets from Osprey. But there are a few I didn't like, that being largely a matter of taste or unfinished rulesets (or both).

I will watch this one closely, as I am heavily into the modern period. Hopefully they will be seeking test players :)
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: NurgleHH on August 19, 2021, 02:46:00 PM
I think one problem with this set is, that people expect a modern "Outremer" from this author. It would be nice to get more information about the rulesystem and mechanics. Maybe the author can tell us more in this forum.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: CapnJim on August 19, 2021, 04:20:29 PM
I, for one, like several of Osprey's "bluebook" rules.  My gaming group has had the opportunity to playtest Flashpoint!, and we liked them.  I did have some suggestions for the author, based on my own experiences in the US Army, and my knowledge of period weapon systems, etc. ... I was in a tank battalion in Germany from '84 to '87.  I'll surely get them and play them when they come out...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on August 19, 2021, 05:09:22 PM
Hi, if you look down the threads you will see "Cold War Rules Playtest". Basically the author is asking for playtesters so you can see what they are like by volunteering! I have read them and they are a platoon-level infantry based game set in a  "Twilight 2000" style world ( if you remember the RPG....). The premise is that it is WWIII plus 12 months and the fighting has become mainly infantry based as most heavy weapons/vehicles have either broken down or run out of fuel/ammo. The rules themselves are pretty simple with a lot of effort also going into developing your force from game to game. If you want something more detailed they won't  be for you, but if you like that sort of game with a "campaign" bolt-on they could work .     
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: commissarmoody on August 19, 2021, 11:24:23 PM
Hi, if you look down the threads you will see "Cold War Rules Playtest". Basically the author is asking for playtesters so you can see what they are like by volunteering!   
Cool, Ill check it out.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: carlos marighela on August 20, 2021, 07:08:06 AM
The author of those rules started a thread on this very forum not long ago.

https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=131842.0

You could always ask them.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Ursus Maior on September 07, 2021, 10:10:11 AM
Hi, if you look down the threads you will see "Cold War Rules Playtest". Basically the author is asking for playtesters so you can see what they are like by volunteering! I have read them and they are a platoon-level infantry based game set in a  "Twilight 2000" style world ( if you remember the RPG....). The premise is that it is WWIII plus 12 months and the fighting has become mainly infantry based as most heavy weapons/vehicles have either broken down or run out of fuel/ammo. The rules themselves are pretty simple with a lot of effort also going into developing your force from game to game. If you want something more detailed they won't  be for you, but if you like that sort of game with a "campaign" bolt-on they could work .   
Interesting timing. We just picked up a bit of T2K for roleplaying and started a wargaming project to go along with it. I was waiting for more information on Osprey's new publication, but this seems to fit spot on. I'd be interested how this goes. Especially, we would like to integrate older vehicles into the game, the logic being that the shiny stuff has mostly worn out during the early phases of the war.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Legiocustodes on November 08, 2021, 01:54:38 PM
Hi All;

I am the author of this book and I just wanted to say I am pleased to have finally submitted the final draft to Osprey this morning.

My sincere thanks to all the community members who helped with play-testing and provided loads of valuable feedback. I am very grateful for the assistance and I can assure you I took all your points on board.

Apologies for sporadic comms... those of you who read my author profile on the back of Outremer: Faith and Blood will probably guess that due to the nature of my 'full time' jobs I am not always around!!

Once again my thanks to you all... I hope you enjoy them when they are released.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: AzSteven on November 08, 2021, 07:35:01 PM
Hi All;

I am the author of this book and I just wanted to say I am pleased to have finally submitted the final draft to Osprey this morning.


Great news!  Looking forward to seeing the product in the flesh!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Legiocustodes on November 09, 2021, 07:06:04 AM
Cheers mate! I can’t wait to see it finally in print!!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: commissarmoody on November 09, 2021, 08:32:24 AM
Cool
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: CapnJim on November 09, 2021, 07:01:35 PM
I'm looking forward to it, too!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Just a few orcs on November 09, 2021, 11:33:00 PM
I'm afraid I can only echo the comment about the variable quality of the Osprey rules. "Dux Bellorum" has good ratings but were based on  an earlier ruleset. I have also heard good things about "The Men Who Would be Kings", and indeed plan to buy them myself for my Maori Wars project.  The "Rampant series and "Pikemen's Lament" also see good useage, albeit I must say "Lion Rampant" left me cold with no period flavour. Most of the others seem to have sunk without trace.       

"The men Who Would Be Kings" are not a bad set. Just don't play the scenarios at the back. We played a campaign at club  using these and the defender won 90% of the time, regardless of who was playing the defender.

Although he states you can use half size units, this has a significant effect on the game mechanism and play, as units of 3 figures cannot hit anything at long range in cover.  Making half size units ineffective after 3 hits instead of 9 hits.

In Scenario D The set up instructions state:- "the attacker places all non tribal units and units without fiedcraft freely on the table , no closer than firing range from any table edge". As I had a regular British Force with modern rifles I ended up with all 4 (half size) units is  a single figure line down the centre of a 6 x 4 table. If we had full size units or a smaller table I could in theory not have deployed.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: evil_steve on April 03, 2022, 03:07:49 PM
What are the unit sizes for this game? Are any markers used? Want to start working on this project in advance of its release.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: zemjw on April 03, 2022, 07:28:29 PM
I had missed this one, but it looks like the release has been pushed back to August 2022 (according to Amazon anyway, so it must be true ;D).

Still that will give me plenty of time to plan and never actually get around to doing anything o_o

I'd be interested in unit sizes as well, as platoon tends to make me lean towards 20mm, rather than 28mm..
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Daeothar on April 04, 2022, 08:13:17 AM
Yes; this.

I've put these questions out before (not in this thread) but never got satisfactory answers.

I'd like to know what scale is recommended for these rules and what the model count will be. Ideally, it'd be somewhere between squad and platoon, in 28mm (for me at least... ::) ).
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on April 04, 2022, 09:11:19 AM
From what I recall when I read a draft last summer they are squad level plus a few vehicles. Can’t recall if you could use multiple squads per side, but as a major part of the game is about building your group and it’s skills I suspect it was single squad. I think the rules are pretty scale agnostic. The ranges etc may have been aimed at a particular scale but could be easily adapted.

 The whole genre reminded me of the old “Twilight 2000” role-playing game albeit without the detail.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Daeothar on April 04, 2022, 10:26:42 AM
Cheers SJWi :)

The whole genre reminded me of the old “Twilight 2000” role-playing game albeit without the detail.

Yes, I read that before, and that's exactly what's drawing me in...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on April 04, 2022, 09:04:40 PM
Hi All;

I am the author of this book and I just wanted to say I am pleased to have finally submitted the final draft to Osprey this morning.

Apologies for sporadic comms... those of you who read my author profile on the back of Outremer: Faith and Blood will probably guess that due to the nature of my 'full time' jobs I am not always around!!


Kudos to you! 

I know the feeling. 
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: evil_steve on April 04, 2022, 11:58:46 PM
Can anyone who was in the play testing advise as to Unit sizes,  markers,  or any other items we'd need for this? I'm rearing to make forces for a polish campaign.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on April 05, 2022, 04:47:18 AM
Evil Steve, I've just checked the play-test version I was sent and would say the following......recognising this was the state of play last July.  The author says this is section-platoon level plus a couple of vehicles . Recommends 15 or 20mm figures based on 15 or 20mm round bases. No special  markers seem to be needed. but each unit will need a "Unit Management Sheet" which I assume will be in the book. The author mentions a download from the Osprey website but from previous experience Osprey don't seem to offer this facility with their soft back rules. He talks about a starting force of 750 points but the points system was the least developed part of the rules. I could deduce that this is for a fairly "rookie" platoon but could be wrong. The rules are pretty basis and a big part of the game system if the campaign element, gaining experience etc etc. Thus I presume you will be able to have "even"  games  between large inexperienced forces and smaller veteran forces.

Does this help?     
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: evil_steve on April 05, 2022, 10:35:02 AM
It does. Thanks very much!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Legiocustodes on May 03, 2022, 09:36:03 PM
Hi guys. I’m the author.

So unit sizes are essentially a few squads and potentially a light vehicle for most games… but I have played with bigger and it has worked fine. Realistically you will be looking at a platoon HQ and three to five rifle sections/squads, and also some heavy weapons teams.

The game’s release has been pushed back due to the ongoing situation currently taking place in the real world. This seemed appropriate given the nature of the setting.

I hope this helps.

Cheers
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Daeothar on May 04, 2022, 08:09:17 AM
Many thanks for that clarification.

And those numbers are the sweet spot for me, so I'll be waiting (im)patiently for the eventual release  :)
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: commissarmoody on May 04, 2022, 09:00:55 AM
Good, I can swing those numbers on the tabletop. I just hope this doesn't get held up too long.  :D
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Legiocustodes on May 04, 2022, 04:30:02 PM
Cheers Guys! Thanks for support and patience!! It really is appreciated!!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: evil_steve on May 06, 2022, 01:45:02 PM
Any sense of the revised release date? I completely understand if there isn't.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on May 20, 2022, 07:07:06 PM
@Legiocustodes-

Can you share who you managed to source the photos for the book from?  Did you do them yourself, or find a 3rd party provider to get the photos.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: FinnN on July 18, 2022, 09:05:29 PM
Coming across some (very nice) cover art reminded me of this game - is there any update on when it might be released? It seems completely absent from the Osprey site but shows up in a number shops.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: carlos marighela on July 19, 2022, 12:12:19 AM
Might have to take a look at that, if only because the cover art deals with a current project.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Ash on July 19, 2022, 09:49:08 AM
is there any update on when it might be released?

Amazon have it marked as "This title will be released on August 18, 2022."
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Daeothar on July 19, 2022, 09:58:51 AM
Amazon have it marked as "This title will be released on August 18, 2022."

I'm sure that will be updated (again)...  ;)
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on July 19, 2022, 06:57:38 PM
I do like that cover art. Must resist a new project!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: FinnN on July 19, 2022, 07:17:42 PM
Amazon have it marked as "This title will be released on August 18, 2022."

Yep, I’ve actually had it on pre-order there since last year - let’s just say I’m skeptical if with a month to go it’s not on the Osprey site!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: carlos marighela on July 20, 2022, 05:27:05 AM
I do like that cover art. Must resist a new project!

I feel for the bloke with the SMG and his oppo. He doesn't realise it yet but he is definitely in the BBDA of the bloke firing the rocket.  :o
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on July 20, 2022, 08:40:24 AM
I feel for the bloke with the SMG and his oppo. He doesn't realise it yet but he is definitely in the BBDA of the bloke firing the rocket.  :o

Ha! Fair point, I had not picked up on that. Ouch!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: CapnJim on July 20, 2022, 05:17:11 PM
I feel for the bloke with the SMG and his oppo. He doesn't realise it yet but he is definitely in the BBDA of the bloke firing the rocket.  :o

Hopefully, that chap firing it will check his BBA first... ;)

But I'm waiting for these rules, too.  I had a chance to playtest them, and they are interesting...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: commissarmoody on July 22, 2022, 06:54:27 AM
Yeah I am also still very interested in these rules.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Warren Abox on July 24, 2022, 05:04:23 PM
I'm down for a copy, but Amazon tells me it won't be available until 2027. That should give us plenty of time to get our terrain and figures ready.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Ursus Maior on July 30, 2022, 10:02:27 PM
Might have to take a look at that, if only because the cover art deals with a current project.
Indeed, it does. My "regular" gaming group and I were looking for exactly this setting and exactly this size to go along with our Twilight: 2000 RPG campaign.  :)
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 16, 2022, 01:03:22 AM
Is there any news on when this is releasing or is osprey still playing it safe to avoid upsetting certain people with the current events... even though ww3 has had many games and movies and books and other things made about it before... (Wish I could talk to whoever decided that) really hoping they come to their senses and just release it at some point soon. This looks like it will be one of the best games in the series yet.

I have been eagerly awaiting this book for a long time and I have been checking Amazon's store page for it pretty much daily to see if they put the original release date back which is tomorrow, August 16th. But it still says it's not being released until 2027 lol.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: SJWi on August 16, 2022, 04:15:55 AM
It isn't in their published release schedule that currently runs to the end of November. I guess that makes it 2023 at the earliest.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 16, 2022, 01:00:43 PM
Wow, that's a shame. I have so many of their books that it's not even funny but this will likely be the last one I purchase from them whenever it finally comes out. I really don't support the idea that they're just waiting because of present events. They have nothing to do with the book/game. It may relate in content, but not intention. Other games/movies/books/etc are continuing as normal because that's all they can do.

I just got my hands on a copy of the new version of spectre operations for the meantime. Highly recommended. Absolutely great set of rules with a lot to offer. Book is beautiful, too. You can pretty much use the rules for any conflict from the 60's until modern day and even futuristic if that's your thing. You could probably even spin the rules for ww2 stuff as well but other rulesets are more appropriate for that like chain of command, crossfire, and bolt action.

Either way, I still cannot wait for flashpoint! Very excited for when it finally comes out.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: commissarmoody on August 16, 2022, 04:17:23 PM
Specter is currently working on a WW2 mod for their rules. Posted up about it on their FB page and on the Perry Brothers page as well.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 17, 2022, 03:42:47 AM
That sounds interesting. I'll have to look into that. Thanks!
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Arrigo on August 17, 2022, 10:45:45 AM
I do not think that is being hold because current events, just because they have a long production queue. And Amazon tends to list unconfirmed release dates.

As an example, several years ago amazon.uk was listing World of Battleship from Seaforth/USNI as releasing in a couple of weeks. There was just a problem... I just got contacted by the editor to write a chapter for it... it was 2015 or 2016, and the book was released in 2018.  :o

So do not unnecessarily  blame Osprey.  :)

Best,
Arrigo
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: AdmiralAndy on August 17, 2022, 12:49:54 PM
@Arrigo

i totally +1 that, what Amazon says and what the publisher actually does, hasn't always been similar.

How does everyone find the Warlord Games Bolt Action WW1 that came out 7 years ago.

https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Warlord-Games/dp/147280953X

https://www.abebooks.co.uk/9781472809537/Bolt-Action-World-Wargames-Rules-147280953X/plp

Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 17, 2022, 01:00:47 PM
Hi guys. I’m the author.

So unit sizes are essentially a few squads and potentially a light vehicle for most games… but I have played with bigger and it has worked fine. Realistically you will be looking at a platoon HQ and three to five rifle sections/squads, and also some heavy weapons teams.

The game’s release has been pushed back due to the ongoing situation currently taking place in the real world. This seemed appropriate given the nature of the setting.

I hope this helps.

Cheers

It was stated right there in that post. There was also another post confirming this elsewhere but I cannot find the link. But yeah, that's why. It's not just idle speculation. I'm basing it on what the author himself said and another post about it on another site as well.

So yeah, osprey is holding off because of that. Unfortunate.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: AdmiralAndy on August 17, 2022, 03:00:17 PM
Thanks for highlighting the clarification, being posted from 3 months ago looks like the original note from the Author may have got overlooked in more recent comms on the subject amongst us.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: bishop2k7 on August 17, 2022, 03:11:04 PM
Count me as someone who is looking forward to this game, so I hope Osprey takes another look at this soon.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: sundayhero on August 17, 2022, 04:43:45 PM
It reminds me "operation flashpoint" a famous video game. I will follow this.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: bishop2k7 on August 17, 2022, 05:56:48 PM
It reminds me "operation flashpoint" a famous video game. I will follow this.

I loved Operation Flashpoint and the ARMA series. Great games.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Iain R on August 18, 2022, 11:00:56 AM
Just to follow on from the above, obviously Amazon were touting that my copy should have been with me today, but I've nnow recieved an email from them citing "delays in delivery" (though it looks available to order on their site, just "Out of Stock  ::) ). I went onto the Osprey site to see if there was any news or updates of substance, and it apoeats to have vanished completely, no listing under the games section and no mention now remains on a search for "Flashpoint"...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: carlos marighela on August 18, 2022, 11:54:36 AM
Isn’t 2027 the year Mr Bezos is going to declare world domination and leave for Mars on a fleet of spaceships?

I genuinely look forward to Mr Bezos leaving this world.* I will pity the poor, bone weary, Martians forced to piss in a plastic soft drink bottle as they struggle to complete their soul-crushing shifts at an Amazon fulfilment centre for $5 an hour.







* Hopefully he will take Mr Musk with him.




Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 18, 2022, 12:42:42 PM
It's just really disappointing that these companies are doing this kind of thing lately. Just because some people are unreasonable and freak out over the drop of a hat, the rest of us have to suffer over it. I honestly never thought I'd see that kind of thing hit the gaming world but I guess I should have seen it coming.

I know this is only a game so we're not really suffering that bad, but it is a really harsh reality that is affecting almost every area of life right now and this is one of the few things that actually give me joy in the world the way it is right now and I know a lot of other people feel the same way. Games are how I kind of escape so to speak and again I know a hell of a lot of people agree with that. A little bit of something to bring you happiness goes a long way with the current state of our world.

Ironically, I don't even have anyone to play these games with but I enjoy reading through the rules and playing solo when I can. My friends and I don't live nearby anymore.

This is the one thing I was actually really looking forward to for awhile. I write this post with genuine sadness and disappointment.

Do they really believe anything is going to change if they release this? They might get some people flipping out, but that's going to happen anyway because being offended is now so popular.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Huascar on August 18, 2022, 12:54:05 PM
Love to know what is going on! My pre-order for both digital and hardcopy is now showing delivery in 2027 and none of the book sites are still showing the cover art - all just blank blue boxes? Have been looking forward to these rules - hate to see them disappear.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 18, 2022, 12:55:44 PM
Yes, they removed the art cover from most the store pages that had the book. Just blue art now.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Arrigo on August 18, 2022, 09:19:38 PM
I am afraid until the author decides to pop up here and post an update  all of this is idle speculation... and a bit of whining, we do not even known if the added delay has been caused by other circumstances.

To be quite honest I had a look at the game and did some solo playtest. I was not overly impressed. It is basically TW2000 ultra lite. And the new edition of TW2000 does the job perfectly well including even MBTs... it is also more adaptable. I am not knocking out the game, but I was hugely disappointed. It was  vanilla and basically  period agnostic...  nothing screaming cold war.  So... maybe there was something else behind the delay. Maybe the author is revising it making it meatier?

Said that yes a game about a post apocalyptic world immediately after a strategic nuclear exchange between NATO and Soviet Union... yes it looks a tad too close to current saber rattling.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 18, 2022, 10:54:22 PM
... but it's not idle speculation. The author did say what was going on - here on these forums and elsewhere. Go see my quoted post. It's also completely removed from the osprey website.

 Also, whining? How so? Half of us prepurchased it and now have no idea what's going on with that. Disappointment isn't whining and neither is wanting to know what is happening with our purchases. the game mine as well have been canceled for all we know given that they removed the artwork on the store pages for the game and the descriptions have been really reduced. It used to be descriptive but now it's just "a set of platoon level wargame rules"... Wanting to know the status on an anticipated product and being annoyed that a company is highly likely - based on various posts - holding off because of current events seems pretty understandable. I'm genuinely surprised that counts as whining to some people. I do not personally see it that way or find that a fair equivalent.

And other games, movies, books, etc come out all the time and right now despite everything going on........ We can't hide from it and pretend it doesn't exist. The whole thing is kind of absurd.

And the game is not the same as twilight 2000 afaik. It wasn't after a nuclear war. It was just ww3 basically. Am I wrong? Playing it like it's after a nuclear war is fine but from what I know, it wasn't like that. Just cold war gone hot. Either way, I am looking forward to it no matter what. Twilight 2000 is a RPG. This is a wargame. Big difference. But I would be happy if it fit any modern rules. It doesn't necessarily have to just be cold war
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Dr Bogo on August 19, 2022, 08:28:02 AM
I don't think this conversation has particularly far to run down this avenue but for what it's worth:

1) Pre-purchasing anything always comes with an inherent risk to delivery, so although inquiring about the status of it is valid, this is an industry that is notoriously fast and loose with timelines and delivery so one shouldn't be too surprised.
2) Modern conflict is an aspect of wargaming that some people find no issue with and others are understandably sensitive about - if that is the reason these rules are being delayed it's the producer's choice to make and people need to live with that.
3) I have struggled to find any set of rules covering the 1980s-present period that my group could get to grips with so instead have been working on a set of house rules drawing from a range of other sets - if you're struggling with the choice out there I would recommend doing something similar, as at the end of the day it is about the style you're looking to game with.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Arrigo on August 19, 2022, 10:29:33 AM
Corrosion,

I do not dispute the author post, but I said that maybe things have changed. I know you are disappointed but, you pre-ordered through Amazon and as I said Amazon often is a bit too optimistic in release date. This is from personal experience of a book I was writing none the less.

As for the game itself, my playtest version postulated a strategic nuclear exchange following Able-Archer and it was really something like TW2000 but with less depth and options.  Now I have seen some descriptions (from Amazon none the less)  and I see it has now changed a bit, so maybe the changes had been implemented. Just out of curiosity I have also send a mail to Osprey to see what they are saying...

Having the new edition of TW2000 in my hands I can assure you it is quite a wargame, not just an RPG...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 19, 2022, 11:23:40 AM
I don't think this conversation has particularly far to run down this avenue but for what it's worth:

1) Pre-purchasing anything always comes with an inherent risk to delivery, so although inquiring about the status of it is valid, this is an industry that is notoriously fast and loose with timelines and delivery so one shouldn't be too surprised.
2) Modern conflict is an aspect of wargaming that some people find no issue with and others are understandably sensitive about - if that is the reason these rules are being delayed it's the producer's choice to make and people need to live with that.
3) I have struggled to find any set of rules covering the 1980s-present period that my group could get to grips with so instead have been working on a set of house rules drawing from a range of other sets - if you're struggling with the choice out there I would recommend doing something similar, as at the end of the day it is about the style you're looking to game with.

I started developing a video game in 2017 that was loosely based on the black plague. I continued working on it through 2019 and up until 2021. Right when covid was bad. Now, taking mind that I started working on it before covid was even a thing. I remember having people tell me that it was in bad taste to start working on that during that time and I thought it was so ridiculous for them to say that since I started working on it before most people even ever heard of it. It had nothing to do with covid and it just happened to be a circumstance that I found myself in that I was working on a game about that kind of thing during an actual pandemic. But why would that stop me? If I had made a game specifically about covid during that time, I think it would have been a bad choice but it wasn't. The game ended up being extremely popular and it did really well. The few people who were attacking me over it never even bothered buying it so that's not a big surprise there.

That said, I'm not even going to bother listing all of the works including games and movies and books and everything else that have been coming out for literally decades about the Cold war going hot. You and I both know that if people are very sensitive about it, they can safely ignore it. And Truth be told, the people who are going to be sensitive about it probably aren't even going to be customers anyway, so what does it matter? I would think they would try to keep their customers happy. At this point, we really need osprey to let those of us who pre-purchased it on one site or another in on some of the information and let us know if it's even still happening. 

I remember playing the original operation flashpoint back so many years ago when I was a kid, and I continued playing the series until they stopped with it and now I play Arma and have been for years. And the cold war is not even necessarily going on right now but it very possibly could. It very possibly could have all during that time that those other works came out as well.

It sets a really bad precedent if we always let fear and circumstance dictate our actions.

As you said, I have to agree that this conversation going in this direction really doesn't have far to go and everybody has their own opinions so it is probably best to just leave it at that. I have obviously said my part and everybody else has so we should probably try to get a little bit more back on topic about the actual game and stop talking about all this ridiculous stuff surrounding it.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: carlos marighela on August 19, 2022, 09:05:03 PM
Wouldn’t worry, taste is a variable. My local supermarket has a bargain bin, full of assorted shite. Recently it featured a board game titled ‘Pandemic’.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Cypher226 on August 20, 2022, 09:05:23 PM
Which is unfortunate,.as Pandemic is an absolutely excellent board game.

Though I understand it.  I was gearing up to run a T2K 4th ed game in January, then shelved in late Feb for some reason...  Just because one person doesn't see a problem, doesn't mean others won't.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Corrosion on August 22, 2022, 04:45:50 AM
Pandemic is an excellent game. And yeah that works on the flip side too though. Mature people who understand what a coincidence is won't make a big deal of nothing when others do. Especially over something so small. There's this little thing called choice. Basically, if you don't like something, you have a choice to ignore it. That's called maturity and it goes hand in hand with responsibility. I know that is just a thing of the past but still. It would be nice to let people make up their own minds.

Either way, it would be really cool to know exactly what's going on first hand. I have to agree now that I have thought more about it and say that it is a bit of speculation at this point considering that post is from a while ago but it is very strange that the book has completely vanished from the actual website and there is no news of it whatsoever anywhere.

That said...

SpongeBob had an episode about a sickness going around bikini bottom from years ago and people freaked out when it aired during covid so they removed the episode because obviously SpongeBob is so diabolical of a TV show. -_- I cannot imagine a rational adult making a big deal out of a kids tv show.

Same deal here.

Still hoping we get the game soon.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Cypher226 on August 22, 2022, 02:28:18 PM
@Corrosion

oh I'd totally like to see it surface sooner rather than later, much as I've recently begun looking at picking back up my T2K project with the acquisition of some more figures to convert into marauders.  I want to see the rules so I can see how much work it's going to take to adapt them for the more resource-limited world of T2k.

I also think you're coming from the wrong angle in expecting rational thought from the masses (look at the furore around the British Royal Family whenever younger members appear in any way, shape or form), but I'm a professional cynic. 

Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Westfalia Chris on August 22, 2022, 05:20:11 PM
No politics, please. Thanks!  ;)
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: sundayhero on August 24, 2022, 05:08:14 PM
there is no much modern rulesets available. So I will still follow this one. I already own force on force and skirmish sanguin (and another rulesets in french you probably never heard about). My favorite is OPEX a french ruleset, force on force is good also but the book itself is nearly unreadable.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: AKULA on August 24, 2022, 06:23:53 PM
there is no much modern rulesets available. So I will still follow this one. I already own force on force and skirmish sanguin (and another rulesets in french you probably never heard about). My favorite is OPEX a french ruleset, force on force is good also but the book itself is nearly unreadable.

I’m going to give the Empress BOHICA a go as I’ve seen them used for moderns before now
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: NurgleHH on August 25, 2022, 08:41:29 AM
I’m going to give the Empress BOHICA a go as I’ve seen them used for moderns before now
+1, it is a good development of their On-Page-Rules called Danger Close (I forgot the original name before Empress got them). D20 and easy to handle.
In the moment "flashpoint" is not interesting, becaause it is still not avaible. And no information about the delay. This is not really nice...
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on August 25, 2022, 04:57:27 PM
As an Osprey author myself, I will say due dates change based on so many different things.  Just know that the lead time on any given book is about 2 years.... at least.  In that time, a lot of things can happen that moves the final publication dates around.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: NurgleHH on August 26, 2022, 07:58:29 AM
As an Osprey author myself, I will say due dates change based on so many different things.  Just know that the lead time on any given book is about 2 years.... at least.  In that time, a lot of things can happen that moves the final publication dates around.
You are right, that a lot can change and happen. But it is not forbidden to talk with the customers. This is really missing. No one got information and this is very bad (and unfair for the customers).
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Arrigo on August 26, 2022, 04:28:30 PM
Well,

they talk... as I previously said I sent an-email to them and got an answer. Jamie had decided in agreement with the series editors to postpone publication. They have no firm date do tell me. But the book is still on their list.

Said that a lot of issues came not so much from osprey but from Amazon that, Frankly, had an unrealistic release date considering playtest started in fall 2021. It isnot the first time they (amazon)  messed up publication dates by years.

Best,
Arrigo
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Legiocustodes on August 28, 2022, 10:09:02 AM
Hi everyone.

It is the author here; sorry for the delayed response; my full time jobs have been very busy. Just to give you an update; I have been in contact with the publisher and the decision is still in place to push back the release date for now. The current date shown (2027 I believe) is only a placeholder date, but it will be out long before then.

I know this is an emotive issue, but as a soldier myself I am in total agreement with the publisher that it is not entirely appropriate to release a game whose setting and context is very similar to a situation in which people are currently dying in the real world. This is less about offending people and more about showing respect for what is a terrible real world event.

I am really keen to get the game published and out there as soon as it is appropriate and respectful to do so. I have spent a long time (2 years) working on this; so as you can imagine I share your feelings about the delay.

I hope you can understand and empathise with the position we have taken.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: gimzod on August 28, 2022, 08:28:04 PM
Thanks for the update.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Easy E on August 29, 2022, 02:23:56 PM
Thanks for the update.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: S_P on September 04, 2022, 04:34:39 PM
+1, it is a good development of their On-Page-Rules called Danger Close (I forgot the original name before Empress got them). D20 and easy to handle.
In the moment "flashpoint" is not interesting, becaause it is still not avaible. And no information about the delay. This is not really nice...

It was previously called 'Some Corner of a Forgotten Field'
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on September 04, 2022, 05:06:09 PM
I know this is an emotive issue, but as a soldier myself I am in total agreement with the publisher that it is not entirely appropriate to release a game whose setting and context is very similar to a situation in which people are currently dying in the real world. This is less about offending people and more about showing respect for what is a terrible real world event.
I think that is a reasonable attitude.
Said that a lot of issues came not so much from osprey but from Amazon that, Frankly, had an unrealistic release date considering playtest started in fall 2021. It isnot the first time they (amazon)  messed up publication dates by years.
Or messed up the fact the product was not going to be available from Amazon (or anyone other than direct from the publisher) at all.
Amazon scrape ISBN data, and if you apply for an ISBN number, Amazon (other booksellers are also guilty) will add it to their lists.

I am sure someone on this forum (or more likely his former business partner) had great difficulties trying to get a rule book removed from Amazon lists because they would not be selling it through them and there was concern that this unavailability would reflect on the product (especially if Amazon was taking money for the product).
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: NurgleHH on September 05, 2022, 08:07:07 PM
It was previously called 'Some Corner of a Forgotten Field'
Thank you
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: Daeothar on October 03, 2023, 11:40:39 AM
Still interested in the setting/game, even though it's on a (possible?) indefinite hiatus.

However; I just came across a presentation for a Mars Figures 1/72 set called 'Ukrainian Defenders'. And with Mars Figures in fact being a Ukranian company themselves, I'm just wondering how relevant the current hiatus actually is.

Not to be insensitive, but we've seen many games depicting certain conflicts that were still ongoing when they were released. Think Spectre Ops, Skirmish Sangin or Force on Force for instance. And Flashpoint is not even directly depicting a current conflict, but rather a hypothetical one, with both of the belligerents in the current conflict even fighting on one side (were Ukranian forces actually taken into account in any Red Block offensive plans? I honestly don't know).

Anyway, what I was trying to say here is; has there been any news on the game and a possible release date yet?
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: carlos marighela on October 05, 2023, 10:03:39 AM
Indeed, the purported rationale sounds like utter bollox to me. You can legitimately pose questions about the appropriateness of games set in actual ongoing conflicts but I doubt their potential market is going to conflate what is going on in Ukraine today with a game set in the late 20th C about a fictional conflict.
Title: Re: New Osprey Game - Flashpoint: Platoon Skirmishes in World War III
Post by: AKULA on October 05, 2023, 10:31:04 AM
has there been any news on the game and a possible release date yet?

This.

Still interested in seeing these rules

 :)