Zero Leader

Zero Leader is one of the latest releases in a long line of engaging solitaire wargames from Dan Verssen Games. The game is not only for the dedicated solitaire wargame enthusiast, even though it will challenge the most experienced wargamer - it is also very approachable for someone new to the hobby. What makes it so approachable are a) a very readable, clear, and unambiguous rulebook, b) simplicity of game play, and c), length of play (time required to complete the game). The rule book is printed in color on quality paper. It clearly explains every aspect of the cards, counters, and other components to the game right off the bat. But where the Leader rule books excel is how they clearly elucidate the actions for each sequential step of the game. Did you need to refresh your memory on how to resolve an air-to-air engagement? OK, that’s step 15 of the “Over Target” section. You don’t need to flip through narratives and text to find just the right paragraph buried amidst other data. AND, each step of gameplay is laid out in abbreviated form on the mounted map itself. Super user friendly. Simplicity: the Leader games incorporate realistic variables such as ordnance expenditure, movement, ranged engagements, and combat resolution while not forcing a player to go down so many rabbit holes the game becomes burdensome. Game effects that add to the replication of the “fog and friction” of war are introduced through card effects and are very clear and understandable. So. No rolling for fuel state, weather on take off, alternate field, sea state, catapult maintenance from the carrier, and a myriad other factors that did indeed impact (and do impact) carrier aviation operations in wartime. Each campaign, among several that are available, provide brief historical context and are player selectable in terms of length. A player can choose to play a short duration campaign consisting of a few “days” out to a couple weeks. An entire campaign can easily be completed in a matter of a couple hours. The game is very easy to set up and the player is not swimming in counters. It’s very streamlined. What I like about the campaigns is that it renews an interest in the history of WWII and I find myself doing additional research on the Battle of the Coral Sea, the Zero fighter, why the F4F was considered inadequate against the Zero, and reading wartime memoirs from the men who were engaged in these battles. It helps spark the interest that brings history to life. DVG does a very good job of conducting research and translating the most pertinent aspects into streamlined gameplay. I would recommend this game to anyone as a gift to a friend, family member, or to one’s self. You will not be disappointed. And oh by the way, DVGs customer support staff is second to none. They are incredibly responsive and helpful.