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Bolt Action is a thrilling World War II skirmish wargame that combines strategy, history, and tactical gameplay. To fully enjoy the game, it’s essential to understand the detailed gameplay mechanics. In this blog, we’ll cover how to set up a game, the various orders and movements, combat mechanics, and the roles of special units and unique rules.

Preparing to Play

Mission Selection

The first step in playing Bolt Action is selecting a mission. Missions can be chosen from the rulebook, campaign books, or created by the players. Each mission has specific objectives and terrain requirements, which set the stage for the battle. Missions range from straightforward engagements to complex scenarios with multiple objectives.

Tabletop Setup

Once a mission is selected, it’s time to set up the tabletop. The terrain should reflect the mission’s requirements, including buildings, forests, hills, and other obstacles. Players can follow the mission’s setup instructions or take turns placing terrain pieces. The goal is to create a realistic and strategic battlefield that enhances the gaming experience.

Players then deploy their forces based on the mission’s guidelines. This typically involves setting up units within designated deployment zones. The standard game size is 1000 points, which equates to about a platoon of infantry, some heavy weapons, and a vehicle or two per side.

Orders and Movement

Order Dice

Bolt Action uses a unique activation system based on Order Dice. Each unit in the game is represented by an Order Die, placed in a dice bag at the start of each turn. Players take turns drawing dice from the bag, with the color indicating which player can activate a unit.

Orders

When a player draws an Order Die, they assign one of six possible orders to a unit:

• Fire: The unit stays in place and fires all its weapons.
• Advance: The unit moves a short distance (up to 6 inches) and can fire.
• Run: The unit moves a longer distance (up to 12 inches) but cannot fire.
• Ambush: The unit sets up an ambush, allowing it to fire later in the turn.
• Down: The unit takes cover, making it harder to hit but unable to move or fire.
• Rally: The unit attempts to remove Pin Markers that affect its performance.

Movement

Movement distances are defined by the type of order given. Infantry units typically move 6 inches for an Advance and 12 inches for a Run. Vehicles have different movement rules depending on their type and terrain. For example, tracked vehicles can move 9 inches on an Advance and up to 18 inches on a Run, with specific rules for turning and maneuvering.

Terrain affects movement, with rough ground slowing units down and obstacles requiring special considerations. Units must remain within a certain distance of each other to maintain cohesion, ensuring they operate as a single entity.

Combat Mechanics

Shooting

Combat in Bolt Action involves several steps:

1. Declare Targets: The firing unit declares which enemy unit it is targeting. All models in the unit must shoot at the same target unless specific rules allow otherwise.
2. Target Reaction: The target unit decides if it will go Down, which makes it harder to hit but prevents it from taking other actions that turn.
3. Measure Range: Measure the distance to the target to determine which weapons are in range.
4. Roll to Hit: All shots start with a base chance to hit (typically 3+), modified by factors like range, cover, and movement. For example, shooting at long range or through cover imposes penalties.
5. Roll to Damage: Successful hits then roll to damage the target. The chance to damage is based on the target’s experience level (e.g., Inexperienced troops are damaged on a 3+, Regulars on a 4+, and Veterans on a 5+).
6. Remove Casualties: The target player removes models based on the damage roll, with special rules for critical hits that allow the attacker to choose which models are removed.

Close Combat

Close combat involves charging and fighting in melee:

1. Declare Charge: The attacking unit declares a charge against an enemy unit.
2. Measure Distance: Ensure the attacking unit is within range to charge.
3. Target Reaction: If the target hasn’t acted, it can fire at the charging unit.
4. Move Models: Move the attacking models into base contact with the enemy.
5. Roll to Damage: The attacking unit rolls to damage first, followed by the defending unit if there are any survivors. The unit that takes more casualties loses the combat and is removed from play.

Special Units and Rules

Officers

Officers provide morale boosts to nearby units. They can issue orders to multiple units at once, allowing coordinated actions. Higher-ranking officers offer greater bonuses and more flexible command abilities.

Medics

Medics can save wounded soldiers. If a model within 6 inches of a medic is hit, the medic can roll to negate the damage. Medics are invaluable for keeping key units in the fight.

Artillery Observers

Artillery Observers call in artillery strikes or air support. They mark targets and direct powerful bombardments, adding a strategic element to the game. Their actions are resolved over multiple turns, adding tension and excitement.

Vehicles

Vehicles have unique rules for movement and combat. They are categorized by type (e.g., soft-skinned, light tanks, heavy tanks) and have specific movement capabilities and damage thresholds. Vehicles also have different shooting arcs and weapon types, adding complexity to their use in battle.

Terrain

Terrain significantly impacts gameplay. It can provide cover, slow movement, and create strategic choke points. Understanding how to use terrain effectively is crucial for success in Bolt Action.

The Bottom Line

Bolt Action offers a rich and detailed gaming experience with its unique activation system, varied orders, and immersive combat mechanics. By understanding how to set up a game, issue orders, and engage in combat, players can fully enjoy the strategic depth and historical flavor of Bolt Action. With special units and unique rules adding further layers of complexity, each game is a dynamic and engaging battle of wits and tactics.

Further Resources

Bolt Action: An Overview

What Do I Need to Play Bolt Action?