The Face of Battle is a WW2 skirmish miniatures wargame designed for 10mm to 28mm figures, focusing on squad-to-platoon level combat. The game emphasizes individual soldier actions and tactical decision-making under fire, utilizing a card-driven, simultaneous-action system rather than traditional alternating “I-go-you-go” turns.
Core Gameplay Mechanics
Scale & Basing: 1:1 scale (one figure = one soldier, one model = one vehicle), with individually based figures.
Activation: Players use card decks to determine when units can act.
Simultaneous Action: Because cards from all decks are drawn simultaneously, soldiers from different forces can move, fire, and engage in combat at the same time, aiming to create a “fast and furious” feel.
Combat Resolution: Dice-based (D100) with modifiers for skill, range, and cover.
Turn Structure: No traditional “I-go-you-go.” Instead, players are continuously involved as cards are “flipped”.
Unit Control: A typical force consists of 3-4 squads, a headquarters unit, and roughly 5 vehicles per player, though this varies.
Second Edition Features (2025)
156-Page Rulebook: Revised, full-color, and comprehensive, covering infantry combat, detailed vehicle rules, and special units like medics, heroes, and snipers.
Simplified Mechanics: Incorporates streamlined morale rules and detailed firearm data.
Included Nations: Provides data for German, Russian, American, and British forces.
The game is noted for its ability to balance detailed, granular simulation—such as differentiating the rate of fire of specific weapons—with playability.
Act With Daring (France 1940): A 102-page scenario book focused on early war, featuring 10 scenarios and three campaigns.
The Face of Modern Battle (1950-Present): Covers later eras, including helicopters, ATGMs, and specific rules for Korea, Vietnam, and Arab-Israeli conflicts.
Other Expansions: Include Commonwealth (VC) and US-specific expansions.
