Tojo

Thanks Bill for taking the time to help people like me! I've during the last 1,5 years picked up and put down CMBN several times. I really struggle to "get" how to succeed in this simulation/game. At one occasion I made a "leap" forward in my understanding on how to think. That knowledge came from the excellent Monster Combat Mission Normandy tutorial by The Games Pusher. Other AARs and the Armchair General presents Combat Mission Normandy Tactics Episode I-V also gave some pointers. A couple of days ago I found your blog and I must say it's spot on for players like me. I need some (i.e. a lot of) guidance and too much generic text isn't really helpful as a start and only game mechanics even less. What I, and probably other players trying to "get it", need is the compact to-the-point advice and instructions connected to a certain situation. Reading your blog I found myself thinking that maybe this time I might be able to learn how to be successful. Extra plus is your reference to real world combat, e.g. the usage of the Field Manual, I found the manual really helpful AFTER reading your texts, and added to the feeling that this is more a simulation of WWII than a game. Pointers regarding how to trigger usage of grenades was another great thing learned… The best part is that all explanations and examples are done in a way that is not "gamey" but seems very connected to real combat. I've tried out the Infantry Tactical Problem four times now with different results, none a victory but still entertaining and I've learned a lot. I seem to always run out of time, but maybe next time… I really like your concept of "unlocking" Combat Mission battles using a Toolbox and practices using a well defined and separated problem. Keep up the good work and thanks again! Tojo PS If only players succeeding in the various problems could post their solutions on Youtube… ;-)