Actions Rules

Field Intelligence

Playing Tips

Practical advice from the designer and experienced players. From first-game fundamentals to advanced tactical doctrine.

These tips have been gathered from years of playtesting, convention games, and feedback from the Actions Rules community. They apply across all systems unless a specific game is noted.

Tactical Doctrine

Fundamentals

1

Read the scenario before the rules

Understanding what you're trying to achieve shapes how you read the rules. A player who knows the victory conditions reads the movement and combat rules very differently from one who doesn't.

2

Command radius is not optional

New players consistently underestimate the command radius rules. Units outside command radius don't just suffer penalties — they become unpredictable. Keep your headquarters forward.

3

Terrain is your best ally

In all Actions Rules systems, terrain modifiers are significant. A unit in cover is dramatically harder to dislodge than one in the open. Use terrain aggressively, not just defensively.

Tactical Doctrine

Combat Action Command

1

Never commit armour without infantry

Tanks without infantry support are vulnerable to close assault. The combined arms rules are not flavour — they reflect a genuine tactical reality. Pair your arms or pay the price.

2

Artillery is a planning tool, not a reaction

Calling artillery takes time. Plan your fire missions one or two turns ahead of when you need them. Reactive artillery is usually too late.

Tactical Doctrine

Black Powder Actions

1

Disorder is fatal in the open

A disordered unit in the open is an invitation for a cavalry charge. Restore order before advancing into exposed ground, or keep cavalry in reserve to exploit your opponent's disorder.

2

The first volley matters most

Fresh units deliver their most effective fire. Commit your best infantry to the decisive point and deliver their first volley at close range for maximum effect.

Tactical Doctrine

Skirmish Actions

1

Cohesion is your most important resource

Squads that lose cohesion become increasingly unreliable. Rotate tired units out of the line before they break, not after.

2

Use the reaction system proactively

The reaction system rewards players who anticipate enemy movement. Position your units to react to likely enemy actions, not just to advance on your own turn.