Multi-Period Skirmish
Skirmish Actions
A flexible framework for small-unit combat across any historical period. Individual soldiers, real decisions, unpredictable outcomes.
Rules Overview
Rules Overview
Skirmish Actions is the most versatile system in the Actions Rules catalogue — a core skirmish engine adaptable to any historical period from ancient warfare to the modern era. The system places emphasis on individual soldier decision-making, squad cohesion, and the chaotic, unpredictable nature of small-unit engagements. Period supplements provide era-specific weapons, equipment, and special rules.
Key Features
What Makes This System Distinctive
Universal Core Engine
One set of core rules covers any period. Period supplements add era-specific flavour without replacing the core mechanics.
Squad Cohesion
Soldiers fight better together. The cohesion system models the bonds and breakdowns of small-unit combat realistically.
Reaction System
Units react to enemy actions in real time. No waiting for your turn — the battlefield is always alive.
Wound and Casualty Detail
Individual wound tracking adds tension to every firefight. Lightly wounded men fight on; seriously wounded men become liabilities.
From the Designer
Designer's Notes
I designed Skirmish Actions because I wanted a single rulebook I could take to any historical period without learning an entirely new system. The core engine has been refined over many years of play across dozens of periods — from Roman frontier skirmishes to World War II patrol actions. The result is a system that feels right regardless of the era.
Field Orders
Download the Rules
The Skirmish Actions core rules and available period supplements are all available as print-ready PDFs.