Frigate: Sea War in the Age of Sail (1974)

About this game

Frigate simulates naval battles of the 18th and 19th centuries in 20 different scenarios. Battles involving the American, British, French, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch are represented. They range from single ship combats to full scale battles, like Trafalgar, which involved more than 70 ships. Ranged combat, grappling, and boarding actions are all included. Movement is both plotted and simultaneous. Wind effects and command control also play a big part of the game. 255 counters Victory conditions are dependent on the scenario played.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 3.0/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.