1942 (1978)

About this game

"Japan's Opening Moves in the Pacific - The simultaneous operations against Malaya, Java, and the Philippines." Map hexes are 85 nautical miles across, each turn equals one half a month, and units are brigade through regiment scale. One of GDW's Series 120 games, a line of introductory wargames spanning various historical eras. The games in the series had 120 counters and were supposed to be playable in 120 minutes or less, hence the name. Republished in Command Magazine Japan #57 in 2004, along with Minsk '41.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 2.2/5 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.