Copyright 2005 T. Sheil & A. Sheil All Rights Reserved
The New, Revised and Improved 21st Century Version of the Classic Toy Soldier game
Lieutenant Harry Dowdall and Joseph Gleason devised the Shambattle game in 1929. It was a great game that could be played with the toy soldiers of the time. Players set up a 3' by 5' battle zone. Using typical infantry, cavalry and artillery, the players had a small battle. It was fun, easy to play and safe. Ingeniously, the game had three levels so that people of all ages could play at their own level. The only problem was the book: ponderous, awkward and poorly organized, it might take a week of reading before anyone could play. The game itself was good, but it could be better.
When we first encountered Dowdall's original book, "Shambattle: How to Play with Toy Soldiers," we realized what a treasure it was. We also recognized the need for a re-write and some updates. Thus did we assume the task of taking this fine game and making it easier to learn and easier to play. The result: Shambattle: A Game for Old Fashioned Toy Soldiers.
With this revised version, almost anyone can learn the rules and begin play in less than an hour. The new, clear text and organization puts everything in its proper sequence. All you need are soldiers, dice, and terrain pieces that you can make from colored construction paper.
The game itself is superb. On a playing field that is like a map, you move your troops. You direct units along roads, across bridges and through forests to capture enemy towns and troops. The ingenious Shambattle playing system makes it simple. One player can move his entire army and fight skirmishes easily.
The new, revised version of the classic 1929 Shambattle game goes great with classic type soldiers. Play with regular army men,. or use troops from the Civil War, the Alamo, the Charge up San Juan Hill or the soldiers of the 20th Century. It is easy, fun and safe.
(Note: though cannons are used in the game, there is no actual firing of projectiles. All "shooting" is done with dice. Shambattle is safe for players and toys.)
Shambattle is also a great way to introduce children to miniature wargaming!
Shambattle is:
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