"War At Sea" was designed to introduce players to wargaming, as this is more of a game than a simulation. Details are subservient to gameplay as you re-create surface action between capital ships during WW2. The game includes U-Boats, land-based air strikes and even attempts to refuel at sea. The objective is to control sea "areas" and accumulate Points Of Control (POC). The British player establishes a blockade in the North and Barent Seas to stop the German raiders while the German player must hit and run, keeping their escape routes and options open. The winner is the player with the most POCs after the game turns end. An Introductory game played abstractly. Typical playing time about one hour.

There was also a "War At Sea" expansion kit and, at one time, a Variant Counter Set for "War At Sea", however, rules did not come with the Counter Set (players needed to have "The General" magazine, Vol. 15 # 3 for the rules. There were additional uses for the Counters in "The General" magazines Vol. 13 # 3, Vol. 14 # 3 and Vol. 14 # 4). Also see below.

The game was followed up by "Victory In The Pacific", which used the same basic system but added rules and subtleties, with more ships and sea areas.

Game components include : Mapboard, 80 large Counters (includes 2 blanks), 10 Control Flag markers (5 for each side), 52 other Markers (damage, etc.), 2 Dice & 4-page Rules booklet.

Two players. Ages 12 & up. Avalon Hill from 1976. Historical Research & Design: John Edwards.

Additional info: There were articles on this game in "The General" magazine:
Vol. 13 # 3 and # 4
Vol. 15 # 3
Vol. 16 # 3
Vol. 17 # 1 and # 6
Vol. 22 # 6
Vol. 28 # 4

An important note regarding Avalon Hill games - It was not unusual for Avalon Hill to re-publish most of their games with 2nd, 3rd or more Editions. Sometimes the game components changed, sometimes they didn't. If your game components do not correspond exactly with what is listed, do not despair. You may just have to do a little more checking to insure its completeness.
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