Overview

Guerilla is a tactical-level wargame published by Avalon Hill in 1974, simulating the confrontation between Malaysia and Indonesia from 1963-1966. One player controls British Gurkha forces fighting for Malaysia while the other commands Indonesian forces. The game features small platoon-sized combats at squad level, with unusual supply rules and distinctive movement mechanics. It is notable for its rare and unique historical setting.

Components

• Hex map of the conflict area (Borneo/Malaysian border region)
• Cardboard unit counters (squad-level)
• Combat results table
• Dice
• Rules booklet
• Player aid charts

Setup

1. Place the hex map between both players.
2. One player takes the Malaysian/Gurkha forces, the other takes the Indonesian forces.
3. Place units on the map according to the scenario setup instructions.
4. Set up supply markers and tracking systems.
5. Determine the first player.

Turn Structure

Each turn follows this sequence:

1. Supply Phase: Check supply status for all units.
2. Movement Phase: Move units according to their movement allowances and terrain costs.
3. Combat Phase: Resolve combat between adjacent opposing units.
4. End Phase: Administrative tasks and victory condition checks.

Actions

Movement

• Units move from hex to hex, spending movement points based on terrain type.
• The game uses an older-style movement system with terrain-based costs.
• Jungle and difficult terrain significantly restrict movement.

Combat

• Combat is resolved between adjacent units.
• Calculate attack-to-defense ratios.
• Roll dice and consult the combat results table for outcomes.
• Results include attacker/defender retreats, eliminations, and exchanges.

Supply

• Units must trace supply lines to remain in supply.
• The supply rules are unusual and distinctive for the game.
• Unsupplied units suffer significant combat and movement penalties.

Guerrilla Warfare

• Indonesian forces employ guerrilla tactics, using hit-and-run attacks and difficult terrain to their advantage.
• Gurkha forces have superior training and equipment but must hunt down elusive guerrilla units.
• The asymmetric nature of the conflict is reflected in different unit capabilities and victory conditions for each side.

Scoring / Victory Conditions

Victory conditions reflect the asymmetric nature of the conflict:

• Malaysian/Gurkha player: Must eliminate Indonesian guerrilla forces and secure the border region.
• Indonesian player: Must maintain a presence, disrupt Malaysian control, and avoid complete destruction.
• Specific victory conditions depend on the scenario being played.

Special Rules & Edge Cases

• Asymmetric warfare: The two sides play very differently, with Gurkhas as conventional forces and Indonesians as guerrilla fighters.
• Unique setting: The Malaysian-Indonesian confrontation (1963-1966) is an extremely rare topic for wargames.
• Squad-level units: The game operates at a tactical level with individual squad-sized units, which was unusual in 1974.
• Unusual supply rules: The supply system is distinctive and considered one of the game’s unique mechanical features.
• Historical accuracy: While rough around the edges with some amateur production values, the design shows creativity in modeling this particular conflict.
• Terrain importance: The jungle terrain of Borneo plays a crucial role in gameplay, favoring the guerrilla player.

Player Reference

Scale: Squad-level units, tactical combat

Sides: Malaysian/Gurkha forces vs. Indonesian guerrillas

Setting: Borneo, 1963-1966

Key mechanics: Hex movement, CRT combat, supply lines, asymmetric warfare

Turn sequence: Supply > Movement > Combat > End Phase