Wargaming objectives are the specific goals or targets that players must achieve to win a game or scenario. Objectives add strategic depth, challenge, and purpose to wargaming, shaping the decision-making and tactical choices made by players. The nature of objectives can vary depending on the war game being played and the specific scenario or mission. Here are some common types of wargaming objectives:
Capture and Control: This objective requires players to capture and control specific locations, objectives, or key points on the game board or table. It could be capturing strategic positions, controlling buildings, occupying high ground, or securing important objectives. Players must deploy their forces strategically to achieve control and deny their opponents access to key areas.
Elimination: The elimination objective focuses on the destruction or elimination of enemy units. Players must engage in combat, strategically position their forces, and eliminate opposing units to reduce the enemy’s combat effectiveness. The objective can involve targeting specific high-value units or achieving a certain number of enemy casualties.
Rescue or Extraction: This objective involves rescuing or extracting specific units or assets from a dangerous or hostile situation. Players must plan and execute a successful operation to retrieve or escort designated units to safety, often facing opposition or time constraints. This objective adds a narrative element and requires players to balance offense and defense.
Escort or Protection: The escort or protection objective involves safeguarding a specific unit, character, or asset from harm. Players must allocate resources and forces to protect the designated unit from enemy attacks or other threats. This objective requires defensive positioning, coordination, and anticipation of enemy actions.
Demolition or Sabotage: The objective of demolition or sabotage requires players to destroy or disable specific targets or structures. This can involve planting explosives, infiltrating enemy lines, or executing covert operations to sabotage enemy infrastructure. Players must plan their actions carefully, considering the best approach, timing, and minimizing the risk of detection.
Breakthrough or Breaching: This objective involves breaking through enemy defenses or breaching obstacles to gain access to a specific area or objective. Players must focus on offensive maneuvers, utilizing specialized units, artillery support, or engineering assets to breach enemy lines and create opportunities for advancement.
Hold the Line or Defense: The hold the line or defense objective requires players to defend a specific area or position against enemy assaults. Players must establish defensive lines, fortify positions, and repel enemy attacks to maintain control and prevent the enemy from achieving their objectives. This objective emphasizes strategic placement, fortifications, and resilience.
Objectives with Victory Points: Some wargames use a points-based system where players accumulate victory points for achieving specific objectives or milestones. These objectives can include capturing or controlling certain areas, achieving specific actions, or meeting scenario-specific goals. Players compete to earn the most victory points within a specified time frame to determine the winner.
It’s important to note that the objectives in wargaming can be customized or tailored based on the specific game, scenario, or campaign being played. They can be designed to fit the historical context, thematic elements, or narrative of the game. Objectives add variety and strategic considerations, ensuring each game or scenario offers unique challenges and opportunities for players.
