What is the board game Ogre?

Ogre is a science fiction board wargame designed by Steve Jackson and first published by Metagaming Concepts in 1977. It was the inaugural microgame in Metagaming's MicroGame line, featuring an asymmetrical design where one player controls a giant robot tank against the opponent's conventional forces.

Who currently produces Ogre board games?

After Steve Jackson departed Metagaming to establish his own company, Steve Jackson Games (SJG), he retained the rights to Ogre. Consequently, all editions produced after the initial Metagaming release have been manufactured by Steve Jackson Games.

What is the fundamental gameplay concept of Ogre?

Ogre is an asymmetrical two-player wargame set in the late 21st century. It pits a single, massive robot tank known as an "OGRE" against the opposing player's headquarters, which is defended by a variety of conventional military units such as tanks, infantry, and artillery.

How does a typical turn unfold in the game Ogre?

During a player's turn, they first move their unit(s). Following movement, they engage in combat with any opponent units within range of their weapons. After combat resolution, which involves die rolls for each engagement, specialized Ground Effect Vehicle (GEV) units may move a second time before play passes to the other player.

What are the general objectives for each player in Ogre?

Victory conditions are scenario-dependent. Typically, the OGRE player aims to destroy the defender's command post and potentially eliminate all their forces. Conversely, the defender's objective is to destroy the OGRE itself.

Describe the components included in the original 1977 edition of Ogre.

The original 1977 edition featured a 14x9 inch black-and-white hex map, 112 square cardboard counters (approximately 7/16 inch on a side) representing various units, and a 20-page rulebook. The counters were not fully die-cut.

What kind of terrain is depicted on the original Ogre map, and how does it affect gameplay?

The original hex map portrays a barren landscape with obstacles such as ridgelines between some hexes and large, radioactive craters that occupy a full hex cell. While craters are impassable to all units, both infantry and OGREs can traverse ridgelines.

How did the map and components evolve in later editions of Ogre?

The second edition updated the map with crater graphics and reduced the board size slightly. The 1982 edition published by Steve Jackson Games upgraded the map to full color on glossy paper, expanded the rulebook to 40 pages, and retained similar semi-die-cut counters.

What is the meaning of the unit statistic notation S/R Dx M y?

This notation defines a unit's capabilities: 'S' represents attack strength, 'R' represents striking distance or range, 'D' represents defense strength, and 'M' represents movement points. For example, a unit with '4/2 D3 M3' has an attack strength of 4, a range of 2, a defense of 3, and can move 3 hexes.

What are the four conventional armor units available to the defender in Ogre?

The defender can choose from Heavy Tanks, Missile Tanks, GEVs (Ground Effect Vehicles), and Howitzers.

How are Infantry units represented and utilized in Ogre?

Infantry units can be stacked in groups of up to three squads. The game provides counters representing 1-squad, 2-squad, and 3-squad units, with their attack, defense, and movement ratings scaling accordingly.

How is the OGRE's movement capability determined?

The OGRE's movement ability is directly linked to its remaining tread points. Damage sustained by the treads results in a proportional reduction in the OGRE's available movement points.

What are the statistics for the Heavy Tank unit?

The Heavy Tank has an attack/range of 4/2, a defense strength of D3, and movement points of M3.

What are the statistics for the Missile Tank unit?

The Missile Tank has an attack/range of 3/4, a defense strength of D2, and movement points of M2.

What are the statistics for the Ground Effect Vehicle (GEV)?

The standard GEV has an attack/range of 2/2, a defense strength of D2, and movement points of M4 plus an additional 3 points.

What are the statistics for the Howitzer unit?

The Howitzer has a high attack/range of 6/8, a low defense strength of D1, and zero movement points (M0).

How are Infantry unit statistics determined?

Infantry unit statistics are based on the number of squads represented by the counter. For example, an n-squad infantry unit has an attack strength of n, a range of 1, a defense strength of Dn, and 2 movement points (n/1 Dn M2).

Where are the defender's and OGRE's forces typically positioned at the start of the game?

The defender usually sets up their forces in the northern and central regions of the map, while the OGRE player enters the map from the southern edge.

How does the defender select their forces in the standard Mark III OGRE scenario?

The defender is given a budget to select infantry and armor units. In the standard scenario, this typically involves choosing infantry totaling 20 attack points and 12 armor units, with Howitzers counting as two units each towards this total.

What terrain features on the map are impassable, and which units can cross ridgelines?

Craters are impassable to all units. Infantry and OGREs are capable of crossing ridgelines, while other units may be restricted.

What are the exceptions to the standard move and shoot phase sequence in Ogre?

Ground Effect Vehicles (GEVs) can move both before and after the combat phase. Additionally, the OGRE itself can perform a ramming attack during its movement phase.

How is combat resolved when units attack each other?

Combat is resolved by comparing the attacker's strength to the defender's defense strength and rolling a six-sided die. The result is then cross-referenced on a combat results table. Multiple attacking units can combine their strength against a single target.

What are the possible outcomes of combat for infantry and armor units?

The outcomes are No Effect (NE), Disabled (D), or Destroyed (X). For armor units, being Disabled means they lose their next turn. For infantry, Disabled means one squad is removed.

How does combat resolution differ when attacking OGRE weapon systems?

When attacking OGRE weapon systems, the possible outcomes are only No Effect (NE) or Destroyed (X). The Disabled (D) result is treated as No Effect for OGRE systems.

What does the Combat Results Table indicate for attack/defense ratios of 1:3 or less?

Ratios of 1:3 or less, when rounded down in favor of the defender, always result in No Effect (NE), regardless of the die roll.

What does the Combat Results Table indicate for attack/defense ratios of 5:1 or greater?

Ratios of 5:1 or greater, when rounded down in favor of the defender, always result in Destroyed (X), regardless of the die roll.

What strategic approach do the defender's diverse units encourage?

The variety of units available to the defender encourages a combined-arms approach, where different unit types are used synergistically based on their strengths and weaknesses.

What literary works by Keith Laumer and Colin Kapp influenced the development of Ogre?

Major influences included Keith Laumer's short stories and novellas about large tanks called Bolos, and Colin Kapp's short story Gottlos.

How did Steve Jackson conceptualize the OGRE design within the Microgame format?

Jackson realized that by giving one side only a single, large counter, he could create a scenario within the limited scope of the Microgame format, which then led to the development of the game's core concept.

What significant changes were made in the 1987 Deluxe Edition of Ogre?

The Deluxe Edition featured a folding cardboard map instead of paper, and the counters were provided with stand-up plastic bases. It also used updated cover artwork.

How was the game Ogre combined with its sequel G.E.V. in the 1990 release?

They were released together in a single box as OGRE/G.E.V., with the OGRE rules designated as the 4th edition and G.E.V. as the 3rd. The rules were presented in a two-way booklet.

What characterized the 2011 Designer's Edition of Ogre?

This edition combined Ogre and G.E.V. and featured larger, full-color flat counters for most units, along with constructible cardboard figures for the Ogres. It was funded via Kickstarter.

What was the Pocket Edition released in 2013?

The 2013 Pocket Edition was packaged in a resealable plastic bag, similar to the original MicroGames, and featured the original artwork by Winchell Chung. It used a modified version of the sixth edition rules.

What is G.E.V., and how does it relate to Ogre?

G.E.V. (1978) is a sequel to Ogre that is compatible with the original game. It introduced new elements such as terrain effects on movement, additional unit types, and rules for stacking multiple units on a single hex.

What was Ogre Miniatures published in 1992?

Ogre Miniatures was a book that revised the rules for Ogre and G.E.V. to be played using miniatures instead of counters. It involved rescaling the map and changing weapon ranges from hexes to inches.

What were the three major expansions released for Ogre?

The three major expansions were Shockwave (1984), Reinforcement Pack (1985), and Battlefields (2000).

What did the Shockwave expansion add to the game?

Shockwave introduced numerous new units and buildings, complete with corresponding counters. It also included a map designed to connect with the G.E.V. map, thereby expanding the potential playing area.

What was the primary purpose of the Ogre Reinforcement Pack released in 1985?

The Reinforcement Pack primarily supplied replacement counters and maps for previous Ogre releases (Ogre, G.E.V., Shockwave). It also included a few new rules, notably for towing units.

How was the Ogre video game first published, and on what platforms?

The first Ogre video game was published in 1986 by Origin Systems for platforms including the Apple II, Amiga, Atari 8-bit computers, Atari ST, Commodore 64, IBM PC compatibles, and Mac.

How was the 1986 Ogre video game ranked by Computer Gaming World?

In 1996, Computer Gaming World named the 1986 video game Ogre the 130th best computer game ever released.

What award did the Ogre miniatures produced by Martian Metals receive in 1979?

The Ogre miniatures produced by Martian Metals won the H.G. Wells Award for Best Vehicular Model Series of 1978 at the 1979 Origins Awards.

What Origins Awards were given to Ogre-related products in 1992?

In 1992, SJG's Ogre Miniatures won Best Miniatures Rules of 1991, and Ral Partha's set of Ogre miniatures won Best Vehicular Miniatures Series of 1991.

What special award did The Wargamer present to Steve Jackson Games in 2001?

The Wargamer presented Steve Jackson Games with a special Award for Excellence for the OGRE/G.E.V. game system and Steve Jackson Games' efforts to expand and support it.

What is the "Cleanup" notice in the game description section referring to?

The notice indicates that the game's description section could be improved by consolidating the detailed subsections on components, setting, setup, movement, combat, and strategy into a more concise gameplay summary.

How do GEVs differ from most other units in terms of movement phases?

Unlike most units that have a single move-and-shoot phase per turn, GEVs (Ground Effect Vehicles) are able to move both before and after the combat phase.

What is the role of the Combat Results Table (CRT) in Ogre?

The CRT is used after comparing the attacker's strength to the defender's defense strength and rolling a die. It determines the outcome of the combat engagement, such as No Effect, Disabled, or Destroyed.

What does the Disabled (D) result mean for infantry units in combat?

When an infantry unit receives a Disabled result in combat, it means one squad from that unit is removed from play.

What does the Disabled (D) result mean for OGRE weapon systems?

For OGRE weapon systems, a Disabled result is treated the same as a No Effect (NE) result; it does not cause damage or impose penalties.

How did the second edition of Ogre attempt to improve game balance?

The second edition sped up the Heavy Tanks, slowed down the GEVs, and changed the defender's purchasing system from attack factors to armor units, where most units counted as one, but Howitzers counted as two.

What is the "Pocket Box" format mentioned in relation to Steve Jackson Games' editions of Ogre?

The Pocket Box was a clamshell container used by Steve Jackson Games for some editions of Ogre, starting with the third edition in 1982, differing from the plastic zipper bags used by Metagaming Concepts.

What is the "1976 OGRE Playtest Booklet" released in 2021?

This was a reproduction of the original typewritten rules and hand-drawn counters and map used during the early playtesting phase of the first version of Ogre.

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Game Description

The Core Conflict

The board game *OGRE*, a seminal work in the science fiction wargame genre, was meticulously designed by Steve Jackson and initially published by Metagaming Concepts in 1977. It debuted as the inaugural title in their 'MicroGame' series. Following Steve Jackson's departure to establish Steve Jackson Games (SJG), the intellectual property rights for *OGRE* transferred, with all subsequent editions being meticulously produced under the SJG banner.

Asymmetrical Warfare

This is an asymmetrical, two-player board wargame set in the late 21st century. The core conflict involves a single, colossal robotic tank, designated as the 'OGRE', confronting the opposing player's headquarters. The defender deploys a diverse array of conventional military units, including tanks, infantry formations, and artillery pieces.

Gameplay Mechanics

Gameplay proceeds in turns, wherein players maneuver their units, followed by a combat phase. Notably, Ground Effect Vehicles (GEVs) and the OGRE itself are permitted a second movement phase after initial combat resolution. Victory conditions are scenario-dependent, typically requiring the OGRE player to neutralize the defender's command post and eliminate their forces, while the defender's objective is the destruction of the OGRE.

Game Components

Original Edition (1977)

The initial 1977 release featured a compact 14x9 inch monochrome hex map, 112 cardboard counters measuring 7/16 inch, and a concise 20-page rulebook. The map depicted terrain with significant features such as ridgelines and impassable craters.

Editions and Enhancements

Subsequent editions introduced enhancements: the second edition focused on improved game balance and expanded the rulebook, while the 1982 edition upgraded the map to color and increased the rulebook's page count. The highly acclaimed 'Designer's Edition' (2011/2013) represented a significant leap, incorporating larger, full-color counters, constructible 3D OGRE figures, multiple folding map boards, and over 500 counters, alongside 72 3D models of OGREs and structures.

Modern Iterations

A 'Pocket Edition' was also released, maintaining the original aesthetic and ruleset in a portable format, often packaged in a resealable bag, reminiscent of the early MicroGames. These modern versions ensure accessibility while preserving the core gameplay experience.

Unit Statistics

Defender's Arsenal

The defender's arsenal comprises four primary armor types: Heavy Tanks, Missile Tanks, Ground Effect Vehicles (GEVs), and Howitzers, supplemented by Infantry units. Each unit is characterized by its combat statistics, presented in the format S/R Dx My, denoting Attack Strength, Striking Distance/Range, Defense Strength, and Movement Points, respectively.

The OGRE's Power

The OGRE itself possesses multiple weapon systems, each with its own attack and defense ratings. Its formidable mobility is directly tied to its 'tread points', which degrade with damage, proportionally reducing its operational movement capability. This mechanic introduces a critical layer of resource management for the OGRE player.

Statistical Breakdown

Unit statistics are presented clearly, allowing players to assess strengths and weaknesses at a glance. For instance, Infantry strength and defense are contingent on the number of squads represented by a counter (n/1 Dn). This detailed statistical framework is fundamental to understanding the game's tactical depth.

Armor Units
Unit	S/R	Dx	My
Heavy Tank	4/2	D3	M3
Missile Tank	3/4	D2	M2
Light Tank	2/2	D2	M3
Superheavy	6(x2)/3	D5	M3
Howitzer	6/8	D1	M0
Light Artillery Drone (LAD)	2/8	D1	M0
Mobile Howitzer	6/6	D2	M1
Ground Effect Vehicle (GEV)	2/2	D2	M4+3
Light GEV	1/2	D1	M4+3
GEV Personnel Carrier	1/2	D2	M3+2
Missile Crawler	1 Cruise Missile	D2	M1

Infantry Units
Unit	S/R	Dx	My
Infantry	n/1	Dn	M2
Marines	n/1	Dn	M2
Heavy Weapons Team	3/4(x1) + 1/1	D1	M2
Marine Heavy Weapons Team	3/4(x1) + 1/1	D1	M2
Combat Engineers	2/1	D2	M2
Marine Combat Engineers	2/1	D2	M2

Deployment Strategy

Map Zones

The game setup dictates that the defender positions their forces within the northern and central sectors of the map, adhering to specific deployment restrictions. The OGRE, controlled by the attacker, enters the play area from the southern periphery.

Force Allocation

Scenarios offer variations, such as the standard Mark III OGRE engagement, where the defender is allocated a budget to select their forces. This budget translates into a total attack point limit for infantry and a specific number of 'armor units', with Howitzers counting as two units towards this limit, allowing for strategic customization of the defending force.

Movement Dynamics

Terrain and Mobility

Unit movement is governed by their designated movement factors, with terrain features like craters presenting impassable obstacles. Ridges can be traversed by Infantry and the OGRE, influencing tactical positioning and engagement lines.

Special Movement

A key tactical advantage is afforded to GEVs, which possess the unique ability to move both prior to and following the combat phase. The OGRE itself can also engage in ramming maneuvers during its movement phase, potentially destroying adjacent enemy units, adding a dynamic element to its advance.

Combat Resolution

Core Mechanics

Combat resolution involves a comparison between the attacker's strength and the defender's defense rating, augmented by a die roll. The attacker must specify their target, and multiple units can combine their attack factors. The outcome is determined by consulting a Combat Results Table (CRT).

Outcomes and Effects

The CRT yields results such as 'No Effect' (NE), 'Disabled' (D), or 'Destroyed' (X). For infantry, a 'Disabled' result signifies a reduction in squad strength, while 'Destroyed' eliminates the unit. OGRE weapon systems, however, only have 'No Effect' or 'Destroyed' outcomes, reflecting their specialized nature.

Combat Results Table
Ratio (A:D)	Roll 1:2	Roll 1:1	Roll 2:1	Roll 3:1	Roll 4:1
1:1	NE	NE	NE	D	D
1:2	NE	NE	D	D	X
2:1	NE	D	D	X	X
3:1	NE	D	X	X	X
4:1	D	X	X	X	X
5:1	X	X	X	X	X

Strategic Considerations

Combined Arms

Effective strategy hinges on a combined-arms approach, leveraging the distinct strengths and weaknesses of each unit type. Heavy Tanks offer robust offense and defense but possess moderate speed and limited range. Missile Tanks provide a balance of moderate offense, defense, and range, albeit with lower speed.

Mobility vs. Firepower

GEVs excel in mobility, capable of two moves per turn, but have weaker offensive capabilities and range. Howitzers, while possessing superior attack power and range, are vulnerable, immobile, and costly. Strategic nuances were refined in the second edition, which adjusted unit speeds and the defender's procurement system to a more balanced 'armor unit' metric.

Historical Trajectory

Conceptual Origins

The conceptual genesis of *OGRE* can be traced to the influential science fiction works of Keith Laumer and Colin Kapp. Initially published by Metagaming Concepts in 1977, the game's rights were later acquired by Steve Jackson Games (SJG), which has overseen its evolution through numerous editions.

Evolution Through Editions

Key editions include the 1977 second edition, the 1982 third edition, the comprehensive 1987 'Deluxe Edition', the combined *OGRE/G.E.V.* package, the 2000 fifth edition, the ambitious 2011/2013 'Designer's Edition' funded via Kickstarter, and the 2016 Sixth Edition. These iterations reflect continuous refinement and expansion of the game's mechanics and presentation.

Expanded Universe

Digital Adaptations

The *OGRE* universe has expanded significantly beyond its board game origins. Notable spin-offs include video game adaptations, such as the 1986 release by Origin Systems and a modern iteration by Auroch Digital in 2017 for PC and consoles.

Visual and Narrative Extensions

The franchise also encompasses other board games like *Diceland: OGRE* and the expansion *Shockwave*, alongside various miniature lines produced by companies like Martian Metals and Ral Partha. Furthermore, the universe has been integrated into role-playing games through *GURPS OGRE* and documented in literary compilations such as *The OGRE Book*.

Critical Acclaim

Industry Recognition

*OGRE* and its associated products have garnered significant critical acclaim and numerous awards. The Martian Metals miniatures received the H.G. Wells Award in 1979. In 1992, *OGRE Miniatures* by SJG was honored with the 'Best Miniatures Rules' award, and Ral Partha's miniatures series secured the 'Best Vehicular Miniatures Series' award.

Enduring Legacy

The 1986 video game adaptation was recognized by *Computer Gaming World* as one of the top computer games of all time. In 2001, *The Wargamer* presented Steve Jackson Games with a Special Award for Excellence, acknowledging the enduring legacy and support of the *OGRE* game system, cementing its status as a landmark title.

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References

Marked as M2 in the first edition; updated to M3 for the second edition.[6]

Equivalent to land-based units, but movement not affected by water and defense doubled when in water.

Capable of launching a one-time heavy weapon attack at 3/4 strength and range, otherwise carries the same "native" attack strength and range ratings as a 1-squad infantry: 1/1.

Given as quantity of main battery weapons. Each main battery has an attack value of 4, a striking distance of 3, and a defense value of D4 (4/3 D4).

Given as quantity of secondary battery weapons. Each secondary battery has an attack value of 3, a striking distance of 2, and a defense value of D2 or D3, as noted (3/2 D2 or D3).

Jackson, Steve. "Open (OGRE) Letter To Distributors". Daily Illuminator, March 12, 2011.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Ogre (board game) Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been meticulously compiled by an AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview suitable for higher education students. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and clarity, this presentation is based on a static dataset and may not reflect the absolute latest developments or nuances.

This is not professional gaming advice. The information presented here should not substitute consultation with game designers, historians, or industry professionals. Always refer to official game rules and documentation for definitive guidance. The creators of this content are not liable for any interpretations or actions taken based on the information provided.

Ogre: The Colossus of Wargaming

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Game Description 🎮

🤖 The Core Conflict

⚔️ Asymmetrical Warfare

🔄 Gameplay Mechanics

Game Components 📦

📜 Original Edition (1977)

✨ Editions and Enhancements

🎒 Modern Iterations

Unit Statistics 📊

🛡️ Defender's Arsenal

💥 The OGRE's Power

🔢 Statistical Breakdown

Deployment Strategy 📍

🗺️ Map Zones

💰 Force Allocation

Movement Dynamics ➡️

💨 Terrain and Mobility

🚀 Special Movement

Combat Resolution 💥

🎲 Core Mechanics

🎯 Outcomes and Effects

Strategic Considerations 🧠

🤝 Combined Arms

⚡ Mobility vs. Firepower

Historical Trajectory ⏳

💡 Conceptual Origins

📈 Evolution Through Editions

Expanded Universe 🌌

💻 Digital Adaptations

🎨 Visual and Narrative Extensions

Critical Acclaim 🏆

🏅 Industry Recognition

⭐ Enduring Legacy

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Game Description

The Core Conflict

Asymmetrical Warfare

Gameplay Mechanics

Game Components

Original Edition (1977)

Editions and Enhancements

Modern Iterations

Unit Statistics

Defender's Arsenal

The OGRE's Power

Statistical Breakdown

Deployment Strategy

Map Zones

Force Allocation

Movement Dynamics

Terrain and Mobility

Special Movement

Combat Resolution

Core Mechanics

Outcomes and Effects

Strategic Considerations

Combined Arms

Mobility vs. Firepower

Historical Trajectory

Conceptual Origins

Evolution Through Editions

Expanded Universe

Digital Adaptations

Visual and Narrative Extensions

Critical Acclaim

Industry Recognition

Enduring Legacy

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice