[Rules] 4th Edition rules are up

[Brett Nicholson]

The first batch of the optional rules posted at the AP site didn't appear as hideous as I thought they may have been but that's namely because they are optional. One of the optional rules I DO like is the extended assault for AFVS and even loaded APCs from 2-3 hexes away as if Cavalry can do it then why not other armed mobile units? What I still DON'T like is the logistics rule and that if it occurs, unlike fog of war, it affects units for the duration of the scenario (if I've read into it right) instead of just one turn but then again, it is still an optional rule. And if it occurs twice to the same player then there doesn't seem like there is much a point in continuing on as the critical effects are far too severe. I think logistics should be something that a certain scenario's SSR may address given a certain historical situation where one side really was low on ammo, petrol and/or in danger of being have their supply lines cut off (something like during the 2nd battle of El Alamein for the axis). I guess I am more troubled with the core rule changes, particularily with the prospect of retrofitting the older PG games; especially with the limiting terrain and/or LOS changes. For instance in the desert war scenarios hills are usually the only terrain around that will give units any cover there from being easily spotted. Don't care much for fields no longer locking LOS either which would change a lot of EFD scenarios but then again, I don't have to retrofit any of the older 2nd and 3rd edition release unless I or an opponent mtually agree to. In defense of the 4th edition rule changes friendly fire seems a little more realistic as no longer will a single 81mm or (perish the thought) 60mm mortar unit be able to cause a 21 column effect from the bombardment fire table. I think adapting to 4th rule changes will take some time to grasp in their entirety. In the meantime I am opting for 3.5th edition, slowly immersing myself within them. Striving to be optimistic about it all though and will likely experiment with some V4 and/or new optional rules soon enough.