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Is Open Fire just Flames Of War "Lite", or is Flames Of War just Open Fire "Advanced"? After the great chicken and egg debate this is probably the one that will confuse academics (and maybe some wargamers) for years to come.
In theory both answers are correct because they share so many core rules. Both rules sets have been designed to stand apart so a knowledge of one will help you play the other. Whichever one you are happy playing is the game for you!
Open Fire! removes the Special Rules from Flames Of War. This reduces the number of rules you will need to remember (and apply) during a game. This helps to speed things up and keep the pace moving whilst still maintaining the feel of a commander in the middle of a WWII battle.
Flames Of War adds these Special Rules in so that each nation is more defined which in turn affects what their forces can do on the battlefield. Not all of these rules are beneficial either forcing a commander to balance the good with the bad. The game still moves quickly and remembering to Stormtrooper or Time On Target can be the difference between winning and loosing.
Chris
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From the 'Open Fire! Design Notes':
The Open Fire! rules are designed to be learned quickly and get you playing in no time. It cuts straight to the action, dispensing with national special rules and simplifying artillery, reconnaissance, aircraft and transport rules. While Open Fire shares many of the same components and basic rules as Flames Of War, the two are separate games. Open Fire is about getting into action with fast-paced battles, while Flames Of War offers the depth of history and tactics.
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