GHQ Models Forums

Just wondering what the differences are between the 2 games. Other than scale.

Trying to decide which one to buy.

Joe

You say "other than scale", but without specifying what scale?

I say this because the games differ on both ground scale (where 1 inch on the game table = a different amount of "real" distance), and unit scale (where 1 model = a different amount of troops).

It is the second issue, unit scale, which marks the bigger difference in my view. MATG uses a 1-to-platoon unit scale, where a model tank represents a platoon of several tanks. Micro Squad is a 1-to-1 unit scale, where one model tank represents a single tank.

I prefer to game at 1-to-1 unit scale, with one vehicle model representing one vehicle, and each stand of infantry figures representing a squad of soldiers. So Micro Squad would be the game for me.

Your mileage may vary.

Time is another minor factor. The turn in MATG represents about 3 minutes whereas in MS it's about a minute. The 15 to 20 turn game represent 15 to 20 minutes of action in MS versus 45 to 60 minutes of action in MATG.

The MS rules are based on the MATG rules, so if you learn one system you basically learn them both (all). I'd refine that by adding they share common mechanics of play but there are differnreces. The common mechanics are also shared with the moderns as well.

The ranges and movement rates have been recalculated for MS. MS features fewer countries weapons lists but more weapons for the countries it does cover.

Also MS weapons feature side,top and rear armor values whereas MATG only represents front armor and side armor is simply 1/2 the front value for armored vehicles only. Basically MS is more granular, as you might expect.

If you enjoy company vs company actions MS is probably right for you. If you like battalion or even brigade/regimental sized actions MATG is probably right for you. Either way you'll likely get good support for questions about either here if you need.

Enjoy!
RedLeif