Outline

Brasshats & Brassards (First World War Brigade Headquarters Simulation Game)

Simulates the decision-making and communication challenges faced by a British Brigade headquarters on the Western Front during the First World War.

Combining elements of a map-based operational wargame and a role-playing game, players take on the roles of key headquarters staff working under real-time pressure, dealing with incomplete and delayed information, and managing the flow of battlefield decisions.

Gameplay

Each player assumes a specific role within the HQ—such as Brigade Commander, Chief of Staff, Intelligence Officer, or Operations Officer—with clearly defined responsibilities. The Brigade Commander sets direction, while the staff gather, interpret, and act on fragmented reports from the front. Optional roles include logistics and artillery coordination.

Realism is central: the simulation captures the limited communication tools of the period—runners, pigeons, and intermittent telephones—and the fog of war, with Game Control providing uncertain and delayed intelligence.

Planning an attack involves assigning battalion objectives, defining a rigid artillery fire plan, and managing timings.

However, players cannot micro-manage the fight. Instead, they influence outcomes by issuing timely orders, making logistical decisions, and responding to unfolding events—including possible gas alerts, HQ damage, or changing higher command instructions.

What makes this game engaging is its emphasis on realism, teamwork, and improvisation under pressure. There are no fixed game turns—events evolve in real-time—forcing players to filter information quickly and work collaboratively.

The experience mirrors the actual pressures of WWI command, offering both historical insight and a challenging test of leadership, planning, and communication.

Ideal Audiences

This game is ideal for organisations & players interested in military history, collaborative problem-solving, and immersive simulations. It is also an opportunity to practice communication and decision making in a low information environment . It is particularly appealing for those who want a thoughtful, role-based experience that highlights the human element of command in war.

Game Capacity

For 3 to 7 players (There can be up to seven players in a headquarters, but the game works with just three if necessary)

Licence

Price: £20*

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Complete downloadable pack of pdf files consisting of game materials, including:

• Player handbook

• Game board

• Map

• Counters

• All the individual player briefings

• Setup guide and more.

For more information or to book us to run this game for you please fill in the form below: