While it is understandable that the tactical rules must be stream-lined to keep the play clipping along, there are some omissions that are a little puzzling. For example, on the tactical map, ship facing plays no role in combat at all. Ships are free to move anywhere with no turning penalty, and can bring all gun factors to bear, no matter what direction the target is in. These two rules mean that the role of formations and the linear nature of combat, two very important historical factors, are not present in tactical combat at all. Still, for players willing to forgive this omission, tactical battles are a great deal of fun to play.

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The details of each major capital ship are presented in fairly good depth. Gun factors and speed are printed on ship’s counter with an overhead picture of the actual ship added for historic flavor. All ship types are represented from battleships to pre-Dreadnought armored cruisers and torpedo boats. The game also presents nascent aircraft carriers from both the British and German fleets. A hit record book, for tracking damage, has pre-printed entries for each ship in the game. Overall, the system is convenient and easy to use. But large battles still present a bit of a record keeping and counter management challenge. Casual players will want to stay away from the major fights.

Still, despite the administrative requirement, there is plenty of game for even players who have only a few hours. The game comes with over 50 scenarios representing major actions like Jutland and a good number of small and medium actions as well. Larger scenarios can have up to 50 or more capital ships per side, while smaller scenarios may only have a small handful. Most scenarios put the Germans against the British. However, there are a great number of situations representing action against the Russian navy, and even a few that bring in the, Danish, French, American, Swedish and Dutch navies. Scenarios present players with diverse missions like merchant raiding, mine-laying, shore bombardment, air attacks as well as those aimed at knocking out the opposing fleet. A minor issue is that some scenarios have slightly confusing conditions, but these are quickly settled once play begins.

Out of the box, Jutland is impressive even before a player cracks open the rulebook. Just like a well-forged tool that adds to the experience of DIY around the home, great game components add to the gaming experience. Jutland will not be found wanting in this area. The game components are very professional and of the best caliber. The board and counters are colorful and printed on high-grade glossy stock. The rulebook is clear and concise, and the game comes with a thick scenario book, as well as a forty-page ship hit record book. The package is so nice that purchasers will have a strong temptation to keep the game un-punched and collectable; but then they would miss out on the great game play.

Overall, Jutland is a great game, and a highly anticipated addition to the Great War at Sea series. Kudos must go to the game designers for providing so many scenarios and such great historical depth. Any gamer with even a passing interest in World War I naval combat can’t go wrong with buying this title-bout ticket; it is quite possibly the best seat in the house.

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