The Vietnam War presents an incredibly rich setting for tabletop wargaming, combining tactical challenges with atmospheric terrain. My interest in this era began at Historicon in Pennsylvania, where I was introduced to Black Sun, a Cthulhu-themed Vietnam game. Over the years, I’ve collected miniatures, researched rule sets, and planned immersive terrain. Now, I’m working to bring this long-term project to life.
Last year at the Partizan Show, I picked up plastic infantry kits from Rubicon Models, metal miniatures from Empress Miniatures, and a copy of BOHICA rules. I also saw inspiring demo games, including Rubicon’s Oscar Mike and GI Number One by SPIT Wargames, both of which I’m eager to explore further. For terrain, I plan to build dense jungles using aquarium plants and small Buddhist statues sourced from a local shop.
Rule Sets for Vietnam War Gaming in 28mm
The rules you choose will shape the experience of wargaming this period. Here are some of the best options, including official and fan-made systems:
1. Black Sun by Crucible Crush Games
- Pros: Mixes Vietnam War history with supernatural horror, offering a unique narrative twist.
- Cons: The fantasy elements may not appeal to those looking for purely historical games.
- Learn more about Black Sun
2. Oscar Mike by Rubicon Models
- Pros: A tactical rule set in playtest, focusing on asymmetry and movement. It’s accessible and innovative.
- Cons: Still in development, so some mechanics may need refinement.
- Download the playtest rules
3. BOHICA by Empress Miniatures
- Pros: A comprehensive, Vietnam-specific rule set, including iconic elements like helicopters and napalm.
- Cons: Complex mechanics may challenge newer players.
- Purchase BOHICA rules
4. GI Number One by SPIT Wargames
- Pros: Custom rules designed specifically for Vietnam, as showcased in a stunning demo at Partizan.
- Cons: Not widely published, so availability is limited.
- Visit the SPIT Wargames Facebook Group
5. Force on Force with Ambush Valley Supplement by Ambush Alley Games
- Pros: Detailed, realistic rules for modern conflicts, with an expansion tailored to Vietnam.
- Cons: The rules and supplement are hard to find.
- Explore Force on Force
6. Charlie Don’t Surf by TooFatLardies
- Pros: A tactical system designed specifically for Vietnam. The Surf’s Up expansion adds even more scenarios and depth.
- Cons: Requires time to learn and invest in the system.
- Learn more about Charlie Don’t Surf
7. Charlie Company by RAFM
- Pros: Aimed at platoon-level actions with a focus on soldiers and civilians.
- Cons: Designed for 20mm scale and uses older mechanics that may feel dated.
- Learn more about Charlie Company
8. ‘Nam: The Vietnam War Miniatures Game by Battlefront Miniatures
- Pros: Balanced and approachable gameplay, with detailed lists for all factions.
- Cons: Built for 15mm scale, requiring adaptation for 28mm.
- Explore ‘Nam
9. Fan-Made Bolt Action Supplements
- “And the Earth Was Colored Red” and “VC on the Trail”: These supplements adapt Bolt Action to Vietnam, offering scenarios and rules for asymmetric engagements. Available on the Bolt Action Vietnam Facebook Group.
- Pros: Leverages the Bolt Action system for ease of use, with community-driven content.
- Cons: Not officially supported by Warlord Games.
10. Spectre Operations by Spectre Miniatures
- Pros: Excellent for asymmetric and stealth-based gameplay, making it a great fit for small-unit engagements.
- Cons: Not Vietnam-specific, requiring customization.
- Learn more about Spectre Operations
Miniature Manufacturers and STL Sources
Physical Miniatures
- Rubicon Models: High-quality plastic kits. Visit Rubicon Models
- Empress Miniatures: Beautifully detailed metal figures. Visit Empress Miniatures
- Full Metal Miniatures: Vietnam specialists. Visit Full Metal Miniatures
- The Assault Group (TAG): Extensive Vietnam range. Visit TAG
- Eureka Miniatures: Diverse figures. Visit Eureka Miniatures
- Khurasan Miniatures: Unique sculpts. Visit Khurasan Miniatures
- Parkfield Miniatures: Affordable and characterful. Visit Parkfield Miniatures
- Westwind Productions: Themed miniatures. Visit Westwind
- Gringo40s: US Marines and more. Visit Gringo40s
STL Files for 3D Printing
- Patrick Miniatures: Figures and vehicles. Visit Patrick Miniatures
- Bob Mack 3D: Vehicles. Visit Bob Mack 3D
- Wargaming3D: General wargaming STLs. Visit Wargaming3D
- 3DBreed: March to Hell – Vietnam: Better suited to 15mm scale, but vehicles and terrain are excellent for 28mm. Visit 3DBreed
- Charlie Company on MyMiniFactory: Great selection of figures. Visit Charlie Company
- Eskice Miniatures: Detailed Vietnam-era figures. Visit Eskice Miniatures
- Hartolia Miniatures: Terrain STLs. Visit Hartolia Miniatures
Terrain for Vietnam War Gaming
- Barrage Miniatures: Vietnam-specific terrain like jungles, rice paddies, and buildings. Visit Barrage Miniatures
- Sarissa Precision: Excellent Far East range, with additional options in their North Africa/Colonial range.
Explore Far East terrain
Explore North Africa/Colonial terrain
Final Thoughts
With a wealth of rule sets, miniatures, and terrain options, Vietnam War gaming offers endless potential for both historical and creative narratives.
I’ll start building my forces from a mixture of Rubicon plastics, empress metals and 3D printed vehicles and terrain. Stay tuned as I build jungle terrain, assemble forces, and explore these exciting systems!
