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Fire in the Lake

GMT Games, Devir · Board game · 2014
1–4 · best 4 Solo 180 min Weight 4.2/5
8.6 rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Buy
8.6 rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Buy
Our Verdict

A brutal and deep simulation of the Vietnam War for hardcore wargame lovers.

Highlights
  • High-level historical simulation
  • Incredible faction asymmetry
  • Dynamic card system
  • Unbeatable strategic depth
Keep in mind
  • Very heavy for beginners
  • Extremely long play sessions
FOR GENRE FANS
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.
About the game
If you think war is just about bullets and bombs, Fire in the Lake is here to show you it's much deeper than that. This fourth installment in GMT's acclaimed COIN series is a masterclass in complexity and realism regarding the chaos of South Vietnam. Here, the battle isn't just fought in dense jungles, but also within the corridors of power in Saigon and during diplomatic conferences. Players find themselves at the heart of a board where politics, media, and guerrilla warfare intertwine brutally. You might be commanding US heliborne operations or attempting communist infiltration in the south, but get ready: GMT's card system ensures every game is an unpredictable mess. With heavy historical events like the Tet Offensive and military escalation, the game demands high-level strategic thinking. It's an insurgency simulator where area control and political influence are just as lethal as direct combat. If you enjoy deep, asymmetric wargames that don't hold your hand, this is your next mandatory challenge.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
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Game details

Mechanics

Area Majority / Influence Dice Rolling Simulation Solo / Solitaire Game Variable Phase Order Variable Player Powers

Categories

Civil War Modern Warfare Political Vietnam War Wargame

Families

Category: Autonomous simulation Components: Map (Regional scale) Components: Multi-Use Cards Country: USA Country: Vietnam Decades: The 1960's Decades: The 1970's Game: Fire in the Lake History: Cold War History: Vietnam War Players: Games with expansions that change player count Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Wargames with Solitaire Rules Series: COIN (GMT) War Level of Command: Strategic
Publisher GMT Games, Devir
Designer Mark Herman, Volko Ruhnke
Artist Chechu Nieto, Mark Simonitch, Rodger B. MacGowan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime?
Prepare the coffee! The game takes about 3 hours, but can go much longer depending on the scenario complexity.
Is it too hard for beginners?
Yes, it's a heavy game. If you've never played the COIN series, prepare for a steep learning curve.
Can I play solo?
Absolutely! It has specific rules for solo mode, making it an excellent solitaire wargame.
How many players can play?
The game supports 1 to 4 players, with different faction dynamics.
Do I need to know a lot of history to play?
It's not mandatory, but understanding the Vietnam War context helps greatly with immersion.
Does the game require translation?
Yes, most editions are in English and the content is quite textual and dense.
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