Smooth & Rifled original-edition sample cover
Dadi & Piombo’s original-edition sample cover, shown for identification and review. The archived commentary concerns the earlier rules; the publisher now also offers a revised edition. Copyright & Trademarks

Review commentary

"Smooth & Rifled" by Dadi & Piombo is a set of wargame rules focusing on skirmishes during the colonial era (although with the supplements any period from 1700 to 1900 can be gamed), using 15, 20 or 28mm miniatures (even 40mm and 54mm figures), where each miniature figure represents one individual. The game utilizes an initiative system where units roll 3d6 to determine their actions for the turn, with officers providing bonuses. The more actions a unit takes, the more those actions cost, encouraging strategic planning and management of resources. Figures can act independently or in groups, with larger units requiring command actions for efficient movement. Combat is resolved by rolling dice for each firing figure or group, with hits potentially causing stun or kill results. The game is praised for its simplicity and elegance, producing realistic outcomes and offering a degree of unpredictability that keeps engagements dynamic and engaging. It's designed for 15mm miniatures, offering a manageable scale for players to recreate historical skirmishes and larger battles

Sources and review basis

From the original Battleward Games page, with spelling and presentation edits. Firsthand memories are retained where supplied. These are short editorial impressions, not claims that every game received a personal playtest. Edition details, availability, and links may have changed since the original review; consult the linked publisher or product information before purchasing.