The size of game is variable, from single ships to large fleet actions. Even with large fleets, an accurate result can be achieved within two or three hours.

Signal Close Action - 4th Edition
A conventional paper set requiring only a minimal amount of paperwork, these rules are designed for large scale actions (Trafalgar type) but are versatile enough to be used for anything down to single ship actions.

The Fourth Edition package includes:
Main Rule Book - with full colour laminated cover - takes you through setting up game and core game;
Appendices Booklet with Optional Advanced Play features;
Separate Playsheets including Ability Chart, Speed Charts and Gunnery Charts.
Card Compass, Attitude to Wind Indicators, Firing Arc Indicator etc .
6 Coloured Dice.

What's new about Fourth Edition?
It being the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, I was inspired to produce - not just an update of previous editions, but an enhanced game, smoother, with more fluid movement and ability for vessels.

The Ability Chart remains fundamental to the game - particularly as it cuts down on the need for excessive dice throwing and record keeping. This time however, there are more dice and they play critical roles. In the past, if you had a 'bad throw', all your actions were affected by that same dice score. With Fourth Edition, the dice are colour coded, with one being 'common' to all. The score of the Common dice is added to the dice relating to the various actions.

Other new innovations include the division of a player's part of Turn into two segments and Reloading of the guns, so that the time scale of actions are more realistic. The actual Firing rules are not changed noticeably but there are new separate charts for firing at Unrated vessels.

The main rule book takes you through setting up a game, all you need to know e.g. Vessel Statistics, Sequence of Play, and descriptions of the main actions of the game.

The Appendices has advanced game options such as Tactical Initiative, Strategic Initiative, Outlying Patrol Vessels and Boatwork.  A glossary of terms used during the period is also provided with the beginner in mind.

Any base size can be used as distance is measured from mast to mast. So no problem if you've already got ships based.

SIGNAL CLOSE ACTION PAGE LINKS
Signal Close Action 4th Edition Errata
Please check this link for any errata which has come to light since you purchased your copy.