RECON

RECON transports players to the heart of the Vietnam War, blending military tactics with immersive roleplaying as they navigate the chaotic jungles and political turmoil of the era. With its focus on realism and teamwork, RECON features detailed character creation and mission-based gameplay, encouraging players to think strategically and adapt to dynamic combat scenarios. Unique in its dedication to historical accuracy, the game fosters deep engagement with the moral complexities of war, challenging players to confront the decisions of both their characters and the larger conflict.

At-a-glance

Military • Needs GM • 4/5 complexity • Low prep

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RECON is a military tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) primarily set during the Vietnam War, although adaptable to other modern combat settings. Initially a wargame with role-playing elements, it evolved into a full RPG focusing on the gritty realities of military operations.

Theme and Setting

Distinctive for its percentile-based mechanics and emphasis on realism, RECON caters to players seeking a challenging and immersive military experience. Theme and Setting RECON immerses players in the brutal realities of modern military conflict, most commonly the Vietnam War.

How Play Feels

The setting emphasizes tactical decision-making, resource management, and the psychological toll of warfare. While primarily associated with Vietnam, the game's flexible design allows adaptation to various modern war scenarios.

What Makes It Distinct

The game focuses on the experiences of American soldiers, with opportunities to portray special operations forces like Army Special Forces, Navy SEALs, and Marine Force Recon. Scenarios often involve reconnaissance, raiding, sabotage, and search and rescue missions behind enemy lines.

Where It May Not Fit

You want a very light rules load You dislike tactical combat or heavier encounter procedure.

Decision guide

What this game is about

Key facts

Players

3-5 players + GM

Session

120-240 minutes

Prep

Low

Play profile

Complexity

4/5

New GM Fit

3/5

Roleplay Focus

3/5

Combat Focus

3/5

Tactical Depth

4/5

Campaign Depth

3/5

Who it suits

Best for

Tables that enjoy tuning characters and expressing concepts mechanicallyGroups that want combat choices and danger to matter mechanically

Avoid if

You want a very light rules loadYou dislike tactical combat or heavier encounter procedureYou want the system to stay almost invisible at the table

A strong fit for groups that want tables that enjoy tuning characters and expressing concepts mechanically, with character Customization helping define the experience.

Agent data

Structured data and an explicit decision profile JSON document are available for remote agents.

Open agent JSON