Malaya is a free game by Geoffrey Bohrer of @gamesonline for 1-2 players published in 2007 by V...-Mail games. It plays in 20 minutes.

What You Get

Well, being a 'postcard game', not much. It comes with a little map and cut-apart counters you mount back-to-back. On the same sheet are the rules, taking up 3/4 of the back of the postcard, and a combat table. The map is colorful, as are the peices. For what it is, it looks nice enough to me.

What You Do

One player is the Japanese sweeping accross the map, the other the Brits staunchly defending. Peices have pre-designated start positions, with a specific reinforcement schedule. The game is played in only 6 turns. It starts with the Japanese turn in which they move their units, fight, and if any units did not engage in combat, they may move an extra hex. This procedure is repeated by the British player, who has the added burden of needing to maintain his supply lines, or suffer casualties.

There are six objectives on the map. For the Japanese to acheive at least a tactical victory, they must capture at least 5. In general, the Japanese forces are stronger and more mobile, but they have the chore of capturing 80% of the targets.

There are some additional special details for amphibious assaults, stacking limits (1/hex) and the like.

What I Think

The rules are lacking in places, due to the space constraints, I imagine. For example, I assumed road movement costs 1/2 per space, but this is not specified, and there are some 'pass through' questions and the like. However, it is a fast and furious engagement, certainly fun for a couple plays. And, given the low cost of the game (free!) there is no reason for a grognard not to spend a few minutes preparing a copy and having a go at it. For the most part everything runs well, and it feels decently balanced, in that I've won with both sides. The verdict is small but mighty!