David Heath, Director of Operations at Matrix Games, commented, "Just about all of us started as board gamers and we still are, along with much of the Matrix Games community. We've admired Mark's work for years and the development of Band of Heroes will be great news for fans of squad-level World War II games. We look forward to working closely with Mark on the release of the first board game in the Matrix Games line."
Lock 'n Load: Band of Heroes is the second complete module in the Lock 'n Load game system, covering the battles of the 101st Airborne (Screaming Eagles) during World War II. Gamers who are familiar with the Lock 'n Load system will be able to immediately start playing out of the box. As with the original game, each hex is 50 meters, turns are a few moments, counters represent squads, leaders, heroes, medics and even the occasional chaplain or scout. In addition to their own firepower, squads employ machine guns and squad automatic weapons, including for the Americans the .30 Cal, the Browning Automatic Rifle and the bazooka; for the Germans the MG-34, MG-43, Panzerfaust and Panzerschreck. Both sides are supported by tanks and assault guns.including Stuarts, StuGs, Shermans and an array of Panzers.
Mark H. Walker, Designer of Band of Heroes, said, "I'm thrilled to be part of Matrix Games' expansion into board games. David Heath has a commitment to the war gaming hobby -- whether it be computer games, board games, or miniatures -- that inspires me. I think gamers are going to be happy with the union of the Mark H. Walker, Lock 'n Load and Matrix Games."
The scenario list for Band of Heroes is not yet final, but should include actions in the vicinity of Foucarfille, street fighting in Ste. Mere-Eglise, the battle for the La Feire farm and much more. Band of Heroes is schedule for a Summer 2005 release.