| Designers | Peter Calcraft |
|---|---|
| Publishers | Clemens & Associates, Andon Games |
| Years active | ~1989 to unknown |
| Genres | sports |
| Languages | English |
| Playing time | Fixed |
| Materials required | Instructions, order sheets, turn results, paper, pencil |
| Media type | Play-by-mail or email |
Gameplan is a closed-end, computer-moderated, play-by-mail game.
Gameplan was designed by Peter Calcraft who published the game in the United Kingdom. [1] By 1989, Clemens & Associates was running the game in the United States. [1] Gameplay differed between the UK and US versions. [2] By 1991 Andon Games was running the game. [3]
Gameplan is a PBM American football sports game. [1] The goal of the game was to win the Paper Super Bowl similar to an NFL football season. [4] Players establish team rosters and train teams before the season. According to reviewer Tim Sullivan, the game "provides a realistic play-by-play account for each match, describing the relative success or failure for every play during a game". [1] Success is based both on player development and good game-calling. [1] Besides multiple defensive options, players have seven available run plays and nine pass plays for offense. [1] According to Sullivan, "Diplomacy isn't required, though it is encouraged." [4]
Alan Heise reviewed the game in the May–June 1993 issue of Paper Mayhem , noting its multiple facets and stating, "That is what intrigues me about gameplan, especially the advanced leagues." [5] Tim Sullivan said in Flagship that, "If you are a football fan who always wanted to coach your own team, Gameplan comes closest to the 'real thing' than any other simulation today." [4] Gary Vandegrift reviewed the game in a 1991 issue of Paper Mayhem, rating it a 9.5 out of 10 points." [6] He gave it maximum marks for "Game design, moderation, rules, [and] depth" while reducing the overall rating due to the relative low level of required diplomacy. [6]