The ASL Companion 2. Le Franc Tireur

The release of ASL Companion #2 is part of an editorial journey that is already proving significant for the Advanced Squad Leader community. Following the success of ASL Companion #1, published in January 2026, which quickly sold out and was only recently reprinted in a limited quantity, this second volume confirms one essential truth: the ASL Companions are, above all, works by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts.

And it is important to stress this from the outset: the publisher of the series is not Multi-Man Publishing, but Le Franc Tireur. A minor detail? Not at all. In fact, it is precisely what gives these Companions their distinctive identity and tone.

Le Franc Tireur: A Deeply ASL Editorial Approach

With the ASL Companions, Le Franc Tireur is not merely publishing a rules supplement. The project reflects a demanding, independent, and passionate editorial philosophy, faithful to the spirit that has animated the magazine for years.

This positioning is evident from the very beginning of ASL Companion #2, which opens with two distinct introductions—both highly revealing of the mindset behind the project.

Two Introductions, One Shared Love of ASL

The Author’s Introduction: Jim Stahler

The first introduction is written by Jim Stahler, author of the ASL Companion. He clearly expresses his enthusiasm at seeing his work—built on 50 years of experience—come to life through the efforts of the Le Franc Tireur team.

You can feel:

• the satisfaction of a long-awaited publication,
• confidence in the editorial team,
• and above all, the joy of contributing to a project designed to serve the ASL community for the long term.

Xavier Vitry’s Introduction

The second introduction is written by Xavier Vitry, Editor-in-Chief of Le Franc Tireur. He places the Companion within a broader vision: that of a mature, deliberate editorial project carried forward by a team that lives and breathes ASL on a daily basis.

This dual opening sets the tone: issue #2 is a collective endeavor, where author and publisher share the same standards and the same passion.

Chapter 3: The Lay of the Land, at the Heart of the Game

The core of ASL Companion #2 is devoted to Chapter 3: The Lay of the Land, a fundamental chapter exploring everything that structures the battlefield.

It covers:

• geomorphic and historical maps,
• overlays,
• terrain-related counters,
• and, of course, Line of Sight (LOS).

Line of Sight as You’ve Never Read It Before

This is one of the major strengths of the volume: 29 pages entirely dedicated to LOS, featuring:

• numerous concrete examples,
• full-color illustrations,
• a pedagogical, precise, and rigorous approach.

Even experienced players will find material here to clarify situations that have sometimes been debated for years. This is in-depth work, clearly designed for practical use at the gaming table.

Chapter 4: The Play of the Game (Part One)

As each ASL Companion runs to 100 pages, the remainder of issue #2 begins Chapter 4: The Play of the Game, with a focus on scenarios.

This first part addresses:

• their design,
• their structure,
• their balance,
• and their central role in the ASL experience.

Content that is just as useful for players as it is for scenario designers.

A Clear Vision Already Announced for ASL Companion #3

The publisher has also announced the contents of the third volume, which will complete and extend the work already undertaken.

On the agenda:

• the conclusion of Chapter 4 (reinforcements, sequence of play, victory conditions),
• Chapter 5: The Role of Fate, devoted to dice,
• Chapter 6: Concentration of Forces, focusing on stacking,
• and two highly anticipated appendices:
• • a complete history of ASL products, from Avalon Hill to MMP
  • a comprehensive list of all ASL articles published in The General, Annual, Journal, and other outlets.
    
    

Conclusion

With ASL Companion #2, Le Franc Tireur confirms its important role in the transmission, analysis, and promotion of Advanced Squad Leader.

This is not merely a supplement: it is a substantial editorial undertaking, driven by a genuine passion for the game and its community.

ASL, by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts.
And that is precisely why this Companion series deserves our full attention.

And if I may offer a personal piece of advice:

You don’t play “pure” ASL? Your experience is limited to ASL Starter Kit? You play other tactical games? You’re a wargamer outside the tactical sphere?

Follow the ASL Companion adventure closely—it will be a landmark moment in our hobby.

I’ve said my piece.