VASSAL is a computerized interface for playing board and card games over
the internet. It support real-time play over a live connection as
well as email
play.
VASSAL mimics as closely as possible the experience of moving counters on a board with another person across the table. Players move pieces on the map by dragging and dropping with their mouse. Moves are either recorded into a logfile or instantly communicated to the opponent when playing live. The opponent sees the pieces move automatically on his screen. VASSAL’s chat and game room features allow you to view other games being played, compete in online tournaments, and post messages on the Message Board. The VASSAL server is running 24 hours a day for anyone on the planet who has Internet access and wishes to play a game.
In addition to the core VASSAL engine, you must download a module for the game you wish to play. Many modules exist and many more are being created. VASSAL's module editor uses an intuitive graphical user interface that makes it easy to create new modules. Note that VASSAL does not enforce gameplay rules. You (or your opponent) must own a physical copy of the game you wish to play.
VASSAL is an amazing example of the cross platform power of the Java programming language. Because VASSAL is written in Java, any computer system that can handle the Java language (Click here for a listing) can run VASSAL and use it to play games with other players, regardless of the computer system they are using.
Though there is no charge for personal use of VASSAL, you may not distribute VASSAL or VASSAL modules, in exchange for any sort of fee, without the expressed written consent of the author, Rodney Kinney.