CENTCOM is an operational one-player simulation of US-CENTCOM military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq during 2001 to 2003 and optionally 2005. The player controls the forces of the CENTCOM (US, NATO, Northern Alliance, and other Allies). The game system controls the opposing OPFOR forces (Al Qaeda, Taliban, and Iraqi). The objective of the game is for CENTCOM to destroy both the forces of Al Qaeda and Saddam Hussein thereby establishing the basis for a stable Persian Gulf.

The standard scenario covers the period of October 2001 (the initial US invasion of Afghanistan) to June 2003 (the anticipated conclusion of Operation Iraqi Freedom). The optional scenario extends the game to early 2005. The player mobilizes forces and conducts operations by expending Expeditionary Warfare Points (EP). When a rule calls for the OPFOR to take an action, you the player must execute that action.

OPFOR actions can be affected by the Persian Gulf Instability Index (PGII), which can shift throughout the game and generate events. CENTCOM can also be played by two or more players, controlling different parts of CENTCOM operations. This is explained in the Optional rules.

Each game turn represents from three weeks of intense combat to six months of logistical buildup and counterinsurgency operations. Each hex represents 43 miles (69.2 km). Units range in size from brigade groups, divisions, and corps.

22 x 34-inch game map and a sheet of 176 5/8-inch counters. Design by Joseph Miranda