[Aslml] Complete Beginner

[Brian W]

>First off what is the best scenario for two absolute beginners
>to play in order to begin to get a working grasp of the rules?

Check out the ASL FAQ for some good suggestions, as well as other
answers to good questions:
http://www.users.bigpond.net.au/mantis/ASLFAQ/

>Secondly could someone explain infantry smoke placement in simple
>terms to me.

Ok, an American 6-6-6 squad has a smoke "exponent" of 3--you can see it
on the counter above and to the right of the first 6. To place smoke
grenades, during its MPh, you declare your attempt, pay the MF cost (1
or 2) and the roll one die (a dr). If you roll 1-3 you may place the
smoke (+1 drm if CX). If you roll 4-5 no smoke, but continue moving. If
you roll an original 6, stop moving and go to the next moving unit.

>Thirdly do people tend to use the IFT or IIFT? 

Personal choice. I would guess that the IFT is more common, but no idea
by how much.

>Fourthly is the "cowering" rule widely enforced or do folks tend to
ignore it? 

Never seen it ignored, although I have heard that some people use a
house rule that says that a snake eyes (DR2) never cowers.

Brian