Sgt Steiner's Wargaming Blog

White Star Rising Board Wargame

2012-03-08T13:01:00.000Z

Very nice surprise from postman on my day off as he delivered 'Nations At War : White Star Rising' game which I had forgotten I had on order from a few weeks ago as awaiting stock. Nice components and does not look too complex.

Of course yet more time needing to be found to give it a go !

2012-03-04T12:39:00.001Z

Played another game of No Retreat with Mein Fuehrer (ie my Dad) last night and another excellent game it was too (despite our getting bit confused with the Counter Blows rules this time for reasons unknown) This is indeed a very slick and playable game. The use of the event cards (also usable to restore/replace units) keeps things unpredictable on each replay without being dominant factors (thats down to dice rolls as ever !) Dad managed to capture Leningrad this time but was held off rather easily before Moscow (and indeed barely survived being surrounded in a large 'Kessel' near Smolensk in 1942 which would have netted the Ivans 2 Panzer and 2 Infantry Corps ! Lots more losses on both sides this game than last meaning a lot of tasty event cards had to be used as discards to re-generate these losses. Ivans had a Shock Army in play and 3 upgraded Guards Armies all ready to put some hurt on the Fascists just as we had to end !

Usual poor iPhone pics (really dont do justice to this game)

Mid 1941

Nazis threatening Leningrad

Struggle around Kharkov

Leningrad succumbs and counterattack gets 'Blitzed'

Hail Caesar first try (solo) at last !

2012-03-03T23:47:00.000Z

Played a solo game of Hail Caesar today using table from previous Dbmm battle with couple of forces from the Classical Army Supplement namely; Republican Roman and Galatian. Used 2 wide Dbmm elements as small units (although 3 bases for Skirmishers) 3 wide for Standard sized units and 4 wide for large units. Also gave Galatian Warbands a second rank just for look of the thing. Both organized into three 'Divisions'. Only deviation from lists was I allowed Allied units as single units rather than the Allied only Divisions of lists. Played it as a straight 'run at them' type affair to try out rules. Have to say they work pretty well with the usual variance of Command dice meaning a couple of 'Divisions' failed to move on occasion (that chaos factor I so enjoy), Shooting easy to understand although it seems a bit powerful (mainly due to any 6 rolled causing a 'Break Test' often resulting in a Retreat even if only one casualty suffered). Close Combat a 'bucket of dice' system with for instance the large Warband units rolling 9 dice at 'Clash' hitting on 3+ if charging 4+ otherwise. Hits are then potentially saved via 'Morale Saving' throws with excess being casualties suffered. Loser of melee tests for Breaking (with minus difference in casualties inflicted). Supporting units provide bonus dice (their short ranged attacks) but suffer similar fate to unit supported if it loses. Movement extremely fluid (as per Black Powder) until units come withing 'Proximity' of enemy when it becomes line up and face nearest enemy. Skirmishers and Light Cavalry are 'Open Order' troops that can Evade (a successful Command Roll required) but really only charge each other and pretty much evaporate if caught in melee. As with Black Powder several special rules/abilities available but these were none to onerous to remember using the 'official' lists. All in all a slick fast moving and fun game certainly in lighter vein than Dbmm or FOG.
My main bug-bear (again ala Black Powder) is the IGO UGO sequence of play that has shooting after moves, this allows a moving unit to come up to a stationary unit, fire at it, and quite likely cause a casualty and possibly a retreat/disorder without reply. Non-phasing units only get to fire out of turn at chargers (Closing Fire) or at those moving across their front (Traversing Fire). I would much prefer simultaneous shooting or else 'Shoot then Move' and may experiment with this.

Armies line up

Galatians move forward....except for the Cavalry wing

Roman Legion prepares to meet them (all Small units)

Galatian Warbands in Standard size units

Small Roman Cavalry unit takes on a Warband

Illyrians faced by large Warband

Struggle around the rough ground

Galatian Cavalry moves after 2 turns dawdling

Also managed to pre-order this (from North Star games £30 including card deck) apparently due for release in early April

DBMM Minoan vs Assyrian

2012-03-02T17:18:00.000Z

Played another Dbmm game today as Stephen desperate to field his Sargonid Assyrian army (very nice it is too), my Minoans were again the willing victims. Good game although my dice were pretty abysmal throughout both for movement Pips and Combats. Despite the fun factor of the game we both feel there is too much manouevre in Dbmm (and indeed most if not all Ancients rules) as groups are too readily able to re-deploy from one side of table to the other. However remove this manouevring and games would likely get a tad boring.
I hope to try Hail Caesar which of course seems to allow even slicker movement options !

The armies at deployment

Assyrian Cavalry

Assyrian 4 Horse Chariots

Minoan foot behind their Tower Shields

Assyrian Spearmen

Minoan Chariots

Minoans on the move

Assyrians on the move in usual 'away from me' direction

More Assyrian Chariots

No Peace Without Spain further investigated

2012-03-01T22:36:00.000Z

Played a few more turns of this intriguing and enjoyable game. Bourbons holding fast in Flanders against a strong force lead by Marlborough (who just cant bring anyone to battle and has been poor at laying siege). Spain however pretty much under Alliance control with Habsburg Spainish having come into play along with Portugal. Savoy being fickle sods they are have also changed sides to Alliance. Eugene in and around Bavaria has had on and off running battles with Vendome with both trading success and losses. However in 1708 Eugene (with side kick Stahremburg) have just managed to gain a Famous Victory (first in game) at Nuremburg over Elector but with both Eugene and Stahremburg both dying (ie roll 12 on 2D6) in process !! This will give Vendome's army a definite target in up coming year.
Have to clear game off table to make way for another Dbmm game tomorrow so unlikely to finish but I must say I am really enjoying this even playing it solo as it has great flavour and a very playable system. Might be game to make me dip toes into Vassal play.

iPhone pics again...............

Madrid has fallen to Alliance

Savoy backstabs the French

Stalemate in the North

Famous Victory achieved at Nuremburg....................................

But at such cost as Eugene and Stahremburg are lost..............................

No Peace Without Spain initial play

2012-02-27T13:50:00.004Z

Managed to get some time to put this game up on table and have a quick play. Really impressed with this as a game, whilst reasonably simple and abstract (without being simplistic) it seems to convey the period quite well. Always a tough decision whether to stand and fight a land battle against a larger or on parity army (as battle is a simple you roll your number of dice vs mine to hit - with a few variations) or to slide off and force the enemy to lay siege to newly entered fortress area (of which there are many). The consequences of losing a battle (Demoralization) or woe betide giving enemy a Famous Victory are not desirable. This seems rather in keeping with events of the time. Action cards are simply that a method to generate actions and the Event cards have a nice historical flavour without being dominant (certainly not to same degree as in Age of Napoleon). Lots of other stuff goes on with Fortified Lines and attempts to Bypass same, transfers of troops, replacements and so on but all limited by amount of Action rounds per turn (mainly 5 as in the usual number of action cards drawn per side) and number of rounds per Action (max of 3 with 2 or 1 being other options on cards). Only played first two years but found it very engrossing and already thinking about how to do things better as both sides next time. Whilst I found the physical components (thin counter, unmounted map) rather underwhelming, compared to my other recent board wargame purchases, they are nice enough and perfectly functional within the game. Tis the gameplay which is the main thing in the end and this game seems to have it in spades.

Just found this informative but a tad lengthy Vassal tutorial (I really must try this programme) for the game which shows most of the basics of the game at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjpmOzGsp9k )

Couple of iPhone pics as I was too engrossed (ie lazy) to go downstairs to get proper camera

The full game on display

Some of the very nice card art (looks better in reality)

French army holding boxes

Their Alliance counter-parts

Reinforcements on Turn Track

In Flanders fields 18th Century version

DBMM Minoan versus Hittite

2012-02-23T16:21:00.000Z

Played another DBMM game (we seem to be a on a roll with this again) today at Stephens. Used a nice historical match-up with my 'have not seen the light of day in ages' Minoans against Stephens' 'aarrgghh bright light ! bright light!' Hittites. Have not used these armies since version 1 of Dbmm and they both need a bit of a re-jig but twas a fine game once more. My Spearmen (with a few bow in support) took up central position on a hill nicely flanked by difficult terrain with my Chariots on their right. My third small Chariot command was delayed off-table (with a maximum 3 commands in this army not a optimum idea maybe). Hittites had 3 Commands with a Gascon ally command. Hittites had usual mix of Warband and Pike Fast foot but were reticent to take my Spearmen on uphill, I of course failed to stay on said hill !!
Game was decided when my faster Chariots (KnF) failed in massed charge against slower Hittite versions (KnO) and then broke when their General fell to a 6:1 !! The delayed Command arrived just as this happened but too late to save the day. I then in all or nothing charged my huge line of Spearmen off the hill into the Hittite foot and Gascon mounted causing some damage but not enough to turn things around. Great game once more with again two rather handsome armies. Sort of unique feel to these 'Biblical' type armies.

Only a couple of pics as batteries went in camera

Minoans

Hittites

No Peace Without Spain

2012-02-22T18:29:00.000Z

No Peace Without Spain board wargame arrived today (ended up ordering from US supplier as unable to source in UK and for cheaper overall price than my previous failed order). Looks rather interesting even if box contents bit spartan. The Conflict of Heroes, No Retreat and Age Of Napoleon games have such nice component quality. Hope to give this a whirl soon.

DBMM Polybian Roman versus Han Chinese

2012-02-18T20:33:00.002Z

DBMM game today at mine against Stephen. Couple of contemporary (if not strictly historical) armies used with my Romans against his Han Chinese. Great game with nice ebb and flow and usual up and downs in dice rolls for us both. Roman Cavalry command on my left wing however broke before Legionaries could bring things to a conclusion in center and on my right mainly due to some judicious (or as I termed it "downright cowardly") retirements by the Han auxilia types and usual annoyance by artillery and bows.
Two nice armies these.

Initial moves

Han left wing

Roman battlelines

Han arrayed

Centers square up

Roman right wing

Roman Cavalry deploy against oncoming Light Horse

Legionaries move to support Cavalry

Han redeploying (ie running away like cowardly girly girls)

Romans taunting girly girls as they run off

Things getting hectic (note more girly girl running away at top right near the dice)

Cavalry up against it with Light Horse and encroaching Bowmen

Toe to toe in center

Kampfgruppe Normandy solo play through.

2012-02-13T21:26:00.001Z

Had a solo playtest game today with these rather nice rules using my 15mm kit (worked fine with the standard 20mm ranges in book). Played the basic/intro scenario with amended terrain which pits a German Panzer Grenadier Platoon supported by a Panther, a PzIVH and a Pak40 against a British Platoon supported by 2 Cromwells, a Firefly and an Achilles. Germans also get a single 81mm Mortar. Quite a nice game to be honest and I quite like the actions and activation system (your basic command level plus 1D6 to generate number of units that can activate). Combat is straight forward enough and I like the chit draw system for morale (each force has a morale level and chits are drawn for various reasons with numbers 1-4 thereon and once level exceeded force beaten but couple of other chits can appear such as Mechanical Failure, Aircraft, Heroic Actions). Lots of dice rolling as one has to spot for every shot (even if previously spotted) but works overall. Suppressive fire nicely implemented and since removal of suppression requires drawing a Morale chit (each allows 1D6 of suppression removal) it can be a bind as it should be to get troops moving again. Some strange stuff to get used to such as there being no hidden units (all subsumed into spotting/cover rules/rolls). Couple of rather vague concepts as well (none to clear on firing at multiple/adjacent targets as such). Tanks and guns fire and act as individuals whilst Infantry act as MG/AT teams or squads of 5-10 figures. The book itself is very impressive (and weighs a ton) with lots of information some decent OOBs and points lists and a very nice inclusion of multiple scenarios, fictional and historical with a terrain generating system for 'pick -up' type games. As title suggests covers Normandy only (no bad thing) with German, British and US forces covered. I would put it as about same complexity as Rapid Fire but set a lower tactical level and with a bit more 'flavour' but without the endless chrome and very odd scaling of Flames Of War (a set I just cant take to).
Might not become my WWII game of choice (bit too generic) but the scenarios are almost worth the cover price (especially if like me one obtained it at 1/2 price) and some minor house rules would sort the minor quibbles I had with system.

Must give IABSM2 a go next...........................

The battlefield Germans on left

A quality book to be sure

The QRS sheet

British armour suffering

The main culprit the Panther

His running mate (soon to brew up)

Picked of by 'Mable' the Firefly

Infantry contest a house

Germans advance

The Last Crusade: Beach Head To Berlin (Card Wargame)

2012-02-13T00:44:00.000Z

Played this nice little collectible card wargame at my Dads tonight after a hiatus of several years (we used to play it regularly even completing a full Campaign). I used the US decks and Dad the Germans (just for a change). A very enjoyable time with this very playable game despite it developing into a stalemate. I have the Russian Front version which I must dig out as never used in anger !
Scary when I look at number of decks I had collected..........

Usual crap iPhone pics

Overview of game with successful US assault in middle (soon reversed though)

Dug-in US 57mm AT Gun

US Paras about to get fried..............

Prussia's Defiant Stand board game arrives.......and new Maurice preview version available.....

2012-02-09T18:11:00.001Z

Prussia's Defiant Stand board wargame arrived (via the as ever excellent service from Boardgame Guru) and very nice it looks too. A block type game with cards as well. Had to spend a wee while placing the unit stickers on the little wooden blocks. Now to read the rules and give it a run through does not look to involved or difficult at first blush.

Had ordered 'No Peace Without Spain' but source let me down and I cannot find it in stock elsewhere in UK but on look out for it as a further acquisition. Mate Stephen also on a boardgame kick having bought 'Price Of Freedom' an American Civil War game from same company which we hope to try in due course.

Also new preview edition of Maurice rules from Sam Mustafa available (http://www.sammustafa.com/honour/ ) which I have downloaded but not read through yet to see what changes there are. Basic card set has changed I note and I believe this version has more from the full set. Publication due in Spring and I look forward to it.

DBMM Sassanid vs Alan

2012-02-08T17:07:00.000Z

Played game at Stephens yesterday evening using yet another iteration (has to be a viable army) from that list against Stephen using the Alan list. Great game with terrain falling quite well for me. In fact as always we discussed that if I had simply sat still there would likely be no game as no flanks for his predominately Light Horse army to attack and not really in Persian best interests to go forward to the more open side of the table. But as its a game we want to play when we get together then none of that nonsense occurred.
As always the Irregular Inept status of the bulk of Sassanid army is major crimp on their ability to manoeuvre.
Weather conditions turned out to be Mud which gave any Knights on table a problem (I had 4 KnX the Alans a command of KnF). Game ended with Alan victory as both my flanks went.

More crappy iPhone pics

Alans engaging Dailami

Elephants wheel (really slowly)

Left flank

Opening moves

No Retreat ! The Russian Front another go.

2012-02-04T12:22:00.003Z

Had another go with this excellent board wargame at my fathers last night and another great gaming session it was to. After last outings close run thing with Sudden Death victory conditions I decided as Ivans to contest one or two cities during the German 'happy time' in 1941. This worked well as it slowed Hun advance and keep his VP total a few points shy of the required Sudden Death levels. I had a couple of good combat results particularly in Odessa with Exchange results (main points being he cannot occupy the vacated city hex and my ability to re-occupy said vacant real estate). This time my father ignored Leningrad and went all out for Moscow but Ivan reserves and my contesting cities slowed him too much. Again several Exchange results reduced his combat power (Huns get no replacement for first 5 turns and cost 2 discards to re-fit on table units). By mid-1942 the Whermacht were retiring westward to shorten their lines as Ivans began to gear up for advance. Again had to finish it there (we are getting quicker but still having to look up far to many straightforward rules) and again appetites whetted for more. A really good game this one, simple without being simplistic, highly playable and yet evoking the Ostfront very well.

Of course none of this is helping me paint any figures !!

Crappy iPhone pics

Von Manstein trying to select a strategy in 1941

German offensive has shattered Soviet Western defences (but Odessa still occupied)

Limit of German advance around Smolensk

But a year later and the Germans are pulling back bruised and battered (several units on their 'flip sides') as Soviets gear up for the Great Patriotic Advance (Tank & Shock Armies soon to appear) with Smolensk and Kharkov back in rightful owners possession

DBMM at Munster 2012

2012-01-30T16:25:00.011Z

Hugely enjoyable couple of days gaming with Dbmm rules at Cork in Munster S.Ireland over weekend.
Usual excellent hospitality from Richard and his family and another famous victory over his children on Scene It (Film Quiz) game for XBox (I also won a 'dance off' on an embarrassingly horrendous dance moves game on the XBKinnect !!).Usual gathering of wargame geeks at Richards and accompanying chit chat as edifying as ever.
Weekend got off to a interesting start as I travelled south on Friday with my Chauffeur (Mr Brittain) as due to wargames related waffling we managed to take wrong route through Dublin ending up heading towards Wexford (albeit still in a definite southerly direction) adding a couple of hours to our journey time.

I took my Maurikian Byzantine army (competition this year was themed for "armies of "The Early Medieval Period - 477 AD to 1073 AD" ). As per last year terrain was pre-set by organizers which I really like (although I know some dislike) as it speeds up set-up time thereby increasing actual battling time and eradicates ability to cherry pick terrain to order which can often be a game killer Imho.

Gaming on day one (Saturday) in the very nice venue of Cork University commenced promptly at 0930hrs.
My first game was against Greg Mann (a player who plays in a lot of Dbmm competitions in UK having won several and whom I have not played before) using Khorasanian.
A great (albeit quick) game as I advanced right up to his army and managed to break his left wing command pdq* with some decent combat rolls. (* pretty damned quick)
Killing the command General also got me first General killed trophy and very nice it is too (my photo does not do it justice)

However my Kavallori came a bit unstuck against his Spearmen by failing to break through at any point in his line despite committing 2 Generals in charges !
They took some losses and then my left wing command was promptly shattered in one turn (his dice awesome mine back to normal) with the -2ME 'hit' on my center breaking the army.
This gave Gregg a 19-6 win. I was however chuffed to take any points off him.

My victorious right wing

My center with CiC and fellows having bounced off Gregs Spearmen (again !)

Game two in afternoon was against Steve Mills (with young Tommy the Dice Rolling Machine assisting) with an extremely nicely painted Sassanid Persian army (belonging to umpire Tom 'Grandad' Worden).
The table was most terrain heavy of the 10 and really was not optimal choice for either of us (again I like this 'deal with what you have in front of you' aspect of the pre-set option).
Persians had a block of 4 Elephants which rushed forward as I frantically tried to re-deploy some PsS to deal with them and divert my mounted line (my PIP dice rolls throughout were poor whilst the rolls by the DRM were awesome throughout) a central slog ensued as I could not escape and whilst I did kill 2 elephants the others wrecked havoc !
I did manage to break a Persian command but fell to another 19-6 loss.

Sassanids with those bloody elephants advancing (the pic does not capture the high quality paint job)

Day two (Sunday) started promptly once more and I faced off in morning against Tim Madeley (a cracking bloke I have played each year) who was using Patrician Roman.
Tim managed to set up his Legionaries on a central hill along with his Artillery and I thought my lot will have a torrid time attacking that (retreat or inaction not an option) but to his infinite and undying credit the Madeley chap advanced even coming off his hill 'fort'being a man after my own heart !
This made for a cracking game all across the table as I tried to hold his superior right wing with my inferior left (he had several LhS & KnF against my mainly LhF and CvS) whilst I took on his Legionaries and a block of Irr AxS on his left. with my Mounted.
I broke his right wing (his KnF dieing ingloriously to lowly LhF!!) but saw my survivors on this wing broke next turn.
My central command was teetering on the brink as well as his superior number told, but luckily (in a large degree indeed) I managed to break his left wing AxS command and both armies were broken in same turn. As Tim was nominal defender he got a 13-12.
A fast, furious, rip roaring, and exciting game this one with which I managed to double my score despite losing as such.

Tims right wing rushed into contact with lesser opponents

Face off in center

Tim tries to stop my advance with his hand

Huzza ! first of his Knights being removed

Nik Gaukroger and I had a friendly rivalry from last year as to which of us might finish bottom (and obtain a trophy) as he felt I robbed him of this illustrious prize last year, but it seems the Munster group drafted in a 'ringer' in form of Padraig (last years umpire) fielding a Tuareg array and I faced him in last game.
The table was to his advantage as it had several dunes and scrub fields that his CmS like.
However with nothing more than my usual simple plan of advance asap and engage (aided by getting 3 night bounds) I was surprised (never faced a Camel heavy army) to find that the CmS are so plain awful, as despite Superior grading their low combat factor of 2 makes just about every combat a high risk venture for them as 2ME Troops.
They seemed to simply melt away (a few did cause my KnF grief). Padraig had a flank march with a large command of Warband which appeared on my right but too far way to make any impact as the Camel commands were quickly destroyed and his army broken.
No claim by me to any great tactical feat in this one simply a dice rolling contest the CmS are hard pushed to win.
Great kudos to Padraig for attempting to use Tuareg at all and for being aggressive with it too.
I won this one 23-2 and so nearly doubled my score again.
This lifted me from 'relegation zone' to a lofty (for me) 12 place.

Remains of the central and first to be broken Turaeg command

Turaeg friendly terrain but to no avail

The flank march arriving

Four enjoyable games against 4 gentlemanly opponents and scoring every game (thereby without suffering a 0-25) made this one of my better competition results.
I must remember next year to again not read the rules or have any practice games as this 'tactic' seemed to work for me !! Looking forward to next year already.............

Only 'downside' to this years competition was the Munster blokes 'gift' of a Dbmm measuring stick as it was 'adorned' with what can only be described as a hideous and ghostly image of Willy Coughlan !! I had to turn mine 'face' down as I found it disturbing and am convinced the eyes were watching and following my every move !!! see for your self (or yer'self as they say down there)

A selection of pics and insults

Tuaregs about to succumb to Nik's Khmer

Willy 'The Face' Coughlan against Mick 'Chinaman' Hession. Note chauffeur looking 'lost' to left and an onlooker literally biting his nails with tension and excitement !

Battle of the 'Tonys' as Messrs Fitzgerald and Bergin enact a Byzantine civil war as Richard tries to stop his hairline receding behind them.

Steve 'The Lucky Maurikian' Bainbridge (eventual winner) against Rob 'The Orangeman' Brennan (note also the 'Two Tonys' confused as to which side of their table to be on)

Tim 'Mad as Me' Madeley looking for excuses in rule book against Mark 'How Did I Win That!' Gibson

Jan 'Van the Man' Embden snapping one of his figures in half as Nik 'Race you to the bottom' Gaukroger watches bemused in a battle of strangest names encounter (Note Dave 'The Don' Houston in background seemingly playing on wrong table)

Stephen 'The Wandering Chauffeur' Brittain against 'The Face' in a classic 'dice cup or tactile rolling technique' match up with Tom 'Granda' Worden the umpire ready to step in if things get rough.

'Wandering Chauffeur' making rudes gesture at enemy troops

Jim 'Tesco' Gibson lining his dice up as an on table reserve

Dave 'The Don' Houston posing contentedly as other fellow appears to have forgotten his army

The results of the competition were:

No Name Army Score
1 Steve Bainbridge Maurikian Byzantine 79
2 Mark Gibson Nikephorian Byzantine 76
3 Richard Aynsley Early Vietnamese 71
4 Jan Van Embden Pre Samurai Japanese 66
4 David Houston Christian Nubian 66
6 Stephen Brittain Early T'ang Chinese 58
7 William Coughlan Seljuq Turk 53
8 Greg Mann Khurasanian 52
8 Nik Gaukroger Khmer 52
10 Seamus McKenna Kushan 50
11 Tim Madeley Patrician Roman 49
12 Richard Murphy Sogdian 47
12 Gary Barr Maurikian Byzantine 47
14 Jim Gibson Dailami 46
15 Rob Brennan Medieval Vietnamese 42*
16 Anthony Fitzgerald Nikephorian Byzantine 40
17 Mick Hession N&S Dynasties Chinese 38
18 Tony Bergin Early Byzantine 32
19 Steve Mills Sassanid Persian 28
20 Padraig Bracken Tuareg 8

* = Only played three games.

Pbem Wargaming and an EBay purchase

2012-01-23T22:37:00.001Z

Couple of screen captures from ongoing Pbem PC Wargames (all I had time for tonight)

First up a T34/85 roving about in Germany in March 1945 (Combat Mission)

France 1940 in Western Front Campaign Series game in 'boardgame style' view

Which leads me nicely to my EBay purchase at a very reasonable £20.74 (inc p&p) as I was so impressed with playing Stephens copy and could not resist (a recurring Steiner theme I fear !!).

Boardtastic Saturday of Wargaming goodness

2012-01-22T15:33:00.002Z

A full on day of Wargaming of the board variety yesterday as I went to Stephen's at 1000hrs to play the excellent Age Of Napoleon game (we really should have been playing a practice game of Dbmm for Munster competition next weekend !), followed by trip to my fathers with No Retreat! The Russian Front under my arm for another excellent session through to 0100hrs.

Both very good games and both with excellent components and cards (AON edges it in looks department especially the cards and counter artwork) both very playable and both very enjoyable.
Who could ask for more ?

Age Of Napoleon is a broad strategy wargame (in the mode of 'We The People' or Hannibal versus Rome') with card play (various event type cards or discard for various actions) integral, I played as Allied Coalition whose field armies are simply not up to the standard of Napoleon whose Corps (units nominally represent 'Corps' of 40000 or so troops) has highest combat factor in game and top movement and seniority (ie ability to command).
This works fine as Napoleons ascendancy in battle is well represented as the French try to win primarily (at least so it seems) by military conquest.
Allied player relies more on cards played particularly Diplomacy cards (by which he can turn French Allies to Neutrals and so on) and by cards such as Insurrection (Spain uprising very possible but also can occur elsewhere). French have some similar cards but usually not as useful as Allied but do seem to have more cards applicable in battles (eg Le Garde Imperiale).
Battles are straightforward affairs with each side totalling available combat factors (various cards can affect this) and rolling a D6 on corresponding column of CRT to yield a result.
Both sides survivors (if any !) are spent (flipped to weaker side) after combat but winner can immediately recover his army (ie stack of units) by discarding a card whilst loser cannot recover until next round.
Lots more to it of course !

In our game Napoleon had a fairly torrid opening year (1805) as he failed to beat a meagre Austrian Force (2 lowly combat factor 2 Corps) with his Army (If I recall correctly 18 combat factors ?) by failing to inflict only 1 hits (as did Austrians) and then again failing the drawn battle roll (for which he had a +4 DRM) thereby being forced to retire spent and bloodied ! the Allies where then able to follow this with a nice card combo of 'Peace Talks' (basically cancels all but Diplomatic activity for 2 rounds of the 6 round year) followed by 'Napoleonica' card which allowed me to recover the 'Peace Talks' card which I played again later to cancel all activity again (1805/Campaign scenario starts in 3rd round so I limited French to military activity in 3 out of the 4 available).
Stephen was less than impressed as he had no cards to counter any of this, and indeed at one point threw his cards across the table (I am calling this evens for my (allegedly) throwing a dice last year !!) in disgust and frustration, we take our gaming rather seriously over here !!
But the following year 1806 not so good for Allies as French managed to convert or conquer most of Italy and Germany (size of cards hand each is affected by number Minor & Major countries controlled). This was achieved without Napoleon (whom I had sent off to deal with 'Rebels & Loyalists' a card which forces French player to replace Napoleon with another Corps).
In 1807 Allies again done quite well with Russian forces coming westward and play of 'Radestky' card generating a stronger Austrian force pool. French main army again led by Boney again failed in a major battle against a combined Russian-Austrian force (I ducked but no more cards were flung just expletives !).
However in 1809/1810 (we finished at this point) the French proved unstoppable as Napoleon crushed the Austrians (forcing them into occupied Neutrality) gave Russians a pounding and converted several Allied Minor nations into French Dominions (making them immune to Diplomacy !) only an Insurrection in Spain blotted their copy book.

Britain failed to appear (they only have 4 Corps but can move by sea) in game as the required 'Brittania' card was always in French control or in re-shuffled deck !!

This is a game I was impressed with as it has nice historical flavour (chronology of events certainly askew) and loads of decisions points each turn/round which are constantly varied with changing card hands.
Stephen after an initial dislike (he felt French were impotent) also liked the game as he noted that French really need to concentrate on the Military side of things ie Conquest conquest and more conquest in spite of Allied political machinations.
I soon learned that Allies just cannot go toe to toe with Napoleon and must try to balance withdrawal with tactical stands to slow French progress whilst trying to change allegiances and split French effort across multiple theaters which is all very plausible stuff.

Austria prepares for French onslaught in 1805 with Prussia in Neutral mode (crappy iPh pic)

And so it was that I later leaped forward a century and a half or so (and about 20 miles physically) to do battle on the Ostfront with No Retreat! The Russian Front.
As my Dad is a firm Germanophile I took mantle of the Ivans in this newly acquired game. Another game with cards (albeit possibly less crucial than in AON ?) and all the expected Ostfront stalwarts such as, Panzer Bonus, Blitz Attacks, Pockets, ZOC, Generals Mud and Winter and so on.
Cards are split into top (German) and bottom (Soviet) half with various actions and events possible depending on game phase and period of game.
The Germans have the strategic initiative early on but then it turns to Soviets and several cards only useable in these initiatives.
Turns represent 2 months nominally and each unit is an Army or Front, one striking feature of the game is low number of unit counters (40-60 although the do get recycled throughout) making this a very playable game.
A lot of stuff is therefore abstracted (rail moves, supply etc) or dealt with by the cards but game definitely mirrors strategic historical advantages and disadvantages of both sides overall.
Units have a combat and movement factor (with Huns being generally more mobile and their Panzers tough especially in 1941/42), and combat is resolved on separate CRTS. using an odds ratio system with cards, terrain, blitz/shock counters and similar affecting odds by column shifts to left or right (ie down or up). One novel rule is the Counter-blow which allows the defender to force the attacking side to make involuntary attacks on defenders units (simulating spoiling attacks) at cost of a discarded card and loss of any defensive terrain benefits.
Usual range of combat outcomes with Defender forced to Retreat or be Destroyed/Shattered or Exchange of hits or No Effect.
German units have 2 loss steps (flip counters) whereas initially all Soviets are only single step loss (but later in game the appear on their stronger flipped side whilst still being 1 hit wonders but from late 1943 they gain 2 step loss ability) this along with their much superior reinforcement schedule sees them gather strength relentlessly if they survive long enough.
Germans can win in 1941 by achieving a Sudden Death victory condition (totaling 21 VPs from their start of 12) or a several later sudden death totals or alternatively an Objective Victory by capturing 3 of the 5 Soviet objectives (Moscow, Stalingrad. Sevastopol, Leningrad and Polesti Oilfields).
Again much more to game than this but this is essential flavour of the game.

Late 1941 with Germans having taken oddles of cities but no objectives with Soviets firming up around Moscow (another poor iPh pic), note also Leningrad isolated (bottom left near Lake)

In our game in 1941 the Germans crushed the Soviet west front forces and spread rapidly into Mother Russia capturing lots of VP cities, but no strategic objectives. But they faced the standard quandary of whether to adopt a 'broad front' or 'rapier thrust' strategy and lack capability to replace losses in first couple of turns.
Soviets flooded Moscow region whilst trying to trade space for time in south and essentially leaving Leningrad to its fate.
I realised almost too late that my cautious strategy was risky as on turn 3 the Germans came oh so close to achieving a Sudden Death victory having accumulated 20 Vps (ie needing only 1 more !!) and having an attack in place at Leningrad (which was not yet able to Fortify).
This attack by Army Group north units looked certain to succeed but as luck would have it the attack yielded an Exchange result which destroyed my unit and caused 1 hit on a Hun unit but crucially the Germans were unable to advance into vacant Leningrad hex (normal moves occur before battles) and this ended their turn !!
I was then able to re-occupy Leningrad with a stronger reinforcing unit. Mud conditions in October/November turn slowed the Huns (and cancelled any Panzer bonus) and despite investing Stalingrad they could capture no more cities (and indeed had to send forces westward as Soviet units threatened their supply lines.
The following 2 turns are Winter and Long Winter which still restrict movement but also give Soviets defenders extra -1 and -2 (only in this first winter) defensive shifts on CRT if attacked (Panzer oil and Whermacht blood frozen !!).
Soviets also got several strong reserves (Siberians ?) and I was able to regenerate lost units. Destroyed units cost one discard to restore but count Disorganized (no attacks) unless a further discard made. Shattered units come back free but also cost to recover from Disorganization.
Surrendered units yield a VP to enemy and cost 2 cards to restore, but due to my retreat strategy (and Germans not realizing significance) I had suffered no such losses (suspect I will next time).
Soviets then get ability to flip one unit a turn to its stronger side (I was also able with a card to flip two in one turn) and the 5-3 Inf Army unit in Leningrad became a whooping 8-4 Guard Tank Army !!
This put fear into Huns (whose best Panzer Army is a feeble 7-6) who realized that they had reached their high water mark and began to pull back westwards to try to protect gains essentially abandoning assaults on all Soviet objectives (only Sevastopol was still marginally threatened) as Soviet juggernaut gained strength and numbers.
We ended mid-1942 at this point both rather excited by the prospect of this game.
Another hugely enjoyable gaming experience.

Moscow citadel forming just in time.........................

Playing favourites.............(I knew this would turn out to be an epic !!)

2012-01-15T17:05:00.014Z

Been holding off doing this (as I really should be painting or playing !!) but here goes for an idea from 'Dont Throw a 1' blog which he got from other blogs. As a lover of nostalgia I could not resist.
Compiling was easy but cutting my waffle to readable amounts much more difficult !!

To quote from 'Dont Throw A 1' herewith the premise:

"Over at Steve's Random Musings, he recently posted a list of his favourite Wargame facts. He got the idea from Too Much Lead and has invited other gamers to post their favourites.
Steve goes on to say, "We all have favourite games, periods, inspirations and so on, the challenge then is to document what they are so we can all see what drives us....."

And so to the sleep inducement:

WARGAMES PERIOD

Oh dear what a start ! 20+ years ago this would have been easy as it would have been World War 2 exclusively but since then I have delved into so many periods its a toughie to pick just one (my Blog indicates my 'butterfly' tendancies nowdays).
Currently Horse & Musket (1700-1815) is my main interest, certainly figure painting, rule purchases and reading/research has been mainly in support of this period of interest.
The appeal of lines of blokes shoulder to shoulder advancing into blackpowder volleys with cannon roaring and mass charges by blokes on big horses is stirring to my loins and infuses the blood.

Still have a hankering for Ancients period for similar stirring reasons only the black powder element being replaced by hack and slash images.
I probably have more Ancients figures than anything else (at least in 15mm) and does have added appeal of being able to go to competitions to play against others quite readily (an aspect of wargaming that I have only gotten back into in last couple of years)

But when all is said and done World War 2 is still my favourite period as the boyhood hook of Tiger tanks, D-Day, Arnhem, Stalingrad et al is a force still strong in this one !

SCALE

15mm is my favourite across all periods as a good balance of size versus quality and affordability and suits the size of table I have been able to use through the years 6' x 4' or now 7' x 5' maximum).
6mm is a great scale for WWII and I suspect if I was just starting out in wargaming 10mm would be a real option.
I started with 20mm (as did many of a similar age) as that was what was readily available and still consider it best for skirmish type games.
I consider 28mm and above modelling/diorama scales and impractical for wargaming unless a massive club or show-demo projects.

RULES

Oh lordy lordy this one I simply cannot narrow down to under a hundred so will quit whilst ahead !!
I am an incurable rules junkie/collector.......................................

Cover pictures of a (very) few select favourites (in absolutely no order of merit) will have to suffice:

BOARD WARGAMES

From a background of Risk, Campaign, Escape From Colditz and adverts in Miltary Modelling I became heavily into board wargames throughout the late 70s and into the 80's with numerous Avalon Hill (RIP) games adorning my shelves. I love the 'game in a box' appeal especially when visiting my Father as I could/can carry a game to his much more readily than any figure game. Interest waned in late 90s early 00s (?) but has been rekindled of late.

All time favourite has to be the one true king (I still get goosebumps and lump in throat thinking of this arriving on my doorstep for my birthday back in 1978 !!!)

Honourable mentions to:

Up Front The Squad Leader Card Game

Conflict Of Heroes: Storms Of Steel! - Kursk 1943

Panzer Blitz/Panzer Leader

Blackbeard (not truly a wargame but close)

The Battle Of The Bulge (Avalon Hill)

PC WARGAMING (not one listed on other blogs ? but part of my wargaming 'career')

Bought my first ever PC (a Win95 model) in 1997 primarily (sold to better half as an assest to household and investment for 'soon to start school' sons education) to play Talonsofts Eastern Front thus making this one of my most expensive wargames purchases ever ! Have bought loads of PC wargames since ranging from direct ports of boardgames through to Call Of Duty entertainments.
Most 'important' and fun aspect has to be playing wargames by Pbem which has given me a whole raft of new contacts with players across the world. Have cut back on this very time consuming form of wargaming but still play Eastern Front and its sister Western Front and the excellent Combat Mission WWII games.

FIGURE MANUFACTURER

Lots to choose from here.
In 15mm bulk of my stuff would be Essex certainly for Ancients subjects, with lots of Old Glory/Skytrex for 15mm WWII and in 6mm the rather spiffing GHQ vehicles with Adler infantry replacing the venerable Heroics & Ross. Minifig 15mm have a distinct 'old school' appeal. Of course I cant forget Airfix plastic 20mm with which I started out ('midgies' as they were known here) and of which I still retain hordes.
Must mention the various model kit makers (oh how I struggled for years trying to bind bloody rubbery plastic tank tracks !) including Airfix, Hasegawa, Esci and Matchbox.
Taimya 1/35th also get a nod as I built several of these prior to starting with Wargaming (I recall being awarded a Boys Brigade badge for a Taimya Horch jeep I completed)

CLUBS AND SHOWS

Short list this one regarding clubs as I have only been on and off member of Ulster Wargames Club (formerly Ulster Military Modeling Society) in Belfast as the venue and meeting times have seldom well suited my job circumstances or shift patterns. But I have met many fellow gamers in its hallowed halls and had many excellent games therein.

I do miss the annual show they used to put on at which I usually managed to put on a game.

I am in this one (no idea how long ago) on left just behind bloke in green top (no idea what we are playing ?)

Have been lucky to have attended several Wargames shows/conventions (or geek-fests if you prefer) with my first being to Derby World Championships in late 80s. Played in a few Ancients competitions here and also at Britcon Manchester and in Munster Cork. An annual pilgrimage to Warfare show last few years (I think I have been to this show at least 8 times) is a real highlight of year for me. A full wargaming immersion experience and a massive test of the Steiner financial security (and physical well being upon return !!)

OPPONENT

Stephen Brittain is by far my most regular (I think its down to bran flake intake ?) 'Enemy/Opfor' and has been for more years than we would both care to recall.
As his brother John says regarding his dice rolling abilities 'he is in league with satan' to which I readily concur, his ability to force my dice to roll one's by simply stating "you dont want to roll a one" is evidence enough for me.
Of far greater annoyance is his relentless churning out of well painted armies for all periods at a rate of knots far exceeding my own (albeit modest) production rates.
Long may our wars continue as all I can say.

My Dad has been a long time opponent especially in board wargaming aspect (and ultimately to blame for my interest in all things Military.
Again I hope long may this be the case.

ONLY HALFWAY (you still reading !!)

INSPIRATION

Yikes !!! a myriad of influences is short answer.

A random listing:

My Dad, time living in Paderborn West Germany on BAOR base (whilst Dad was in Army), Airfix, Military Modelling and Battle magazines (and later Miniature Wargames/Illustrated), Battle and Commando Picture Library comics, Sven Hassel pulp fiction, Military History section at local library, War films on TV/Cinema.

I suspect many many more in the dark recesses of my brain cavity.................................................

FILMS

Another yikes category !!

If I had to sell all and keep only one then it would be:

But oh so many other that fall into the above mentioned inspiration category. Again I will select a very few from the legions in no particular order:

Band Of Brothers

The Longest Day

Saving Private Ryan

Hell Os For Heroes

The Great Escape

Apocalypse Now

Kelly's Heroes

The Blue Max

The Bridge At Remagen

El Cid

The Alamo (John Wayne version)

The Eagle Has Landed

Zulu

A Bridge Too Far

Boy oh boy that was dreadfully painful leaving out a lot of other favourites !!!!

I simply cannot fail to mention this 'film' an work of amazing scope and magnitude never bettered

BOOKS

Again just so many choices. Battle! and Operation Warboard where my first rule sets and still among my favourites and biggest influences. Osprey titles must get a mention great resources.
My favourite book 'award' would go to:

I broke several piggy banks to afford this one at publication.

ART

Big influence on me at young age (7-8yrs) was time spent in Officer Mess at Paderborn Barracks in West Germany circa 1972 (my mother was part-time cleaner) whose walls were adorned with numerous large oil paintings of a myriad of British Battles and Exploits. Sensory overload for such tender eyes !

I guess this category could include Figure Painting at which I would class myself as only moderately skilled.
Lots of ifluence from the brushmanship within Rules, Magazines and Blogs and indeed my opponents figures.
I was for years a died in the wool advocate of Humbrol enamel paints but have now changed to using primarily Vallejo Acrylics.
I perhaps strangely paint direct to figures of all scales not favouring an undercoat or shading as such as I find that at the 15mm and under scales I use natrual light provides enough shading in use (if not under close up scrutiny) and that in particular black undercoating makes figures too dark overall for my tastes.
But I do see its attractions for speed and outlining but having tried it a few times it was a waste for me as I ended up painting figures in their entirety anyhow (or they somehow felt unfinished).

MUSIC

Again lots of influences with many of mine coming from Film Soundtracks (I have the original vinyl Cross Of Iron LP OST among others). Lately I have found U-Tube to be a goldmine for discovering recordings of Military Bands and Tunes (many have made their way into my iPod for use as background 'noise' whilst gaming/painting)

INTERWEB

This has been a simply massive boon to Wargamers with easy access to an overwhelming amount of resources previously unattainable.
Online Discussion Groups and similar, Publishers and Figure makers web-sites abound and these very Blogs are a time killing deep black hole of wargaming goodness.
Not a day goes by but I am not checking blogs, newsgroups etc. I have made a number of 'cyber'friends/contacts' that I would never have otherwise and one wonders how one existed prior to all this whether of an 'old school' disposition or not.

Favourites (most used/visited) are:

Would be impolite not to mention

I subscribe too far too many Wargame related discussion groups of course !

Find myself checking this most days

Similarly Board Game Geek is a time consuming resource.

FINISHED !!!!!! If you managed to endure to the end of this rambling nonsense award yourself the Steiner Endurance award (alternatively seek help urgently !!)

And I dont know why Blogger has put large gaps/spaces between entries/pics here it must have gotten mightily bored as well..............................(so much so I had to edit to remove lots of pics !!

Another SYW game with Minden Rose rules

2012-01-12T19:45:00.001Z

Had another outing with Minden Rose rules today at Stephens with Prussians and Russians going at it again. We realized we had done a couple of things wrong last time (only 'major' error was units recovering from Disorder far too easily) and we added a couple of minor house rule/clarifications such as restricting Artillery targets so no concentration of batteries and deciding that units can only make a single manouevre each turn (not specified clearly in rules) which seemed more in keeping with the period than our last game. Once again a very fun game with this set of what amount to straight forward, streamlined and fast playing rules that retain decent period flavour and yet easily tweakable if so desired. Writing could be a bit tighter in places but nothing occurs that common sense and reasoning cannot sort out.

Several others sets to try but I can see us coming back to these as good for 'bring an army and have a quick fun game of an evening/afternoon'.

Russians deployed (rings denote Infantry 1st Volley bonus unused)

Prussians (beads denote 1st Volley bonus unused)

Prussians occupy town

Prussian left wing

And their right wing

Advancing Prussian Brigade (green counters denote Disorder) backed by Artillery

And sweeping left wing Infantry and Horse

Russian Left wing at start

And with some disorder caused by Prussian guns

Russian right wing pushes forward

Russian center on hilltop

Russian Horse on right wing

Russian left at deployment

Oh and almost forgot ! this arrived but no time to check it out yet !!

I succumbed..........Again !!..................No Retreat ! The Russian Front inbound

2012-01-08T20:59:00.001Z

Could not help myself after reading (and watching) several reviews of this game. So order placed with Boardgame Guru today and therefore looking forward to arrival sometime this week.

To be honest it was a toss up between this and 'No Peace Without Spain' as the subject matter is very appealing but it was out of stock everywhere I looked so No Retreat it was :-)

Also like look of this one a Seven Years War block style game.............................
it really is a disease this Wargaming lark !!

Field Commander Napoleon first try

2012-01-07T00:16:00.002Z

Had first outing of new solitaire board wargame Field Commander Napoleon this evening. Set up the 1796 Italian Campaign. Took awhile to get to grips with the game system but once I got going it flowed very well. The counters are very nice and whilst the campaign maps are a tad bland (ie brown) the work fine. Managed to generate a couple of battles in initial March 1796 turn. First was modest French assault on Turin and its lowly garrison and fortification troops. French eventually took area but did suffer losses from the guns of the fortifications (lesson one I should have put enough combat power into area (ie 3 times defenders) to achieve an automatic envelopment. I then fought a second battle against Piedmontse in Savonia with Napoleon in charge which saw the lowly Italians defeated in short order. The battles are 'fought' out on a seperate battle board and both sides have access to Battle Plans (varied types) and Napoleon can add Insights (sort of super battle plans). These add nice flavour to the dicing proceedings with a strong French Cavalry unit conducting a Engage and then a Charge plan to really put some hurt on. However despite this success, the ensuing Enemy programmed strategic turn saw 2 sizeable Austrian forces advance upon the newly taken Turin and in enough force for an automatic victory. This then caused an automatic French campaign defeat as they are required to have control of two Victory Areas at end of the March turn which I had not realised until too late !(lesson two read the campaign notes properly). This would have been easily thwarted by putting a sacrificial blocking French unit in area adjacent to Turin. All in all a nice game thats easy to play but requires a tad more thought than was initially apparent (the programmed/random nature of enemy options/actions is quite well done). Ah well their is always the next time.........................

The Campaign set up ready to start

Napoleons starting posistion in Nice

Battle board in use as Napoleon leads French to victory over Piedmontse

Close up of French units and couple of their selectable Battle Plans

Piedmontse inflict some damage (Allies go first in battles)

Disaster strikes as Turin is recaptured by Austrians (left of map) making a 'double advance' via Marengo whilst Boneys back is turned !

SYW game with Minden Rose rules

2012-01-06T19:04:00.000Z

Played a game with my Seven Years War Russians against usual Prussian opposition today using Minden Rose rules (which I believe are now free as a PDF ?). A most excellent game it turned out to be as well. The rules are straight forward and deceptively simple but we found they flowed really well giving a fast game and yet engendered a nice SYW feel. Each turn is nominally represents an hour (which is pretty much how they played in real time) and so the reasonably free maneuvering seemed ok and the decisive nature of melee and shooting also felt ok (as representing more than single volleys/charges potentially). The 'traffic light' order system (Attack, Hold and Retreat) worked well in combination with the Command Test and Morale Test system. Only real beef we had was that whilst Brigadiers are key for purposes of Command and Control and to Rally Troops of effect Morale tests they have no other bearing on game in that they cannot be targeted nor used to join units to effect combat. Works fine in game but we are used to more direct input by and risk to our Commanders in other rules. All in all a fun game and decent set of rules which we well give another run out in the future.

The Russian deployment

Prussian opposition

Prussian center (with new roads, buildings and fields on show)

Russian center

Russian Light Cavalry Brigade

The Russian 'heavys'

Opposing Heavy Cavalry Brigades face off (the Ivans were totally routed !!)

New arrival and another new experience

2012-01-05T12:52:00.001Z

Field Commander Napoleon arrived today which is extremely quick service from sender (wee plug for Boardgame Guru site that I used at http://www.boardgameguru.co.uk/index.asp) especially to the remote colony of Ulster !!
Only had quick delve through contents but very nice they are.

A SYW miniatures game planned for tomorrow which I need table for but hope to get a go at FCN later on.

Also yesterday evening I had a game with 'RPG' mates of a boardgame called 'Mansions of Madness' (often a description given to my own abode I fear) which is a fantasy/horror game (sort of Cluedo/murder mystery/gothic horror mix) under the Call Of Cthulhu banner. Like RPGs this is not a genre I have ever had any interest in. The subject matter was definitely not my cup of char at all although the early 20th Century setting was interesting. But the game system itself was very enjoyable with a great interaction of cards, events, 'monsters', puzzles and characters with 3 of us as investigators and the games owner playing as the 'Mansion' as such setting up the story line and controlling the horror events and encounters. The game components were also nice with great 'gothic' artwork.
We just failed to solve the mystery by running out of time in the game (a count-down system in game goads players to not faff about too much) which led to the Mansion and ourselves being 'consumed' by something below the Mansion. A fun game to play despite the off kilter (for me) subject genre.

iPhone pics of board etc which really do not do the components justice at all.

Numerous cards and counters used in system

The Mansion laid out (very nice double sided tiles) with clues, equipment and obstacles thereon

I succumbed..................Field Commander Napoleon inbound

2012-01-04T12:39:00.001Z

Ordered this today (whilst HMV in bed !!!) as gets good reviews and its solo (ie no need to find opponnent). Decided against any of the tactical games as I have enough miniature games to scratch that itch so the strategic/abstract nature of this appealed, that plus the 'oh shiny' factor of the components.

I suspect this one will be appropriated at a later date and I also fear my painting plans will go awry !!

Damn you BGG !!

2012-01-03T16:14:00.000Z

Having trawled through Board Game Geek looking for info (there is a bloke 'marcowargamer' who has done literally dozens of very enticing video reviews) and I of course then got waylaid by perusing yet more potential titles !!!
Getting hard to select just one (way too pricey for more !) and have to say some very nice looking games available now.

PC Pbem WarGaming (and board Wargaming)

2012-01-02T20:30:00.001Z

Still wary of starting painting despite my eye being on mend but did play a couple of Pbem PC wargames as one needs to keep ones wargaming 'hand in' as it were.

Jagdpanther on prowl in graveyard in a Combat Mission Barbarossa To Berlin game against my Dad

(this beast has been decimating my Ivans for several turns)

Campaign Series Western Front game with my Brits trying to hold back 21st Panzer counter attack in Normandy scenario 'Too Little Too Late' (this one against a chap in USA - one of best features of Pbem Imho)

Another Western Front game this time holding the Panzers back with French in 1940

(again against my Dad)

For reasons largely unknown to my self I have also been looking at buying a couple of board wargames (when I think I will have time or opponents is beyond me !!!!), but contenders (so far) are :

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T12:05:00.001Z

Wishing all visitors a very Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Looking back on 2011 in wargaming terms I had a decent year, lots of games played and a whole Prussian 15mm Army painted (after several years of little or no painting) and several odds and sods painted. I bought a literal ton of gaming related books of most are rules (and even managed to give several an outing !). I also obtained a lot of terrain items, not least more trees, which enhance the look of the tabletop.
A good year for this blog too as I am now quite competent and quick with it.
Only downside is not being able to complete (ie start) my British AWI project with the very nice Peter Pig figures still sitting waiting (expansion of Prussians to blame !). Also lots of other projects contemplated/started by unfinished (the 'curse' of the wargamer) such as re-basing my 6mm WWII, re-basing 10mm WSS and completely re-doing 20mm WWII stuff. Getting an eye infection problem last week or so not helped with any of this of course (improved greatly I am glad to say)

As to 2012 well the AWI British and the other projects obvious candidates. Several new rules (its definitely a disease) in pipeline with 'Die Marching' 'Maurice' & 'Pike and Shotte' high on wish list.
As to new projects I suspect that ACW is likely in later half of year big decision is to whether I go with 15mm Confederates (to oppose mates Federals) or go do I go with 10mm doing both protagonists (I really fell in love with the 10mm stuff from Kalistra at Warfare), this will of course mean a glutch of ACW rules required !
Dbmm competition at end of January in Munster and Warfare show visit again in November only scheduled 'events' thus far.
Other than that its get as much painted and get in as many games as possible, ie business as usual.

All I want for Christmas is...........an eye infection !!

2011-12-27T15:05:00.000Z

Busy but fun time with family over Christmas but had hoped to get some painting time in today only to awake to find my left eye almost closed and both eyes raw and itchy !! seems I have developed an infection or an allergic reaction to something ? thankfully part compensation in watching a rather decent documentary on Military Channel about Stalingrad.

SHAKO II............Happy Christmas to me..................

2011-12-22T19:25:00.000Z

Shako II arrived today just in time for some seasonal reading (once I finish work that is !). I loved the original Shako and brief whizz through seems to show same basic and solid system.

Been mega busy in run up to Christmas, and with better half in hospital for lady OP, its been a hectic period with painting and gaming relegated to nil status. Working between Christmas and New Year but first week in 2012 off so hope to get at least one unit of Prussian Grenadiers finished and might (he says hopefully) get a start done to the AWI British Infantry I have had since July !! and thats not mentioning the rest of the lead I bought at Warfare !!

A very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to one and all.

Napoleon At War Playtest

2011-12-17T18:53:00.003Z

Gave Napoleon At War rules a run out today at Stephens. My Prussians vs his French. Found the battle/game rules to be quite good. Movement outside of engagement range (Artillery range within 12" of Mounted or 6" of Foot) very flexible ala Black Powder and more restricted as lines close and an end of turn Support move for units far enough from enemy, which all worked fine. Shooting straightforward dice fest as is close combat with end of turn ability to rally casualties if outside engagement zones. Every 4 hits from shooting causes a 'stand' loss whereas each hit in melee is a base gone (winners of melee take a hit loss) Squares seem more durable than in Lasalle and we liked the simple support rules (all units mutually support each other within 4"). Command and Control fairly generic with Commanders exerting a 12" Command range but no orders system. I am not fond of active player having the ability to move then shoot first and inflict casualties before defender gets to return fire. This would be ok if classed as simultaneous. We used the first scenario which is a basic attack vs defence. Terrain generation was simple with one player rolling for number of terrain pieces then players alternating a random roll to generate terrain which is placeable anywhere. The defender has increased odds of selecting desired table edge via a die roll. Defender then sets up first then attacker who also moves first (Stephen did not like this)
By far the biggest bug bear for us both (and Stephen in particular) is the points system, army lists and force characteristics which are quite simply broken (I appreciate the lists etc on line are only generic starter/sample lists) Prussians had numerous advantageous characteristics (bit like those in Black Powder) compared to French (such as ability to pass morale tests with extra die rolls, ability to counter attack in melee with extra die rolls etc) and yet the French costs more in points. Also the French force list is very restrictive compared to all other nationalities and indeed those online contradict the book examples (book has French Brigades with 4 units of Foot but lists only allow 3 per Brigade). In our test I fielded some 15 units versus Stephens 9 and had he have been attacking it would have been farcical especially as his units inherently inferior in many ways. For instance a French Brigade of 3 foot units cost 420 points whereas the equivalent 3 unit basic Prussian Brigade was a mere 270pts and a battery of 4 Heavy Guns was 10pts cheaper for Prussians and yet no difference in stats/capabilities (in fact Prussians guns could be split into 2 gun units). Also basic confusion/errors such as units of Prussian Cuirassier Brigade is given points for being on table support as well as (cheaper) off table Reserve status and yet army lists only allow them as Reserve. Not a biggy as such but annoying.
All in all I enjoyed the game rules but not sure they are sufficiently better than Lasalle or Field Of Battle to draw us back to them certainly not with army lists as currently supplied.

iPhone pics (of set up) as yet again I forgot camera !

French deployed

Prussian left wing

Prussian Infantry Regiment on right

French defend the village

And the central hill

Prussian guns ready for artillery duel

Prussian Landwehr in center

Prussian left wing again

A couple of books I highly reccomend

2011-12-07T18:06:00.001Z

Just finished these titles and felt moved to share how much I enjoyed them and to recommend them. I have read several others recently, notably Redcoat and Marlborough (both by the late Richard Holmes), but these two stand out for me :

1812 Napoleon's March On Moscow by Adam Zamoyski
An exceptionally good read with lots of detail (often harrowing) of the Grand Armee and its advance into Russia and the grim reality of the battles and the fabled Retreat from Moscow. Lots of personal accounts interspersed among the historical overview of events. I found it nicely balanced between stories from both the French & her 'Allies' and their Russian opponents.
Gripping and highly readable.

Tommy The British Soldier On the Western Front by Richard Holmes
This is simply an astounding read which often had me close to or in tears at times. Much like 1812 its chocked full of personal accounts and anecdotes and brings home the grim reality of WWI warfare for the British Army on the Western Front (no coverage of Mid-East or Dardenelles). Great insight into the stresses and strains put onto the mainly Colonial army in early stages and its vast and rapid expansion and its change from a army of Regulars and volunteers into a massive Conscript citizen force. A nicely balanced, reasoned and objective approach to many highly subjective aspects, not least the 'Lions lead by Donkeys' quote (not exactly dispelled but certainly well diluted). Holmes covers just about every aspect of the soldiers lives you could think off and so many passages are full of such pathos, humour, horror and reality I found the book hard to put down. Maybe its my upbringing (full blown Ulsterman) and family connection to war (my great grandfather served and his three service medals hang proudly on my wall) but as I said above I found myself often deeply touched by some of the stories and wiping a tear or two aside (only Ken Touts excellent Tank has affected me similarly). Not a book to reveal the ebb and flow of great battles but very much a narrow focused worms eye view. I cannot recommend this one highly enough even if like me the 'appeal' of WWI was/is limited.
If 1812 is 10 out of 10 this scores 11 !!

DBMM Maurikian Byzantine vs Norman

2011-12-01T18:58:00.000Z

A 'proper' wargame today against Stephen using another couple of armies we are considering fielding at Munster next month. I used my Maurikian Byzantines and Stephen used a 1066 Norman army (mainly as he has a lot of newly painted figures). A good game and pretty bloody in the end with both sides having a command broken in same turn, but my lot falling by wayside with two turns of pretty awful combat dice.

We discussed pros and cons of the armies in Dbmm (and FOG for some reason) and decided that we should just get back to playing and enjoying the games and not 'worrying' about their merits or otherwise in a competition.

Lots of pics (mainly to show off Stephens new figures)

Norman foot, dismounted Knights ans Crossbowmen

More dismounted Knights and Breton Cavalry

The Norman Knightly array

Byzantine trained Khazars ready to march to opposite flank

Byzantine Kavallorii ready to impact the Norman foot

Byzantine Optimates in support

The Kavallorii arrayed

Opening moves

Late in game opposing wings have disintegrated

Khazars and Bretons squaring up

Arab allies come to support Kavallorii (after 3 turns sitting unreliable !)

These also arrived today just after Stephen left but not had chance to even open (for requisite smell test !!) yet.

An interesting departure............first ever RPG !!

2011-12-01T00:15:00.000Z

Played my first ever role playing game at Stephens tonight with 3 other 'adventurers'. Using Middle Earth role play system (good for me as at least I had a recognizable frame of reference) Continuation of an adventure the others had been playing earlier in the year. I was a Rider of Rohan named Frealof riding his war horse Skallagrim armed with a Spear, Short Sword and a Crossbow (I pictured him as a lesser Eomer). My role play had me as a direct straight talking if somewhat tactless individual (this role was written with me in mind perhaps and requiring minimal roleplay), also a stoic and fearless warrior. A very enjoyable night (not least for social aspect) with an interesting scenario.....sorry adventure...... and some action against a couple of marauding Trolls.
Fantasy type stuff not my forte or preferred option but definitely a fun game and a nice diversion from 'proper' wargaming plus who doesn't like Lord Of Rings universe. System quite intuitive to play but lots of table cross referencing involved to generate actions, monsters etc. Glad to see we used miniatures to represent our alter egos especially helpful when it came to combat as aid to visualizing relative positions of characters and actions. Since I like wargames to have a narrative type structure or background it was easy to enjoy a game based primarily on this aspect. I guess I essentially role play to an extent in most wargames anyhow whether consciously or unconsciously (I really must stop shouting out loud during games !) so again easy slip into the required 'mode'. Different feel to a game where you represent a single character as part of a team and without massed ranks or units. Bit like a very low level skirmish game.
Hopefully the rest of the chaps enjoyed (endured ?) my participation and look forward to continuing the saga. Not so sure I would continue to blog about as not a big visual feast but maybe key incidents might inspire me to.

Prussians based

2011-11-29T22:09:00.003Z

Finished basing latest batch of Prussians this evening. One Lassalle type unit of Prussian Line Infantry 7th West Prussian Regiment 1st Battalion (Black Hat figures). Also a Shako unit (ie 12 figs) 4th Battalion 7th West Prussian using the painted figures I bought (manufacturer unknown and 90% re-painted !) at Warfare along with 4 bases of Jager and a Lasalle unit of Foot Artillery (again don't know which figure range ?).

First unit of Old Glory Grenadiers now on painting table.

Photos bit underlit as usual

7th West Prussian Regiment 1st Battalion

Foot Artillery

Shako sized unit

Jager

Last but not least some finished Battlezone buildings

Some painting amidst the rule-fest

2011-11-27T22:27:00.001Z

Managed to get some painting done today. Finished off another unit of Black Hat Prussian Line Infantry and touched up (oh er missus....) a few painted Prussians I bought at Bring & Buy at Warfare (no idea what manufacturer they are from) including more Line Infantry a few Jager and a unit of 4 Guns. Also finished a few Battlezone buildings I bought as well. Hope to get them based this week.

Very poorly lit iPhone pics (will get better pics once based)

Oh well just another 120 or so Prussians to go, plus the British AWI army plus Russian and British Adler 6mm (bought at Warfare 2009 & 2010 respectively !!) plus some nice WW2 15mm Late War British from Forged in Battle line oh and a bunch of 10mm Malburians. Not much if I say it quickly and enough to keep me going to next years Warfare !!

Almost forgot my father is buying me Kampfgruppe Normandy rules for Christmas (whilst on half-price offer at Warhammer Historical site)

Yet more.......................

2011-11-26T10:55:00.001Z

These arrived today in post (an early Christmas present from my brother) and jolly nice they are too, no matter that I have not yet finished a single Battalion of my British AWI forces which were obtained end of last July !! or indeed that I have not yet tried the Peter Pig Washingtons Army rules I bought for the period !!

Also just ordered these as well !! :-)

DBMM Turgesh vs Sui Chinese

2011-11-22T20:43:00.002Z

Played another DBMM game today at Stephens as practice for our up coming trip across the border to Cork for Munster competition (28 & 29th January). Not sure what army to take for the 'themed' 473AD- 1073AD period but thought I would try another version of the Central Asian Turks. Interesting game with my use of ambush and a delayed command (although trying to work out how it came on was a bit of nightmare !). The Sui managed to set up in the inevitable 'terrain fort' for their BowX and their Regular status allowed a potent on table flank march by their KnX command. In contrast the Turks had woeful Pip dice (especially the CICs who rolled relentless 1's !!) throughout. I used an all mounted version (only Psiloi as foot) but think that at Munster a command of some form of foot might be better to contest rough going. Regular Avars with Slav subjects or Irregular Early Bulgars with KnF and Slavs both options that appeal.

Turks set up

Sui advance along the valley

Turk CinC command

Tibetan ally in center

Turks stuck with no Pips to deploy

Sui Cataphracts and Light Horse march onto Turk right flank
(delayed Turk command later came on behind this but moves very restricted as it turns out)

Turks approach the wall of bows

CinC still stuck (only one column able to move to support right flank)

Warfare 2011

2011-11-21T10:17:00.001Z

Attended Warfare show at Reading this weekend with 3 mates (yes I do have that many !) and a damn fine time had by all. New attendee this year was Stephen Pollock who on entry to show on Saturday morning was the proverbial 'kid in sweetie shop', I haven't seen a face of such excitement and delight since my young lad on a Christmas morn of yore !! Usual heady mix of trade stands, demo games (seemed to more than usual ?) and competition games.
Trade area seemed very busy on Saturday (no idea how it worked out for traders)

I of course bought nothing.................................................................................................................(only plausible if you don't check bottom of this post)

Some iPhone pics

Competition area

Armati demo game

Black Powder Napoleonic game in 15mm

Impressive 6mm Battle of Cambrai using Great War Spearhead

Lost Battles demo using miniatures with author

28mm WWII game with impressive jungle terrain

Demo game of War & Conquest Ancients

SYW in 15mm using Warfare In Age Of Reason

Poor pic of a very nice 28mm ACW game

More 28mm Ancients using Clash Of Empires this time

A very nice 28mm WWII skirmish game using Rules Of Engagement

Cant recall details of this, I think a dark age skirmish ?

Wild West shoot out and nice to see budding gamers

A really nice terrain set up for a Blitzkrieg Commander WWII game in 15mm

A large Pirate game

A big (in every way !) Napoleonic game using 54mm kit and Black Powder on a huge table, I think this may have won best in show ?

Battle Of Newbury in 15mm using FOGR rules (Nice to see these in use for non-competition game)

As per usual the Brittain brothers unable to hack the pace

My haul hard to believe this is £300+ worth ! I reckon we spent about £1100+ between us four loons

When I am going to paint the new lead collection is quite beyond me

DBMM Turgesh vs Sogdian

2011-11-11T21:46:00.000Z

Played a quick Dbmm game today, I used Central Asian Turkish (Turgesh) and Stephen fielded Central Asian City States (Sogdian). Good game but with usual result ie dreadful loss on my part :-)

iPhone pics only

Turk allies on Sogdian right flank

Armies deploy

Turgesh right wing on the move

Sogdian left wing

Tibetan allies on Turgesh left

Central clash developing

Columns deploy on left wing

They shall not grow old..........................

2011-11-11T08:41:00.002Z

Here we go again.....................I just cant help myself....................oh shiny !!!

2011-11-06T15:53:00.000Z

Barely two weeks to annual trip to Warfare show in Reading (or Geek-Fest 2011) and am still buying rules !! Justification (har de har de har har) is that I would buy these there anyhow so simply saves having to carry them home ie leaves more space for other stuff :-)
These do look very interesting (downloadable QRS, Army characteristics and OOB sheets available) and as always I simply could not exercise any control over urges and desires in order to resist. I can already smell the fresh print...............................................

Hail Caesar army list booklet

2011-11-01T18:05:00.000Z

First of the Hail Caesar army lists booklets arrived yesterday (after long period on pre-order) and look rather interesting and usable at first glance. Usual smattering of very nice figures throughout and a broad spectrum of armies included from early Sumerian/Biblical types through to Early Imperial Roman. Nothing surprising in the lists or troop types but very nice to see a nominal point system included to help 'balance' units and abilities. I really must get a game with these rules as they read very well and look to generate a fun/plausible game.
Too little time too much choice.................................

ACW with They Couldn't Hit An Elephant rules

2011-10-29T19:02:00.000+01:00

Played another American Civil War game today at Stephens against his brother John. We used the 'They Couldn't Hit An Elephant' rules from Too Fat Lardies which I only read through once prior to game. Quite an interesting set with some novel concepts. As with all TFL rules the use of Blinds and Cards is great generating the chaos/inertia we like in our games. But the rules are rather ambiguous in several areas and we found ourselves head scratching quite often as to what rules meant or how they are meant to be played. That said once we decided how to resolve things they flowed quite well and seemed to give a plausible game. Key concept is the 'Decisive Combat' section which subsumes a lot of 'regular' game phases into one table and set of outcomes. Aggressive Veteran troops can be very potent as lots of pluses if charging with attack orders against lesser quality troops. There was only one such unit in todays game.
Game was based around a Guns Of Gettysburg scenario (Pine Oaks 1862 I think ?) with yours truly set up in defence with a single Brigade of Union regulars on table and John as Rebs attacking. Rebs were slowed by lots of woods but the aforementioned aggressive Veteran unit charged a Union Regt in Adams Farm (soft cover from surrounding fence) and managed to Rout it which caused supporting unit to rear to be routed in burst through and flank support to fall back (both routers were later rallied but took no further part in game as such). Union reinforcements (a further 3 Brigades arriving on successive turns) arrived quickly as we only had a single 'Coffee Break' card in deck initially (we later added a second to extend turns). Union Brigadier Crouch was rated as Inspirational and upon turn of an Inspired Cmdr card he was able inflict revenge upon the Rebs by adding +2 to a charge by one of his Regiments (equivalent for one turn to aggressive charge) which routed a Reb Regt and its rear support. On Union left a Brigade deployed to fend off an arriving Reb brigade and the Union artillery unit with this brigade used aimed fire (2 command Pips to direct fire) to decimate Rebs forcing them to withdraw. Union center was shored up by a Veteran Brigade which deployed behind the Farm then went onto attack orders to try to re-occupy the dwelling. They dealt heavily with the aggressive Reb unit (Texans I think ?) which had become isolated due to their forging ahead alone in Union positions (aggressive troops are forced to charge when within 8" of enemy if under attack orders). On Union right a struggle in the heavy wooded area was taking place with several close combats and fall backs with units on both sides bloodied and with shaky morale (Fightin' and Defeated modes in rules). We had to call time at this point with things very much in balance. Next game with rules (although Le Feu Sacre by TFL as real possibility for next outing) will be smoother and quicker as we now know the quirks of the system and will likely spend much less time discussing rules and indeed what we intend to purchase at Warfare next month !!!

iPhone pics as yet again forgot camera !

Rebel Brigades deploy

Rebel blind advances

Initial Union Brigade deploys at Adams Farm (arriving Brigade blinds behind)

Union reserves arriving as Blinds

Union left flank secured

The Rebs deploy in woodland

Reb skirmishers screen their Brigade

The aggressive Reb unit routs 2 Union Regts (seen skedaddling in lower pic) at Adams Farm

Oh no more rules........................

2011-10-28T18:37:00.002+01:00

Received a Pdf flyer from Sam Mustafa today regarding his latest up coming rule set in the Honour Series (ie follow on to Lasalle) and most intriguing they are too. Flyer is currently available at http://www.sammustafa.com/honour/downloads/ and has brief outline of scope of rules including samples of the interesting card deck system. Not due until early 2012 but definitely on my must have list as Sam's rules are always excellent (the cover image alone has me sold !!). Covers a favourite period of warfare of mine to boot.

WWII Game played...........................

2011-10-23T19:10:00.000+01:00

Played game today, after watching All Blacks narrowly !! beat Les Bleus, using our 15mm kit and house rule set (based on Overlord/Grey Storm Red Steel) we have not used in several years. I had Whermacht in defence against advancing British Paratroops. Setup based on advance from Landing Zones towards Oosterbeek in Holland September 1944. Scenario generated 200pts of Experienced Germans against 240pts of Elite Paras. I picked 2 Platoons of Grenadiers backed up by 2 MMG and a Section of Assault Engineers. A lone Stug42 completed the force. The Grenadiers set up up to half way all hidden in woods and in foxholes. The Paras had a full Elite Company backed by a 6pdr a 3" mortar section, a HMG section and some off-table artillery (Stephen picked 25pdrs but really 75mm would be more accurate, but made no difference in end as they never shot). Brits advance generally (we played along length or 'up the table' as we term it) across the battlefield in good old '2 up 1 back' fashion . Once units began to spot each other (only when with 50m ie 5" in woods) it was soon apparent that the Elite Paras were simply unstoppable as they did not suffer any stalling effects (Hesitate or Halt in rules) except possibly with massive Hun fire and extreme high rolls !! Conversely the Huns tended to become Hesitant and suffer Morale Tests. Especially true when Paras decided to charge into close combat as Germans simply could not stop them and usually fell back before fisticuffs occurred (quite realistic we thought). The Stug trundled into action trying to use its 105mm as only it had power to blunt Para progress but succumbed to a lucky Piat shot (was hit bit not brewed but crew abandoned ship !!). One German section was wiped out to a man in a close combat. My Pioneers with their flamethrowers managed to catch a Para section in the open and with best combined firepower on German side I had high hope but of course they then threw a paltry 1 (on a D10) to yield no effect on Paras who then forced them from foxholes. As 4 out of 6 German sections were falling back or destroyed we called it a day. Lesson was Elite troops just too good against Experienced. In future we will only allow a single quality level difference between sides (ie Veteran vs Elite or Experienced). to make a more 'balanced' game. But we both thoroughly enjoyed the game especially rediscovering a great set of rules we had neglected. The terrain crammed table made for a great Infantry game as all very up close and personal.

Paras advance

First opposition encountered

Struggle in center with Paras taking a line of foxholes and the Stug in action

Paras clearing woods

The Para HQ

WWII Game planned

2011-10-22T14:07:00.003+01:00

WWII game planned for tomorrow so just set up table. Based on a Rapid Fire Arnhem scenario from the Market Garden booklet. Whilst this is actually for a Brigade sized game we are going use our 'house rules' Western Front version of the excellent Grey Storm Red Steel rules (itself a follow on to the excellent Overlord set both by Barry Lovell of Timecast Buildings fame) which is a Platoon/Section Level game. Area is on approaches to Oosterbeek and has elements of 4th Parachute Brigade advancing from drop zones with elements of KG Schiller attempting to stop them in wooded area. Been literally years since we used the rules but even a brief skim through QRS seems to bring most of it back from memory banks (wish I could recall things I did last week as readily !!) and should play fine as forces employed will be mainly Infantry.

The road to Oosterbeek

German rear zone

British approach zone

The central zone

Field Of Battle Napoleonic Action

2011-10-15T17:41:00.001+01:00

Played another Field Of Battle 2 game today at Stephens using Prussians versus French circa 1814. I fielded some 32 units (small 2 base units) against 26 French. We used the new points system to 'balance' (not really true of FOB) forces then randomized everything else (bar table set-up which Stephen undertook). So I ended up with a D12+1 CiC an Exceptional Sequence Deck but lowish Army Morale at 29 points. French had D10 CiC an Average deck but a decent 30 Army Morale. We also rolled for each unit (mainly so as I could use some newly printed Counters I made during weak for Units and Leaders. We also tried out the Fate & Command Decisions scenario tables for first time with only advantage gained by Prussians in Tactical Advantage aspect allowing 1 Command Group to re-deploy within its zone after set-up and French getting to set-up second. Once play commenced the game once again flowed really well as we whizzed through cards and actions. French shooting was simply awesome with even long range Artillery causing Unit Integrity hits with associated loss of Army Morale, and two Young Guard units delivering two crushing opening volleys (even without use of First Fire bonus which we dont use) on Prussians generating 6 UI hits (destroying outright and already damaged unit). Prussian Cuirassier Brigade had a very useful 3 move segments to get into position to threaten French left but then failed to achieve even a single move (Command rolls of 1 !!) on next two move opportunities allowing French to form Square and occupy a wood sealing their flank. My Reserve Infantry Brigade advanced into a wood near French center but the Young Guard volleys blunted their thrust. As Prussian Army morale dwindled to a mere 4 I called it a day as only viable option was now to retire and try to draw the undamaged French forward. Great game again and a really playable and slick set of rules that allow large amounts of units to be used on table in reasonable time and fashion. Our next try with FOB2 will be with Seven Years War troops.

Prussian Reserve Infantry Brigade

French Left flank

Prussian Cuirassier advance with Line Infantry

Reserve Infantry fight for wood (note Routing unit -red tag- after devastating French volley)

French center

French view of the battle for wood

Landwehr Brigade and Light Cavalry

French right wing

Oh dear succumbed again.................

2011-10-06T18:46:00.002+01:00

Despite trying to curb spending on run up to Warfare show trip late November (which I just booked for three mates et moi) I have just succumbed to a pre-order of the latest edition of Too Fat Lardies "I Ain't Been Shot Mum" rules. Just simply could not resist ! In my defense I did manage to avoid purchasing the mega bundle offer which includes a Pdf copy, Card Set and Token Set in addition to the hard copy set. I do after all need something to buy at Warfare !!

DBMM Maurikian Byzantine vs Early T'Ang Chinese

2011-10-04T23:26:00.001+01:00

Played quick game tonight at my gaff using Dbmm. I used my Byzantine and Stephen used T'Ang. No time to pontificate suffice to say T'Ang wiped floor Byzantines with awesome shooting from their single Artillery piece backed up by massed BowX.

I really ought to give Hail Caesar a run out sometime soon.

Couple of pics

Byzantines deployed

Byzantine mounted array

Skutatoi (looking rather old as done 20+ years in enamels)

Stephens rather lovely T'Ang deploy (really nice Outpost figures)

Field Of Battle 2 ACW Action

2011-10-01T18:54:00.001+01:00

Tried out Field Of Battle 2nd Edition today at Stephens using his 15mm ACW forces (as I dont have any but am being sorely tempted !) Stephen set up a scenario 'Gaines Mill 1862' adapted from a Guns Of Gettysburg scenario booklet. I took the Rebels who had a very tough attacking mission across a wooded and boggy stretch of ground into teeth of equal sized Federal force. Both had 15 units but Rebs had a mere 12 Army Morale points to Union 18. However they did roll a Skilled CinC with an Exceptional Sequence deck opposed by an Average Union leader and Average Deck.
Rebs advanced generally and initially had better of fire fights and their off-table reserve Brigade came on rather quickly (after their 3rd Move card) trying to turn Union left. But several devastating Union volleys and artillery barrages saw the brittle Reb army morale plummet to zero tout bloody suite ! A smallish game but a nice run out for rules which are essentially unchanged but just slicker/better especially the more dynamic Melees. We both love the sense of 'narrative' that a Field Of Battle game engenders and the lack of predictability of the card and impetous combinations. Great fun.

Central Confederate position

Confederate right

Confederate left

Union deploy into the boggy area

Center on Union line

Penders reserve Brigade arrive on Rebel right

A New York Union Regiment caught in the open

Union line the hedgerows

Union right on the hill

Greggs Veteran Brigade enter the boggy area

Lasalle: Prussian vs French Young Guard 1813

2011-09-29T00:17:00.002+01:00

Played a Lasalle 'army builder' game at mine versus Stephen tonight using my Prussians against his mean Young Guard Division. Quite dense terrain table made for very interesting encounter especially when the French off-table reserve arrived on its second turn (uncanny how he gets them to arrive with low rolls !). I used the on-table Cavalry Abteilung (so as my recently completed Landwehr Cavalry units could be fielded). Lots of maneuvering on both sides with my East Prussian Battalion taking the central town as a French Infantry brigade occupied the adjacent woodlands. My Cavalry Brigade moved to my left wing from central deployment to try to counter the early arriving French mounted Brigade. French 'Grand Battery' in center eventually blew my foot Artillery to bits opening a hole that mounted and foot were poised to exploit.
Fun game as ever and always nice to see our Napoleonic units in action. We managed 13 turns before pre-set finishing time (2300hrs) and whilst no clear decision it was looking like a French marginal win in the offing. I also got to use several new trees I bought on sojurn to Scotland in August.

Hoping to give Field of Battle 2 an outing on Saturday possibly with ACW troops.

Prussian deployment (new trees visible at top)

French Young Guard Infantry deploy

And advance towards Prussian lines with 'Grand Battery' in support

More Young Guard prepare to advance down the central road

Pomeranian Landwehr Cavalry deploy to protect right flank

Silesian Landwehr Cavalry having bounced off enemy mounted

East Prussians deploy ready to race into the central town

And manage to get there before oncoming French

Struggle for woods on Prussian left

Pesky French Artillery array

Silesian Landwehr Cavalry about to get broken as French arrive in numbers

Stand off at town

Prussian central deployment on hill

Field Of Battle 2 in my possession

2011-09-21T23:53:00.001+01:00

Field Of Battle 2 arrived at last. Brief skim through but looks rather good with only a few additions and tweaks to the already excellent game system but some rather nice scenario and set-up rules and a units points option.

Dbmm - Kushan versus Han Chinese

2011-09-21T23:49:00.000+01:00

Stephen invited me over for an evening game and suggested we try Dbmm as its been a long while since we played a game of same. He chose his Han Chinese so I selected a contemporary Kushan opponent. As ever the regular ability to maneuver versus the irregular inability to maneuver was telling especially with Kushans having so many Inept troops. Han got to deploy second which did not help Kushan cause. Han massed in one half of table and mauled the Kushan left flank as their center and right tried frantically to move to support of left. Despite Kushans having rather good Pip rolls (mainly 4+ and no 1's !!!) they were just too slow and unwieldy. The left flank collapsed along with the baggage giving victory to the Chinese. Good to get some hack and slash types on table as a change from horse and musket armies.

iPhone pics only

Kushan right and center deploy

Han deploy

Kushans realize they have only a void to their fore

The Kushan right faced by whole Han force

More rules.............

2011-09-19T19:00:00.000+01:00

These arrived today (I had forgotten I even ordered them !) a slim volume (although only £10) but look interesting.

Rather annoyingly upon seeing the package upon return home from travail I thought it was FOB2 (which is still in transit from USA it seems !!!!) but it twas'nt...................