Across the Table:

Christchurch DBA League 2012

2012-01-22T11:40:00.000+13:00

During 2011 we ran, as a trial, a league table for members of the Christchurch Wargames Club who play DBA. With a total of 12 people participating and 31 games submitted it seemed a worthwhile exercise. As a result I've decided to run the league again using the same rules as last year.

Basically any DBA games can be submitted by members of the Christchurch Wargames Club. All that is required is both players agree to the game counting towards the league prior to starting. However, only three games may be played against the same opponent. There is no requirement to use the same army in subsequent games. So feel free to experiment with different armies!

As with 2011 I'm sure it will be a low key enjoyable event but with plenty of challenges for those seeking glory on the wargames table.

Full details on the CWC DBA League can be found here. Initial results are already in...

Woolston DBA Challenge 2012 - Results

2012-01-09T20:18:00.002+13:00

Sunday found six gamers gathering at the Woolston Wargames Club for the third Woolston DBA Challenge in as many years. This casual event yet again proved very successful with a range or armies selected. Below, a number of players intent on their games.

Interestingly, the armies deployed were a little different from those normally selected. Partly a result of the theme, 500BC to 14AD, but also partly as a result of players deciding to take something a little different or deciding to use new armies.

After six rounds the following points and placings were secured:

Arne Lageveen II/14 Kappadokian (47pts)
Brian Sowman II/3 Classical Indian (45pts)
Stephen Malone II/7 Later Achaemenid Persian (36pts)
Joel McNelly II/11 Gallic (31pts)
Keith McNelly II/36a Graeco-Bactrian (31pts)
Jim Morton II/53 Ancient Briton (24pts)

Stephen managed to secure the title of general killer dispatching no less than three enemy generals. While Keith lost his commander an equal number of times! Two while fighting auxilia and one to rampaging elephants. Joel suffered the loss of the only camp during the day when it was looted by Kappadokian light cavalry.

Above, Graeco-Bactrian cavalry, the all mounted option, prepare to advance on the Persians during one game. Soon the army would flee the field as it's commander lay dead on the field.

Arguably the surprise of the day must was the defeat of the Classical Indians to the Gauls. In an amazing outcome the Gauls secured a 4-0 win on an open battlefield, translating to 12 points towards their total. This battle caused the Indians to drop to second place and ensured the Gauls jumped to 4th place following a count-back.

At the end of an excellent day there was much discussion around the next DBA event, rumours of a DBA day in Hanmer and discussion around a Book 1 theme. If you missed the Woolston DBA Challenge make sure you keep an eye open for the next DBA day.

American Civil War Army Lists

2012-01-03T14:18:00.000+13:00

Here much of our Volley & Bayonet games involve fictional encounters generated using the "Road to Glory" scenario system included in the revised second edition rules. While historical re-fights have been our bread and butter for many years we find the Road to Glory system provides a useful alternative.

Perhaps one of the real advantages is that players with limited figures or time can quickly develop a realistic scenario which is ideal for an evenings game. Other advantages of the system are the surprise or hidden scenario that can be developed. Indeed with the Road to Glory system some battles can be developed which are otherwise challenging to model on the gaming table. The battle of Chancellorsville, with Jackson's flank attack springs to mind here.

With this in mind I've spent some time developing some generic army lists for the American Civil War with various points values calculated in draft format. The lists are presented in the same format as those Napoleonic lists in the rule book. Other Road to Glory material, including points systems can be found here.

I would like to thank Frank Chadwick and Greg Novak for some initial feedback when I started this project as well as the excellent Volley & Bayonet Scenario Book "Battles of the American Civil War".

DBA 3.0 - Draft Version

2011-12-20T13:00:00.001+13:00

Last Sunday Brian and I invested some time exploring the current public draft of DBA 3.0. There has been much debate on possible changes to DBA, usually from uninformed players, so it was with much interest we placed figures on the table to explore the current playtest version of the rules.

The first major change is to terrain placement. Now the table is divided into quarters and a die roll result of 1-4 determines in which quarter a piece of terrain is placed. A result of 5 or 6 means a player, either invader or defender, determines the quadrant. The result certainly introduces some additional variation and less customisation. In our first game terrain was distributed into three sectors while in our second game all the terrain landed into one quadrant as can be seen below. Some excellent changes here.

Another change has been to built up area (BUA) rules. While BUAs are still used and are generally thesame some minor changes are included. Obvious changes are that BUAs no longer impact table orientation and can have a lower victory impact, assuming the defender also opts for a camp. Further, troops sallying out from a BUA do so from a gate which significantly reduces the ability of garrisons to impact combats. In addition artillery firing from BUAs is reduced in effectiveness, the artillery being dispersed around the circumference. Again some pleasing changes here.

One of the more obvious changes to game play is that of movement distances and depployment areas. Foot are restricted to deployment in the centre of the table with cavalry and light hrse to the flanks. Heavy foot still move 200 paces, but this 200 paces is now 80mm, where previously it was 50mm. Above the restricted deployment area and faster movement distances resulted in Indian archers in one of our test games being caught in a column. I suspect that the restricted deploment zone could see more troops deployed in depth which should be an improvement. Below, Lydian heavy cavalry, classed as knights, advance around one wing of an Hellenic opponent while also in column.

There of course plenty of other changes, but as it is a draft version some things will change between now and final release. Cerainly I'm looking forward to seeing the final version in due course. Despite what some people would have you believe DBA 3.0 should be, in my view, an improvement on what is already a great set of rules.

Christchurch DBA League 2011 - Final Results

2011-12-14T21:57:00.001+13:00

Its been a busy year of DBA around Canterbury with a long list of convention or competition games. However, despite all this activity I felt that what wasn't so well catered for were games at my local club. Indeed, apart from convention games these seemed rather limited. I discussed a few options with some of the locals with a ladder eventually being decided on. Unlike the Renaissance ladder to encourage and support the Christchurch Wargames Club we decided to limit it to members of the Christchurch Wargames Club.

The rules of the ladder were simple. Three games could be played against the same opponent and there was no requirement to use the same army in subsequent games. It is DBA after all, why be limited to the same army! I was even persuaded not to limit games to 15mm scale, though as it turned out all the games used 15mm scale figures.

Despite not getting the ladder under way until early August and it running until early December, just over four months, a total of 12 players participated and together submitting results for a total of 31 games. A total of 24 armies were used with the most popular being IV/82b French Ordonnance, used six times in total, by two players.

Players were awarded three points for a win, one for a draw and zero for a loss. The total points were then divided by the square root of the number of games played. The top three placing's and the players adjusted scores were: Keith McNelly (7.49); Brian Sowman (6.72) and Jim Morton (5.31). Full results, including the number of games played and a complete list of armies can be found here.

I would like to thank all the players who participated in the league. I trust that each of you enjoyed it. Hopefully we will see you and others over a DBA table soon.

League of Captains 2011 - Final Results

2011-12-10T17:49:00.001+13:00

This year we experimented with a Renaissance League in an effort to place some structure around the various DBR gaming here in Christchurch and to generally support the playing of DBR in the region. There was no requirement for those people submitting results to be members of a specific club and indeed no requirement for both players to reside in Canterbury region. All that was required was for one player to reside in the Canterbury area and the game to be played here in Canterbury.

In an effort to encourage multiple games, three games could be played against the same opponent. There was no requirement to use the same army in subsequent games and there was no army list submission or checking requirements. This was designed to allow battles between historical opponents, for those with such preferences, and to ease administration. Games could be in normal scale or condensed scale and may range from 100 points to 500 points. So plenty of potential variety!

A total of twelve players participated and together submitting results for a total of 27 games. Of these players ten resided in the greater Canterbury region when the games were played with a further two visiting.

Two figure and ground scales exist in DBR, normal scale and condensed scale. In normal scale one stand represents 100 men while in condensed scale one stand typically represents around 400 men. Of the 27 game results submitted sixteen games used 400 points normal scale. A further two games used 300 points normal scale and one used a 120 points budget. In condensed scale a further eight games were played all using 100-120 points. These last eight games are similar in size to DBA both in relation to the number of figures required and table dimensions.

Players received 3 points for a win, one for a draw and zero for a loss. The total points were then divided by the square root of the number of games played. An odd system I know but one used by the Society of Ancients Championship which seems to work so I copied the formula. Anyway, the top three placings and the players adjusted scores were: Keith McNelly (6.06); John Kerr (4.91); Brian Sowman (4.02).

Interestingly, Alastair Penney and Kees De Jager managed a perfect score with one game played but in each case achieving a win. Unfortunately with only one game submitted their final adjusted score was pulled down. Next time chaps play more games! In contrast John Kerr managed to play the greatest number of opponents, a total of eight.

Over the course of the league 15 different armies, subdivided by year, were used. Of these the most popular armies were English Civil War Royalist and Scots Covenanter with each being used 13 times, but with some variation in list year.

I would like to thank all the players who particpated in the league. I trust that each of you enjoyed it. Full results, including the number of games played and a complete list of armies can be found here.

The Adventures of Te Heuheu

2011-12-05T19:08:00.001+13:00

Yesterday the Christchurch Wargames Club was the venue of the second tournament that makes up the Christchurch DBA Open Championship. As readers of this site may recall this championship has both an ancient tournament and a medieval tournament with the results being combined to determine the overall winner. Today we deployed for the medieval tournament of five rounds.

Currently I have few Medieval armies and with such a poor result in the Ancient Tournament, back in July, I decided to to forgo my usual Medieval army, Post Mongol Samurai, and opt for something rather different, IV/12d Maori. Like my Japanese this army has been build for DBR. In fact this was the first time I have used this army with the DBA rules. Now for those not familiar with the Maori in DBA they area little one dimensional. Elven stands of blade plus for some variety, a blade general. The following records the exploits of Te Heuheu's contact with several European invasions drawn from Maori mythical history...

Realising I would face a number of knight heavy armies I based my tactics on two main tenants. Firstly, I would roll low for aggression. Assuming I was successful with that I would select a terrain heavy battlefield against cavalry heavy armies. A simple plan I'm sure you would agree.

Assuming I was defending, and other options really weren't worth considering, my intention was to select a waterway along one edge, allowing me to conduct littoral landings and reduce the battlefield width. In addition I would combine a medium sized wood and a large steep hill to further reduce the size of the battlefield and channel mounted armies into one area. Both these terrain pieces were problematic however as the Maori have no bad-going troops. Finally a large pa would be used to dominate a corner of the battlefield and in so doing reduce the options for my opponent to select what could be a more advantageous table edge.

Above the Maori involved in their first battle of the day, against Kee's Mamluk Egyptians (IV/45). Visible in the top left, on turn one, is the Maori landing behind the Egyptians. The Mamluk commander clearly was confident he could deal with such an incursion. Below, another view of the battlefield this time with the main Maori formation on the left and the pa on the left foreground.

The raiding Maori deployed quickly from their wakas (war canoes) and after raiding the camp defeated the enemy cavalry to secure a 4-0 victory. A great celebration and much feasting was to be had in to the night and following days!

In the second battle the Maori faced another invasion. Lacking inspiration I opted to use the same terrain as the previous battle. Indeed I continued to do so for the rest of the day!

In this battle Stephen's 100 Years War English (IV/62) were divided into two basic groups. His massed his archers on his left and his mounted on his right. This massive concentration of archers caught me a little by surprise and my main group of warriors had no option than to face the English knights in the open. However, Stephen had another cunning plan. He opted to roll low combat die rolls as can be seen below.

First one group of English knights was forced back exposing his next stand to an overlap. Rolling a "1" this unit broke leaving his commander and retainers overlapped on both flanks. After some careful consideration Stephen decided to roll another "1", shown below. The result was a 2G-0 win for the Maori.

Round three dawned and again the Maori faced another invader, this time Jim's Nikaian Byzantines (IV/31). Jim was, like myself, experimenting with a new army. As a result he changed his tactics as the game progressed. Firstly, he looked to attack the Maori pa with a rapid advance in turn one with some Byzantine light troops. This was promptly countered when some Maori toa reinforcing the stockade resulting in the cancellation of the Byzantine attack. Next Jim deployed his light cavalry forward, having patrolled the coast to prevent any seaborne raiders these light cavalry was deployed in front of his main line, as can be seen below.

Realising this was of limited value he withdrew them and sent in his heavy cavalry. The Maori were still somewhat disorganised, having absorbed a large body of warriors who had recently arrived by waka (war canoe).

The disorganised formation was as a result not well positioned for such an attack. Indeed with the Maori rangatira found himself in the first line and as a result was cut down by the first charge, shown above. A 1G-0 defeat and a blow to Maori pride.

The next engagement was against Arne's Serbians (IV/22). Arne is a strong player and I expected another challenging game against another mounted army. It was with some relief that I found myself defending and interestingly Arne found himself with the sea to his rear. A littoral landing and attack on his camp was clearly called for, especially as the camp was near a wood which would offer safety from roaming Serbian cavalry.

However, I failed to appreciate one point, that is what happens when you roll a "1" for your PIP die repeatedly! In the coming engagement the Serbian camp was attacked yet repeatedly resisted. Meanwhile, Serbian cavalry destroyed the main Maori army who were unable to even make the safety the large steep hill. The only highlight of the battle was a successful ambush from the pa which destroyed some Serbian heavy cavalry who ventured too far forward. The final score was a 2G-1 loss after the death of another Maori rangatira.

The final battle fo the day was against Gordon's Normans (III/51). Again the Maori were on the defensive, much to my relief. Facing a Norman army comprising massed heavy cavalry, some eight stands, just seemed a bad way to end the day. While the Normans had the sea to the rear the placement of their camp in the open ruled out any waka raiding. Instead the Maori dominated the central hill and prodded the Normans from the relatively safety of the broken and rocky hillside. Below, the Maori move into the hill from which the skirmishing began.

The first Norman attacks were by two bodies of archers, however, pressing too near the Maori a number were lost. Then attempting to recover the initiative a group of Norman cavalry were caught exposed and pulled from their horses. The moves and counter moves now continued for some time until finally a large body of Norman cavalry, frustrated with events, charged home attempting to exploit a local advantage. However, the attempt failed and soon the cooking fires were being readied after a 4-1 win to the Maori.

At the end of the day a very surprising three wins across five games, or using the 12-0 scoring system we use here 36 points. The final results for the Medieval Tournament, along with the various players and their armies are as follows:

Arne Lageveen, Hanmer, IV/22 Serbian Empire 1180-1459AD (48pts)
Brian Sowman, Christchurch, III/66 Hsi-Hsia 982-1227AD (45pts)
Jim Morton, Lincoln, IV/31 Nikaian Byzantine 1204-1261AD (43pts)
Keith McNelly, Christchurch, IV/12(d) Maori 1100-1785AD (36pts)
Gary Grange, Christchurch, IV/82(a) French Ordonnance 1445-1464AD (25pts)
Stephen Malone, Timaru, IV/62 100 Years War English 1322-1455AD (24pts)
Gordon Pinchin, Christchurch, III/51 West Frankish or Norman 888-1072AD (22pts)
Robert Grange, Christchurch, IV/76 Early Burgundian 1363-1471AD (21pts)
Kees De Jager, Christchurch, IV/45 Mamluk Egyptian 1250-1517AD (12pts)

All up an excellent day and I'm sure the Maori will be out again soon.

Uberzeitz 1806 - The Ghost of Old Fritz

2011-11-19T20:05:00.001+13:00

The French campaign against Prussia began on the 8th of October 1806 with three powerful columns of French troops moving through the three passes of the Thuringerwald. On the morning of the 11th of October Napoleon was near the front of centre column having determined to conduct a reconnaissance forward himself. On arrival at Davout's headquarters he was informed that a major concentration of Prussians was believed to be directly astride the advance. It would seem Ferdinand of Brunswick (Alastair), a general from the age of Frederick Great and now 71, had finally had a burst of activity and planned to attack one of Napoleon's columns.

Above, a portion of the Prussian centre with Infantry Regiment 34 (Ferdinand) in the centre. Also visible is Infantry Regiment 59 (Wartensleben) on the left and Infantry Regiment 25 (Mollendorf) which is partly visible on the right.

Davout was confident his elite corps would deal with the threat and expecting a defensive Prussian opponent wished to attack. While not fully concentrated he felt those elements of III Corps, reinforced by elements of the reserve, would be able to deal with the Prussians.

The true tally of forces available was however as follows. Ferdinand had some 26,000 infantry, 7000 cavalry and 110 guns, of which 50 were light pieces allocated directly to the infantry regiments, concentrated on the field by 11am. Opposing them Napoleon had some 20,000 infantry, 3000 cavalry and a mere 60 guns. Once Gudin bought up his division this would be increased by another 8000 bayonets and 12 guns. However, Gudin was some four hours away. Unknown to Napoleon the ageing Ferdinand intended to strike quickly.

10am: With a little more caution that Davout Napoleon ordered Friant's division to advance rapidly on the left seizing the small town of Uberzeitz, which would he felt become a critical point on the left flank. Morand's division meanwhile was to advance more cautiously to the right until the true dispositions of the Prussians were known. In support Hulin's Guard Division and the 1st Cuirassier Division, both from Lefebvre Corps, were held back under the watchful eye of Napoleon. These troops would be his reserve should things get out of hand or deliver the decisive blow should it be warranted.

Ferdinand plan was simple, but worthy of Fredrick the Great. Forming his army up he would advance rapidly to engage the French frontally while enveloping and attacking the French left flank. His centre comprised the 1st Infantry Division with the Prussian right extended by Kuhnheim's Reserve Division. The Prussian centre would have it left extended by Schmettau's 3rd Division once it crossed a stream and moved forward. Finally, Ferdinand expected Wartensleben's 2nd Division, dispatched to the extreme Prussian right. It would soon arrive on the field enveloping the French left in the true tradition of Frederick. Below, the armies advance with the French on the left and the Prussians on the right.

Friant was first to feel the Prussian fury when two French regiments, protecting the flank, were attacked. These regiments had advanced forward and deployed to protect the armies left flank. However, deploying so far forward they were now exposed to attack from the Prussian cavalry to the French front. As a Prussian infantry advanced in solid lines Prussian Guard Cuirassiers advanced rapidly and fell on the exposed flank flank of these French regiments with disastrous results. Both the 108th and 111th Ligne were routed in quick succession and fell back past the French Guard. Napoleon was speechless!

Below, the French left as the Prussian cavalry attack. Uberzeitz in the centre and the French guard on the hill to the right.

11am: Napoleon now realising that he had been outmanoeuvred had two options. Either he attacked with those forces he had to hand or took the defensive and awaited the arrival of Gudin. Not expecting an envelopment on his left flank Napoleon ordered an advance against the two Prussian divisions directly to his front. Napoleon assumed, mistakenly it would transpire, that further Prussian divisions would arrive along from the direction of the Prussian line of communication. Napoleon ordered Davout and Lefebvre to strike with the force full force of their corps before the Prussians could further concentrate.

The attack would comprise two parts. Morand's division would attack the Prussian centre comprising Orange's 1st Division. At the same time Hulin's Guard Division, reinforced by a regiment from Friant's division, would attack the Prussian right. Finally, the Nansouty's 1st Cuirassier Division would charge the now disorganised Prussian heavy cavalry and gain mounted superiority on the left wing. The attacks went in with great elan. While the French cavalry destroyed all before them and several Prussian regiments routed the position looked to be improving.

Above, Morand's division attacks the Prussian centre. Two Prussian regiments have failed their morale tests and would soon rout.

However, with the initial attack over Ferdinand in the centre busied himself in reforming his line. While suffering heavy casualties, and with no less than two Prussians regiments fleeing the centre was far from compromised. Firstly, Prussian guns were deployed to strengthen the remaining regiments. Secondly Prussian Hussars and Dragoons formed up in the rear and readied themselves for counter-attacks should the opportunity present itself. The Prussian centre remained strong but on the defensive. On the Prussian right however the offensive continued.

Here, the Prussian Reserve Division contained no less than four regiments of elite infantry, mostly converged grenadiers. While one line regiment had broken in rout to the attacks of the French Guard these elite grenadiers now advanced. Not content to attack both the French Grenadiers and Chasseurs their commander, Kuhnheim, ordered converged Hulsen and Schlieffen Grenadiers to attack Uberzeitz where the French 33rd Ligne awaited their onslaught. In the ensuing attacks the French Guard infantry were forced back while the Prussian attack on Uberzeitz was first held and then repulsed. However, as if the Prussian attack on the French left was not sufficient von Schmettaau's division had also now appeared. Ferdinand's plan was complete he now enveloped the French left. Napoleon's surprise was complete.

12 noon: With Schmettaau's Prussian division soon to be engaged Napoleon ordered a series of attacks he hoped would knock the Prussian centre and centre right back, gaining valuable time. To achieve this Gulan's Guard division was ordered once more on to the attack. The Chasseurs would strike the Prussian centre where a Prussian 25th Regiment (Mollendorf) had foolishly exposed it's flank. Assailed from flank by the Chasseurs and frontally by the Vialannes light cavalry the fate of the regiment was never really in doubt. As it broke so to did the resolve of the Prussian centre who were now clearly exhausted.

Simaltenously the French Grenadiers also attacked. They, as well as Nansouty's heavy cavalry, fell upon the now disorganised Prussian Reserve Division. However, casualties on both sides were extensive and both the Prussians and the French Guard were decimated as an offensive force.

Then as the French cavalry reformed from cutting down fleeing Prussians the infantry of Schmettaau's division advanced to within 200 yards of the reforming cavalry. Their fire, at near point blank range, had horrific results. In less than an hour two Prussian divisions and two French divisions had reached exhaustion.

1pm: Finally, Gudin's division was approaching the battlefield. Originally requested to march forward to hold the left wing which now rested solely on the garrison in Uberzeitz the division was forced to shake out along the line of communication to protect itself from Prussian cavalry that now threatened to cut Napoleon's line of communication.

Meanwhile, further up the road the Guard artillery and the garrison of Uberzeitz, the 33rd Ligne, continued to harass the exhausted Prussian Reserve Division. Indeed the casualties were so significant that this once elite division now collapsed.

However, in the centre things remained desperate for the French. Here Morand's division was pinned by the threat of massed Prussian cavalry while hammered by the now relentless bombardment of Prussian artillery and infantry of Wartensleben's 2nd Division. Interestingly, Ferdinand has lost some of his energy, for now the Prussians seemed content to press their advantage more slowly. Clearly the butchers bill was mounting for Ferdinand as well. Above, Morand's division centre left, can be seen engaged by Prussian artillery and the infantry of Wartensleben's 2nd Division. The threat of Prussian cavalry has seen the French go stationary.

2pm: Napoleon, who had been rallying his troops north of Uberzeitz, now received the news he so dreaded. Davout advised that both Friant's and Morand's divisions were all but exhausted. Unless they were pulled back they would surely be overrun. Reluctantly he ordered a withdrawal. Now undercover of the remaining cavalry Davout's Corps Morand's division fell back. Napoleon had indeed been caught by the ghost of Old Fritz in a battle that would haunt his reputation and strengthen the allies resolve.

The battle of Uberzeitz was of course a fictional encounter using the "Road to Glory" system to generate the battle. Both armies comprised around 3050 points of troops. It was an excellent game that captured the surprise that is inherent in the scenario system and often lacking in historical scenarios where flank marches and reinforcements are well known. Napoleon was caught off guard expecting Ferdinand to opt for a low victory ranking card and fight a defensive battle, typical of our games. Confident he would himself have the burden of attack having selected Card 13 he was surprised when Ferdinand was on the offensive, having selected Card 23. With Gudin's division missing for much of the battle the French mustered only 2400 points of troops. In contrast from turn two the Prussians had their full 3050 points deployed. This concentrated force was telling. However, both armies sustained heavy casualties both inflicting 31 hits on each other. It was clearly a victory to Ferdinand, but the cost was significant.

All figures are from Heroics and Ros 6mm range and based on half scale bases. The Prussians are from Alastair's collection while the French are from my own.

Seven Pines to Glendale - June 1862

2011-11-12T10:46:00.001+13:00

After the battle of Seven Pines rather than fall back on Richmond Johnston decided to press once more at the Union Army of the Potomac under McClellan. He hoped by such a move to cause further casualties and therefore break the resolve of McClellan for further offensive action.

Johnston's plan called for an attack on McClellan left flank. To this end he moved a portion of his army via the Charles City Road through White's Tavern against Glendale. Above, Confederate reinforcements are cheered as they advance from Richmond to support Johnston's attack. Below, the general area of operations showing the Battle of Seven Pines and to the southeast Glendale.

This movement came with great risk as it left Richmond vulnerable being only screened from the Union main army by a much smaller Confederate force. However, by morning of the 6th of June 1862 Johnston had two of his corps, some four divisions, in place to engage the now outnumbered Union troops. A third Corps was still approaching the battlefield. The Union forces in the area comprised only a weak corps of two divisions, though more troops were appraoching the battlefield.

Heading the Confederate attack was Jackson's Corps deployed on the Confederate left flank. Jackson's divisions, Whiting's and D.H. Hill's, pressed forward with speed. Clearly Jackson intended to destroy at least one of the Union divisions before Union reinforcements could be bought up into line. Echeloned back was Johnston's second corps, that of Smith's. It also was to advance, but against the on the Union left and centre.

The Confederate six brigades of Anderson's and Hill's divisions were first to be engaged when they advanced headlong into a division of Keyes Union IV Corps. Keyes had ordered Couch to deploy his division, of only two brigades, in a large area of standing crops. Couch, while failing deploy his own divisional artillery effectively was supported by well positioned IV Corps artillery. To the left rear Keyes placed his second division, under Peck, in the town of Glendale. It was Couch's two brigades that would now face the full weight of the Confederate advance.

Above, Jackson's divisions prepare to engage Couch's troops in the corn fields. On the left of the photo extending the Union right a Union artillery battalion from IV Corps is visable. In the right rear Peck's division holds Glendale and surrounds.

As Jackson's bigades uncovered the Couch's troops and were halted by a devastating volley from both the Union infantry and IV Corps artillery. Reforming, both divisions then charged home, and as expected Couch's brigades broke in rout at this aggressive attack. However, the cost was significant. The combination of artillery fire and rifled muskets resulted in Hill's division being driven into exhaustion. Further, Whiting's division was itself effectively crippled by heavy losses.

Above, the general situation just prior to Jackson's attack. Magruder's Corps is now equal with Jackson's divisions and extending the line.

With Jackson given a bloody nose the Confederate attack now focussed on the Union left as Union reinforcements started to deploy and extend the Union left flank. Here Magruder, commanding a two improvised divisions, both recently raised, which advanced with equal ferocity. Magruder, aware the hours were slipping by ordered his divisional commanders to attack two isolated Union brigades. Supported by artillery the Rebel infantry pressed forward with the bayonet as can be seen below.

The initial result was however unsuccessful. Reforming for further ttacks provide even less result. Eventually Magruder's brigades were all driven back and the Union line strengthened.

At this point Johnston realised the position was hopeless. While his reserve, comprising Holmes' four brigades, was now starting to deploy so to were Union reinforcements. Clearly the advantage of surprise had been lost and the initiative had swung to the Union.

Above, the Union centre and right as additional troops reinforce the Union line. In the extreme left foreground Union troops can be seen advancing through a wood where soon they would threaten Jackson's left. Clearly it was time to retire, Richmond must be defended.

The battle was a fictional encounter generated using the Road to Glory scenario system with the Union army having opted for Card 1 "Advance Guard - Echelon Right". In contrast the Confederates had the burden of attack having selected card 11 "Build Up - Echelon Left". All figures are from Heroics and Ros's 6mm range and are based on half scale bases.

Christchurch DBA Open Championship

2011-11-05T08:36:00.009+13:00

A reminder that the secound tournament of the Christchurch DBA Open Championship is scheduled for the 4th of December. Readers may recall there are two tournaments that make up the Christchurch DBA Championship. The second covers armies post 450AD, that is Medieval armies.

The first tournament, covering Ancient armies, was held earlier in the year. Each is a completely standalone competition, so you don't have to have played in the Ancient tournament to join us in the Medieval tournament. However, the player with the combined highest score across both competitions will secure the Christchurch DBA Shield, shown below.

So clearly it is time to send in your registration and organise your army so you can join us. Full details, including how to register, can be found here. Remember, some loan armies may be able to be arranged but you are encouraged to contact the organiser early.

Conquest 2011: Ancient Competition Results

2011-10-30T22:39:00.003+13:00

Over the weekend Comic Compulsion's annual wargames convention "Conquest" was run here in Christchurch. For the third year 15mm DBA was on the list of hosted competitions. Indeed this year DBA was expanded and two separate DBA competitions were run. The first on Saturday and the second, the Medieval competition, on the Sunday.

The Saturday competition had an ancients theme with armies restricted to the period 3000BC to 450AD. This competition attracted nine players. Six rounds were played during the course of the day, each lasting around an hour. Above a photo of one of several Successor armies involved in the competition, this one a loan Seleucid army, was supplied by Tim from Comics Compulsion.

Above and below several of the players can be seen involved in round one. In the foreground are Brian (left) and Colin (right). On the table behind Stephen (left) engages Peter (right). While the competition was sponsored exclusively by Comics Compulsion the Society of Ancients also made an unofficial appearance in the form of a small stand displaying "Slingshot" the society's magazine, as can be seen above. As it transpired over half the players are members of the Society. Below, other players from the left to right are Andrew, Mark, Jim and Arne.

Below, a Seleucid army attempts to engage a Classical Indian army in the first round. With pachyderms by the dozen and a starvation of PIPs this was one of the few games that was to end in a draw.

Below, another Successor army engages the Classical Indians later in the competition. This time the phalanx of the Graeco-Bactrians press forward to engage the Indian elephants in the centre of the table.

Yet another Successor battle can be seen below. This time Mark's Seleucids prepare to engage the Graeco-Bactrians in a frontal encounter. Each army had significant pike phalanx but was well supported by a variety of additional troops. In the Seleucid case this included elephants, camels and scythed chariots.

After 24 games across the day the final results can be summarised as follows:

Colin O'Shea (UK) II/19a Seleucid (58pts)
Arne Lageveen (Hanmer) II/23a Later Pre Islamic Arabs (42pts)
Andrew Taylor (CHCH) I/20a Ugaritic (41pts)
Keith McNelly (CHCH) II/36a Graeco-Bactrian (38pts)
Jim Morton (CHCH) II/20c Ptolemaic (37pts)
Peter Noble (WN) II/83b Patrician Roman, East (31pts)
Mark Davies (AKLD) II/19c Seleucid (29pts)
Brian Sowman (CHCH) II/3 Classical Indian (27pts)
Stephen Malone (Timaru) II/64b Middle Imperial Roman, East (9pts)

Congratulations to Colin on a well deserved 1st Place. It was excellent to have Colin join us for the day and as can be seen from his score he had a very successful day winning five games with only one draw. In a tight run for second place Arne manage to sneak ahead of Andrew by securing a 12 points in the final game while Andrew manage a very solid 11. It was also great to see Peter Noble joining us in what I understand was Peter's first miniatures gaming event in many years.

An additional report of the Ancient Competition can be found on the Hesperiana website.

Conquest 2011: Medieval Competition Results

2011-10-30T22:37:00.008+13:00

The second day of Conquest provided the opportunity for the second DBA competition of the weekend. This time a Medieval competition with armies drawn from the period 451AD to 1490AD. As with the preceding Ancients competition, played on the Saturday, this was a 15mm event.

This competition attracted eight players, not all of whom had played the preceding day. Indeed 12 players had taken part across the two days. The Medieval competition comprised five and again each lasted around an hour. Above, several of the players can be seen engaged in their various battles. Clockwise from the left are Arne, Andrew McGregor, Kees, Jared and Mark.

Above my own Post-Mongol Samurai engage Arne's Fanatical Berber in round one. Below the Japanese can be seen engaged in battle against Jared's Later Polish in round two. The Japanese opted for a dense battlefield in an effort to counter the massed Polish knights and heavy cavalry. The battlefield caused much disruption to the Poles but also ensured the Japanese failed to secure the much needed win.

In another game, shown below, Andrew's French Ordonnance concentrated initially on capturing a small Japanese town. A brisk bombardment by massed French artillery caused the Samurai garrison to retreat. However, the resulting delays reforming the line allowed the Japanese army to advance on the French left wing which was forced back to avoid heavy casualties.

Brian opted for a Medieval German list complete with a solid block of war wagons. The Germans managed two victories, two draws and a loss over the course of the day for a solid third place. Below the Germans can be seen approaching my Japanese in the final round where they would score 10 points for their efforts.

Mark Davies provides a more detailed summary of his own experiences in the Medieval Competition. His report can be found here. After 20 games the final results can be summarised as follows:

Andrew Taylor (CHCH) IV/82a French Ordonnance (43pts)
Arne Lageveen (Hanmer) III/74 Fanatic Berber (33pts)
Brian Sowman (CHCH) IV/13d Medieval Germans (32pts)
Keith McNelly (CHCH) IV/59b Post-Mongolian Samurai (28pts)
Andrew McGregor (CHCH) III/77 Scots Isles & Highlands (26pts)
Mark Davies (AKLD) IV/1a Komnenan Byzantines (23pts)
Jared Cook (CHCH) IV/66 Later Polish (17pts)
Kees De Jagar (CHCH) IV/59a Post-Mongolian Samurai (15pts)

Congratulations to Andrew Taylor on a well deserved 1st Place. His new French Ordonnance army clearly being an excellent investment! It was also great to have Jared Cook and Andrew McGregor join us for their first very first DBA competition. We look forward to seeing them, and indeed many others, at future events.

As a reminder the Christchurch Medieval DBA Open is just over a month away so time to prepare yourself for another enjoyable day of DBA!

Lance, Bombard & Longbow

2011-10-23T17:37:00.010+13:00

Sunday afternoon at the Christchurch Wargames Club John's new DBA Wars of the Roses and Burgundian Ordonnance armies were deployed for battle. A clear case of gaming in the High Medieval period if ever there was one!

In the first engagement the Burgundian army was found on the defensive, presumably due to Edward's invasion of France in 1475. Deploying first the Burgundians comprised a centre of dismounted Men at Arms with the archers massed on each flank and a mounted reserve to the rear. The English army was deployed similarly but with the English (John) making use of a gentle hill where they placed their artillery.

The Burgundian plan was relatively simple. Firstly with the English occupying the hill a central attack was ruled out. Rather, "Charles the Bold" determined to make an aggressive advance on the English using a combination of archers and artillery with the line extended by Burgundian light troops. The general situation can be seen above. with the Burgundians in the foreground.

As with all such plans they can quickly become unstuck! First the light troops pressed to quickly forward and fell prey to the English longbow. Then the English bow, in an uneven fight decimated the Burgundian bow. Above, the Burgundian right engages the English left.

Simultaneously the English bow now pressed the Burgundian left as can be seen above just before the archers come within range. The result was even more Burgundian casulaties. This was too much for the Burgundians and Charles was forced to quit the field as with both flanks decimated.

Drawing replacements from his provinces Charles soon counter-attacked now catching the English themselves on the defensive. In this battle Charles massed his Ordonnance pikemen in the centre supported by Men at Arms. To the right his bombards were massed along with a small body of crossbowmen. Finally on his left he massed archers and extended his line here with hand-gunners. Charles now pressed forward on his left and centre and pinned the strong English left, comprising mostly archers, with long range fire from his bombards.

Above the Burgundians can be seen in the foreground with their bombards extending the right while their left and soon centre press forward.

The armies were soon locked in combat in the centre and on the Burgundian left. The lines moved back and forth until both commanders found themselves engaged in combat as they attempted to plug various gaps. However, the fate of the English was finally sealed when Edward pursued an advantage too zealously and found himself encircled and soon overwhelmed. With the loss of Edward the English army collapsed.

So there you have it, two excellent games of DBA. They were, from my perspective at least, very interesting as I have not used bow armies since DBA 1.0. Certainly I learned a lesson or two on how not to use archers in the first game! Now inspired I think I shall order a couple of Wars of the Roses armies myself as I have been toying with building a set for a year or two. As if I needed more lead to paint...

Phalanx, Cataphract & Pachyderm

2011-10-16T19:17:00.013+13:00

Today the Christchurch Wargames Club was host to several DBA games as six players converged for a few hours of DBA mayhem.

For my part I managed to trial a new Hellenic army, with less than optimal results I must add. Above, my new Graeco-Bactrian army engages an Alexandrian Successor (Mark) in my first game of the day. The all cavalry Graeco-Bactrian option can be seen in the foreground where it dominated the open steppe first raiding the Macedonian camp and then overrunning isolated peltasts and psiloi on the right flank.

However, in the second game the Macedonians, who now were defending, locked the battlefield down with a steep hill on their right and a large walled town on the left. The combination of course left few options for the all cavalry Graeco-Bactrian. Below the large town clearly securing the Macedonian flank.

A small contingent of Graeco-Bactrian light cavalry attempted to drive around the Macedonian right flank but this attack was soon destroyed. Careful examination of the above photo will show this force being engaged by the Macedonian reserves. Below the Graeco-Bactrian cataphracts, on the left, are held back while light cavalry harass the Macedonian phalanx.

Meanwhile on an adjoining table Lysimachid Successor (Joel) faced Classical Indians (Brian), as can be seen below. Here the Indian elephants advance on the small Successor phalanx just prior to the Greek collapse.

Then in a rematch Marian Romans (Joel) attempted to engage an eastern army, whose name escapes me, heavy in cavalry commanded by Brian. The Romans were completely outclassed and were destroyed in short order. No doubt the Romans were commanded by a relative of Crassus intent on repeating Crassus' victory at Carrhae.

Next Lysimachus once more took the field this time against the Graeco-Bactrian. The Graeco-Bactrians opting now to use a pike phalanx suported by elephants. While initially seizing the advantage, made possible by appalling Lysimachid command and control, the Graeco-Bactrian attacks soon stalled allowing Lysimachus to recover and eventually claim victory. Below the two Successors advance on each other with the Lysimachus' army in the distance.

On adjoining tables Kees' Samurai army faced the eastern cavalry host in two battles, one of which can be seen below just prior to the Japanese claiming victory.

Finally, John fielded his recently completed Burgundian Ordonnance in a battle against his War of the Roses army now commanded by Mark. While I'm not sure of the details of the battle I understand the English eventually overcome their adversaries to claim victory.

Above, the English advance on the Burgundians whose pike and bow can be seen in the left foreground.

The Seagull's Feast - 1655

2011-10-02T18:54:00.013+13:00

Today the Christchurch Wargames Club provided a venue for another Renaissance encounter, though this time one of colonial expansion. It is well known that Cromwell dispatched a large expedition to the West Indies but less well documented is the expedition, launched at the same time, to raid Spanish and Portuguese interests in Asia. Searching for a suitable base the fleet made land around 1655 in a green and lush island discovered by Abel Tasman a decade previously. Below, toa (warriors) of the Ngapuhi iwi.

The commander of the expedition was none other than John Hewson, who while a capable officer, was a former cobbler and zealous lay preacher and more recently regicide. Having made a name for himself in the campaign in Ireland he now set his heart on destroying papists and heathens alike. Now, having had a colonelcy in Ireland, a regiment of foot to be exact, he found himself promoted to general for this adventure. Excluding his fleet of ships and crews he had at his disposal some 2600 shot, 800 pike, a number of drakes and a single troop of horse. Clearly not as large as the West Indies expedition, but a sizeable expedition none the less.

Hewson advanced along the coast destroying and laying waste to the small villages encountered on the way south. His destructive ways were soon to be challenged for in high summer of 1655 a vast Ngapuhi taua led by the rangatira Tuwhare was sighted. Avoiding the large fleet in the bay Tuwhare divided his taua into three. The first, and largest, was in the centre under his own command. The second and equally as large was to his left under Te Tirarau the ranatira of Parawhau hapu, a sub tribe of the Ngapuhi. Each comprised around 1500 toa. A small ambush of a further 500 toa was placed on Tuwhare's right in a large wood under Te Wera. The English for their part deployed in a series of lines in the centre with some drakes extending the English right. Those troops with pike were kept well to the rear as was a force of 400 musketeers to protect against the expected Maori attack from the sea.

With deployment completed by 6am the Hewson immediately ordered an advance and soon his musketeers were engaged in driving in several small bodies of Maori scouts who issued challenges back. Tuwhare, at first shocked by these sticks that belched fire, countered and ordered forward the warriors all along the line. Pu kaea (trumpets) bellowed encouragement. On Tuwhare right the ambush was revealed, Te Wera and his 500 warriors dashed forward. Above, the two armies deployed with the Maori in the foreground. Te Wera's ambush has not yet been sprung.

The English, dependent on their rolling musket fire were disappointed. Perhaps due to wet powder or poor drill their impact while loud was less than expected. While small bodies of Maori were recoiled and some cut down, the majority continued to press forward. Below, Tuwhare toa advance in the foreground. Te Tirarau's Parawhau hapu prepare to attack the English gunnes while some Parawhau have pressed forward too far in the centre opposite English foot armed with firelocks, in green and blue coats.

Tuwhare, with some 800 warriors attempted contacted the English line. On the wings of this attack 200 warriors were driven back by musket fire, yet Tuwhare, now with 600 toa, pressed on. Many warriors swung mere or patu, while others countered the English clubed musket with the taiaha. The fighting was desperate and bloody. Tuwhare and some 100 toa were first to gain the advantage sweeping the English shot to their front away. Now, with their morale shaken much of English centre, some 1200 men, collapsed in less than 15 minutes of fighting.

Hewson was aghast, what had happened to his army, where were those righteous lads he had tasked his recruiting sergeants to select? Had drunken men of low calibre filled the ranks rather than those of high morales and conviction?

Realising his position was hopeless he steadied his troops and entreated them to do their duty. Yet he was to be disappointed. Firstly, on his extreme left his remaining musketeers were soon enveloped by surging warriors. Below, warriors under Te Wera press forward while enveloping the line on the English left.

Hewson now hoped looked to his remaining 600 firelocks to repel these heathen warriors. But worse was to come when his firelocks who were assailed from each flank, below. Hewson, realising the disaster was complete turned his small mounted troop around and made off to the fleet with what remained of his army. Clearly, their were papists at play here, what other cause could have caused this misadventure?

Now, as the European interlopers took safety in their great ships Tuwhare ordered the cooking fires to be readied. His warriors gathered the bodies and heads of their vanquished. The prize was great indeed, yet overhead the seagulls gathered for their own feast...

The battle was fought with DBR and armies each comprised 300 points. The English deployed in two commands the Maori in three. The English commander (John Kerr) had planned to line the banks of a river and thus create a barrier to the Maori attack. Fortunately for Tuwhare the first die roll for river placement was a "1" and thus the river was discarded, starting as it would rom a waterway. The English then suffered from what can only be described as an appalling series of die rolls especially for combat. On an historical front Lord John Hewson did serve in Ireland, as a colonel, was originally a cobbler and lay preacher and was well known for his zealous nature. Yet he never ventured to New Zealand. Tuwhare, Te Tirarau & Te Wera were all rangitara of the Ngapuhi, though perhaps of a later period.

Tupnim Green - 1644

2011-10-01T10:20:00.009+13:00

Once again The Wargames Room was the scene of another English Civil War encounter. Set in 1644 The Royalists (Mark Bradley) were on the defensive when a small Parliamentarian army, under Sir William Dudhope, took the offensive.

The local Royalist commander drew up his army in the traditional format with foot in the centre and his horse divided equally between the wings on what had been a peaceful Tupnim Green. A complete muster indicating the local forces under his command totalled some 1600 foot, around 800 horse along with 200 dragoons. This army was further supported by a handful of drakes.

In due course Sir William deployed his own army but with a centre and left wing comprising mostly foot. Indeed, his centre comprised some 1200 foot while his left a further 600. Three troops of horse, some 200 in number, were deployed between the infantry of the left and that of the centre, with the object of causing some discomfort to the Royalist foot while avoiding the Royalist horse. Sir William's main body of horse were drawn up on the right wing. Here a further seven troops of horse, some 550 in number, were massed in attempt to gain some local mounted superiority over the Royalist horse. A company of Roundhead dragoons entended the right. Sir William positioned himself in the centre near two regiments of foot and with his own small troop of lobsters. Above, Royalist horse of the left flank just prior to the battle. Below, the two armies deployed with the Royalists in the foreground.

The engagement started early, around 5am on a fine summers morning. A light breeze from the north was sufficient to cut the morning air and ensure the standards stood ready as a rallying point for the various regiments. While Pilling's Roundhead regiment of foot on the left advanced, hoping to gain some advantage and indeed time, the Roundheads otherwise stood firm and prepared to bombard the Royalist left with three large gunnes. The Royalist's countered with a general advance along the line.

The Roundhead left was soon engaged when the Royalist horse charged. Gaining the advantage these cavaliers eventually broke Colonel Pilling's Regiment of foot and would, in due course, overcome the few supporting Roundhead harquebusiers on this flank. However, at this point the Royalist commander became overly cautious and took some time to reform his horse rather than press forward against the Roundhead baggage which now lay unprotected behind the Roundhead centre.

In the centre meanwhile, the Royalist foot had also been gaining the advantage. The preponderance of Royalist musketeers ensured that the already outnumbered Roundhead foot here would pay a high price for the rebellion against the king. However, while the centre attempted to hold the Roundheads pressed for an advantage on their right against the Royalist left wing.

Here the Royalist cavalry suffered a series of blows. Firstly the bombardment of Roundhead gunnes caused heavy casualties. Then, as they advanced, the Roundhead dragoons charged boldly the somewhat exposed extreme Royalist flank. With the Royalist wing now pressed hard frontally by the Roundhead horse the cavaliers broke. With gaps in the Royalist line the Roundhead horse now attacked the Royalist foot of the centre from the rear. Below a view of the Roundhead left and centre viewed from the Roundhead left flank. The Royalists are generally on the right but some Roundhead horse can be attacking a Royalist pike in the centre right from the rear.

However, the Royalist commander of the left, steadied sufficient troops to counter-charge and in turn broke the Roundhead wing. Below, a view from the Roundhead centre with the Royalist foot now pressing the almost exhausted Roundhead centre.

With both wings broken and the Roundhead centre having already suffered heavy casualties Sir William watched with frustration as his once proud little army streamed off the field. Clearly he now would face a series of difficult questions from his "friends" in Parliament, perhaps a more dangerous enemy than a Royalist army in the field?

The game comprised armies of 300 points and was fought with DBR's Normal Scale. It was Mark's first game of DBR and while a DBA veteran of Timaru he acquitted himself very well. No doubt King Charles will be expecting more things of him in the future!

Lost Battles the Boardgame

2011-09-26T20:22:00.009+13:00

Today my copy of the boardgame version of "Lost Battles" arrived, ordered via Fifth Column Games, the publisher. For those not familiar with Lost Battles it is a game system developed by Phil Sabin to model 35 battles involving Greeks, Romans and their enemies. Given I was unlikely to build the armies for all these battles in using miniatures the boardgame version seemed they way forward. So a few weeks ago I took the plunge and ordered a copy.

Today, with much anticipation, I opened the rather heavy board game box to find a box full of parts. This boardgame combines Lost Battles the game, with some wonderful artwork by graphic designer Mark Mahaffey.

Now, I don't purchase a great number of boardgames, making comparison difficult, but Lost Battles was certainly full of parts. Firstly, there are the terrain tiles. Lost Battles uses 20 terrain sectors to model each of its various battlefields, with each sector represented by a tile 125mm square, 20 such tiles make up the boardgame battlefield. All these tiles are two dimensional textured art work with hills, rivers, woods etc. Select the tiles from the box to match the battle and you have the terrain ready to go. Even given the fact these tiles are double sided there are apparently 50 tiles required. I've yet to check them all. Then of course there are the counters, several sheets in fact covering various infantry, cavalry, chariots and elephants. While I was nervous on how they would look in the flesh I think they look the part and will be not just functional but visually pleasing, a great relief to me. Below, a sample board and counters, from the Fifth Column Games website showing a refight of 1st Chaeronea. Click on the image for a more detailed view.

Next is the rule book which has been enhanced considerably. While the boardgame comes complete with a paperback copy of Lost Battles the book, including rules, the game also comes with a standalone rules book. This covers the game rules along with notes and well illustrated examples. A very professional package, in full colour, which will greatly enhance play I suspect and make the rules easier to penetrate for the Lost Battles new comer. The inclusion of the Lost Battles book is interesting and one which Phil Sabin was determined to achieve. It helps place the game in the context it was developed. That is an historical model of Ancient warfare.

Now, for those that want to get a feel for Lost Battles and haven't seen it, I would encouarge you to visit either the Fifth Column Games website and read through the 1st Chaeronea refight or watch Aaron Bell's more detail video example on YouTube. Indeed, Aaron shows a couple of turns of the game as it unfolds from activation through combats.

In addition the Lost Battles boardgame package comes with a strategic campaign game called "Empire", also by Phil Sabin. I first looked at Empire when it was published as part of Slingshot the Society of Ancients magazine. With Empire the artistic input of Mark Mahaffey has worked wonders on what previously looked a very basic game. Clearly I need to try this as well!

So all up I'm very pleased with the purchase. Now I look forward to more games of Lost Battles in the very near future...

Successors & Imperial Romans

2011-09-18T20:28:00.006+12:00

The Christchurch Wargames Club provided an opportunity for three DBA games amongst three players today. As time is short I shan't provide a detailed account of the games, but instead will provide only a brief commentary and a selection of photos.

First up was my game of the day using Lysimachid Successor where I engaged an Antigonid Successor (Mark). With Antigonos' deployment hampered by a wood on one flank and a steep hill on the other Lysimachos pressed forward on his left with Thracians his smaller phalanx held back as can bee seen below.

The Antigonid cavalry disordered by the steep hill was unable to deploy and soon was forced back onto the hill where both light horse, above, and then xystophoroi, below, were overcome by the agile Thracian mercenary foot.

With the Antigonid right flank compromised the Lysimachid phalanx prepared to attack but first the Thracians attacked from the flank as can be seen below. Simultaneously more Thracians advanced across the hill to fall on the Antigonid camp securing victory for Lysimachos.

In the second and third games of the day Alexander Imperial (Mark) fought Middle Imperial Roman (Kees). Unfortunately I don't have photos of their first encounter between these protagonists but below we can see the two armies engaged with the Romans in the foreground during their second battle.

The Roman left achieved some success when Roman auxilia dispatched the Greek pachyderms in the initial attacks. Below, another view of the two armies, now with the Romans on the right with the Rman auxilia about to engage the Successor elephants.

However, with the Romans repeatedly unable to gain the advantage the fighting on this flank became deadlocked and the battle switching to the centre. Here the Roman line, composed mostly of heavy infantry, was engaged by the Greek phalanx which had the advantage over Greeks. At least until the left flank of the phalanx was turned. With casualties even, at three elements each, it was only a last push by the Greeks that allowed them to claim victory, though clearly a pyrrhic victory.

An excellent afternoon of gaming and already plans are being readied for another set of games.

Czechoslovak TO&Es

2011-09-17T10:23:00.008+12:00

Luke Ueda-Sarson has been busy documenting the Czechoslovakian forces in the period 1969-1989 for use with Modern Spearhead.

Now available for download the document contains information on Czech Motor Rifle and Tank Divisions across this twenty year period and includes details on divisions from several readiness categories. In addition information is provided on several supplementary support formations such as Front and Army Assets as well as Airborne units.

The full document can be found, along with a range of other Modern Spearhead TO&Es, here.

Royalists, Roundheads & Montrose

2011-09-11T20:30:00.017+12:00

Two very enjoyable games of DBR today at the Christchurch Wargames Club, but unfortunately I managed to forget the camera! Each game comprised armies of 300 points with armies in all cases drawn from those of the English Civil War.

The first engagement found English Royalists on the offensive against a Roundhead army in the Summer of 1644. The Roundhead commander (Brian) had deployed his right flank against the coast where his small fleet would dominate the coastal plain. A river ran from the coast across the battlefield and separated the two armies. The Roundhead commander decided to deploy behind the river rather than risk a river to his rear. He clearly hoped a rash Royalist attack would give him victory while perhaps advancing under cover of the fleet on his right against the Royalist left. The Royalist commander, being somewhat more aggressive on this occasion, pressed quickly forward on his right flank against the Roundhead left. At the same time the Royalist foot advanced in the centre to pin the enemy who soon lined much of the river.

The battle opened with a brisk skirmish on the Royalist right where dragoons and light gunnes attempted to break up their Roundhead equivalents opposite. Hoping the river would be fordable the Royalist horse on the right pressed forward and prepared to force a crossing. The Royalist commander had hoped the river to be classed as paltry, given that it was summer. Instead it was to be found to be "easy" and therefore somewhat more disruptive to forces forcing a crossing. In DBR a rating of "easy" means that movement would be slowed and formations need to cross as single element columns.

As Royalist horse galloped into the stream, and splashed across, they were greated by a hail of fire from Roundhead musket, pistol and cannon. As a result their first attacks were driven back. Reforming, and now supported by additional commanded shot, the cavaliers charged again and in the ensuing melee routed the enemy shot and horse lining the banks. This sudden turn of events was devastating to the Roundhead left. With their horse destroyed and the local Roundhead commander killed the Roundhead left broke. Alas, the battle was unresolved. With the fading light engulfing the battlefield the Roundheads were able to conduct an organised withdrawal.

The second engagement of the day found Scots Royalists (John) engaging English Roundheads in the Summer of 1645. The English, having invaded Scotland, found Montrose deployed but his troops disrupted by the terrain, especially a river that flowed the length of the battlefield. Needing to sieze the initiative and attack with his Irish and Highlanders Montrose, below, opted to deploy with the river to his rear of his foot.

On the Scot's flanks, and on the English side of the river, two woods bordered the Scots deployment area. On the left Montrose concealed an ambush using a large wood to conceal a number of Highlanders. On his right, in another wood, some 800 Irish shot were deployed, though their position was known to the enemy. Between the two were more Irish as well as Montrose's Lowland regiments and yet more Highlanders. Well to the rear Montrose massed his cavalry. The English, for their part, had a centre of foot armed with pike and musket supported by both light and heavy gunnes. On the English right 500 English horse were massed while a further 200 extended the English left flank.

With the Scots cavalry to the rear and much of the Irish in a wood on the Scots right the English commander advanced rapidly against 650 exposed Highlanders on the Scots left under Montrose himself. A screen of dragoons was thrown out on the extreme English right to protect against any small ambush in the nearby wood. However, once the English right was committed to the attack Montrose sprung his ambush. Instead of the expected small ambush 600 highlanders burst from the woods. Fortunately the outnumbered English dragoons held the line while the English horse charged home.

In the ensuing combats the Highlanders, under Montrose's direct command, drove back the English horse inflicting heavy casualties and breaking the command. The English right now looked extremely vulnerable. However, the English horse were first steadied and then counter-attacked. Never one to hang about Montrose had been, and indeed still was, in the front ranks of his Highlanders fighting on foot. So it was that while leading his Higlanders Montrose was cut down. Panic now ripped through the Highland ranks and the Scots left disintegrated as the remaining six of seven hundred Highlanders ran for their life.

In the centre Montrose's lieutenant, Alasdair MacColla, continued his advance with his Irish and Lowland regiments. However, with the loss of Montrose command and control collapsed. As a result the much needed Scots horse was now further delayed in its wide sweeping flanking movement against the English left. The result was MacColla was now facing three well formed regiments of English foot frontally while English horse assailed both his flanks. Despite the courageous attacks of the Irish and Lowland regiments the fate of the Scots was sealed when MacColla, like Montrose, was cut down leading a charge. With his loss the Scots fled the field and took what refuge they could in the hills.

So two excellent and very interesting games. In the first the river required a desperate charge which ended in Royalist success but which could have easily resulted in disaster. While in the second Montrose's ambush and hard fighting clansmen had victory in their grasp until fortune swung to the English.

Lost Battles - Maronea 277BC

2011-09-03T10:58:00.021+12:00

With the death of Lysimachus at the Battle of Corupedium the Kingdom of Lysimachus is generally considered to have come to an end. However, recent research has indicated this was not the case. Indeed, with Seleucus death and the confusion of the Galatian invasions one of Lysimachus's sons, Plesistarchus, seems to have seized an opportunity to establish his kingdom once again, most notably at the Battle of Maronea. Opposing Plesistarchus was Callisthenes. Relatively unknown to history Callisthenes was a senior commander in Ptolemy Keraunos army. Following the defeat of Ptolemy Keraunos during the Galatian invasions Callisthenes quickly established a power base, a result of securing sufficient treasure and a portion of the Macedonian army. Now, flush with mercenaries he seemed set to secure a place in history, except for the Lysimachid upstart.

In 277BC, advancing through Thrace towards Macedonia, several Hellenic garrisons provided a valuable source of recruits to Plesistarchus and as a result his army, originally comprising a small bodyguard of royal troops and several thousand mercenary hoplites the army grew to around 22,000 men. Our sources indicate that Plesistarchus army comprised 9,000 phangites, 4,500 hoplites, 4,500 Thracian mercenaries and around 3000 cavalry comprising both heavy and light. In additional 15 elephants and perhaps 1500 light infantry completed the army. Apart from the veteran xystophoroi the army generally seems to have comprised average quality troops. Callisthenes commanded a similar force, though his smaller phalanx, perhaps some 4500 phalangites, was supplemented by 6,000 Galatian mercenaries and a further 8,000 thureophoroi along with at least 3000 light infantry and perhaps 15 elephants. Our sources are less clear on the number of mounted troops that completed the Macedonian army.

The two commanders faced each other across a Thracian valley which offered a relatively open battlefield. Callisthenes (Andrew) moved first and positioned his phalanx in the centre. To his right his elephants and thureophoroi advanced with rapidity while he massed his expendable Galatians to the left of his phalanx under his watchful eye. On each flank he deployed a mixture of veteran heavy cavalry and light cavalry.

Plesistarchus countered with an advance in his centre and centre right by his own phalanx and hoplites with his centre screened by his elephants. On his extreme right he massed his heavy cavalry including his own xystophoroi, Greek mercenary cavalry and Thracan light cavalry. His left flank was less strongly held with his left centre extended by Thracian infantry. His far left was screened by his asiatic light cavalry, some 750 in number. Above, Plesistarchus army are on the left while Callisthenes Macedonians are on the right. Plesistarchus right flank is in the left foreground and can be seen deploying.

Callisthenes attacked on both flanks first. Against Plesistarchus' left the Macedonian cavalry had superiority in quality and numbers. However, the Lysimachid cavalry avoided the full blow of the initial attacks and soon the Macedonian cavalry here were spent. In fact the battle here would see-saw for some time until eventually the the Macedonian forces would gain the advantage. In the Lysimachid centre left Plesistarchus' forces were also outnumbered. The Macedonian attack here was led by elephants and supported by 6,000 thureophoroi. While the Lysimachid light infantry forced the Macedonian elephants back the Macedonian thureophoroi in turn drove the Lysimachid light troops back and then engaged the outnumbered Lysimachid Thracian peltasts in a long and brutal engagement.

Interestingly, neither commander seemed willing to advance their centre into combat. While Plesistarchus' centre had moved forward, screened by his elephants, he was unwilling to press forward to combat until at least he gained advantage on his right. Opposite, the Macedonian centre remained inactive itself unwilling to advance preferring to draw in an over rash Plesistarchus. Once drawn in the the Lysimachid phalanx could be overlapped and destroyed. Above, a view of the Lysimachid left centre, on the left, where Thracians and light infantry are visible. In the centre the main Lysimachid phalanx and elephants remains unengaged. On the right a portion of the right centre showing more phalangites whose line is extended by hoplites not shown.

So while the centre of both armies remained unengaged the same can not be said for the Lysimachid far right. Here Plesistarchus took the offensive. Inspiring his troops the initial attack by advanced Macedonian cavalry on the yet undeployed Lysimachid cavalry, shown below, was driven back.

With the light cavalry of both sides soon shattered the pendulum swung to favour Plesistarchus and his cavalry. Seeing a series of opportunities opening he now ordered his heavy infantry adjacent, his right centre, to advance against the Galatians opposite. The Macedonian skirmishers were driven in and the Galatians engaged. While the mercenary hoplites, some 6000 in number, led the attack they were supported by 3000 phalangites. Below, the Lysimachid mercenary hoplites begin to waver, several units are shown spent and will soon break, clearly the attacks were not going as well as planned.

Now, and with increasing frequency, Lysimachid troops were breaking on the Lysimachid far left flank and now the right centre. Undeterred another attack was ordered and a portion of the Lysimachid phalanx surged forward. Hoping to gain time Callisthenes attempted to rally some Galatians in the area of this latest attack. Placing himself in the front line, in a position of great risk, he was however cut-down while rallying some Galatians. The blow was significant to the Macedonian cause, without Callisthenes leadership command would be fragmented. Below, Callisthenes rolls a three and is killed.

Plesistarchus, despite the heavy casualties his army had taken, was reinvigorated. He now renewed his own attacks. Continuing his advance on the extreme right with his cavalry he preprepared to attack the outflanked Macedonian centre right from front and flank. Then the unthinkable happened. The remaining Macedonian xystophoroi counter attacked the Lysimachid right flank. Attempting to rally some of his own xystophoroi Plesistarchus suffered the same fate as Callisthenes and was himself killed. He had fallen at the very moment that victory seemed possible. Below, Plesistarchus rolls a two!

The result was catastrophic. The Lysimachid cavalry on the right flank, demoralised by Plesistarchus loss and growing army casualties routed. Now only the Lysimachid heavy infantry and elephants in the centre, and right centre, remained. Clearly the battle was lost and the only option was to save the phalanx. Slowly the heavy infantry of the centre fell back, the hills of Thrace looked likely to offer great protection than continued service in Plesistarchus' army on the field of Maronea.

Some notes on the battle. Firstly, the battle was in fact fictional as were both commanders and indeed both armies. The game was fought using Lost Battles which is frequently used to refight historical battles but can be used for non-historical games as well.

For the game we used 15mm figures on a table measuring 900mm x 600mm. An average heavy infantry and cavalry formation was represented by two stands, average light infantry by three stands and veteran cavalry by a single stand, all stands being based for DBA on 40mm frontages. Plesistarchus was rated as an inspired leader and Callisthenes as an average leader. Each army had a fighting value of around 70.

As the battle unfolded it became clear that Plesistarchus had made several errors in his deployment. His left was too weak and his planned attack in the centre was delayed too long. Further, despite his best efforts his attacks on his right took too long to develop. However, the loss of Callisthenes opened up additional options, though these were to be shattered by Plesistarchus own death. It was an interesting game on many levels and one which illustarted several of Lost Battles strengths. No doubt more games will follow.

Schwarzenberg on the Kloddram - 1813

2011-08-28T17:06:00.015+12:00

Once again Friday offered an excuse to deploy our 6mm figures for another Volley & Bayonet engagement, this time set in 1813. Using the Road to Glory scenario system the scenario was quickly developed.

The Austrians, devoid of their Prussian and Russian allies, fielded two Corps. I Armeekorps, commanded by Colloredo, comprised two infantry divisions and a light division which included Grenzers and light cavalry. II Armeekorps, commanded by Meerfeldt, comprised similar proportion of troops across its three divisions. In total Prince Schwarzenberg, above, commanded 55,000 troops. With most of his army concentrated Schwarzenburg opted for a prompt advance against what he suspected would be a dispersed French army.

Indeed, the French were dispersed. Marshal Ney (Jon) had only Bertrand's IV Corps in the immediate area of operations. Comprising only two divisions, some 14,000 men and 36 guns, IV Corps seemed to face an almost impossible task. Ney, below, advised Bertrand to line the marshy banked stream that meandered between the French lines and the Austrians opposite. He was to hold the Austrians at all cost.

Now Ney turned his attention to his other troops, dispatching riders to hurry his reinforcements. These reinforcements comprising Marmont's VI Corps, some 22,000 men, and a scratch "corps" comprisng a division of the Old Guard supported by a heavy cavalry division, were some hours from the battlefield. The question on Ney's mind was could Bertrand hold?

Above, the battlefield seen from the Austrian lines. The French hold two sections of the Kloddram Stream, top centre and left. Also shown is the Austrian infantry who have advanced rapidly in the centre and right on the near side of the stream. Below, a view of the Austrian centre. On the left, Austrian infantry and artillery line the banks of the Kloddram while those on the right prepare to force the stream.

It was Giffing's Austrian brigade in the centre that was first across charging the French opposite. Well supported by Austrian position batteries the French were driven back with great loss. However, aware of the risk of a French counter-attack the Austrian bridgehead was now only cautiously expanded.

Above, Austrians expand the bridgehead in the centre while Austrians from the right develop their own attack against French troops deployed in the woods. French reinforcements are approaching the Austrian bridgehead, top left.

Meanwhile, on the Austrian left flank I Armeekorps' Light Division had the greatest distance to cover. When Schwarzenberg ordered the advance the division was still to the rear in march column. Using the road network the division moved to the left with the division's hussars and lancers in front with Grenzers and artillery following. Above, Austrian hussars and lancers deploy on the Austiran left with the French 12th Division in the distance.

Some four hours from the beginning of the battle the first French reinforcements were being deployed to stiffen the line. Specifically, the 2nd Old Guard Division, under Curial, and Defrance's 4th Heavy Cavalry Division. This ad-hoc reserve, though small, was ordered forward without delay. It's arrival was critical as it had only just deployed when Bertrand's main division, the 15th, collapsed. Now, both the Grenadier and Chasseurs brigades of the 2nd Old Guard were thrown against a single Austrian brigade. At the same time a heavy cavalry brigade charged a second Austrian brigade.

Schwarzenberg, himself near Quasdannovich's Brigade, barked orders and galloped along the line encouraging his countrymen to do their duty. Now as the French Guard approached the Austrian conscripts discharged their muskets in a series of devastating volleys.

Unbelievably the Guard first faltered, then having suffered heavy casualties, reeled back in disorder. Above, the Austrian sixes are displayed in all their glory. Likewise the French cavalry were ineffective as the otherwise exposed Austrian brigade formed battalion mass and repelled their attacks. Ney, watching the action from his vantage point, was speechless!

However Schwarzenberg, realising that an unstoppable tide of French infantry were approaching now led his infantry forward in the centre in a final effort. Meanwhile his staff ordered a combined infantry and cavalry attack against the French right in an attempt to draw in more French reinforcements. These attacks were of mixed success.

The attacks on the French Guard, who were already disordered, were successful. This pushed these elite infantry into exhaustion. Yet the now isolated the attacking Austrians faced more French infantry and cavalry, above. Under yet another attack these Austrian brigades crumpled.

Meanwhile, the attack by the Austrian left against the French right was disrupted. With several regiments refusing to close, a result of a combination of French fire and the disruptive terrain, the Austrian attack by lancers gained little. The Austrian lancers can be seen above, disordered by the marshy banks of the Klooram.

Below, a general view of the battlefield, with the French right and Austrian left in the foreground.

Reluctantly Schwarzenberg accepted he had lost the initiative. Multiple Austrian brigades were now fleeing to the rear and fresh French divisions were deploying. Schwarzenberg had given the French a bloody nose, but Ney had managed to hold the Kloddram Stream, though at a high cost. A cost born by mainly by Bertrand's divisions and a division of the Old Guard.

In Volley & Bayonet terms both armies comprised around 3000 points. The French had a high number of troops rated "poorly trained" while the Austrians had a signifcant number of M4 troops making crossing a marshy banked stream, in the face of an enemy, problematic. The Austrians however had the burden of attack, having selected card 19. In contrast the French were strung out with their first reinforcements not due to arrive until turn three, having card 1. By the end of the battle the Austrians had suffered 41 hits, many a result of routing through disordering terrain. In contrast the French had suffered 25 hits, mostly across three divisions.

From Greece to Asia in a Day

2011-08-21T18:13:00.009+12:00

Today four of us gathered for several DBA games down at the Woolston Club. Below are a series of photos along with a brief description of the games.

On my arrival Nick and Brian were already engaged in their first game of the day. Nick was using Post-Mongol Samurai (IV/59a) while Brian was using a new army, Hsi-Hsia. Who, you may ask, are the Hsi-Hsia? I certainly had no idea until I was directed to the Section III lists, III/66 to be exact. For those interested some additional background on the Hsi-Hsia can be found here. Below, a photo of this first game can be found here as the two armies advance to battle.

In their next game Brian replaced the Hsi-Hsia with Classical Indians in what was to be a well balanced game. Nick had the early advantage, having destroyed three Indian elements without loss. Two as a result of an abortive Indian attack on the Japanese baggage by Indian cavalry. However, the Indians eventually recovered, mostly due to the impact of their archers, to secure a 4-3 Indian victory. Below, the Japanese and Indians can be seen engaged with the Indian elephants pining much of the Japanese centre while Indian chariots pin the Japanese right.

In my first two games Kees and I faced off with two Hellenic armies. Kees opting to use "Demetrius the Besieger" (II/16b) while I used my newest army, Lysimachid (II/17). The first engagement was more of a learning experience as Kees experimented with the combination of elephants, pike and cavalry. Below, a group of Thracians attack the isolated Antigonid peltasts before pressing forward and attack the exposed flank of the Antigonid phalanx.

In the second game Demetrius was clearly set for revenge and met Lysimachus' invading army along the coast. Having abandoned his pachyderms Demetrius instead bolstered his army with Greek hoplites. Below, the Lysimachid army can be seen in the foreground while the Antigonid army is visible in the distance. On the right, Antigonid Greek hoplites have conducted a littoral landing.

In this game both armies were to lose their camps. The Antigonid camp was the first to be attacked, due to a Lysimachus ordering a group of psiloi to march and seize a steep hill which dominated the Antigonid camp. Soon however Antigonid light cavalry marched around the open Lysimachid right flank to fall on Lysimachus' camp. While this raid was initially successful the light cavalry was soon driven off by a body of Thracian infantry.

Meanwhile, near the coast, the Greek hoplites in Antigonid service slowly pressed inland, as can be seen below. Delayed by Lysimachid light troops their advance was slow but steady.

However, with Demetrius unable to press forward with his centre, due to a lack of command initiative, these hoplites were finally to be outflanked, and defeated. The situation can be seen below.

My final game of the day was against Nick, in a Japanese Civil War. I used my own Post-Mongol Samurai (IV/59b), while Nick used the slightly earlier list (IV/59a). Below, Nick's army can be seen in the distance while my own army tries to deploy, constrained somewhat, by the river.

In the ensuing engagement Nick pressed hard in the centre with his own samurai who slowly pushed back my own dismounted Samurai. However, on my right, I attacked his lighter infantry with my reformed ashigaru. The rating of auxilia proving, eventually, to be inferior to the reformed ashigaru who were rated as spear. Below, the ashigaru push forward supported by mounted samurai.

Having gained the advantage the mounted samurai now swept into the exposed enemy centre from the flank. Doing so they finally securing a hard fought victory in what was another close game.

So there you have it. What can only be described as five excellent games. Now it is back to some painting as more Hellenic types beckon...

Conquest 2011: DBA Competition Expanded

2011-08-20T23:40:00.008+12:00

The 15mm DBA Competition for Conquest has been expanded to a two day format. It now comprises two competitions over two days. Each competition is independent of the other. Players can enter either or both competitions. The competitions are:

Saturday 29th October: Ancients Competition 3000BC-450AD (Six Rounds)
Sunday 30th October: Medieval Competition 451AD-1490AD (Five Rounds)

Can the hoplites of Greece destroy the Persian Empire? Will the Rome destroy Carthage or face defeat itself? Will the Successor states prosper at Rome's expense or will the Celts ravage Europe?

Will William of Normandy become William the Conqueror? Can the Yorkist armies defeat those of the Lancastrians? There is only one way to find out...

Don't delay, gather your armies and join us at Conquest's DBA tables. Further details, including how to register, can be found here.

Bloody Ridge - 1863

2011-08-13T12:14:00.013+12:00

On Friday evening The Wargames Room was once again the scene of an American Civil War encounter as elements of Rosecrans' Army of the Cumberland (Jon) engaged a rag tag assortment of rebels under the command of Braxton Bragg (Robin). The game was developed using the Volley & Bayonet Road To Glory Scenario System. Figures comprise 6mm Heriocs & Ros miniatures on half scale bases.

The two armies, Bragg's Confederates and Rosecrans' Union Army of the Cumberland, approached each other in the area of Thedford a small but bustling township on the Rossville Road. Just north of the town the road branched where the Alexander Road split off to the north east where it ran parallel to the dominating Bettsons Heights which formed part of a long wooded ridge, to be soon known as "Bloody Ridge". Further north, Benning's Creek meandered along a west east axis before turning south as it joined Bitter Creek flowing from the north.

Above, Rosecrans on the left ponders his options while Braxton Bragg reclines in the centre confident of his plan reaping the desired results. On the left Bishop Leonidas Polk looks for guidance from Braxton.

Rosecrans' army comprised three small corps, each of two divisions. Thomas' Corps (Keith) formed the centre. It comprised two divisions, one of which had been reinforced by Wilder's mounted infantry. Rosecrans ordered Thomas to cross Bennings Creek and secure the wooded "Bloody Ridge" which as will be recalled was dominated by Bettson's Heights. Thomas' left was to be protected by Minty's cavalry who would, it was hoped, delay any rebel move across Bitter Creek and the Union rear. On the Union right McCook's Corps, which also comprised two divisions, would cross Bennings Creek and pin the Rebels while awaiting the arrival of the Reserve Corps. As this was the area of the main attack Rosecrans would supervise the operation in person. The Reserve Corps, under Granger, was however strung-out on the Rossville Road and would take at least four hours to arrive in the area of the battlefield. From here it would take another two to three hours to shake out into the line. For those familiar with the Volley & Bayonet scenario system the Union players had drawn card 12.

In contrast Bragg was well concentrated, having drawn card 25. Bragg quickly realised that with a third of the Union army strung out that there was a real chance of defeating the Union army in detail. Polk's Corps (Alastair) would attack the centre with two divisions while a third would attempt to outflank the Union left flank via Bitter Creek. In addition Buckner's Corps would assist advancing directly on Bettson's Heights thus supporting Polk. A further strong Rebel division would extend the line towards Thedford township. Rebel artillery, considered to be of limited value in the wooded terrain, would be massed to dominate the open ground on the Rebel left and further protect the main assault from envelopment.

Above, around 10am the Thomas' 1st Division engages rebel forces who have pushed also advanced on to Bloody Rdige. Thomas' 2nd Division under Negley has already secured Bettsons Heights. The wooded terrain constrained the effective deployment of troops from both sides creating a confusing battle in the woods. Also visible is Bennings Creek in the foreground and Bitter Creek where it joins Bennings Creek on the left. Rebel artillery has not yet been deployed to the more open Rebel left.

Above, a view of the Union left flank around noon, here Minty's cavalry have dismounted and are engaging a division of Polk's Corps. The Rebels here attacked with great elan. Inflicting heavy casualties on Minty's troops they soon crossed the river and charged a hastily deployed Union gun line.

Below, a series of bloody Confederate attacks have been driven back from the ridge by a combination of Union resolve assisted by Wilder's mounted infantry armed with repeating rifles. The later having come as a surprise to the attacking rebels! The dense terrain ensued there were ample opportunities for rebel attacks however, each attack failed and was repulsed. Here, Scribner's Union Brigade counter-attacks a Kentucky Brigade, routing it in the process.

Now in the centre Union troops moved forward to the edge of Bloody Ridge. Wilder's mounted infantry being the first to fully deploy. Not wishing to assault the repeating rifles frontally the rebels now switched to the area around Bettsons Heights itself. Below, troops from Stewart's Division can be seen pushing forward with Bragg urging the troops on in a futile attempt to dislodge troops of Thomas' 2nd Division. In the distance the Confederate gun line can be seen fully deployed.

On the Union right flank Rosecrans finally pushed forward with what forces he had available. It was a risky advance as some of the Union brigades comprised raw troops who lacked an ability for rapid advance and were considered fragile in both attack and defence. Below, Union troops can be seen engaging rebels just west of Thedford township. Yet another rebel attack, this time on the flank, has just been thrown back towards the gun-line.

Finally, after almost seven hours of battle, Grange's Reserve Corps is finally deploying to reinforce the Union line. Below, one division of the corps can be seen having just crossed Benning's Creek while the other is moving to the Union left to replace Minty's collapsed cavalry pickets.

By 4pm all hope of a Rebel victory had evaporated. Bragg's Confederate army had suffered almost a 6500 casualties compared to 4000 Union. Worse with the arrival of Granger's Corps Bragg was himself outnumbered while having gained no advantage of ground in the meantime. The Army of Tennessee had no option but to fall back while Rosecrans' star grew ever brighter...

Tagcon 2011: On Campaign with Ophellas

2011-08-07T10:57:00.012+12:00

The excellent Tagcon 15mm DBA competition is over and like previous years was a great event thanks to the Tagcon crew who provided an excellent venue and much hospitality. The competition drew 13 players and was the largest turnout for Tagcon's DBA to date. From my perspective the Book One theme was a great success and encouraged a range of different armies to be deployed on the table. Many of the perceived "power" armies being replaced with an eclectic mix of armies creating much variety.

For my part I had opted, after some consideration, to take Kyrenean Greeks, that is I/56b. This army was assembled from various Successor and Greek troops who were now shipped off for battle. My army modelled that of Ophellas who governed Kyrene, originally as part of Ptolemaic Egypt, and later as an all but independent kingdom. The army comprised some remnant Ptolemaic troops as well as a great number of mercenaries many of whom were recruited from Athens.

In Ophellas' first battle he found himself deployed against an Early Achaemenid Persian army (Robin). The low Kyrenean aggression found the Kyreneans on the defensive which was to repeated in five of the six engagements of the day. Ophellas' plan was simple, a slow advance with well protected flanks across the table to drive the Persians into the sea, which was at their backs. The Persians for their part attempted a feint against Kyrenean right while they pinned the centre and left before raiding the Kyrenean baggage. Fortunately for Ophellas he drove in the Persian feint on his right wing and his troops repelled the Persian troops attempting to attack his baggage. A win for Ophellas. Above the Kyreneans advance against the Persians while the Persians pin the Kyrenean left. Below, Persian light cavalry slip pass in an attempt to attack the Kyrenean baggage.

In the second battle of the day Ophellas now found himself facing a Nubian invasion (Tony). The Nubian's fielded a great mass of skirmishers, a centre of bow along with some wild tribesmen. Ophellas knew he would need to protect his flanks well as the enemy light troops were likely to launch a series of attacks on his slow pondering flanks. Initially Kyrenean light troops suffered heavy casualties as the Nubians swarmed the Kyrenean left flank. Eventually however, the Nubians were dispatched by the well drilled Kyrenean foot aided by what was termed the lack of Nubian command, now referred to as the "Nubian One".

Above and below the Kyreneans prepare to press forward against Nubian light infantry on the Greek left flank. Ophellas would soon move to the left to cut down a number of Nubian light troops that showered the Greek lines with missiles.

The third battle of the day was against the Middle Assyrian & Early Neo-Assyrians (Arne). Again on the defensive Ophellas selected his battlefield carefully. Another open plain bordered by rocky hills on one flank and the sea on the other. Ophellas was well aware that this battle would be difficult. The heavy chariots of the Assyrians would likely prove difficult to counter and the heavy Assyrian infantry would likely gain the advantage against the Athenian mercenaries filling the Kyrenean ranks. The willy Assyrian commander opted to attack the Kyrenean left and soon had gain significant advantage. However, with Assyrian victory all but assured a body of Kyrenean light troops displaying much resolve. Defying the odds they repulsed Assyrian heavy infantry who were slaughtered in the retreat. This translates to a 6-1 result for the combat between Kyrenean psiloi fighting Assyrian heavy infantry (Bd). Unable to recoil the Assyrian heavy infantry were destroyed. With Kyreneans now encouraged Kyrenean troops counter attacked in several places. In a series of attacks the Assyrian army disintegrated, in a single turn of combat.

The next engagement of the day was against Vedic Indians (Nick). Now on the offensive Ophellas sought to relive his earlier experiences with Alexander in the east. The Indians for their part had deployed a mass of chariots interspersed with elephants in the open plain with archers on the flanks. The Indian right containing a particularly large body of archers who dominated a large forest. Ophellas ordered his infantry forward. He would simply drive the Indians in the open back fleeing the enemy chariots while his phalanx would engage the enemy elephants frontally. A small section of Greek mercenaries would attempt to screen the enemy archers on his left who he believed were unlikely to venture into the open. In the ensuing engagement the Indian centre was slowly pushed back. Several times Indian elephants recoiled back almost trampling their own troops. Alas, the Indian army was saved by the setting sun. Ophellas had failed to drive them from the field in time, though he certainly had bettered them in battle. Below, the Indians and Kyreneans engage in the open field while Indian archers dominate the woods on the left.

Meanwhile another invasion was being planned. Ophellas having returned to Kyrene now faced a Hittite invasion (Stephen). Ophellas hoped to gain the advantage in the clash between the heavy infantry of both armies. However, the Hittite commander had massed his heavy infantry on his right flank and his heavy chariots on his left. This later if able to engage the Greek right could prove difficult to counter. Ophellas seized the initiative and advanced light troops rapidly on his right to threaten the Hittite heavy chariots from a steep hill that overlooked the Hittite left and indeed threatened the Hittite camp. Countering a feint against his left Ophellas now pressed forward and eventually gained the advantage until the Hittites fled the battlefield.

Ophellas, now with fatigue clearly setting in, faced another invasion, this time by the Phoenicians. With risk of a Phoenician naval landing Ophellas was was forced to allocate a portion of his army to protect his right flank. The Phoenicians however deployed on land and marched a large body of light troops against the Kyrenean left flank. Outnumbered Ophellas' own light troops here were eventually overcome. Now resting his hopes in his centre Ophellas advanced. While Phoenician infantry retreated at the advancing Greeks their heavy chariots surged forward. In the ensuing swirling engagement many Greek heavy troops were unable to be fully engaged. Ophellas watched as slowly his once proud mercenaries were bought down by the Phoenician rabble. However, he reconciled himself that his treasuries were full and mercenaries could be replaced. Clearly Ophellas would return...

The final results were as follows:

Arne Lageveen (Hanmer) I/25b Middle Assyrian & Early Neo-Assyrian 882BC - 745BC (55pts)
Keith McNelly (CHCH) I/56b Kyrenean Greek 313BC - 74BC (49pts)
Nick Sutton (CHCH) I/23b Vedic Indian 899BC - 512BC (47pts)
Andrew Taylor (CHCH) I/35b Cypriot and Phoenician 900BC - 680BC (38pts)
Tony Rippin (Timaru) I/03 Nubian 3000BC - 1480BC (36pts)
Brian Sowman (CHCH) I/50 Lydian 687BC - 546BC (36pts)
Simon Phillips (Timaru) I/59 Tullian Roman 578BC - 400BC (31pts)
Stephen Malone (Timaru) I/24b Hittite Empire 1274BC - 1180BC (30pts)
Mark Bradley (Timaru/CHCH)) I/59 Tullian Roman 578BC - 400BC (30pts)
Nigel Wright (Timaru) I/43a Kimmerian, Skythian or Early Hu 750BC - 301BC (29pts)
Lewis Osborne (Timaru) I/26a Later Mycenaean & Trojan War (Achaian) 1150BC - 1190BC (26pts)
Robin Sutton (CHCH) I/60c Early Achaemenid Persian 465BC - 420BC (18pts)
John Alden (Timaru) I/40c Medes, Zirkitu, Andia or Parusua 620BC - 550BC (11pts)

Congratulations to Arne on a well deserved 1st Place and securing a DBA army prize provided by the Tagcon DBA Sponsor Eureka Miniatures in Australia. Also of note was Nick's performance. Nick achieved an outstanding result with an almost meteroic rise to the podium. We must also make mention of Nigel's win which secured him the prize of "Chief Assassin" having dispatched three enemy generals during the course of the day.

Again, a special thanks to the Timaru players for Tagcon 2011. It was another truely great day of Ancient wargaming. Hopefully we will see you at an upcoming DBA event...

Tagcon 2011: Runners & Riders

2011-08-05T20:17:00.002+12:00

Tomorrow the Timaru Wargames Club hosts its annual wargames tournament and for the forth consecutive year a 15mm DBA competition is on offer.

As I have mentioned in an earlier post this year's theme is armies from Book I. This unusual theme, well at least in New Zealand, was likely to draw a few alternate armies out on to the table. So it was with much anticipation that I browsed the published Runners & Riders for the competition. Firstly, it was good to see such good number of players, 13 players is a good number with almost equal numbers of locals and out of town gamers. Secondly, of course along with the list of players is a complete list of armies on offer...

Tony Rippin (Timaru) I/03 Nubian 3000BC - 1480BC
Nick Sutton (CHCH) I/23b Vedic Indian 899BC - 512BC
Stephen Malone (Timaru) I/24b Hittite Empire 1274BC - 1180BC
Arne Lageveen (Hanmer) I/25b Middle Assyrian & Early Neo-Assyrian 882BC - 745BC
Lewis Osborne (Timaru) I/26a Later Mycenaean & Trojan War (Achaian) 1150BC - 1190BC
Andrew Taylor (CHCH) I/35b Cypriot and Phoenician 900BC - 680BC
John Alden (Timaru) I/40c Medes, Zirkitu, Andia or Parusua 620BC - 550BC
Nigel Wright (Timaru) I/43a Kimmerian, Skythian or Early Hu 750BC - 301BC
Brian Sowman (CHCH) I/50 Lydian 687BC - 546BC
Keith McNelly (CHCH) I/56b Kyrenean Greek 313BC - 74BC
Simon Phillips (Timaru) I/59 Tullian Roman 578BC - 400BC
Mark Bradley (TICH) I/59 Tullian Roman 578BC - 400BC
Robin Sutton (CHCH) I/60c Early Achaemenid Persian 465BC - 420BC

There are a few surprises here for me which I need to some research on such as Nubians, Vedic Indians and Phoenicians. I was expected one Tullian Roman, but was interested to see two are taking the field. I had expected a Thracian army but alas it is not to be deployed. Now, it is off to pack the army, check the terrain and prepare for the challenges of Tagcon 2011. Stay tuned for photos and results...

Locust Grove Creek - 1862

2011-07-30T11:07:00.017+12:00

Friday evening found The Wargames Room the scene of some American Civil War gaming using the Volley & Bayonet rules and 6mm figures. Specifically a fictional engagement at Locust Grove Creek.

The general situation was that elements of Albert Sidney Johnson's Army of the Mississippi were determined to press forward and attack advanced elements of the Army of the Tennessee, despite being outnumbered in men and artillery. The two armies would eventually clash near Locust Grove Creek. The army of the Mississippi, well under strength, comprised two Corps, I Corps under Polk and II Corps under Bragg. While Polk's two divisions moved along the Baker's Pike in road column Bragg's Corps, also comprising only two divisions, pushed forward on the Rebel right. Bragg's two divisions were screened by Wheelers and Pegram's cavalry.

The Union forces opted for a defensive deployment and were soon deploying around the Locust Grove bridge where the Baker's Pike crosses the creek. Initially deployed was McClenard's Division though this was soon reinforced with additional divisions so that elements of the Army of the Tennessee formed an almost solid line along the swampy creek. Clearly outnumbered, and with fewer artillery pieces, Johnson decided to mass his cannon in the centre, lightly screen his left and push hard with Bragg's divisions on the right. Once across the creek he hoped that Bragg's troops would operate more freely in the wooded terrain free from the ever present Union artillery. Above, Johnson's Army of the Mississippi can be seen in the foreground while the Union army of the Tennessee can be seen lining Locust Grove Creek.

Bragg's weak corps comprised two divisions, Ruggles' and Wither's. While Wither's division pinned a section of the Union line Ruggles crossed the swampy Locust Grove Creek screened by the Rebel cavalry much of it was now dismounted. Grant meanwhile had realised the risk to his left and now extended his line with both infantry and his own dismounted cavalry.

While Ruggles' brigades regained their cohesion, having crossed the creek, Wither's division was soon fully engaged attempting to pin the Union forces opposite. Indeed, Wither's brigades suffered heavy casualties as they came under both rifled musket and artillery fire from the Union forces lining the creek. Meanwhile, to Wither's left, the Rebel artillery massed into a grand-battery, began to pound the Union infantry opposite. Despite being outnumbered the Rebel artillery fire was greatly superior and soon McClenard's division had lost cohesion. While clearly disconcerting to Grant he simply ordered reinforcements from his extreme right towards the centre, such was the advantage of Union numbers.

Above, two brigades of Ruggles' Division have crossed the creek screened by mounted and dismounted cavalry. Gibson's Brigade, Ruggles' reserve, is yet to cross. Wither's Division is engaged in a costly fire fight in the distance near Baker's Pike.

Now, Johnson looked to Bragg on his right. Rugger's first two brigades, Pond's and Anderson's, having reformed now advanced with much elan. However, Union fire from the wood edge was relentless and the attacks from both brigades were repulsed. The Union troops now conducted a limited counter-attack hoping to gain some advantage. However, quickly reforming Pond's Brigade drove off the ill considered counter-attack. As the Union brigade retreated it exposed the Union right. Now Ruggles' reserve, Gibson's Brigade, launched a devasting attack on the flank of a Union brigade. Not surprisingly the yankee brigade broke and fled, though not before inflicting heavy casualties on Gibson's troops.

Indeed, the fighting had been costly. Ruggles' Division, having been engaged for over three hours, had itself now collapsed. Wither's Division had lost one entire brigade and was clearly unable to undertake offensive action. Bragg simply had no reserve of troops in his corps to now commit. Indeed, he was now covering the entire right with a few dismounted cavalry. The rebel army was just too weak. Johnson, realising that he had lost the initiative, reluctantly ordered a retreat. The Army of the Mississippi would fall back, be reinforced, and strike the Union line elsewhere.

Christchurch Wargames Club DBA Championship 2011

2011-07-26T19:40:00.007+12:00

Well another excellent DBA tournament is out of the way and yet more interest has been generated in DBA. Either as a result of new players trying out DBA or jaded veterans looking for a day's casual gaming.

In the post event discussions it was felt that DBA is well supported in the form of one day tournaments but that new players and casual games between players were not so well supported. Various options were discussed including more workshops, a club DBA ladder or perhaps a league.

Eventually the idea of a league was settled on and the details thrashed out. As such we would like to invite members of the Christchurch Wargames Club, as well as perspective members, to participate in the inaugural Christchurch Wargames Club DBA Championship for 2011. It will, I'm sure, be a low key enjoyable event but with plenty of challenges for those seeking glory on the wargames table.

Full details on the Championship can be found here. Hopefully this is all of interest? Assuming it is start organising some games and send in the results. My money is on the Carthaginians...

Christchurch DBA Open 2011 - Ancient Tournament Results

2011-07-24T18:58:00.009+12:00

Today the Christchurch Wargames Club was the venue for the first tournament of the "Christchurch DBA Open". Readers may recall this first tournament of the Open comprises armies up to 450AD. The second tournament is in December and will draw armies from 451AD to 1487AD. Despite a few last minute attempts to obtain an additional player, to even up numbers, we headed into the event with 11 players.

Several of the players can be seen above. Most are clearly deep in thought, pondering how they can gain advantage. Jim however seems to be relaxing a little, perhaps focussing on the photo opportunity?

As I mentioned in an earlier post there were a number of armies I've not seen before in competitions. Some of which have recently been painted. These included Hittites, Thracians, Camilian Roman and Galatians. Above, my Carthaginians attempt to engage Lewis' Thracians in the small valley surrounded by hills and woods. Also in use for the first time was Brian's very well painted Classical Indians. These professionally painted Indians were truly exquisite. A small section of the army can be seen below.

The quality of the terrain was also very pleasing. Several players had clearly invested time in new terrain and that combined with the every increasing quality of armies was great to see.

Also of note was that for two players this was their first DBA competition. One of the new DBA players was Kees, whose Middle Imperial Romans can be seen advancing against my Carthaginians during round three.

Timaru sent a solid contingent up for the event with three players making the trip up to Christchurch. One such was Simon. Below, Simon's Camillian Romans prepare to be outflanked by the Carthaginian mounted massed on the Carthaginian left flank. Unfortunately, at least for Carthage, all hope of victory on this flank were lost when the Carthaginian commander was killed in an early combat!

An intense round five found many players aiming to finish the day in a strong position. Below, Brian and Arne face off while behind them Simon engages Gordon and his Seleucids.

The final placings were very interesting. Gordon managed to smash his way to victory with a massive score of 54pts out of a possible 60 points across the five rounds. However, the next five players were within 6 points of each other. Second and third places could easily have been secured by any of these players as you can see below.

Final Placings:

Gordon Pinchin (CHCH), II/19(a) Seleucid 320BC-280BC (54pts)
Brian Sowman (CHCH), II/3 Classical Indian 500BC-545AD (36pts)
Jim Morton (Lincoln), II/20(c) Ptolemaic 166BC-54BC (35pts)
Stephen Malone (Timaru), I/24(b) Hittite Empire 1274BC-1180BC (32pts)
Arne Lageveen (Hanmer), II/44 Commagene 163BC-17AD and 38AD-72AD (31pts)
John Edmundson (CHCH), II/30(b) Galatian 272BC-48BC (30pts)
Nick Sutton (CHCH), II/78(b) Eastern Late Imperial Romans 307AD-425AD (26pts)
Kees de Jager (CHCH), II/64(b) Eastern Middle Imperial Romans 193AD-324AD (26pts)
Simon Phillips (Timaru), II/10 Camillian Romans 400BC-275BC (25pts)
Keith McNelly (CHCH), II/32 Later Carthaginain 275BC-146BC (20pts)
Lewis Osborne (Timaru), I/48 Thracian 700BC-46BC (17pts)

Gordon & Jim tied for the "Most Enemy Generals Killed" dispatching two each. In contrast I managed to have three of my own generals killed. In my defence I'm sure I heard there was to be a prize for the player who lost the most generals, alas I was mistaken. Interestingly, only one camp was lost and that was a Galatian camp (John) lost to Brian's marauding Indians.

Thanks must go to Brian for organising the day which I'm sure was enjoyed by all. Next up is Tagcon in less than two weeks. Hopefully we will see you there? But if not there is plenty of time to organise yourself for Conquest (October) or the Medieval Round of the DBA Open in December.

DBA Open - Ancient Tournament Runners & Riders

2011-07-21T18:52:00.009+12:00

This Sunday the Ancient Tournament which forms part of the Christchurch DBA Open is being played here in Christchurch. This first tournament draws armies with a list date prior to 450AD. As with last year the day comprises five games each of one hour duration. This will be followed in December by the Medieval Tournament of the Christchurch DBA Open with armies from 451AD to 1490AD. Players can participate in either or both tournaments of the Christchurch DBA Open.

Yesterday the organiser posted a list of Runners & Riders. For those interested in such things here is the list:

I/24(b) Hittite Empire 1274BC-1180BC (Stephen Malone, Timaru)
I/48 Thracian 700BC-46BC (Lewis Osborne, Timaru)
II/3 Classical Indian 500BC-545AD (Brian Sowman, Christchurch)
II/10 Camillian Romans 400BC-275BC (Simon Phillips, Timaru)
II/19(a) Seleucid 320BC-280BC (Gordon Pinchin, Christchurch)
II/20(c) Ptolemaic 166BC-54BC (Jim Morton, Lincoln)
II/30(b) Galatian 272BC-48BC (John Edmundson, Christchurch)
II/32 Later Carthaginain 275BC-146BC (Keith McNelly, Christchurch)
II/44 Commagene 163BC-17AD and 38AD-72AD (Arne Lageveen, Hanmer)
II/64(b) Eastern Middle Imperial Romans 193AD-324AD (Kees de Jager, Christchurch)
II/78(b) Eastern Late Imperial Romans 307AD-425AD (Nick Sutton, Christchurch)

There are some interesting new armies including Galatians, Thracians and Commagene. In addition two people entering this will be their first DBA competition, something I am very pleased to see. I'm sure it will be another great day, especially if I work out how to use the Carthaginians between now and Sunday...

DBA Workshop

2011-07-17T19:20:00.009+12:00

After a recent holiday I today managed to get down to the Christchurch Wargames Club for a DBA workshop organised by Brian Sowman. An excellent idea and one that is long over due. Around six people attended with two of the players being new to DBA. For my part I took along a Successor army as well as two hoplite armies, but as it transpired the Successor army of "Demetrius the Besieger" was the only one of my armies to be deployed.

My first game was against John's Ptolemaic army, a veteran army with several years of DBM experience and commanded by an equally seasoned commander. While John hadn't played DBA before he quickly seized the initiative and both out deployed and outmanoeuvred Demetrius. However, with casualties mounting and the battle lost Demetrius charged the enemy elephants at the head of his companions and drove the Ptolemaic elephants back in disorder. These elephants in the process trampled a large portion of the Ptolemaic phalanx, as can be seen below!

Clearly, the gods were with Demetrius after all! Encouraged, and with rampaging elephants to his front, Demetrius continued to attack, as can be seen below. With the Ptolemaic flank crumbling Greek cavalry now attacked the Ptolemaic camp. The camp followers fled at the determined advance and as a result the Ptolemaic army broke in rout.

Next up Demetrius was to face Nick using a Late Roman army. The Greeks were on the defensive and found their right flank somewhat exposed by the need to garrison a small town near which the Romans were deploying. The Roman attacks on the town were as expected sudden. While the Greek garrison repelled one attack the hoplites were soon withdrawn, clearly any other action would have been too foolhardy. Below, Nick considers his options having just captured the town with Roman heavy infantry. The townsfolk put up a strong resistance but could only last so long...

While the town was being assualted the main Roman army had crossed a paltry stream and Demetrius advanced his main line to engage it. While echeloning his left back he personally galloped forward on the right centre. In quick succession Demetrius launched several charges breaking three separate blocks of Roman infantry. Below, Demetrius attacks the Roman line in the rear.

With victory all but achieved the Greek pike phalanx now surged forward and broke a further Roman formation. The Roman army collapsed, Demetrius was clearly unstoppable!

To finish off the afternoon a rematch was called for. This time Demetrius showed more restraint and remained back in the centre pinning some Roman cataphracts. However, on his left wing Greek cavalry, light cavalry and elephants attacked and eventually broke the Roman right wing. Clearly an excellent day for "Demetrius the Besieger", or if you are to believe Ptolemaic propaganda "Demetrius the Tinny"!

Other games being played on other tables included Barbarian Germans vs Later Romans & Chinese vs Ptolemaics, but the results of these games have been lost to history I'm afraid...

Tagcon 2011: DBA Update

2011-06-24T19:44:00.010+12:00

It is now just six weeks until Tagcon 2011. For the fourth consecutive year the Timaru Armchair Generals will be running a 15mm DBA competition as part of the long established TAGCON event. Early bird registrations are about to close so it is time for locals to commit.

Basic details on Timaru's 15mm Ancient competition are as follows:

Date: Saturday 6th August.
Scale: 15mm
Theme: Armies drawn from those defined in Section One lists.

With a colourful list of empires covered it will be interesting to see what armies are deployed on the table. Mycenaens, Assyrians, Hittites, New Kingdom Egyptians, Persians and Early Hoplite Greeks are all obvious contenders. But others such as Sumerian's and Elamites could also be deployed. Certainly a different set of armies than one usually sees.

Details, including the registration process, can be found at the official Timaru Armchair General's Tagcon 2011 page. Hopefully we will so you at Tagcon's 2011 DBA competition.

Finally, for some breaking news. Early indications are that the theme for Tagcon's 2012 DBA competition has also been determined. It is likely to be armies from Section Three. So clearly it looks like I will have to start thinking about a new army, 1066 beckons perhaps...

Harquebusiers & Hussars Report - Winter 2011

2011-06-19T17:52:00.009+12:00

Today, "Harquebusiers & Hussars" our local Renaissance event was held at the Woolston Club here in Christchurch. The event runs three times a year and has of recent times used smaller condensed scale armies. This time a total of seven players participated. As three players had not used the rules before we replaced the planned format and instead adopted a workshop structure with several introductory games.

Above, Michael and Darryl ponder their first DBR game. Darryl used a Mongol army comprising light horse and sipahis. In contrast Michael used an early Ottoman Turkish army with an eclectic mix of sipahis, bow, light horse and the much feared untrained horde. Below, another view of the game showing the troops in mid battle with the Mongols on the left. The Turkish azabs, or hordes, are safetly garrisoning the small town in the distance.

On another table John and Arne played out an English Civil War game between Scots Covenanters and Montrose's Scots Royalists. Arne decimated the attacking Scots Royalists whose wild charges failed repeatedly. Undetered, John opted to use Montrose's Scots in his second game of the day also against the Scots Covenanters who were now commanded by Kees.

Yet again Montrose suffered a defeat. Now, leaving Scotland in the "safe" hands of the Covenanters, Montrose slipped away into an early exile. Above, John and Kees can be seen engaged in battle.

Finally, for my part, I managed one game and that against Arne. Arne had abandoned the Covenanter cause and aligned himself with Charles I. Now commanding a Royalist army, he engaged in battle Roundheads of the Eastern Association. Part of the battle can be seen below, viewed from the Roundhead lines.

The Roundhead cavalry on the left were eventually to cut down the Royalist shot to their front who lacked the support of pike. This, combined with heavy Royalist casualties in the centre, ensured the Roundheads gained the upper hand and the Royalist army eventually collapsed. Below, Royalist foot and horse prepare to advance on the Roundhead right wing. On this flank the Parliamentarian cavalry were driven from the field, but the Royalist cavalry charged off in pursuit...

An excellent days gaming and an introduction for several players to Renaissance gaming. Hopefully we will see you at the next round of Harquebusiers & Hussars.

Tuwhare's Revenge

2011-06-18T10:39:00.020+12:00

The following is a short account of an engagement between two Maori iwi (tribes), the Ngapuhi and Ngati Whatua. The game, fought recently at The Wargames Room, used 15mm miniatures.

Ngapuhi and Ngati Whatua had been involved in a series of small raids and counter raids for some years. One such took place in the 1640s when the Ngapuhi, led by the rangatira Tuwhare, sent a large taua to seek revenge, or utu, for passed wrongs. At the head of some 1,650 warriors Tuwhare made good progress travelling down the east coast past Hokianga. While much of his taua travelled light it still contained a significant amount of supplies and an increasing number of slaves it acquired on the march south.

Meanwhile the Ngati Whatua had heard of the dispatch of the taua and gathered a slightly larger force under the great rangatira Murupaenga (Alastair) to oppose it. Abandoning baggage and moving rapidly Murupaenga moved forward and selected a battlefield he hoped would provide him with some advantage. However, to Murupaenga frustration Tuwhare had managed to seize some high ground opposite. Now, Murupaenga divided his own 1,900 warriors into four groups and contemplated how he may dislodge Tuwhare and his Ngapuhi from the high ground. Finally he determined to realign his main body and to advance in two groups one against each hill. His reserve line would eventually move up to support the gap that would open in the centre. Above, the two taua deployed with Ngapuhi in the foreground. Murupaenga has started to swing his warriors forward to attack the hills opposite.

Tuwhare however had achieved his aim and now hoped to gain advantage by the exposed flank of the Ngati Whatu. He now pressed forward with his small reserve in the centre intent to fall open the open flank presenting itself in the centre.

Above and below Tuwhare and his Ngapuhi advance, on the left, to attack the exposed flank of the Ngati Whatu before it can be covered by the Ngati Whatu reserve.

Tuwhare was first to charge the Ngati Whatua. To his left and right Ngapuhi on the left wing also surged forward. The clash was dramatic. A group of Ngati Whatua were pushed back by the initial charge and Tuwhare and 200 Ngapuhi pursued relentlessly. Below, Tuwhare has just forced back some Ngati Whatua allowing other Ngapuhi to engage a now exposed group of Ngati Whatua. The result created a gap through which Tuwhare soon pressed forward through.

However, Murupaenga realising the ferociousness of the charge now signalled a general attack and the Ngati Whatu also surged forward with patu and taiaha.

A confusing melee now ensued on the Ngapuhi left flank and would soon extend itself to the right as well. In the ensuing combats the Ngati Whatua slowly started to gain the advantage. Tuwhare however continued to press froward breaking many additional groups of Ngati Whatua that were encountered.

Above, the Ngati Whatua attack the Ngapuhi right wing. In the top right Tuwhare continues forward attacking Ngati Whatua reserves and destroying all before him.

While Tuwhare swung ruthlessly at his assailants with his mere, the pu kaea (trumpet) bellowed encouragement to the now struggling and out numbered Ngapuhi who counter-attacked on the right. Below, on the left, the Ngapuhi sweep forward from the high ground on the right flank. On the right of the photo Tuwhare presses relentlessly forward having dispatched more of his enemies.

However, despite Tuwhare's heroic deeds the Ngapuhi losses were now becoming crippling. As Ngati Whatu surged forward in the centre towards the Ngapuhi baggage the Ngapuhi broke and fled the field.

The losses had been heavy for both sides. Some 750 Ngapuhi had been lost while almost 600 Ngati Whatu had fallen. However, while Tuwhare fell back, his mana very much intact, the cooking fires of the Ngati Whatu were being readied. Tuwhare's revenge was far from complete and the scene was set for further war.

Some additional notes on the game. The battle was fought using the DBR rules, 15mm figures and DBR's "normal scale". In this scale each stand represented 100 men, or 50 if representing skirmishers or scouts. The table measured 1.2m x 0.9m. The two armies each comprised around 130 points of troops. The game was fast moving with the Blade(F) rating encouraging both armies to charge home, often with dramatic results. The Ngati Whatu had a lower army break, due to the fact they had no baggage, but additional warriors. The figures are from Evil Gong Miniatures in Australia.

Conquest 2011: 15mm DBA Competition

2011-06-10T19:53:00.012+12:00

It is time to start planning for Conquest's 15mm DBA competition. Can the hoplites of Greece destroy the Persian Empire? Will the young Roman republic destroy Carthage or face defeat itself? Will the Successor states prosper at Rome's expense or will the Celts ravage Europe?

Find out at the 15mm DBA Ancients competition to be held as part of “Conquest”, Comic Compulsion's annual gaming convention which is scheduled to run here in Christchurch on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th of October 2011.

Running over two days the DBA competitions will have two themes. The first will cover all the armies defined in Section I and II of the army lists up to 450AD. The second will cover armies with a list date from 451AD-1490AD. Each competition is separate.

So start organising yourself, and your army, for Conquest's 15mm DBA competition. After all it's an event not to be missed! Further details, including how to register, can be found here.

Relief of Little Bootham: Summer 1643

2011-06-05T11:43:00.017+12:00

"Trotwood begins to play with his cannon, and throws down a piece of wall. Wee fall to work, and make it up with earth: this happened in the morning. About noon they sprang their mine under St Mary's tower, and blew it up one part of it, which falling outward made the access more easy."

An extract from a dispatch that had been delivered to Lord Sutton on the fateful summers morning in 1643. Written by Sir Henry Slingsby, commander of the besieged town of Little Bootham, it described the conduct of the siege. Now, with Little Bootham visible in the distance, Lord Sutton was clearly intent on ensuring the defeat of Sir Arthur Trotwood's forces and relieving the siege.

For his part Lord Sutton had under his command some 3200 foot and 1500 horse along with a handful of light drakes. A force roughly similar in size to that Sir Arthur had gathered. Indeed, Sir Arthur had under command some 3600 foot and 1500 horse. Of the horse some 300 Lobsters were under his own direct command and were supported by a further 1200 horse of the local counties who were all massed on his left. In addition he had hauled a number of great gunnes, including "Roaring Tom" most recently employed in the siege of Little Bootham and now dragged to the field. Not ideally suited to an open battle he none the less deployed these gunnes to bombard any Royalist troops deployed on Barre Hill opposite his centre. Above Lord Sutton and his Royalists can be seen deployed upon Barre Hill and his horse massed on his right.

The engagement opened with a Royalist advance against the Roundhead left by the Royalist horse. Initially it seemed the infantry of the centre would hold their position but once the great guns of Trotwood's line unleashed their fury Lord Sutton ordered a general advance. Clearly he could not sustain such a bombardment for any length of time.

On the Roundhead left the expected Royalist horse pressed home their attacks. Splashing across the stream that divided the horse of both armies, the Royalist horse charged the Roundhead county horse. No doubt disorganised the cavaliers were thrown back. Reforming they charged again, though once more they were thrown back. This pattern was repeated several times with little gain. The battle it would seem would be decided in the centre.

Here, the foot of both sides engaged in a prolonged musket dual. Neither seemed unwilling to press home their attacks with the exception of a Royalist brigade of foot that pushed forward in the very centre. Here the disordered lines played havoc on the massed Royalist pike. Of note however was the efficiency of the Roundhead gunnes, including Roaring Tom. The Roundhead gunners plied their trade with great effectiveness caused great consternation to those enemy foot who pressed forward to overrun them.

Slowly the Royalist foot began to break and eventually the small gaps in the line became great and with it Royalist resolve collapsed. Lord Sutton, it would seem, had been defeated.

As a footnote the game was of course played with the DBR rules. The armies each comprised 120 points of troops and used condensed scale. The Royalists had 14 stands plus baggage, while the Roundheads had 15 stands but no baggage.

Crossing the Purple Line: October 1973

2011-06-04T14:03:00.013+12:00

Last night The Wargames Room once again found us on the Golan Heights using Modern Spearhead. The scenario was generated using the Scenario Generation System and found the Syrians with the strategic initiative. The Syrian commander (Andrew) opted for a Deliberate Attack allowing him to bring the full support of the Syrian artillery to play. Unwilling to suffer such a massive assault the Israeli commander opted to conduct a Spoiling Attack. Outnumbered and facing an entrenched enemy the Israeli's would clearly have a difficult task ahead. Below, Israeli Centurions move forward on the Golan in 1973.

Ben Gal looked at the faces of his offices assembled in his orders group. The various battalion commanders of the reformed 7th Brigade knew they had a difficult task ahead but all agreed it was time to catch the Syrians off-guard. Intelligence indicated the Syrians had three infantry battalions deployed on a frontage of around 7.5kms. The positions was believed to be within the Syrian 85th Infantry Brigades area, forming part of the area of operations of the Syrian 7th Infantry Division. Two battalions were deployed forward and the third, on the Syrian left, was deployed echoloned back covering the less important left flank. It was expected that the enemy battalions were entrenched and supported by BRDMs equipped with Saggers and in some cases T-54 tanks. In a central reserve position was a further Syrian tank battalion, proably drawn from 78th Tank Brigade. It was expected that a further tank battalion was in immediate reserve, though in fact this was not the case.

The Israeli 7th Brigade comprised three battalions. Kahalani's 77th Tank Battalion, Barak's 82nd Tank Battalion and Eldar's 75th Mechanised battalion. Each was now reorganised into battalion sized task forces of two tank companies and one mechanised infantry company. The plan called for a night attack with Kahalani's and Barak's battalions crossing the start line some 90 minutes before dawn. The battalions would advance, using a covered approach, against the extreme Syrian left flank before swing left and attacking from the flank of the Syrian 3rd Battalion. Eldar's battalion would conduct a deeper flanking movement and was timed to enter the battle area around 60 minutes after first light. On the extreme right this battalion would have the furtherest to move. It's primary task was to fall on the rear of 7th Brigade's initial objective. After destroying the Syrian 3rd Battalion the Brigade would push forward into rear Syrian positions or fight isolated enemy battalions in a mobile battle. The routes of advance of the battalions are shown in blue. The light blue arrow was part of Eldar's original route though this was cancelled as the operation was unfolding.

The night attack was selected to provide additional cover form the expected advanced Syrian recon screen as well as limit the initial impact of Syrian ATGWs which were becoming problematic for the Israeli commanders. The problems of coordinating the night attack were soon apparent. Kahalani's brigade was reinforced with the Brigade HQ and in the deployed in the centre. It was however delayed 60 minutes and only crossed the start line 30 minutes prior to dawn. Barak's brigade, on the Israeli left, was delayed an additional 30 minutes and finally crossed his battalion start line as dawn was breaking. Both battalions now pushed forward with speed in an attempt to regain time.

While the battalions moved forward Israeli divisional staffers were hard at work plotting Syrian radar positions. By dawn three separate radar signatures had been detected and plotted and as dawn broke 175mm artillery fire began to fall on radar signatures detected in 7th Brigades area of operation. The M107's however had insufficient range to engage the heavy SAM screen covering rear areas. Soon after divisional electronic warfare teams began the next stage of the operation as they shaped the battlefield. They now switched to radio jamming operations. This phase was now critical as all three battalions would soon be visible to Syrian artillery observers. The radio jamming would disrupt the Syrian artillery requests and inhibit the repositioning of Syrian battalions as the Israeli ground attacks got under way.

Despite Israeli radio jamming Syrian artillery fires soon started to fall on the advancing Israeli battalions with the Israeli mechanised infantry clearly the target. Eldar's battalion clearly concerned the Syrian commander the most at this battalion was particular targeted by 122mm howitzer and 120mm mortars fires. However, as soon as the Syrian artillery opened fire they were detected and targeted by Israeli counter-battery fires. In contrast Syrian counter-battery assets remained unable to locate Israeli artillery.

The three Israeli battalions had manouvred around the Syrian 3rd Battalions forward positions, seen above and were engaging HQ and reserve positions positions, as seen below.

While Israeli mechanised infantry and Centurion tanks engaged the positions with direct fire they were also supported by divisional M50 self-propoelled artillery fires. This combination, and weight of the Israeli attack, now forced the Syrian 3rd Battalions forward elements to realign. This realignment not only disrupted the defence positions but was observerd by the elements of Barak's 82nd Tank Battalion. The battalion HQ now requested air support.

Soon six Israeli Skyhawk jets began their attack runs. The sky was filled with the tell tail trails of Syrian SAMs comprising on table SA-7 and off table SA-2s. However, determined to press their attacks the Israeli jets released their rockets with deadly results. As the Skyhawks turned for home Isreali ground forces continued their relentless attacks with several T-55 and infantry platoons succumbing to the attacks. Below, Israeli Skyhawks attack the Syrian 3rd Battalion's forward positions.

The Syrian 3rd Battalion's casualties were mounting. Yet, unbelievably, the Syrian Brigade commander was unable to issue orders for the repositioning of other battalions of the 85th Infantry Brigade. Clearly the Syrians were paralysed. Indeed, even the attached tank battalion, a local reserve, remained uncommitted within the brigade defensive perimeter. The Israeli's had clearly secured the initiative.

Now, with the Syrian reserve positions collapsing the forward elements of the 3rd Battalion were hit by yet another group of Skyhawks. This time three aircraft hit the same forward positions. The Syrian battalion now broke and the remaining elements disentergrated under the weight of attack. The Ben Gal's 7th Brigade had proven itself yet again.

However, now Isreali errors in command became apparant. While the brigade had achieved its initial objective the advance now paused. With the expected Syrian reserve formations failing to appear 7th Brigade instead of pressing forward lost valuable time regrouping and consolidate the position. Ben Gal was clearly frustrated with the situation. Where was the expected Syrian counter-attack? A poorly coordinated Syrian attack now would have ended in disaster and have transformed his initial gains into a meaningful victory. Instead he now needed to relocate the enemy and push out his own recon. The initiative was slipping away and division was looking to seize the initiative elsewhere.

Above, Syrian SU-100 and T-55s litter the Golan. This scene was what Ben Gal hoped to repeat should a Syrian counter-attack have been launched.

Game Summary:

In game terms the forces comprised 660 points of Syrians rated WARPAC2 and regular. This comprised a defend list reinforced with an option A for a one point penalty under the scenario system. In contrast the Israeli forces, undertaking the spoiling attack drew their forces from a defend list, also of 600 points. It was however supported by a free option B, the Skyhawks and additional artillery. Two Israeli battalions comprised 8 stands and one 10 stands. All were NATO1 veteran.

At the end of the game the Syrians retained four objectives but had lost one battalion. The Israeli's captured one objective and lost four stands reducing one small battalion to 50% resulting in the loss of a victory point. Therefore the final situation resulted in a 8-4 Syrian game victory. While destroying one Syrian battalion the Israeli's had failed to capture enough game objectives, or destroy other Syrian battalions, due to not issuing follow-on orders during the operation. A very interesting game which both players enjoyed.

Um Butne: October 1973

2011-05-28T10:25:00.014+12:00

Our Arab-Israeli forays continue. This week we switch to operations in the north against Syrians using a Hasty Attack scenario developed using the Scenario Generation System. The Israeli's having secured the initiative bring four weak battalions against four Syrian battalions who have adopted a defensive positions well supported by Saggers and entrenched mechanised infantry.

On the 11th of October elements of Israeli forces crossed the "Purple Line". Having held the Syrian assault on the Golan now the Israeli forces were truly on the offensive. With Raful's division operating in the Northern sector it was Laner's Ugda which pushed forward in the southern sector with it's main effort north east of Kuneitra and on the Khan Arnaba axis. Two weak brigade groups now formed a composite formation to conduct operations north of the town of Um Butne. Uri Orr (Keith) was given operational command and drew two battalions from his own brigade (Centurions) and a further two from Sarig's 17th Brigade (M60s). Opposite were elements of the Syrian 5th Infantry Division, under Brig. General Ali Aslan (Andrew). In particular, the Syrian 132nd Mechanised Brigade.

Aware that the Syrians had three battalion defensive points, Orr opted to concentrate his efforts on the Syrian right flank. The aim was to break open one flank and then conduct a more mobile operation against Syrian reinforcements. Orr moved with his Brigade HQ and 1st Battalion directly towards the expected Syrian defence line while on his right Sarig did the same. Both formations would advance forward and support each other to secure their initial objectives. Sarig's initial objective was the Um Butne bridge while orr's was a ridge line around 1km in length further north. To Orr's left his second battalion would conduct a flanking movement and apply pressure on the ridge line from the flank. Meanwhile, Sarig's second battalion would form an operational reserve on the Israeli right. From this position it could advance via a converging axis to support the main attack, or adopt a blocking position to halt Syrian reinforcements entering the battle area from the east.

The Syrians had for their part managed to dig in their mechanised infantry formations. They had also positioned their first battalion further forward than expected. Indeed, the defensive positions of the Syrian 1st Battalion focussed on the Um Butne bridge and surrounding area, with support from by Sagger emplacements to the east. The 2nd Mechanised Battalion and the brigade's tank battalion were deployed well to the east and were unlikely to be of immediate assistance to the 1st Battalion. However, a further Syrian tank battalion was held to the rear of 1st Battalions position. Above, the Syrian 1st Mechanised Battalion position near Um Butne bridge and in particular the Sagger positions east of the bridge.

The hasty Israeli attack was underway late in the day and soon uncovered a Syrian recon sceen deployed on a small rise between the advancing Israeli centre battalions. The Syrian recon screen was pinned in place by infantry of Sarig's 1st battalion but was otherwise ignored, as shown above.

More critical events unfolded for Sarig's 1st Battalion when the mechanised infantry company came under heavy mortar fire. The casualties in the Zelda platoons were significant until Israeli divisional artillery silenced the battery by counter-battery fires conducted by M50 and M107 batteries. However, no sooner had this threat been silenced than the battalion came under Sagger fire from a ridge a 1400m away. Sarig was now taking unsustainable casualties on his already weak 1st Battalion. Indeed, despite his use of smoke he was pinned in place. Instead of retiring he pushed forward, as such he located the Sagger teams and soon requests for additional fire support flooded the radio network resulting in the final suppression of the Sagger teams.

Above, an overview of the Israeli plan showing the routes of advance of three battalions, including that conducting a deep flank march. The Syrian 1st Mechanised Battalion position around the Um Butne bridge, along with the supporting Syrian armour reinforcement route of are also shown, in red. Below, elements of Sarig's 1st Battalion press forward to the Um Butne bridge.

Meanwhile Orr, also bypassing the Syrian Recon screen, continued to move north east. With no enemy detected on his ridge line he know swung hard east in support of Sarig's hard pressed 1st Battalion. As he did so he uncovered the entrenched Syrian infantry positions around the Um Butne bridge allowing his own 1st Battalion to become fully engaged. However, Orr's second battalion, which was conducting a deep flank march, had still not arrived and his left flank now was becoming increasingly exposed to enemy action. Especially should the Syrian armoured thrust continue it's advance on his poition. Worse, until the location of Syrian infantry and Sagger teams Orr was unable to commit his reserve battalion. The net result of course was another battalion was delaid and uncommitted. The Israeli attack was clearly splintered.

With darkness approaching on the casualties mounting Orr ordered the attack to halt and the battalions to disengage. Another avenue of advance was clearly needed, one less dominated by enemy Sagger defences. Tomorrow would be another day on the road to Damascus...

Montrose Invades England: 1645

2011-05-22T20:06:00.013+12:00

"He either fears his fates too much, Or his deserts are small, Who dares not put it to the touch, To win or lose it all" (James Graham, 5th Earl of Montrose).

In the late summer of 1645 Montrose, flush with his victory over Baille and his Covenanters at Kilsyth on the 15th of August, set forth on his invasion of England. By passing Edinburgh and moving at remarkable speed Montrose had crossed border before the first of the autumn colour appeared in the trees. His army comprised some 400 horse, 150 dragoons and 3000 foot. It was one of the largest assemblies of troops he had commanded. Below, Montrose flanked by the highlanders of various clans.

Parliament, for it's part, dispatched a blocking force from one of the local county armies under command of Sir Thomas Hoogan. The New Model being busy engaging the King's now scattered army following the Roundhead victory at Naesby in June. Sir Thomas bought his own regiment, now commanded by Nathaniel Palgrave, and two other regiments. Some 1800 foot. In addition Sir Thomas mustered 825 horse and 50 dragoons along with a small train of artillery, a mix of sakers and drakes.

Sir Thomas, being in some pain due to an unknown ailment on the day, hastily deployed his army soon after midday with little thought to the consequences. In his centre were Palgrave's regiment of foot and that of Holmes. On his right was that of Dales' regiment of foot, which along with some Drakes and around 200 horse formed the right wing under Colonel Purbeck Temple. On the left wing, under Sir Hatton Wild, were stationed the bulk of the Roundhead cavalry. Some 500 horse and a troop of dragoons.

Montrose deployed with more consideration. His 1200 highlanders gathered around Montrose who unfurled his banner and extended his own left with the Strathbogie Regiment, now brigaded with the remains of Patrick Graham's Inchbrackie's Regiment. To Montrose's right was MacColla and his 600 Irish veterans as well as a further 600 Lowland Scots armed with muskets, but without pike. On the extreme right, under Nathaniel Gordon, was the Royalist horse. Some 300 cavalry with pistol and carbine, 100 with lance and 150 dragoons. The Royalist line extended well past the Roundhead left. Montrose had the advantage of numbers and of deployment. He would now seize the initiative.

Above, a portion of the armies as they advance to contact. The Royalists are on the right and the Roundheads.

The Irish and Scots of the centre pushed quickly forward while on the extreme right his 100 lancers pushed around in a flanking movement. Sir Thomas, realising his poor disposition ordered an advance on his left. He hoped to drive in MacColla's foot, who were devoid of pikes, with a mounted charge while delaying the remaining Scots cavalry with his dragoons and some of his better cavalry.

The English dragoons were effective, causing great consternation among the raw Scots lances, some of who fled at the first volley. Soon to, the Roundhead cavalry gained the advantage as the Scots and Irish veterans suffered considerable casualties from both Roundhead cavalry and supporting foot. Indeed, MacColla himself was wounded and forced to quit the field, but not before seeing the foot of his own command, and Montrose's centre, break in rout. However, the Roundhead victory on the left was shortlived. Sir Hatton was an early casualty and without strong leadership the cavalry on the left eventually broke and 300 horse streamed back to the rear. Below, the first ranks of MacColla's Irish have all but been destroyed, the second line is about to flee the field opening a hole in the Scots Royalist centre.

Sir Thomas was now forced to split his energies in two directions. Firstly, to counter the now pursuing Scots cavalry but also to steady the regiments of foot in the centre. For Montrose, leading his highlanders, now crashed against the Roundhead regiments of Palgrave, Holmes and Dales'. The musketeers Palgrave's were the first to break. This was perhaps not surprising as this regiment had a history of ill-discipline. Indeed the townsfolk of Newark in 1643 considered themselves safer without the regiment present, while the regiment mutinied during the Yorkshire campaign. Though while the musketeers, drawn up on each wing of the colours, fled from the charging highlanders the pikemen of the regiment were more steady. Infact they repulsed several charges including one from the rear.

Above, Montrose and his highlanders prepare to engage the Roundhead centre. Palgrave's regiment, in redcoats, would suffer heavy casualties.

But it was a fierce engagement and Montrose's casualties were also significant. The highlanders charged and often died in great numbers. Indeed, the battle hung in the balance until 200 musketeers in Dale's regiment, as well as their supporting drakes, broke under the weight of yet another highland charge. Now with his left and right wings in rout Sir Thomas was forced to watch as his army quit the field. Montrose had won his first victory in England, but the cost had been high. So high that only a handful of additional casualties would have seen the complete collapse of Montrose's own army and with it all hope of assisting the King. But the army remained in being, and Montrose could continue to move south.

Translating the above to wargaming language the battle was between two 300 point armies and, not surprisingly, used DBR's normal scale and 15mm figures. The final result was a 9-1 victory to Montrose (John) and his Scots Royalist. However, if just one more Scots element had been lost the game would have ended in a 5-5 draw. A very near run thing indeed. For the historians among us Montrose, while defeating Ballie at Kilsyth, didn't cross the border. Instead his army dispersed and Montrose suffered defeat at Philiphaugh in Sepetember of 1645. So a little alternate history has been added.

Talisman Road: October 1973

2011-05-21T10:03:00.015+12:00

Last night conflict in the Sinai flared up with a 1973 engagement in the Sinai between Egyptian and Israeli forces using Modern Spearhead. The scenario was developed using the Scenario Generation System and was an "Advance to Contact" scenario.

The Egyptians had two almost complete brigades drawn from 16th Infantry Division which was commanded by Brigadier General Abd Rab al-Nabi Hafiz (Andrew). The 3rd Infantry brigade comprised three infantry battalions as well as a supporting tank battalion. The infantry were all on foot. This brigade was supported by the 14th Armoured Brigade, normally part of 21st Armoured Division but attached for the operation to 16th Infantry. It comprised three tank battalions, equipped with some 30 T-55 tanks, with each battalion further supported by a company of infantry in BTR-50s and other support companies. Expressed in battalions some seven Egyptian battalions, three of which were heavily reinforced. In addition limited SAM cover in the form of SA-6s and around three artillery battalions were available to support the advance. The battalions, in MSH terms, were rated as regular.

The Israelis were drawn from 162nd Armoured Ugda commanded by General Bren Adan (Keith). Two weak brigades were available for the operations on the 9th of October, each comprised two battalions and each battalion around 20 operational tanks. The brigades were 217th Armoured Brigade commanded by Col. Natan 'Natke' Nir, operating Centurions, and 600th Armoured Brigade under Col. Baram, operating M60A1s. All these battalions were, in MSH terms, rated as veterans. The Adan could also call on three weak artillery battalions, including a long range M107 battalion and of course the IAF should they be needed.

The battlefield, from Adan's perspective, comprised a relatively open right flank. To the left of the main Talisman road, around the centre of his operational areas, lay the first Egyptian defensive position on the high ground that dominated the Talisman road. In contrast to the relatively flat left flank the right comprised a series of rolling hills breaking up line of site but potentially providing additional hull down positions.

Adan determined to deploy three of his battalions on his right. Their objective was to engage and then flank the Egyptian infantry initially deployed defending the ground dominating the Talisman road. Further, it was felt that by seizing the initiative here he may draw in Egyptian armoured reserves to this sector where the Centurions and M60s would have the advantage of range. To counter the expected Sagger threat here the Israeli artillery would focus their efforts in supporting these battalions.

In addition Col. Baram would take direct command of one reinforced tank battalion and advance on the left flank. As such his forward command post was attached to this battalion. His other battalion was released to support Natke's advance on the right, though it would remain under his command and be supported by the Brigade mortors if needed. Baram's immediate objective was to seize some of the high ground on the left. In fact while two objectives were of general interest to the Egyptians only the closest was of interest to Adan. After seizing this first objective Baram would either press forward, engage advancing Egyptian forces, or break off retiring to the right flank.

From the Egyptian perspective one tank battalion was committed to supporting the defenders of the high ground over the Talisman road with a further in immediate reserve to the Egyptian left. In contrast two infantry battalions and two tank battalions were committed to the advance against the Israeli left and Baram's single battalion.

The general situation can be seen above with general routes of advance shown. Israeli battalions arrows are shown in blue, Egyptian in red. Egyptian arrows are representative of general routes only. Subsequent moves as a result of order changes or timed orders are also shown. Baram's battalion is on the right foreground.

The Israeli forces attacking the Talisman road position were soon engaged, with the tanks of two battalions attempting to engage Egyptian Sagger teams holding the ridge. Israeli artillery also engaged the Sagger teams, though both requests and the fires themselves with initially ineffective. However, as the battle progressed a combination of direct tank fire and artillery fire suppressed a number of the Saggers. This now allowed the Israeli tanks to counter the armoured thrust from the T-55 battalion from 3rd Infantry Brigade which pressed down both sides of the Talisman rise. Despite the Egyptian armour breaking off and a number of Saggers silenced, the hill still bristled with RPG equipped infantry. The Israeli tankers were as a result unable to make significant progress. Instead, the tankers deployed for a slow and methodical engagement while their supporting infantry, in M113s, attempted to locate the Egyptian infantry concentrations.

On the Israeli left things were, for Col. Baram, becoming critical. With such a massive enemy formation in front of his position he was ordered to conduct a retrograde movement. He was to move to the right. As he was not engaged this should have been a relatively straightforward operation. Instead as he began his movement the Egyptians surged forward, a result of timed orders. One Israeli tank platoon was caught moving by advancing T-55s. Adan, ordered Baram to redeploy and issuing an order change the remaining M60's redeployed in a text book manoeuvre. Baram meanwhile requested air support. Coming in low over the desert six Israeli Skyhawks dashed towards Baram's position and engaged the T-55s that were now less than 1000m from the Baram's position. With a hole in the Egyptian SAM umbrella, a result of the M107's earlier fire missions, and no Egyptian anti-aircraft artillery providing close-in support for the advancing T-55s, the Skyhawks had a clear run to their targets. Within minutes almost half of an Egyptian tank battalion was a burning wreck. Baram breathed easier and his tankers engaged the remaining forces as dusk engulfed the battlefield and the two protagonists disengaged.

Above, Baram's M60's redeploy while Skyhawks engage an Egyptian T-55 battalion.

The battle was, as dusk fell, hailed by the Egyptians as a victory. They had secured all three objectives. However, the Israeli's had secured much of the Talisman Road and caused significant casualties on two Egyptian tank battalions while suffering minimal losses. Though, it must be said that Baram's battalion was only saved by the actions of the air force.

Above, Egyptian propaganda photo of their advances on the 9th October showing "another" area of the Sinai now clearly under Egyptian control. The red marker denotes a game objective.

From a scenario perspective we both enjoyed the game immensely. The older equipment and the force differences created an excellent game. The Scenario System worked well with the Israeli commander forfeiting objectives to fight a more mobile battle while the Egyptian commander sought more tangible objectives for his advancing troops. The game was also an interesting experience in the use of veteran troops. Typically veteran tank battalions are seldom seen on the table due to their high points cost, but the Israeli battalions, often only seven stands strong and limited to four model tanks, were intersting to use. They created challenges for both the Israeli commander and the Egyptians alike.

Having played this game we are both looking forward to our next encounter in the Sinai, or perhaps the Golan...

Christchurch DBA Open

2011-05-18T21:46:00.001+12:00

Details on the Christchurch 15mm DBA Open Championship for 2011 are now on-line. As with last year the organiser has opted for a two day format with each day having armies from a particular period. The first round, the Ancient round, will cover armies until around 450AD, while the Medieval round will cover armies post 450AD.

The Ancient round is set for July while the Medieval round is scheduled for early December. The venue will be the Christchurch Wargames Club in Woolston. You don't have to be a member of the Christchurch Wargames Club, the event is open to other Christchurch wargamers as well as those from out of town.

While players are encouraged to attend both days the format is such that players can attend one day if required. With plenty of time to prepare hopefully there will be a great turn out. Full details can be found here.

On Campaign in Yorkshire: 1644

2011-05-14T09:50:00.013+12:00

"Our Army in its severall parts moving downe the Hill, was like unto so many thicke clouds, having divided themselves into Brigades, consisting of eight hundred, one thousand, twelve hundred, fifteen hundred men in a Brigade. And our Brigades of Horse consisting some of three, and some of foure Troopes" (From a description of the battle of Marston Moor by Sim. Ash, Chaplain to the Earl of Manchester).

Friday evening and The Wargames Room was once more the scene of English Civil War action using the DBR rules and condensed scale. Armies comprised 120 points.

In true Royalist form the Royalists (Arne) were found to be on the offensive. The Royalist forces comprised some 1500 horse, 2400 shot and 800 pike. The Roundheads comprised 3600 foot, of which 1200 were pike, 1500 horse and 200 dragoons. This translates to the Roundheads having 15 elements and the Royalists, with better quality horse and more shot, some 13 elements. Both armies also included a camp.

The Roundheads massed 900 horse on their left wing and a smaller bodies of cavalry in the centre and their withdrawn right. Around half the Roundhead cavalry were well drilled formations from the Eastern Association while the remainder were of inferior quality. In contrast the Royalists placed 600 cavalry on each wing with the Royalist commander also maintaining a small mounted reserve in the centre.

Above, a general view of the battle with Roundheads in the foreground. The main Roundhead attack was against the hill on the left as can be seen by three Roundhead brigades advancing in echelon. Each brigade represents around 1200 men.

The Royalists advanced rapidly on their left flank with cavalry and commanded shot. The Roundhead dragoons were first driven back from a hedged enclosure and eventually ridden down by Royalist cavalry that pressed forward against the exposed, but partly withdrawn, Roundhead right wing. Eventually the Roundhead horse on this flank were also engaged. Taking advantage of the dispersed Royalist cavalry they engaged the enemy with carbine fire. Any hoped for advantage was soon lost however as the reformed Royalist cavalry soon swept the Roundhead cavalry from the field and leaving the Roundhead right exposed to attack from the flank.

Above action on the Roundhead right centre in the foreground and the hedge enclosure now secured by Royalist shot. The Royalist infantry here where eventually to suffer reasonably heavy casualties despite driving in the Roundhead dragoons early in the battle. The Royalist horse on this flank are not shown but are to the right of the pictures. The centre of the battlefield and Roundhead atatck on the hill are visible in the background.

Below, two Roundhead brigades of foot advance on the weak Royalist centre. A portion of the forward Roundhead brigade supported the main attack on the hill to the left while the remaining troops engaged the Royalist foot opposite and in the enclosures, top right.

However, the Roundheads had been pushing hard on the left and left centre from the beginning. Here they gained the advantage in a prolonged exchange of musketry. Soon Roundhead foot pressed forward to push of pike advancing up the gentle slopes of the Royalist held hill on the Royalist right flank. The Royalist foot were unable to withstand the onslaught and collapsed. Now, as the Royalist right gave way Parliamentarian foot engaged the Royalist camp with musket fire driving off the camp followers. This combined with the mounting Royalist casualties was too much and the demoralised Royalist army broke off surrendering the field to Parliamentarian forces.

Harquebusiers & Hussars: June 2011

2011-05-08T17:44:00.004+12:00

The next round of "Harquebusiers & Hussars" is scheduled for Sunday the 18th of June 2011. "Harquebusiers & Hussars" is of course a local 15mm DBR event at the Christchurch Wargames Club.

Armies will be limited to 120 pts and the condensed scale rules will be used. Games will be fought on tables measuring 900mm x 600mm. This time we will try fixed terrain which will include some historical battlefields. There will be four games during the day each of a nominal 1 1/2 hours. A limited number of loan armies will be available.

Above two Japanese armies clash while below English Civil War Royalists and Roundheads engage using condensed scale Renaissance armies at recent events.

So don't delay, start organising your 15mm DBR army and join us for a day of Renaissance gaming. Full details on "Harquebusiers & Hussars" can be found here.

Natcon 2011: DBR Results

2011-04-25T14:47:00.011+12:00

This year the 15mm DBR competition at Natcon, New Zealand's National Wargames Convention, had a theme of armies from the English Civil War and Thirty Years War. Six players registered for the tournament which was played over two days and four rounds.

The IWF Points System, typically known as Kiwi Points, was used with players limited to two 400 point armies. The IWF clarifications were also used which, among other things, defines a clear area in the centre of the table.

With two players travelling from Auckland and four from Christchurch the decision was made that the Aucklanders would play all the Christchurch players to maximise on their travelling investment.

Now to some photos of the games. Above, Regency French can be seen engaged against Royalists on the second day of the competition. In this engagement the French attacks were broken up with their right flank finally breaking before the night intervened in the battle. Click on this image, and otehrs for a larger image.

Next , we can see above John looking very pleased with the performance of his Scots dragoons on the first day. A Royalist cavalry attack on the Scot's left was halted for several rounds by a a small but hardy group of Scots dragoons in the open. However, eventually the Royalist army routed the invading Scots army from the field though the Scots commander remained very upbeat!

Below, another Scots army, this time on the second day can be seen engaged against the TYW French and their Venetian allies. The Scots here suffered a heavy defeat to the French and their allies. Pictured are Philip on the left (Scots) and Aaron on the right.

Below, another view of the Regency French engaged against the Royalists. Here Stu can be seen bringing up his right flank to engage the Royalist left. The English light cannon were, for once, to cause heavy casualties on the French right flank.

In the background Brian's New Model West Indies can be seen engaged against John's Scots. Another view of this battle can be seen below where the New Model fleet can be seen engaging the Scots forces on land while themselves under fire from Scots artillery, top right.

The 10-0 scoring system, as defined in the DBR rule book, was used. The players, their armies and final placings were as follows:

Keith McNelly (CHCH) Royalist 1644 (30pts)
Stu Todd (AKLD) Regency French, Royal Army 1658 (28pts)
Brian Sowman (CHCH) New Model Army, West Indies 1654 (26pts)
Aaron Leslie (CHCH) Thirty Years War French 1617 (15pts)
John Kerr (CHCH) Scots Covenanter 1644 (14pts)
Philip Abela (AKLD) Scots Covenanter 1643 (7pts)

Keith managed to kill four enemy generals while John managed to kill two enemy generals. All other players managed to kill three enemy generals. No camps were looted.

An excellent competition which was casual and very enjoyable. A good measure of success was the discussion was among several players on upcoming DBR events including Push of Pike, Natcon 2012 which is to be in Hamilton, as well as Cancon 2012 in Australia. Hopefully we will see you at one of these or another DBR event in the near future.

Natcon 2011: DBA Results

2011-04-22T21:05:00.007+12:00

Eleven players took part in Natcon 2011's 15mm DBA Ancients competition. Six rounds each of an hour were played resulting in 30 games over the course of the day. The scoring system was the 12-0 system frequently used here in Christchurch and most recently at the Individual World Championship in Wellington. The maxium possible score across six rounds was 72 points.

The following summarises the results, after count-backs have been applied:

Andrew Taylor (CHCH) II/18e Macedonian Early Successor, Antigonas Gonatas (55pts)
Arne Lageveen (Hanmer) II/20d Ptolemaic (53pts)
David Batchelor (Timaru) II/46b Kushan (40pts)
Jim Morton (CHCH) II/20c Ptolemaic (40pts)
Brian Sowman (CHCH) I/50 Lydian (36pts)
Stan Walker (CHCH) II/32 Later Carthaginian (35pts)
Philip Abela (AKLD) I/22b New Kingdom Egyptian (35pts)
Keith McNelly (CHCH) II/16b Early Asiatic Successor, Demetrius (35pts)
Robin Sutton (CHCH) II/39b Ancient Spanish, Celtiberian (34pts)
Stephen Malone (Timaru) II/74a Palmyran (29pts)
Stu Todd (AKLD) II/3 Classical Indian (20pts)

At the end of the competition no players could claim to have sacked, and held, an enemy camp. Though many tried. With regards generals killed Philip, Stan, David, Brian, Andrew and Keith all killed one enemy general. Keith could claim the dubious honour of most generals killed having lost two generals during the course of the games.

Natcon 2011: DBR Runners & Riders

2011-04-21T12:56:00.004+12:00

This year 15mm DBR is again being offered at Natcon. Slightly down on numbers from last year there are six players registered. However, of these players a couple are new or returning players which is always good to see.

The theme is armies from the Thirty Years War and English Civil Wars sections of the Book Two army list book. The "Runners & Riders" for Natcon 2011 15mm DBR competition are as follows:

Philip Abela (AKLD) Scots Covenanter 1643
Stu Todd (AKLD) Regency French, Royal Army 1658
Brian Sowman (CHCH) New Model Army, West Indies 1654
Aaron Leslie (CHCH) Thirty Years War French 1617
John Kerr (CHCH) Scots Covenanter 1644
Keith McNelly (CHCH) Royalist 1644

Clearly the Scots are deploying in force with two of the armies being dispatched by the Committee of Estates against their English neighbours across the border.

Natcon 2011: DBA Runners & Riders

2011-04-21T10:55:00.004+12:00

Finally I can announce the "Runners & Riders" for Natcon 2011's 15mm DBA competition here in New Zealand. This year's Natcon DBA armies can be drawn from either Section 1 & II lists but must have a date prior to 450AD, restricting the use of some options. The list of players and armies are as follows:

Robin Sutton (CHCH) II/39b Ancient Spanish, Celtiberian
Brian Sowman (CHCH) I/50 Lydian
Philip Abela (AKLD) I/22b New Kingdom Egyptian
Stu Todd (AKLD) II/3 Classical Indian
Jim Morton (CHCH) II/20c Ptolemaic
Arne Lageveen (Hanmer) II/20d Ptolemaic
Andrew Taylor (CHCH) II/18e Macedonian Early Successor, Antigonas Gonatas
Stan Walker (CHCH) II/32 Later Carthaginian
David Batchelor (Timaru) II/46b Kushan
Stephen Malone (Timaru) II/74a Palmyran
Keith McNelly (CHCH) II/16b Early Asiatic Successor, Demetrius

Interestingly, there are some new armies making an appearance, including a New Kingdom Egyptian which is travelling down from Auckland. Other armies of note are Stan's Carthaginians, a prize secured at the IWC in Wellington recently, as well as Stu's Indians which have only recently been painted.

Demetrius Invades Thrace

2011-04-16T23:59:00.005+12:00

This evening Lysimachus took the field against the Antigonids under Demetrius who once again invaded Thrace. Lysimachus selected the battlefield well. Two woods and a steep hill confining the battlefield and threatened the larger Antigonid phalanx with ambush. Of course with so many Thracian mercenary troops in his employment the battlefield selected by Lysimachus came as no surprise.

Demetrius had determined to bring a number of catapults with him, having dispatched his usual mercenary hoplites to some other task. He hoped that these would be useful in any assaults on Thracian towns and perhaps to disrupt the Lysimachid troops lining the hills. Above, the battlefield can be seen above with the Antigonids in the foreground. In the ensuing battle Demetrius' phalanx advanced slowly forward protected by the catapults, mercenary auxilia and light cavalry on the right wing. As expected Lysimachus countered with the bulk of his light troops who attempted to capture the high ground thus flanking the Antigonid centre. Above, some Thracian auxila have been driven back by Antigonid artillery early in the battle.

In the ensuing engagement on the Antigonid right casualties were heavy. Two formations of Lysimachus' Thracians broke from either close combat or fire by the stone throwers. However, Antigonid light infantry and cavalry were themselves to be destroyed in the ensuing counter-attacks. Below, the situation just before the counter-attack on the Antigonid right flank.

Lysimachus seemed set to secure the vital high ground until the remaining Lysimachid light infantry broke following a hail of catapult fire. The situation was now 3-2 to Demetrius, but with his flank exposed.

With the troops on the Antigonid right effectively exhausted the fighting switched to the centre as Demetrius' phalanx now pressed forward and clashed with the smaller Lysimachid phalanx. However, the Antigonid phalanx was broken up in an effort to pin the remaining Thracians on the Antigonid centre right. The move was potentially disastrous, for if either part of the phalanx had been pushed back the entire phalanx would have collapsed. Lysimachus countered and tried to gain advantage from Demetrius' error.

However, the Lysimachid phalanx was unable to gain the advantage, despite several attempts. Demetrius' veterans now stormed forward, and with it the Lysimachid phalanx collapsed. A 5-2 win to Demetrius, but one where disaster hovered in the wings until victory was secured...

Decision at Alt-Flemmingen (1805)

2011-04-09T19:34:00.014+12:00

Yesterday three of us gathered for another Volley & Bayonet game this time using two linear armies from 1805. Armies comprised 3000 points while the scenario was developed using the "Road to Glory" scenario system. Unfortunately a lack of functioning camera meant no photos were taken during the game.

The Saxon Elector Frederick Augustus III, shown above, was once more required to supply a division for his Prussian neighbour's war against the Russians. Astute readers may recall that the last engagement, that fought on the Katzhof, ended in a stand-off. This situation was not to be repeated.

The Prussian commander (Alastair) had formed his army in three grand divisions and deployed them opposite the forming Russian army around 1pm. In addition to the troops initially deployed reinforcements were expected. The Prussian's expected the Saxon division around 3pm on the Prussian left flank. The Russians for their part expected two smaller divisions around 4pm astride their main line of march.

Above and below, the Saxon 1st Division prior to the battle and it's dispatch from Saxony. The figures are from the Heroics & Ros 6mm range. Four Saxon infantry regiments along with two converged cavalry brigades and supporting artillery formed the Saxon contingent of the Prussian army at Alt-Flemmingen.

At 1pm the Prussian 1st Division advanced toward the town of Alt-Flemmingen hasitly secured by a Russian regiment in the centre of the battlefield. The Prussian infantry, advancing some 1200 yards, then formed up in support of a concentration of guns, which now undertook a bombardment of the Russian supporting line. To the right of the Prussian centre the Prussian Converged Grenadier division also advanced. This division was ordered to halt the flood of Russian infantry that now poured across a minor river which formed a meandering loop on the Prussian right flank. Meanwhile on the Prussian left the final Prussian division, the 2nd Division, advanced on the echeloned Russian left flank.

Around 2pm the elderly Kutusov (Jon) commanding the Russian army order a general attack. All along the line Russian infantry and cavalry fell upon the Prussians. The Prussians on the right flank in particular suffered a series of devasting assaults. Soon the Prussian Converged Grenadiers, the Prussian elite, poured back in retreat. The Prussian centre was also badly handled, however, here the Prussian commander, the elderly Ferdinand at least retained some level of control halting, at great cost especially to his cavalry regiments, a number of attacking Russian regiments.

Meanwhile, on the Prussian left flank Infantry Regiment 36 was swept from the field by charge by Russian Dragoons and Hussars. The Russians having moved forward and to their right. However, in general the Prussian 2nd Division managed to hold at least some attacks and soon several regiments counter charged.

Sometime after 3pm the Saxon 1st Division under General von Zezschwitz (Keith) arrived on the field. The division having been dispatched to act as a flank guard had conducted a rapid force march to the sound of the guns. Old Zezschwitz was informed of the exposed Russian right flank and now hoped to catch the Russians between the Prussian 2nd Division and his own Saxons. But only if the Prussians would hold.

Despite his best efforts it was almost 4pm before the division secured the high ground on the extreme left which now overlooked the rear of the Russian right flank. His masterful manouvre looked set to reap great rewards as it indeed enveloped the Russian right flank, pinned as it was by the Prussian 2nd Division. However, the Saxon arrival was too late. As the well drilled Saxon infantry formed up for the final advance and the elite Saxon Zastrow Cuirassiers repelled a poorly coordinated attack by Russian Uhlans the Prussian army broke.

With all three Prussian grand divisions in rout the Russians had secured a major victory. Zezschwitz, despondent by the lack of Prussian metal, reluctatly ordered a retrograde movement, at least until the next engagement.

First Bull Run - 150th Anniversary

2011-04-05T17:38:00.008+12:00

The other evening, while looking at the first edition of the Volley & Bayonet rules, I noticed the publication date, 1994. This meant I first started playing Volley and Bayonet around 17 years ago.

It all started when a good friend presented me with a copy of the rules he purchased while in the UK. I read the rules, with much interest, but remained unconvinced. I recall commenting that the movement rates were extreme and the combat mechanics being odd. These rules would, in my view, simply not work. However, we decided to give the game a try and using his 6mm ACW figures and the First Bull Run scenario included in the rule book. What a great game and how wrong I was! The rules were wonderful and our experience with First Bull Run hooked us both on Volley & Bayonet.

In the coming years, as our armies were built, we and others, played many American Civil War battles. A long list which included Second Bull Run, Shiloh, Stones River, Antietam, Gettysburg, Chickamauga, Champions Hill.

Clearly with Volley and Bayonet I was able to refight battles I had never dreamed of before. Several battles were particularly enjoyable and to this day I recall many of the special "wargame moments" from them. The great Rebel bombardment at Gettysburg was one such episode where my opponent had assembled a massive gun line but whose resulting bombardment was completely ineffectual!

In July we have the 150th anniversary of the Battle of First Bull Run. Now, given that this battle was my starting point for Volley & Bayonet I clearly do need to revisit this battle in it's 150th anniversary year. But before I do I need to actually start rebasing my American Civil War figures, a project that stalled last year.

For those interested here is the Volley & Bayonet First Bull Run scenario I will be using. For now however, I best start working out what needs to be done to get the Union and Rebel forces ready...

In Defence of Athens

2011-04-03T15:51:00.010+12:00

A quiet week at The Wargames Room with only a single DBA game and that a result of our son visiting from Auckland. Still it was good to deploy the Greeks for a game. I find it interesting to consider how infrequently my hoplites were deployed on the table using other rule systems. Yet in DBA they frequently find themselves battling for control of one Greek city or another.

Above, the Thebans, in the background, have invaded Athenian territory. The Athenians opted to face the Theban host with their left flank anchored on the coast. At the end of the Athenian turn a small contingent of Athenian hoplites have disembarked from the supporting fleet. The Thebans however have massed their cavalry against the Athenian right flank causing the Athenians to redeploy their own mounted.

As the two lines of hoplites close the Athenian marines advance to threaten the Theban right flank. To counter this Theban hoplites and light troops were withdrawn giving the Athenian left flank a small advantage, at least in depth, in the ensuing combats. This can be seen above, and below. Theban light troops would attempt to counter the Athenian marines but were driven off in the ensuing combats.

Below, the Athenian right flank has come under pressure and a portion of the hoplite line has collapsed. However, with the Theban horse unable to press the advantage the critical parts of the line are the centre and Athenian left flank. In the Athenian hoplites, encouraged by the Athenian strategos, have created a gap in the Theban centre allowing the now exposed Thebans here to be attacked in the flank. Further, on the Athenian left the deeper Athenian formations press forward while the Athenian marines attack from the flank.

Pushed back from multiple directions the Thebans soon broke in rout. The final result was a 4-1 victory to the Athenians. Athens is safe, well, at least for now...

Blucher at Liebdowitz (1813)

2011-03-26T10:51:00.006+13:00

Last night a group of us assembled for a Volley & Bayonet evening. As is often the case we opted for a fictional engagement generated using the Scenario System "Road to Glory" and our 6mm armies. Both armies were drawn from those available in 1813 with Jon (Ney) providing the French and assisted by Alastair. I provided the Prussians and was assisted by Robin who took over all command as Blucher.

Above, the battle viewed from the Prussian lines with the Prussian 11th Brigade on the left. Equal to a French division these brigades have some 6000 bayonets and are therefore called divisions here. In the right foreground the Prussian 9th Division can be seen.

From the perspective of the Prussians, Blucher had available two corps. These being the II Corps, under Kleist, and IV Corps under Tauentzien. The total Prussian forces available to Blucher comprised six infantry divisions and two cavalry divisions, one allocaed to each corps. The Prussians had stollen a march on the French and had all but one infantry division, along with some corps artillery from IV Corps, were initially deployed for battle. In contrast only a small portion of the French army was available. The bulk of the French army was still marching towards the battlefield and would arive over the next four hours. Seizing the initiative Blucher determined to attack, and encouraged by Tauentzein, ordered Kleist to advance on the dispersed French while Tauentzein was to conduct an envelopment on the right.

However, the French commander, Ney, was quick in moving his army forward. Soon three cavalry divisions deployed from line of march and advanced rapidly. Two cavalry divisions were committed to attack first the Prussian II Corps Cavalry Reserve and 12th Infantry Division on the Prussian left flank. The situation can be seen above. In the ensuing combats the Prussian cavalry was routed by the French cavalry.

The Prussian 11th Division comprising three regiments, in the centre, was next to be engaged. Like the 12th it had crossed the Liebdowitz stream and was engaged by French cavalry and infantry. However, unlike the Prussian left 11th Division threw back these attacks with heavy French casualties, especially to a French light infantry regiment. Below, 11th Division having just crossed the Liebdowitz before advancing further towards the French.

The result of this meant that Kleist's advance on the left and centre had now been neutralised and the Pruusian attack now swithced to Tauentzein IV Corps. The flanking movement on the right flank had however been significantly delayed.

Above and below elements of Tauentzien's Corps conduct their flanking movement. Tauentzein had failed to consider how long it would take his divisions to conduct the flanking movement and as a result valuable time was lost.

The time taken to move the Prussian 3rd Division and IV Cavalry Reserve forward further allowed Ney to deployed his own reinforcing divisions along another branch of the Liebdowitz. Now, even with the the assistance of 9th and 10th Divisions, Tauentzein reported to Blucher that he had insufficient forces to mount an attack on the French opposite.

Below, the two armies face each other across the Liebdowitz on the Prussian right. A Prussian massed battery of some 36 guns can be seen conducting a long range bombardment against the French.

Interestingly Ney, and his generals, while having fought an initially aggressive battle seemed now to stall. Indeed, with the repulse of the French attacks on 11th Division Ney seemed to have lost his nerve. Instead of using his army to push forward, which was his usual style, he settled for an uncharacteristic strategy of defence. One can only contemplate Napoleon's mood when reading reports of the engagement. His aggressive Marshal perhaps feared Blucher's skill on the battlefield and was willing to accept a minor victory over crushing the Prussian army.

Tangata Whenua

2011-03-19T10:51:00.014+13:00

One of my projects over recent months was the construction of a Maori "army". A few years back I purchased a copy of Crosby's "The Musket Wars" and this well written book opened up a period of New Zealand history I knew little about. Some further reading last year, courtesy of Massey University's library, encouraged me further.

As a starting point I decided to use the DBR rules and lists which I felt could be easily be developed into the Musket Wars period covering the inter-iwi wars. In addition the rules allowed me some additional opponents. After all this was the time of European exploration with the first European contact with the Maori occurring in 1642. Above, a drawing made by Abel Tasman's artist of a skirmish between the Dutch explorers and Maori people in Golden Bay New Zealand, in December 1642.

Figures were sourced from Evil Gong Miniatures in Australia and in due course painting began. Earlier in the week the first figures were completed and last night a taua, or raiding party, was deployed for battle. Above and below Maori can be seen prior and during the battle. In both the main body of warriors are screened by a small number of scouts.

My taua, at DBR's normal scale, comprises some 3300 warriors in dense formations and a further 300 warriors deployed as scouts. By the period of the Musket Wars this number of warriors is representative of a large taua, but it is by no means the largest assembled. In DBR this translates, assuming a suitable allowance for baggage, representing loot and slaves, to 300 points.

For their first engagement the Maori deployed with a strong centre and left wing while a small group of warriors was deployed in ambush on the right. They were deployed in multiple lines with a small screen of scouts in front and made use of much terrian for covered approaches and ambush. Facing them was an European force of English Roundheads dispatched by Parliament for, no doubt, the growth and development of the commonwealth. The English formed in three bodies. In the centre two regiments of foot each of 600 men were reinforced by a number of light guns. Forming on each wing were a number of cavalry. The English, fearful of the natives, sought some protection from the guns of several warships.

Unfortunately a morning mist had cleared before the armies were fully deployed. With the prospect of an advance concealed by mist now lost it was not until late afternoon that the Maori finally attacked. They advanced quickly in the centre and left. The aim now was to close quickly and sweep the English from the field.

The first clash occured on the Maori right as English cavalry attempted to flank the advancing Maori centre. Some 500 warriors, previously concealed on a wooded hill, broke cover from their ambush and advanced to attack the exposed flank of the cavalry. Unfortunately the warriors were driven back by pistol and carbine fire. Reforming they attacked again. A confusing melee developed which eventually found both the English and Maori here breaking.

Above, the general situation with the Maori centre advancing on the withdrawn English foot in the right centre. A small Maori ambush has just been sprung on the front left.

As the Maori centre pushed forward it came under fire from light cannon and later musket fire. Fortunately, casualties were minimal. Before combat occurred in the centre the Maori left was engaged. Swinging forward warriors charged headlong at the English cavalry who were echeloned forward of the English foot in the centre. Simultaneously additional warriors broke cover from a wood and advanced on the flank of the cavalry. Here the English commander was the first casualty, having advanced too far. As warriors broke through the now disordered horse tried to reform. However, before they could they were overcome by the share numbers. The English right flank had now also broken.

Above, the Maori on the left engage the English cavalry while additional warriors advance out of the wood to attack the flank. The English fleet were ineffective in the engagement and while their guns belched fire on the Maori it was largely ineffectual. Below, another view illustrating the lines of warriors advancing in the centre. Here some of the scouts having fallen back having issued their challenges and the received the English reply - in the form of musket and cannon fire. Visible in the photo are greenstone and whale bone mere, wahaika and of course a number of taiaha as well as other pre-european weapons.

With the collapse of the English flanks victory now looked within the Maori grasp. However, darkness was fast approaching. Warriors attacked the enemy foot in sevral positions. Below, the Maori centre approaches the English centre.

Portions of the English line broke in the ensuing melee, but alas, it was too late. The English, broke off and retired undercover of darkness. The English expedition was clearly battered but not completely defeated, no doubt more European interlopers will return...

IWC 2011 - DBR Reflections

2011-03-05T17:33:00.009+13:00

Just over a week ago my Parliamentarian army was deployed for battle at the Worlds in Wellington. A small report was of course required. As such a brief report of my own games has been written.

Above, Muslim Indian cavalry redeploy in one of my battles to fall upon the Roundhead right flank. Below, a couple of other photos of various DBR games at the worlds with players involved in their battles. Below, Jonathan Moore and Philip Abela are involved in a game while Stu Todd can be seen in the background.

Next, John Way, Dirk Heinsius, Mark Robins and Roger Mackay can be seen a engaged in various games.

Below, several more players can be seen including Stuart Gray, John McCartney, Dirk Heinsius, Steve Roper and Dave Clarke.

Finally, Damien Pooley prepares to destroy my Roundheads in my last game of the event.

The report of my own games, as well as reflections as organiser, can be found here.

Cancon 2011 - A Japanese Sojourn

2011-03-04T21:20:00.007+13:00

As planned I have finally completed a brief report on Cancon 2011's DBR competition. A little late but hopefully still of interest.

For the first time the Cancon DBR organisers decided to use the alternate points system. Commonly known as "Kiwi Points" theses points values have also been adopted by the IWF and have now been used in two World Championship events.

Because of the use of these revised points values I decided that I would take my Japanese on an adventure across to Australia. In part for variety, but also to show that the revised points values encourage different armies on to the table. Above, the Japanese can be seen in action against the Maori in my second game of the competition.

Unfortunately the Japanese failed to deliver and rather than find myself in a mid-field position I found I dropped down the placings. Still, it was an interesting army to use, certainly full of character and colour. This colour allowing me to pick up a Eureka voucher for best presented army.

Above, another opponent for the Japanese was the very well painted Low Countries Spanish. These deep tercios were to cause the Japanese many problems in the final battle of the competition. Read about them and other opponents in the brief report on my games which can be found here.

Christchurch Earthquake Appeal

2011-03-02T18:06:00.011+13:00

You will have seen the scenes of devastation following the Christchurch Earthquake which struck on the 22nd February 2011. This is the second large quake in six months and has of course hit with even more destructive force.

Like many people in the city I was in the CBD at the time of the earthquake. In fact I was in a building around 100m from the CTV building which completely collapsed. Seeing the remains of the buiding is an image I suspect I will never forget. With snarled traffic amd emergency services soon on the ecene I faced a long walk home passing much destruction, including the building above, very concerned about family who I was unable to contact.

My extended family are all accounted for and our initial damage is minimal. However, many residents of Christchurch have not been so fortunate and have been heavily impacted. Either from loss of loved ones, the complete loss of homes, or heavy damage to homes and suburbs. With such major damage across the city many people now also face an uncertain financial future as business attempt to relocate and people find themselves without work.

What can you do? Firstly consider making a donation to the New Zealand Red Cross. This provides a practical and immediate support to some of those people in the worse situations. Secondly, support Christchurch business that are operating. They are all over the city and many are functioning. In addition a special website called Support Christchurch Business has been launched as part of a local campaign. Finally, support the city by supporting the New Zealand economy. New Zealand is functioning, even if parts of Christchurch aren't.

It has certainly been a week of reflection for me...

IWC 2011: DBA & DBR Results

2011-03-01T00:25:00.006+13:00

Last weekend Wellington was host to the Individual World Championship for 2011.

The 15mm DBA competition drew 18 players to the event for two days of DBA gaming. Six players represented Australia, one represented Japan with New Zealand providing the remaining 11 players. Each day comprised six rounds of games which resuled in 108 games being played over the two days. The full DBA results can be found here.

The 15mm DBR Renaissance competition drew 25 players with games being played across three days. Of these 25 players 11 players were from Australia, one from the US and two from the UK with the remaining players from NZ. A total of 72 games were played over the weekend. The full DBR results can be found here.

League of Captains - Initial Standings

2011-02-20T18:51:00.005+13:00

The results from the first three Renaissance league games are in with games initially having an English Civil War flavour with Royalists, Roundheads and Scots Covenantors all being used by their commanders to manoeuvre for position in The League of Captains.

The first games were all played using 400 points normal scale. However, remember other points values and ground scales are equally valid. The games just need to be played in Canterbury region, use 15mm scale troops and the DBR rules system. The full rules, as well as how to submit results, can be found here.

The current standings can be found here.

Canterbury Renaissance League

2011-02-10T21:15:00.007+13:00

This year a few of us have decided to run a Renaissance league in an effort to encourage games between various players around the region. After discussion we decided on the name "The League of Captains".

The League of Captains is designed around a league table which allows players to submit results for Renaissance games using the DBR rule system. Results from games using 15mm figures and armies of 100 to 500 points can be submitted. DBR games that fit this format and that are fought in Canterbury between two players, one of whom resides in the Canterbury region, are acceptable. However, only three games may be played against the same opponent.

The league is not associated with any particular club nor must both players be resident in the wider Canterbury region. So games can be fought at any of the several club locations in Canterbury region or indeed at member's homes. Just agree before starting that the game will count and remember to submit the results.

In addition the League of Captains has been generously sponsored by Comics Compulsion who will be providing prizes. We encourage you to support Comic's Compulsion and appreciate their support of this league event.

Full details on the league, including results submission and scoring, can be found here. So start organising those DBR games and send in your results.

World Championships

2011-02-05T09:29:00.002+13:00

It is now less than three weeks until the Individual World Championships which for 2011 are being held in Wellington. It would be unlikely for any New Zealand historical wargamer to not be aware of the event by know, but as we approach the event it seemed pertinent to reflect on some points.

Stephen Ladanyi has been hard at work now for many months, actually well over 12 months. While Stephen has pulled in a few people to assist his untiring work will for many go unnoticed. If you are attending the Worlds make sure you thank Stephen for the significant planning and organisation he has undertaken. Without his work the IWC would not be in New Zealand and nor would it be so well organised.

For my part I've been involved with organising two competitions for the Worlds.

The first was DBA. With one player frustratingly dropping out we are now sitting at a total of 19 players. This still means DBA at the IWC as the largest DBA competition in New Zealand to date. However, and more importantly, it secured strong support from Australian DBA players. A few New Zealand wargamers have indicated their surprise at this. No less than seven players are making the trip over. All up I'm very pleased with the DBA turn out and at least for New Zealand wargamers it illustrates the strong support DBA has on the international scene. I hope DBA will continue to grow it's player base in New Zealand.

The other competition I was asked to organise was DBR. I originally believed we would achieve around 16 players. I felt this would be an solid result and realistic target. Especially so given that DBR numbers at recent IWC have been slipping and New Zealand's DBR community is divided in scale. In fact sometimes it is more divided in scale than Europe was by religion in the Renaissance! However, I was wrong and completely miscalculated player numbers. The total DBR field now comprises no less than 26 players, an increase of ten on what I expected. Of these 11 are from New Zealand, 12 from Australia, two from the United Kingdom and one from the United States. An outstanding result which, I'm told, places the IWC 2011 DBR competition as the largest DBR competition in the world period. I now just hope it is also the most enjoyable!

Finally, it's also worth mentioning two of the sponsors. These are Olympian Games from Australia and Comics Compulsion from Christchurch. Both have sponsored prizes for the Worlds. I would encourage you to consider supporting both these companies. When you do, why not mention their sponsorship so they know you appreciate it.

Cancon 2011 - Initial Reflections

2011-01-30T18:45:00.016+13:00

Last weekend was Cancon, Australia's largest wargames convention. I believe there were around 700 people playing in miniature and boardgame competitions, or demonstration games, with numbers slightly down from last year. In addition to these players there was a steady stream of visitors. It was my fourth Cancon in as many years.

In the Ancient and Renaissance periods numbers were roughly as follows:

15mm FOG: 33
15mm DBA: 26
15mm DBMM: 22
15mm DBR: 14

DBA was one day and DBMM two days. Before someone asks there was no FOGR competition. Interestingly, DBMM numbers had risen significantly this year from a reasonably low number last year. I also noticed a good queue of people purchasing DBMM version two. FOW was a very large competition, but I have no idea how large.

There were several demo games, including Napoleonic and American Civil War to name a few. As one would expect some of these were of high quality.

Traders were there in strength, several successfully leveraging my money from me! The trader section dwarfs New Zealand competitions with boardgames, terrain and figures all available for purchase.

As many of you know I took a Japanese army for the DBR competition which, it turned out, performed terribly. Well it was more likely I performed terribly, but you get the idea! I managed only two wins, with a third just out of my grasp by one element. However, it was a very enjoyable competition with all my opponents being great to play against.

I'll post more information on the DBR competition, including photos, in due course.

Warclouds 2011: 15mm DBA

2011-01-18T20:26:00.006+13:00

Yesterday information was confirmed for Warclouds 15mm DBA competition. Warclouds is hosted each in February by the Christchurch Wargames Club. For the first year it includes a DBA competition which will be on Saturday the 5th February.

It has an interesting format. It will have six rounds over one day, however the organiser has opted for a variation. The six rounds will have be divided into two periods with players playing in both. The first three rounds players will use Ancient armies. In the following three rounds players change armies to Medieval ones, that is armies with a list date after 450AD. Full details can be found here which include additional information on the format and how to register.

Cancon 2011: DBR & DBMM Runners & Riders

2011-01-18T20:05:00.007+13:00

It's now just a few days until Cancon, easily the largest wargames convention in New Zealand and Australia. In between finishing an army and packing everything up I've been keeping an eye for advance competition information. As one would hope the various "Runners and Riders" are starting to be published.

The 15mm DBR competition has a strong field of some 14 players, up four from 2010. Games are 400 points and comprise six games over three days. The Runners & Riders as follows:

Lyle Daymond, Wallachian 1626
Justin Swain, Dutch Rebellion 1626
Phil Clark, Later Imperialist 1683
Roger Mackay, Scots Covenanters 1648
Chris Pooley, ECW Royalist 1644 (in England or Wales)
John McQualter, Venetian Italian 1607
Keith McNelly, Japanese 1570
Ben Stewart, Low Countries Spanish 1580
Damian Pooley, Caroline Swedes 1696
Guy Sheppard, Maori 1700
Stuart Todd, Regency and Fronde French, Royal Army 1658
James Armstrong, Williamite Anglo-Dutch
Ian Poade, ECW Royalist 1643 (in England or Wales)
Mark Robins, Caroline Swedes 1700

Some new faces and some new armies, well at least for me, in the mix here. In addition to these new faces there are of course some old hands and some old armies. Clearly time to catchup with some friends from Australia.

I've also seen the Runners and Riders for the 15mm DBMM, using DBMM version 2 of course. I believe the format is 400 points but with four games over two days. Currently sitting at 21 players it was extremely pleasing to see a strong competition field. Last year where numbers had dropped. For those interested in such things here is the list for DBMM:

Dave Quilty, I/22a New Kingdom Egyptian
Jon Willacy, I/22a New Kingdom Egyptian
Peter Barrett, II/12 Alexandrian Macedonian
Paul Turner, II/19a Selucid
Rod Somerville, II/32 Later Carthaginian
Tim Montgomery/Nick Rogers, II/42a Tamil
Darryl Hills, II/53 Ancient British
Wayne Power, II/56 Early Imperial Roman
Zac Russell, II/5a Later Hoplite Greek (Spartan)
Gerry Fallon, II/7 Later Achaemenid Persian
Greg Russell, II/7 Later Achaemenid Persian
Dave Turner, II/73 Old Saxon, Frisian, Bavarian, Thuringian or Early Anglo Saxon
Phil Bradley, II/74a Palmyran
Chris Cameron, II/82a Later Visigothic
Ian Baxendell, II/83a Patrician Roman (West)
Brad Cook/Darren Addison, III/27 Rushtuni Armenian
Ian Thomson, III/28 Carolingian Frankish
Doug Melville, IV/30 Teutonic Orders
Aaron Russell, IV/55a Ottoman
Karl Hamlyn, IV/82b French Ordonance
Dave Brown, To be confirmed.

I've no idea what other competitions are looking like, but I'm sure I will find out!

Woolston DBA Challenge 2011 - Results

2011-01-10T22:53:00.008+13:00

As requested here are the results for the Woolston DBA Challenge. We opted for a simple scoring system as the organiser clearly wanted to make the most of his holiday! Four points were awarded for a win, two points for a draw and one for a loss. A bye gained the player two points. The byes were awarded to local Christchurch players to ensure the out of town players achieved the maximum table time.

As can be seen the final results were extremely close. Results are presented in alphabetic order where players were on the same final score.

Jim Morton II/20c Ptolemaic (20pts)
Brian Sowman II/25 Bosporan (16pts)
Keith McNelly II/5b Later Hoplite Greek, Athenian (16pts)
Robin Sutton II/39b Ancient Spanish, Celtiberian (15pts)
Stephen Malone II/40 Numidian (15pts)
Andrew Taylor II/18e Macedonian Early Successor, Antigonas Gonatas (14pts)
Joel McNelly II/17 Lysimachid (14pts)
Simon Philips II/33 Polybian Roman (10pts)
Nick Sutton II/5a Later Hoplite Greek, Spartan (7pts)

Hopefully we will see you at the next Christchurch DBA event.

Woolston DBA Challenge 2011 - Athens Resurgent

2011-01-09T23:08:00.007+13:00

Today the safety of The Wargames Room was abandoned and the forces of Athens ventured out for the Woolston DBA Challenge. This year the challenge drew armies between the period 500BC-150BC. The theme was designed to draw armies from the Greek & Persian Wars to the Punic Wars to the table.

My selection of the Athenians was based on the fact I haven't used them in a competition before and they were only likely to be used in a resonably restricted themed competition. Given this was as close as they would get to matched opponents they were dusted off and deployed.

Above can be seen the Athenians facing Antigonas Gonatas in the first game. The Athenians, in the foreground, rather than facing the pike phalanx in the open opted for a littoral landing and assault on the Antigonid town, left rear. No less than half the hoplites were landed by sea. While capturing the town the army was defeated when the Athenian commander, landing by sea himself, was struck down by charging Galatian mercenaries.

The Athenians reformed and soon faced Polybian Romans, where they conducted another littoral landing depite being the defender. The Roman commander failing to notice two hoplite stands were not deployed was surprised by the landing behind his line. Below the Athenians can be seen just prior to the capture of the Roman camp.

Flush with victory the Athenians then faced Numidians, Ptolemaics and Spartans in the remaining three battles. Somewhat bored with open battles the Athenians again opted for a littoral landing in the final battle of the day. Again the enemy commander had failed to see the Athenian hoplite line was thin, a number of hoplites withdrawn to land by sea. The capture of the Spartan camp again resulted, eventually, in the demoralisation of the Spartan army. Though it must be said this battle was a nearly an Athenian defeat as the vastly superior Spartan and Allied hoplite line now heavily outnumbered the main Athenian line as can be seen below.

The final results found the Athenians second equal. A very reasonable if somewhat surprising final position for a hoplite army. However, results aside, I think it can be safetly said that the Woolston DBA Challenge provided another excellent day of gaming!

Awakening the Dragon

2011-01-07T21:10:00.011+13:00

This afternoon The Wargames Room was the scene of the second DBR game this week. Four days earlier the Japanese forces secured a second victory against the English (Brian), just days after their victory at Anjiro. Though their spirits were buoyed by success rumours of a new enemy, flush with cavalry, unnerved many in the Japanese camp. The rumours were correct, a Polish host (Jim) was deploying for battle.

The Japanese commander, Konishi Mototsugu, deployed on a relatively open plain. His right was protected by a series of woods and wooded hills while the left was more open, a small wooded hill providing some protection for his baggage camp now well to the rear. Mototsugu deployed with musket armed Ashigaru interspersed with dismounted Samurai in the centre. He recalled Jesuits outlining such formations in Europe where pike supported musket. Konishi only hoped his Samurai armed with yari and naginata would serve the same purpose. Each wing comprised further Ashigaru, some armed with musket or bow, along with dismounted Samurai and a number of mounted Samurai. Below, the Japanese centre, and left, with Ashigaru and supporting Samurai.

Soon the Polish host deployed opposite. The Poles were somewhat constrained by a small enclosed field on their right. Realising their superioty in cavalry they originally planned to draw the Japanese forward and envelope them, however with deployment constrained the decided to attack the Japanese right and centre with a cavalry attack. Victory would be swift. At the same time the right would envelope the more open Japanese left while the massed Polish shot would pin the Japamese left centre. Deployment was completed by 7am on a fine summer's morning. The Polish banners flicked gently in the gentle breeze that blew from the south west and until the signal from the Polish artillery was given. The Polish host motioned forward. The Polish left comprised the bulk of the Winged Hussars, screened by light cavalry and with the Hussars line extended by Pancerni it moved first at a trot and soon at speed. Below, the two armies later in the game with the Poles still hampered by the enclosure on the Polish right.

The Japanese had little option but to advance delivering a musket volley before the Winged Hussars smashed into their line. With the musket fire ineffective the Poles charged home. While some Japanese Ashigaru were swept away, especially archers on the right, the Japanese line held. Soon the dismounted Samurai lapped around the unsupported Hussars and slowly Polish casualties mounted. At one point the Polish commander was himself unceremoniously de-horsed and dispatched by the young Samurai Yoshida Rokurodaifu. Seeing the opportunity to seal the fate of the Polish wing Todi Haizaemon, commander of the Japanese right, now led his mounted reserve forward. The Polish wing collapsed and the Samurai advanced in pursuit. Below, the Poles, just prior to charging the Japanese.

Meanwhile in the centre and Japanese left the Poles pressed forward. The Polish artillery and musketeers, while initially effective, were unable to press their advantage and soon the Japanese Ashigaru and Samurai pressed forward slowly closing the range until Samurai here burst forward into a swirling melee.

However, the fate of the Polish expedition was sealed on the Japanese right. Advancing to destroy the exposed Japanese left Polish Pancerni were disordered by Japanese Ashigaru armed with bow and cannon. Before they could recover Goto Yukinaga, the young commander of the Japanese left ordered another devastating mounted attack. Leading his samurai forward they crashed into the Poles breaking them in an instant. Now with both flanks in rout and his centre breaking the Polish commander quit the field. A crushing victory had been secured for Japan.