Old Wargame Rules

New Wargame Rule Blogs

2010-07-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

The 1813 campaign has been running for more than a year, and I am running out of space on the original blog.

Over the past few months I have been making new maps using Profantasy, and this has prompted me to revamp the whole series of the 1813 Campaign blogs.

The first one to be tackled is the Wargame Rules Blog. Over the past year or so there have been many changes to the rules due to frequent play testing. I was going to amend this blog, but then I realised it would use up too much of the remaining space.

I have decided to start a new blog. It will cover the campaign background to the rules, the armies and orders of battle it is designed to use and how to set up the wargames. It will also consider each rule and explain what hope to achieve with that rule. Eventually there will be a new set of rules. There will be an index to each rule, which will allow me to amend and update it without affecting the other rules. Finally the blog will be used to notify each change in the rules and explain why it is necessary.

You can find the new blog at

http://napoleonicwargamerules.blogspot.com/

Demo Game - Summary

2009-06-07T02:11:00.001-07:00

The wargame table at the start of the game. Helmstedt is in the centre of the table. There are two farms (on green bases) and two areas of broken ground (brown patches). The French are in position on the table. There is one corps in Helmstedt and one on the road on either side. There are two corps in reserve behind Helmstedt. All are on "blinds" and must be spotted by the enemy to discover what is on each blind. The Prussians will enter the table from the right.

General
Having read through the demo game I have realised that it might be a little difficult for an inexperienced wargamer to make much sense of it all. So I though a summary, plus some explanation of the aims of the game, might be useful

Campaign background

The French army are tasked to hold the line of the river Elbe, and in particular Magdeburg. The Prussians have crossed the river in two places and forced the French to withdraw to Helmstedt, where they hope to halt the Prussian advance

The Prussian army have been very successful so far in the campaign. They have defeated the French three times, and have achieved their campaign objective of capturing Magdeburg and the river Elbe. They now want to crush the French and open the road to Hannover.

French Game Plan
You will see from the photographs above that the French have five corps on the table. All are on "blinds" so the Prussian player does not know what is where. One of the corps is a reserve, and it may either contain cavalry or artillery taken from the other corps. Or it may be a blank just used to confuse the other player.

The actual deployment is best corps in Helmstedt, two average corps either side of Helmstedt along the road, one poor corps (without cavalry or artillery) behind Helmstedt together with the reserve which consists of two cavalry brigades and horse artillery. All are on Hold orders.

The Prussian Game Plan
There are also five Prussian corps. They will all enter the table from the right of the photograph. All will be on "blinds" and all will be in column of march (this means that they must deploy in order to be able to fight).

The poorest corps is on the left (nearest the camera). It has orders to move to the front of the broken ground and hold. Two average corps have orders to move to Helmstedt either side of the road, halt out of artillery range and wait for further orders. The best corps has been placed on the right (furthest from the camera) together with the cavalry reserve, which is two brigades of cavalry and a horse battery.

The Prussian intention is to hold with their left, advance and wait with the centre, advance and attack with their right.

The Game
All went well for the Prussians to start. Their right was in position to attack, when the French attacked their reserve. The French only had one cavalry brigade against two and a gun, but they were lucky with the dice. The whole Prussian reserve broke and routed! The Prussian attack came to a halt. All corps halted and took defensive positions until new orders could be issued by the CinC.

The French were slow to react. They did send the cavalry reserve forward in the centre, and this caused panic amongst the Prussian centre, who formed square and moved artillery and cavalry around to counter this threat. However the French cavalry were not strong enough to attack without infantry support. By the time the French infantry came forward it was too late.

The Prussians regrouped one cavalry brigade and the artillery of the reserve. They then attacked again. This time they were lucky, and broke the French left wing. They pressed home their attack and broke the centre left as well.

The French commander now had half of his commant in rout or shaken and he ordered a retreat, covered by his right centre and right.

Due to the early set back, it was too late for the Prussians to complete their victory. There are only 12 moves in the game, and night fall arrived before the Prussians could exploit their victory. The French withdrew under cover of darkness.

Effect of the battle on the campaign

The purpose of the campaign is to provide good wargames, not to attempt to fight a realistic campaign. It has been our experience that in most campaigns the player who loses the first battle probably loses the whole campaign, because he carries the casualties from game to game. In our campaign battle casualties are not carried forward to the next game. The result of the battle is that the winner gains ground, and eventually his campaign objective.

The winner of a battle always has to spend one day resting and regrouping. The loser always spends the next day retreating. Great care is taken to stop both armies concentrating immediately, as that would result in one big battle and the end of the campaign. The aim is to have at least four corps battles (one for each corps) the one or two multi corps battles and finally the big one with both armies complete.

Introduction and Amendments to Wargame Rules

2009-06-06T05:13:00.000-07:00

Introduction

I have had a number of enquiries about the rules Jan and I use for the wargames in the campaign. I have sent out about 20 copies so far, but I feel that they are not really "stand alone".

The rules have evolved from various commercial sets that Jan and I have used over the years, with the most recent influence being the very popular LFS.

Just as we designed the 1813 campaign to suit our particular collection of figures, scenery and wargames table, so we have designed the rules to suit our types and numbers of model soldiers plus the type of games we want to play.

These rules will allow you to fight multi corps games with a relatively small number of figures. They are designed to represent an army corps of 20,000 to 30,000 with just 32 infantry, 4 cavalry and 1 gun. If this is not the type of game you are interested in, then I would advise that you read no further!

The rules as they stand are really just a game aid to allow Jan and I to refer to the appropriate rule as the game goes along. They do not attempt to explain why or how. With this blog I hope to be able to do that. I also hope that I may get some useful suggestions back to help us to improve the rules.

So if you have any comments on the rules do drop me a line.

Demo Game - Move 11

2009-06-06T03:21:00.001-07:00

Taken from the Prussian right. The French left flank is completely broken, and the 1 Prussian corps and the reserve cavarly are advancing through the gap. The French have lost the battle.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

After an initial set back the Prussians have recovered and are in a strong position to win the battle.

The French counter attack came too late, and has met strong resistance.

Most French corps are not on Halt orders, and waiting for new orders from the CinC

The only thing which might save the French now is nightfall.

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

All Prussian corps are now on attack orders

Blucher is determined to drive the French from the field

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM THE PRUSSIAN SIDE OF THE TABLE

Left - 4 corps have cleared the broken ground. The CinC is moving with them to ensure that they press home the attack.

Left centre - 2 corps approach the French line

Right centre - 3 corps has deployed into column and is approaching the French line

Right - The cavalry reserve have broken the French left and are on the flank of the cavalry reserve. Their aritllery is limbered and moving in support. 1 Corps have formed column and are moving to support the cavalry.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 - French - 4 corps (chip 2)
Orders: Halt
Fire on artillery (4) miss
Bounce through (4) miss
Move infantry back into town

Move 2 - Prussian - 1 corps (chip 8)
Orders: Engage
Move forward, artillery unlimber

Move 3 - Prussian - cavalry reserve (chip 12)
Orders: Engage
Artillery fire on routers who continue rout
Cavalry advance towards town
Artillery limber and support

Move 4 - Prussian - 3 corps (chip 10)
Orders: Engage
All move forward
Test to rally Shaken gun (1), fail, still Shaken

Move 5 - French - 13 corps (chip 5)
Orders: Halt
All infantry form square

Move 6 - Poor Card

Move 7 - French - 6 corps (chip 4)
Orders: Halt
Fire on infantry (9), 1 hit, make morale

Move 8 - French - cavalry reserve (chip 6)
Orders: Hold
Prussian cavalry attempt to opportunity charge (1) fail
Test morale for lancers (1) fail and rout
Hussars test morale (4) pass, disordered
artillery test (2) fail and rout

Move 9 - Prussian - 4 corps (chip 11)
Orders: Engage
Miss move due to Poor Card

Move 10 - Prussian - 2 corps (chip 9)
Orders: Engage
No artillery
Cavalry charge enemy guns, all gunners killed
Fail morale and Pursue into routing lancers - all killed

Move 11 - French - CinC (chip 1)
Move to 13 corps change orders to retreat
Move to 6 corps change orders to retreat

Move 12 - French - 5 corps (chip 3)
Orders: Halt
Try to rally infantry, fail

Move 13 - Prussian - CinC (chip 7)
Give move to 4 corps
Fire on artillery (8) miss
All advance

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 5 corps broken and in rout

Left centre - cavalry reserve also broken and in rout

Right centre - under attack from front and flank, just received orders to retereat

Right - holding flank, but have received orders to retreat

SUMMARY OF MOVE 11

The French left and centre are broken and in rout, the left centre and left are withdrawing to cover the rout.

The Prussians have won the battle, but so late in the day are unable to effectively pursue

There would normally be 12 moves in a game, but it is not worth playing as the battle is already decided.

Rule 18 - Definations

2009-06-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

RULE 18 - DEFINATIONS

Cavalry Stationery

Formed cavalry who are charged by enemy cavalry will always charge without reaction or morale test, providing the enemy charge commences at least half a move away. If nearer the defending cavalry will be stationery.

Disordered, Shaken or Routing cavalry who are charged will have to make morale to counter charge or evade

Disordered

All troops are Disordered after hand to hand combat

Both infantry brigades are Disordered when swopped around

May not initiate a combat

May not count as support

Will become Formed at the end of a complete sequence, no Pip required

Multiple Moves

Only allowed if no enemy troops or blinds within 16”

Rally

Corps commander or CinC must be in base contact and pay 1 Pip

Brigade must pass morale test

Rout becomes Shaken

Shaken becomes Disordered

Rout

May not initiate a combat

May not count as a support

Must attempt to rally each move

Becomes Shaken if rallied

Shaken

May not initiate a combat

May not count as support

Must attempt to rally each move

Becomes Disordered if rallied.

Rule 17 - Morale Test

2009-06-02T13:28:00.000-07:00

The infantry brigade in the foreground has made its test when in Rout and become Shaken. Next move it will have to test its morale again, and if it passes again it will become Disordered. The brigade behind it, with a green D, is Disordered. At the end of this entire move (when all corps have had their turn) all Disordered brigades automatically become Formed again.

Background

Brigades who receive artillery casualties must test morale immediately. All other morale tests are at the end of the corps move. Any brigade in Rout or Shaken must test morale. Any brigade within 4" of a brigade which Routs must test their morale.

RULE 17 - MORALE TEST

Automtic Rout

Brigades or batteries will rout without testing morale when casualties reach:

Infantry 6 casualties

Cavalry 4 casualties

Artillery 3 casualties

Grades of Morale

Formed

Disordered removed at end of sequence

Shaken must rally to become Disordered

Rout must rally to become Shaken

When to test

Brigades or batteries must test if:

Receive artillery casualties

Rout of friendly brigade within 4”

Routed

Shaken

How to test

Roll 1 d6 :

Plus 1 - Class A

Plus 1 - General attached

Plus 1 - Supports within 4”

Plus 1 - In BUA

Plus 1 - Behind formed supports

Minus 1 - Class C
Minus 1 - No general within 8”
Minus 1 - Each casualty
Minus 1 - No supports within 8”

Minus 1 - Rout within 4”

Minus 1 - Routed through

Minus 1 - Disordered or pursuit

Minus 2 Rout or Shaken

Result of test

3 + Make morale

1-2 Shaken

0 - Rout

Rule 16 - Reaction to Rout

2009-06-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

The Prussian hussar brigade has routed following a combat with the French dragoons. The supporting Prussian dragoons had to test their morale as they were within 8" and they also routed, through the artillery who then failed their morale and routed.

Background

When a brigade fails its morale and routs, any friendly units within 4" must also test their morale. If they have a bad dice throw they may well join the rout, causing even more friendly units to test morale. The effect is even worse if a unit routs back through a friendly unit.

RULE 16 - REACTION TO ROUT

Nearby friendly troops

Routed troops within 4” are removed from table

Shaken troops within 4” will Rout

Other troops within 4” will test Morale

All troops involved, or routed through, are Disordered

Rout moves

Cavalry 12”

Infantry 6”

Move directly away from cause and pass through friendly troops

Attempt to Rally during next move

To Rally Commander or CinC be in base contact and pay 1 Pip

Brigade must pass Morale test

If fail continue rout but avoid friends

If pass brigade becomes Shaken

Pursuit

Cavalry who cause Rout roll 1 d6

5-6 All nations Pursue

4-5-6 British Pursue

If Pursue roll 1 d6

1 or 2 Pursue Routers 12” and cause another casualty

3 or 4 Charge nearest enemy within 8” and 45 degrees

5 or 6 Charge nearest enemy within 4” and 45 degrees

During next move attempt to Rally

To Rally Commander or CinC be in base contact and pay 1 Pip

Brigade must pass Morale test

If fail return to own lines Shaken

If pass brigade becomes Disordered

Demo Game - Move 10

2009-06-02T11:51:00.000-07:00

Taken from Prussian right. The French left flank has broken and the Prussian cavalry reserve are moving towards the centre. The rest of the Prussian army are deploying into column of attack to join the advance.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Prussian situation greatly improved due to cavalry melee on right

French halt and take defensive position

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

Right – 1 corps and cavalry will engage enemy

Centre - 2 and 3 corps will engage enemy

Left - 4 corps will engage enemy

His intention is to make one final push to defeat the French

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM THE PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left. 4 corps is clearing the broken ground and advancing towards the French. The CinC has joined them to ensure that they presss home the attack.

Centre left. 2 corps have formed column of attack and are advancing towards Helmstedt

Centre right. 3 corps have formed column of attack and are advancing towards Helmstedt.

Right. The French left flank is in rout. The Prussian cavalry reserve and 1 corps are advancing into the gap left by the rout.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – Prussian – CinC (chip 7)

Change 3 corps orders to Engage

Move to 4 corps

Move 2 – French – 4 corps (chip 2)

Orders: Engage

Change orders to Halt

Fire at square, roll 8, 1 hit

Prussian infantry make morale

Move 3 – Prussian – 4 corps (11)

Orders: Engage

Fire on infantry, roll 8, 1 hit

French Infantry make morale

All infantry move forward

Move 4 – French – 6 corps (chip 6)

Orders: Engage

Fire on infantry, roll 6, miss

Change orders to Halt

Move cavalry to left flank

Move 5 – French – 13 corps (chip 5)

Orders: Engage

Change orders to Halt

Infantry form line

Move 6 – Prussian – reserve (chip 12)

Orders: Engage

Canister infantry, roll 10, 2 hits

French Infantry fail morale, are Shaken

Cavalry charge and rout same square

2 French infantry and 1 gun test morale

1 French infantry rout, 1 infantry Shaken, Gun OK

Move 7 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders: Engage

Infantry form column and advance

Artillery limber and advance

Move 8 – Poor Card

Move 9 – French – reserve (chip 6)

Orders: Withdraw

Fire on Shaken square, 1 hit, rout

3 Prussian infantry and 1 gun test morale

2 Prussian infantry and gun all Shaken

Artillery limber and withdraw

Move 10 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders: Engage

Infantry form column and advance

Move 11 – Prussian – 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders: Engage

Fire on infantry, 1 hit, make morale

Rally infantry

Gun still shaken

Infantry rout continues

Move 12 – French – CinC (chip 1)

Move to reserve change orders to Hold

Move 13 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold

1 infantry and gun Rout

1 infantry and cavalry Shaken

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left. most of 5 corps is in rout and the left flank is broken

Centre left. The cavalry reserve has retreated to the road. the left hand brigade has turned to face the broken left flank.

Right centre. 13 Corps have reached the road and are taking up a defensive position.

Right. 6 corps are deployed either side of the T junction and waiting for the Prussian attack

SUMMARY OF MOVE 10

Prussians now in strong position and all advance

3 corps Shaken due to 1 infantry rout

French have all halted

Left flank has broken and is in rout

Desperately need night fall to save them

Rule 15 - Cavalry v Infantry

2009-06-02T01:14:00.000-07:00

Prussian hussars are about to charge French infantry in column of attack. If the cavalry start their charge less than half a move away, the infantry are unable to react. If more they must test to react

Background
Only cavalry on appropriate orders may initiate a combat
Infantry can never charge cavalry
Cavalry can not charge a formed square
Note that the player with the higher combat factor can still lose the combat

RULE 15 - COMBAT CAVALRY V INFANTRY

General

Only cavalry and must Attack orders or Opportunity Charge

One brigade per side

Infantry may not charge cavalry,

Cavalry may not charge a formed square

If infantry advance cavalry must retreat to maintain 4” zone of control

Combat Factors

Plus 1 - Class A

Plus 3 - Lancers in line

Plus 3 - Heavy cavalry in line

Plus 2 - Medium cavalry in line

Plus 1 - Light cavalry in line

Plus 4 - Infantry in square

Plus 1 - Infantry in COA

Plus 1 - Infantry Fire A in line

Minus 1 - Class C

Minus 1 - Each casualty

Minus 1 - Disordered
Minus 2 - Shaken

Result

Winner roll 2 d6 dice

Plus difference in Combat Factors

Cavalry Win

Total 2-3

Cavalry halt 8" from infantry

Both disordered

No casualties

Total 4-5

Cavalry halt 8" from infantry

Both Shaken

Both lose 1 casaualty

Total 6+

Infantry Rout

Cavalry Disordered

Cavalry lose 1 casualty

Infantry lose 3 casualties

Infantry Win

Total 2-3

Infantry Rout

Cavalry Disordered

Cavalry no casualties

Infantry lose 3 casualties

Total 4-5
Infantry retreat 4"
Both Shaken
Cavalry no casualties
Infantry 2 casualties

Total 6-7
Cavalry retire 8"
Both Disordered
Both lose 1 casualty

Total 8-9
Cavalry retire 8" Shaken
Infantry Disordered
Both lose 1 casualty

Total 10+

Cavalry Rout

Infantry Disordered

Cavalry lose 2 casualties

Infantry lose 1 casualty

Rule 14 - Cavalry v Cavalry

2009-06-02T00:51:00.001-07:00

Background

Cavalry must have appropriate orders or Opportunity Charge
Only one brigade per side may take part
Note that the player with the higher combat factor can still lose the combat

RULE 14 - COMBAT CAVALRY V CAVALRY

General

Only cavalry and must have Engage, Hold or Attack orders

Only one brigade per side can take part

Both advance to contact

Combat Factors

Plus 2 - Line v Column

Plus 2 - Heavy Cavalry

Plus 1 - Medium Cavalr

Plus 1 - A Class

Minus 1 - Class C
Minus 1 - Each casualty

Minus 1 - Disordered

Minus 2 - Shaken

Minus 2 - Stationery Cavalry

Result
Winner roll 2 d6
plus difference in Combat Factors

Total 2 -3
Winner: Routs
Winner: 2 casualties
Loser : 1 casualty

Total 4-5
Winner: retires 8” Shaken
Winner: 2 casualties
Loser: 1 casualty

Total 6-7
Draw both Disordered
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 1 casualty

Total 8-9
Loser: retires 8” Shaken
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 2 casualty

Total 10 +
Loser: Routs
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 2 casualty

Rule 13 - Combat Infantry v Infantry

2009-06-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

If infantry are on attack orders their only option would be hand to hand fighting

Background

If the infantry are on Attack orders they can only hand to hand
Attack orders do not allow skirmish or fire fight
Note that the player with the higher combat factor can still lose the combat

RULE 13 - COMBAT INFANTRY V INFANTRY

General

Only infantry and must have Attack orders

Against infantry in the open

Attackers advance to contact

Combat Factors

Plus 2 - Line v Column

Plus 1 - Class A

Plus 1 - Better Skirmishers

Plus 1 - Better Firepower

Minus 2 - Outnumbered 2 to 1
Minus 1 - Each casualty

Minus 1 - Class C

Minus 1 - Disordered

Minus 2 - Shaken

Result
Winner roll 2 d6
plus difference in Combat Factors

Total 2 -3
Winner: Routs
Winner: 3 casualties
Loser : 1 casualty

Total 4-5
Winner: retires 4” Shaken
Winner: 2 casualties
Loser: 1 casualty

Total 6-7
Draw both Disordered
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 1 casualty

Total 8-9
Loser: retires 4” Shaken
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 2 casualty

Total 10 +
Loser: Routs
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 3 casualty

Rule 12 - Combat Infantry Firefight

2009-06-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

The infantry may decide to initiate a firefight. If they do so their target may fire back.

Background
Not allowed if they have already skirmished this move
Note that the player with the higher combat factor can still lose the combat

RULE 12 - COMBAT INFANTRY FIREFIGHT

General

Only infantry and must have Engage or Hold orders

Against infantry in the open

Attackers must half at 2”

Both exchange fire

Combat Factors

Plus 1 - Fire A

Plus 1 - Better Skirmishers

Plus 2 - Line v Column

Minus 2 - Outnumbered 2 to 1

Minus 2 - Square

Minus 1 - Fire C

Minus 1 - Each casualty

Minus 1 - Disordered

Minus 2 - Shaken

Minus 1 - Square

Rule 11 - Combat Infantry Skirmish

2009-06-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

Infantry may initiate skirmish during their turn if they wish. If they do so enemy may skirmish back.

Background

Only initiate skirmish combat if you have better skirmishers

If enemy skirmish defenders can also skirmish

RULE 11 - COMBAT INFANTRY SKIRMISH

General

Only infantry and must have Hold or Engage orders

Against infantry in the open, BUA or woods

Attackers halt at 4” and both skirmish

Combat

Both roll 1 d6. Require 6 to kill

Plus 3 - Skirmish A

Plus 2 - Skirmish B

Plus 1 - Skirmish C

Minus 2 - Shaken

Minus 1 - Disordered

Minus 1 - Each casualty

Minus 1 - Infantry in square

Minus 1 - Outnumbered 2 to 1

Minus 1 - Enemy deployed artillery
Minus 1 - Enemy in BUA or wood

Result

Any brigade with casualties must make morale

Rule 10 - Combat inside BUA

2009-06-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

French defenders (top) have lost first melee and withdrawn Shaken with two casualties. Prussians are disordered with one casualty. Note buildings have been removed to resolve combat inside farm. The base represents the area covered by the farm, not the building placed on top of it.

Background
Combat inside BUA may be when two brigades meet inside
Or it may be when the defenders have been pushed back, but not routed
A scenery base is recommended as it is necessary to measure within BUA
Only one brigade per side is allowed inside BUA
Note that the player with the higher combat factor can still lose the combat

RULE 10 - COMBAT INSIDE BUA OR WOODS

General

Only infantry and must have Attack or Engage orders

One brigade each side

When infantry meet inside, or garrison forced to retire from edge

Combat Factors
Plus 1 - Class A
Plus 1 - Skirmish A
Minus 1 - Class C
Minus 1 - Skirmish C
Minus 1 - Each casualty
Minus 1 - Disordered
Minus 2 - Shaken

Rule 9 - Combat at edge of BUA

2009-05-31T03:55:00.000-07:00

The garrison of the town are being attacked by two brigades. The attackers are outside the BUA template so Rule 9 will apply. The attackers will get plus 2 for being a garrison, but minus 2 for outnumbered 2 to 1.

Background
This rule applies only when one player is outside and the other inside
If the attacker gains entry rule 10 applies
Note that the player with the higher combat factor can still lose the combat

RULE 9 - COMBAT AT EDGE OF BUA OR WOODS

General
Only infantry and must have attack orders
Garrison must have occupied for a full move and paid 1 Pip
One brigade can attack each side

Combat Factors
Plus 2 - Garrison
Plus 1 - Class A
Minus 1 Class C
Minus 1 Each casualty
Minus 1 Disordered
Minus 2 Shaken
Minus 2 Outnumbered 2 to 1

Result
Winner roll 2 d6
plus difference in Combat Factors

Total 2 -3
Winner: Routs
Winner: 3 casualties
Loser : 1 casualty

Total 4-5
Winner: retires 4” Shaken
Winner: 2 casualties
Loser: 1 casualty

Total 6-7
Draw both Disordered
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 1 casualty

Total 8-9
Loser: retires 4” Shaken
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 2 casualty

Total 10 +
Loser: Routs
Winner: 1 casualty
Loser: 3 casualty

Rule 8 - Combat Quick Results

2009-05-31T03:25:00.000-07:00

The infantry on the left are in square so that the gunners can evade to safety if charged by enemy cavalry.

Background

This rule is to cover those times when a result is so obvious there is no need to wargame it.

RULE 8 - COMBAT QUICK RESULTS

Cavalry can not charge formed square

cavalry must half 4" from square

Infantry can not charge cavalry

If infantry column of march, line or square approach within 4”, cavalry must withdraw to maintain 4” distance.

Infantry Column of March contacted by cavalry

If infantry unable to change formation they will rout and lost 3 casualties

Limbered artillery contacted by cavalry

If artillery unable to evade they will be cut down and lose all guns

Deployed artillery charged by enemy

Gunners will evade if more than half move from enemy and supports within 4”.

The gunners will retreat behind supports or within square

If unable to do so they will be cut down and lose all guns

Routers contacted by enemy

All are lost

Brigade caught in flank or rear

If unable to turn and face enemy will rout and lose 3 casualties

Disordered after hand to hand combat

All troops are disordered after hand to hand combat

if not Shaken or in Rout

Rule 7 - Artillery Fire

2009-05-31T03:08:00.000-07:00

These two guns belong to different corps, 1 to cavalry reserve and 1 to first corps. The one attached to cavalry are always horse artillery. They can only fire during their corps move.

Background
Artillery can fire, even if miss move due to Poor Card
Artillery fire before any movement
Only deployed (unlimbered) guns can fire
The figure shown for a hit is for 1 hit
If artillery score double that number they score 2 hits

RULE 7 - ARTILLERY FIRE

General
Artillery must be formed to fire
Fire once per move
Use 45 degree angle to determine if target within angle
May not fire if friendly troops within 1” of line of fire
Overhead fire if on higher ground and 8” behind friends
Roundshot bounce through if 4” or less behind target

Short Ranges
Heavy- 0 to 10”
Medium - 0 to 8”
Light - 0 to 6”

Long Range
Heavy - 10 to 20”
Medium - 8 to 16”
Light - 6 – 14”

Dice for hit
Roll 2 d6

Plus 1 : A class gunners
Minus 1 : C class gunners
Minus 1 : Each gunner casualty
Minus 1 : Bounce through (4" or less behind target)

Total required for a hit at Long Range
Infantry or Cavalry - 8
Woods or Hedge - 9
Buildings or Walls - 10
Artillery - 11

Total required for a hit at Short Range
Infantry or Cavalry - 6
Woods or Hedge - 7
Buildings or Walls - 8
Artillery - 9

Rule 6 - Opportunity Charge

2009-05-31T02:45:00.000-07:00

Prussian cavalry on the right can opportunity charge French infantry because they start the move on their flank.

Summary

The purpose of Opportunity Charges is to allow cavalry to charge when they would naturally do so, even if their current orders do not allow a charge.
It is only avalable to formed cavalry who pass a test to do so
It can only be used during the opponents move
The target can react if far enough from cavalry and make morale

RULE 6 - OPPORTUNITY CHARGE

Who can charge
Only allowed during the enemy move
Formed cavalry only
No Pips required

What can be charged
Any Disordered or Shaken enemy
Any enemy in flank or rear
Cavalry in column
Infantry in column of march
Artillery limbered

Test to charge
Roll 1 d6 require 4 or more
Plus 1 A class Minus 1 C Class
Plus 1 Commander within 4” Minus 1 Poor commander
Plus 1 Charging flank or rear

Target Reaction
No reaction if cavalry are within half move
Evade if orders allow
Counter charge if formed cavalry
Change formation if formed and pass test
Turn to face if formed and pass test
Intercept if formed cavalry of the same corps and pass test

Test to react
Roll 1 d6 require 4 or more
Plus 1 A class Minus 1 C class
Plus 1 General within 4” Minus 1 Poor commander
Minus 1 Charged in flank or rear

Rule 5 - Movement

2009-05-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

To move all of his corps the commander would need at least 7 pips. He could move 16", the cavalry could move 16", the infantry 4" and the artillery 8"

Summary

There are two types of movement
First when on blinds
Second when figures on the table
Corps Commander must use pips to move brigades

RULE 5 - MOVEMENT

Blinds

Single blind 8” per Pip

Multiple blind 4” per Pip

Figures on Table

16" - Generals

16" - Light cavalry column

14" - Light cavalry line

14" - Heavy/Medium cavalry column

12" - Heavy/Medium cavalry line

12" - Horse artillery limbered

8" - Foot artillery limbered

8" - Infantry column of march

6" - Infantry column of attack

4" - Infantry line

2" - Infantry Square

2" - Manhandle medium artillery

1" - Manhandle heavy artillery

Multiple Moves

Allowed providing no enemy blinds or figures within

4” for Generals

16” for brigade or blind

Multiple moves allowed within 16" or enemy

Half move and change formation

Artillery two actions of Fire/Limber/Move/Unlimber

Difficult terrain

All brigades half move

Rule 4 - Types of Orders

2009-05-30T13:51:00.000-07:00

This corps is probably on Move orders, they are ready to move forward, all are in column and the guns are limbered.

Summary

Each corps must have one of the following orders
Corps Commander can change his own orders to Halt
All other orders can only be issued by CinC
Corps commander must carry out his orders

RULE 4 - TYPE OF ORDERS

Move
All brigades must move towards objective
May not move closer to enemy than 4” in open
May not move closer to enemy than 2” in BUA or difficult terrain
Corps commander may change to Halt

Halt
May not move closer to enemy
Brigades may move to improve defence
Brigades may retreat out of artillery range
Must wait for new orders from CinC

Hold
May not advance beyond the furthest edge of objective, except cavalry to recce
Cavalry may charge any enemy who approach within 8”
Infantry may skirmish or fire on any enemy who approach within 8”

Engage
At least one brigade must move towards the objective
Cavalry may charge any enemy within 8”
Infantry may skirmish or fire on any enemy within 8”

Attack
At least one brigade must attack enemy if possible
All brigades must move towards objective
Cavalry will charge any enemy within range
Infantry will charge any infantry or artillery within range
Shaken or Disordered brigades do not have to attack

Rule 3 - Corps Commander

2009-05-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

The corps commander is the mounted figure facing his corps. There are four infantry brigades, one cavalry brigade and corps artillery.

Summary

The corps commander must carry out the orders issued by the CinC
He can however change them to Halt at any time
To change orders he must be within 16" of each brigade
He must then remain at Halt until he receives new orders from the CinC
The main role of the corps commander is to issue orders to his brigades.
To do this he rolls an average dice, plus his command factor.
To issue orders he must be within 8" of the brigade
A Spanish commander must be in base contact to issue orders

RULE 3 - CORPS COMMANDER

Roll for Pips

Roll average dice

Gifted +3

Average +2

Poor +1

Corps Orders

Must use all of his Pips to achieve the corps orders

Actions costing 1 Pip

Move and change face up to 45 degrees

Change formation or change face more than 45 degrees

Artillery fire, limber, move or unlimber

Infantry fire or skirmish

Gifted commander change orders to Halt

Actions costing 2 Pips

Retire half move facing enemy

Half move and change formation

Artillery two actions of fire, limber, move or unlimber

Average commander change orders to Halt

Actions costing 3 Pips

Swop two brigades (both Disordered)

Fresh brigade must be directly behind and within 4”

Poor commander change orders to Halt

Rule 2 - Commander in Chief

2009-05-30T13:18:00.000-07:00

The CinC is the two figure base, the remainder on single figure bases are corps commanders. The cavalry figure with his back to the camera is the reserve commander.

Summary

The main role of the CinC is to issue orders to his corps commanders.
To do this he must be in base contact with the corps commander
He rolls an average dice, plus his command factor, for "pips"
He may give his turn to a corps commander if in base contact

RULE 2 - COMMANDER IN CHIEF

Roll for Pips
Roll average dice
Gifted +3
Average +2
Poor +1

Movement
16” move per pip
Multiple move allowed if no enemy blind or figures within 4”

Change Corps Orders
Must be in base contact with corps commander
Gifted 1 pip
Average 2 pips
Poor 3 pips

Give Move to Corps Commander
Must be in base contact with corps commander
Gifted 1 pip
Average 2 pips
Poor 3 pips
The balance of pips may then be used by the Corps Commander that turn

Rule 1 - Movement on Blinds

2009-05-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

The two corps on blinds are deployed, because the blinds are both two bases wide. If spotted they must place their figures on the table behind the blinds, they must not overlap the frontage.

Summary

This is a device to prevent the other player knowing what you have where at the start of the game, and in doing so prevent him from reacting to your plan of battle too soon.

I use a strip of skirmish figures as a blind, but it might just as easily be an oblong card.

Each strip has a number placed behind it to indicate which corps it represents.

The strip represents the forward line of the corps.

One strip means the corps are marching in column of march.
Brigades can not fight in this formation.

Two or more strips means the brigades have formed column of march or line, and are ready to fight.

When spotted the figures are placed on the table, one brigade at the forward edge of each blind.
So if there are two blinds, you place your corps on the table, two brigades wide.
The figures are not allowed to overlap the area covered by the blind.
The brigades may be in column of march or line as desired.

Rule 1 - Movement on Blinds

General

Roll average dice for each commander

Plus 1 for Gifted Minus 1 for Poor

Single base move 8” per pip

Multiple base move 4” per pip

Spotting Process

Any blind or brigade, but not generals, can spot

Light cavalry can be detached from blind to spot

Roll 10 sided dice:

Target in line of sight

0 to 16” Automatic spot

16 to 24” Spot 7 to 10

Target behind blind
or deployed troops

0 to 12” Automatic spot

12 to 16” Spot 7 to 10

16 to 24” Spot 9 to 10

Target in woods,

BUA or behind hill

0 to 4” Automatic spot

4 to 8” Spot 7 to 10

8 to 12” Spot 9 to 10

Organisation of Armies

2009-05-30T04:29:00.000-07:00

ARMY ORDER OF BATTLE

The rules are designed for use with my campaign, although there is no reason why they should not be used outside the campaign. However the Order of Battle contains a lot of information needed to use the rules.

I have 10 Army Groups in my campaign, and each one has its own Order of Battle. But I will only explain one to explain how it works. I have chosen the Second French Army.

SECOND FRENCH ARMY – MARSHAL DAVOUT

CinC Average +2

4 French Corps Gifted +3
13 Infantry Brigade CA FB SA
14 Infantry Brigade CB FB SA
15 Infantry Brigade CB FC SB
16 Infantry Brigade CC FC SB
11 Cavalry Brigade CA Light
Corps Artillery CB 12 pounder

5 French Corps Average +2
17 Infantry Brigade CA FB SA
18 Infantry Brigade CB FB SA
19 Infantry Brigade CB FC SB
20 Infantry Brigade CC FC SB
3 Cavalry Brigade CB Medium
Corps Artillery CB 9pounder

6 French Corps Average +2
21 Infantry Brigade CA FB SA
22 Infantry Brigade CB FB SA
23 Infantry Brigade CB FC SB
24 Infantry Brigade CC FC SB
5 Cavalry Brigade CC Heavy
Corps Artillery CB 9 pounder

13 Polish Corps Poor +1
1 Infantry Brigade CA FA SA
2 Infantry Brigade CB FB SB
3 Infantry Brigade CB FB SB
4 Infantry Brigade CC FC SC
13 Cavalry Brigade CB Light
Corps Artillery CC 9 pounder

Reserve Commander Average +2

Commanders
I use two figures for CinC and 1 for each corps commander
You can use as many as you like, or any bases you wish
There are 6 commanders.
CinC, four corps commanders and a reserve commander.
Each has a grade; Gifted, Average or Poor.
To issue orders they roll an average dice and add their grade score.

Corps
There are four corps in each army group
CinC issue orders to each corps, and only he can change them
Each corps has 4 infantry brigades, 1 cavalry brigade, and 1 corps artillery
However the fighting capacity of each corps is difference

Infantry Brigades
1 use 8 figures for each brigade, so that I can show line, column of square
You can use as many figures as you like, on any bases you wish.
The fighting ability is decided by the class, firepower and skirmish grade
Class represents training and morale
Firepower represents training and volley effectiveness
Skirmish represents ability to fight in open order
Each is graded A (best), B (average) or C (worse)

Cavalry Brigades
1 use 4 figures for each brigade, so that I can show line or column
You can use as many figures as you like, on any bases you wish.
There are three types of cavalry: heavy, medium and light
Their type and class decide their fighting ability
Class and grading as for infantry

Corps Artillery
I use one gun and 4 crew for corps artillery
You can use as many as you like, on any bases you wish.
There are three types of artillery: 12 pdr, 8/9 pdr and 6pdr
Their fighting ability is decided by their size and class
Class and grading as for infantry

Summary of the Rules

2009-05-30T04:23:00.000-07:00

General

This section will try to explain setting up a game and the flow of play, plus some comments on the rules themselves.

PREPARATION FOR THE GAME

Allocate grade to each commander
A commander may be Gifted, Average or Poor
The grade must be allocated before the game starts

Allocate cavalry or artillery to reserve commander
Each army has a spare commander who may be used as a reserve commander if desired. He is allocated cavalry brigades or artillery from the other corps, and he becomes the reserve cavalry or artillery commander. This must be done before the game starts.

CinC write orders
Orders must be written for each corps, and reserve, commander before the game starts. Only CinC can change orders (except for Halt). The only orders allowed are:

Move

all must move towards objective
cavalry can opportunity charge, artillery can fire

Halt

no movement towards the enemy

may move to improve defenc

cavalry can opportunity charge

artillery can fire

Hold

may not advance nor retreat
cavalry can charge enemy within 8”.

infantry may skirmish within 4” or volley fire within 2”

Engage

must move towards objective.
cavalry and infantry as Hold

Attack

must move towards objective

artillery must move to canister range

Cavalry and infantry must attack any enemy within range

Prepare blinds for hidden movement
Each corps enters the table as a “blind”. You may use either a card or a skirmish base. It should be the 6” wide.

Prepare identity cards or chips for each commander
Each commander has a card or chip to indicate who he is. I use playing chips for each commander. They would be numbered 1 to 12 to cover both armies.

Prepare movement cards or chips for each commander
I use a second set of chips, also numbered 1 to 12. One chip is drawn each move, and that commander then takes his move. In addition you need the following chips:

Poor - the next poor commander to have his chip picked has to forego his move

French tactical – one French general, still on a blind, who has not yet moved may do so

Allied gifted – one gifted allied general who has not yet moved may do so

French gifted – one gifted French general who has not yet moved may do so

SEQUENCE OF PLAY

At the start of the turn all chips are placed in a hat or box.
Draw one chip each move until all chips have been drawn
Put chips back in hat or box and repeat sequence
I allow 12 moves per day, but this is optional

1 - Draw chip for movement

2 - Dice for command pips

3 - If CinC chip write orders

4 - Dice to spot enemy blind

5 - Artillery fire

6 - Artillery casualties test morale

7 - Movement

8 - Resolve combats

9 - Test morale

Demo Game - Move 9

2009-05-28T10:53:00.000-07:00

Taken from Prussian right. The advantage is with the Prussians once more. On their right (nearest the camera) the reserve cavalry are on the flank of the French line and, supported by their artillery, ready to attack. The French CinC has halted his advance and changed his ordrs to Hold.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Prussian situation greatly improved, mainly because they moved first

Left - Engage orders moving into position far edge of broken ground

Centre - Halt orders, but formed square and safe from cavalry

Right - Engage orders and ready to move forward

French still in strong position.

Cavalry arrived too late to attack Prussian centre

Left - orders arrived too late to advance

Centre - Engage orders and moving forward

Right - Engage orders and moving forward

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

Right – 1 corps and cavalry will engage enemy

Centre - 2 and 3 corps will hold the centre

Left - 4 corps will engage enemy

His intention is to hold his position until nightfall

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 4 corps have orders to Engage and are advancing towards the enemy. Their forward brigades have cleared the broken ground and the artillery has unlimbered.

Centre left. 2 corps have Halt orders, but the CinC has just joined them to issue fresh orders.

Centre right. 3 corps are on Hold orders. They have been badly shaken and are still in square. Their cavalry have made their morale. The corps will soon be ready for offensive action.

Right. 1 corps is now on Engage orders. They have formed line ready to advance and their artillery has manhandled forward to engage enemey.

Cavalry reserve are also on Engage orders. The cavalry are now fully formed and the gunners have manned their guns.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – French – 4 corps (chip 2)

Orders: Engage

Artillery fire on square (3) miss

Overshoot on limbered artillery (4) miss

Infantry advance out of Helmstedt

Rally Shaken infantry to Disordered

Move 2 – Prussian – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders: Engage

Artillery fire on cavalry (6) miss

Infantry move forward and form line

Move 3 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Engage

Fire on artillery crew (12) 1 hit

Crew test morale (6) pass

Cavalry move towards Prussian cav

Prussians opportunity charge

Prussians roll 11, French cavalry rout

Support infantry test morale (6 & 6) both ok

Move 4 – Prussian – cavalry reserve (chip 12)

Orders: Engage

Gunners man guns

Cavalry Disordered, but turn to face enemy infantry

Move 5 – Poor card

Move 6 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders: Engage

Infantry form line

Artillery manhandle forward

Move 7 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders: Hold centre
Test to rally Shaken cavalry (8) pass and become Disordered

Move 8 – French – 13 corps (chip 5)

Orders: Engage

Miss move as Poor card in play

Move 9 – French – CinC (chip 1)

Too much to do to give move to 13 corps

Move to cavalry reserve change orders Withdraw to road

Move to 5 corps

Move 10 – French - 6 corps (chip 4)

Orders: Engage

Artillery fire on infantry column (4) miss

Commander change orders to Halt

Swop infantry with cavalry

Move 11 – Prussian – 3 corps (chip 11)

Orders: Halt

Move cavalry back to left flank

Unlimber artillery

Move 12 – French – reserve (chip 6)

Orders: Withdraw to road

Fire on square (11) 2 hits.

Square test morale (6) pass

Cavalry retreat half move facing enemy

Move 13 – Prussian – CinC (chip 7)

Move to 2 corps, change orders to Engage

Move to 3 corps, change orders to Engage

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left. 5 corps are on Engage orders but in serious trouble. Their cavalry have lost a melee with the Prussian hussars and are in rout. This has left their right flank vunerable to the enemy cavalry and artillery. They urgently need new orders.

Left centre. Cavalry reserve have received Withdraw orders and have moved back to the road, covered by their artillery.

Right centre. 4 corps are on Engage orders and have advanced beyond Helmstedt. With the changed situation they urgently need new orders.

13 corps are also on Engage orders but have missed their turn due to the Poor Card. The French CinC must urgently decide whether he wants to continue this advance.

Right. 6 corps orders have been changed to Hold, and they have withdrawn their cavalry behind the infantry to protect them from artillery fire.

SUMMARY OF MOVE 9

Prussian situation greatly improved due to cavalry melee on right

French halt and take defensive position

Demo Game - Move 8

2009-05-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Taken from the Prussian right flank. The Prussian centre has been pushed back, and the infantry are in squares. The Prussian reserve cavalry (nearest camera) have reformed and advanced to cover the guns, the gunners are moving back to man the guns. The French (right in photograph), apart from the reserve cavalry, have not yet received orders to move and engage the Prussians.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Best described as one of those battles when the French could do no wrong and the Prussians could do no right

Blucher is very concerned, the battle is going badly wrong

On his left his Poor 4 corps has refused to move 4 times

In his centre left 2 corps has halted his advance

In his centre right 3 corps are in disorder

On his right 1 corps is holding

On his far right cav reserve are rallying

His intention is to hold along his whole line

The French counter attack has started and it looks bad for the Prussians

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps will hold the right flank

Cavalry reserve will rally behind 1 corps

2 and 3 corps will hold the centre

4 corps will engage enemy on left flank

His intention is to hold his position until nightfall

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM THE PRUSSIAN SIDE OF THE TABLE

Left - 4 corps have Engage orders. They are very slow to approach the enemy, partly because of the difficult terrain, partly because they keep missing a move due to their Poor commander.

Centre left - 2 corps have Halt orders due to French cavalry on their right front. They are moving their artillery and lancers to their right to counter this threat.

Centre right - 3 corps have Hold orders. Their infantry are all in square due to the approaching French cavalry. Their cavalry have rallied to Shaken, but are protected by the infantry square until they can rally fully.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders: Halt

Move artillery to left to counter enemy cavalry and unlimber

Move 2 – Prussian – 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders: Halt

Infantry form square to counter enemy cavalry

Artillery limber and move behind squares

Move 3 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders: Hold centre
French lancers declare opportunity charge on Shaken cuirassiers

Test to charge, roll 1, fail

Cuirassiers move back facing enemy

Infantry square moves to protect cuirassiers

Test morale for cuirassiers, roll 1, remain Shaken

Test morale for routing infantry, fail, continue rout

No friendly units within 8”, no morale tests

Move 4 – Prussian – CinC (chip 7)

Move to reserve cavalry and change orders to Engage

Move to 1 corps and change orders to Engage

Move 5 – Prussian right –reserve (chip 12)

Orders: Engage
Dragoons move forward to protect guns

Gunners move forward to man guns

Move 6 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold

Unlimber gun to counter enemy cavalry

Right hand infantry form square

Move 7 – French – 13 corps (chip 5)

Orders: Move to road

All infantry move to road

Move 8 – French – 6 corps (chip 4)

Orders: Engage

Artillery fire on guns (roll 5) miss

Infantry form column of attack and advance

Move 9 – French – CinC (chip 1)

Change 5 corps orders to Engage

Move to Shaken infantry brigade from 4 crops

Test morale, roll 2, fail remain Shaken

Move to 13 corps

Move 10 – French – 4 corps (chip 2)

Orders: Engage

Guns unlimber

Infantry move forward

Move 11 – French – reserve (chip 6)

Orders: Engage

All enemy infantry in square

Change orders to Halt

Move forward brigade back to form line

Unlimber artillery

Move 12 – Prussian – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders: Engage

Artillery fire on cavalry (roll 7) 1 hit

Cavalry test morale (roll 5) pass

Infantry move forward through broken ground

Move 13 – Poor Card

All Poor commanders have already moved, no effect

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM THE FRENCH SIDE OF THE TABLE

Left - 5 corps have hold orders. They are expecting orders to advance, and their infantry have formed column of attack, and the artillery are limbered.

Left centre - Cavalry reserve have moved forward to attack the Prussian centre, their artillery are in support. The artillery from 4 corps have joined them, and one infantry brigade is in support of the guns.

Right centre - 4 corps have received Engage orders and are moving through Helmstedt (not the building has been removed to allow move measurements).

13 Corps (on the right) have orders to Move to the road, and are just reaching it. The CinC has arrived to give new orders to their commander.

Right - 6 corps have Engage orders. They are moving forward to engage the Prussians as they exit the broken ground.

SUMMARY OF MOVE 8

Prussian situation greatly improved, mainly because they moved first

Left - Engage orders moving into position far edge of broken ground

Centre - Halt orders, but formed square and safe from cavalry

Right - Engage orders and ready to move forward

French still in strong position.

Cavalry arrived too late to attack Prussian centre

Left - orders arrived too late to advance

Centre - Engage orders and moving forward

Right - Engage orders and moving forward

Demo Game - Move 7

2009-05-26T00:32:00.000-07:00

Taken from Prussian right flank. The French counter attack has begun. In the centre their reserve cavalry have moved forwarded supported by artillery. The rest of the French corps are waiting for change of orders to advance. The Prussian centre has withdrawn and all of the infantry are in square.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Prussians are recovering on right flank, but still Shaken

Prussians are retreating in the centre, still awaiting orders

Prussians are advancing on the left and about to Engage

French are slow to react , still waiting for orders

French right flank secure

French right centre in danger due to one rout, could break

French left centre waiting for orders to advance

French left flank waiting for orders to advance

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps will hold the right flank

Cavalry reserve will rally behind 1 corps

2 corps will hold the centre

3 and 4 corps will engage enemy on left flank

His intention is to attack with his left

Hold his centre

Hold and really his right

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM THE PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 4 corps have been given Engage orders and are advancing through the broken ground.

Left centre - 2 corps commander has halted and is awaiting new orders from CinC. They are concerned about the advance of French cavalry reserve on their right front.

Right centre - 3 corps are on Halt orders and awaiting new orders from CinC. They are the target of the advancing French cavalry reserve, and one infantry brigade has already routed.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – French – 6 corps (chip 4)

Orders: Hold right flank
Artillery fire on enemy artillery and miss

Move 2 – French – 13 corps (chip 5)

Orders: Move to road on right of Helmstedt
No artillery with this corps

Move infantry brigades forward through the rout

Test morale for Shaken brigade, roll 5, pass become Disordered

Move 3 – Poor Card

Move 4 – Prussian – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders: Engage Enemy

Miss another move due to Poor Card

(fourth time this game !)

Move 5 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders : Halt

Await new orders from CinC

Limber gun and move towards right flank

Move 6 – French – CinC

Change orders of 6 corps

Move to reserve cavalry and change orders

Move to far left and join 5 corps

Move 7 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders : Halt

Put all infantry in square

Test morale for Shaken 6 brigade, roll 1, Rout

Test morale for all brigades within 8”

Result cavalry Shaken, 3 infantry make morale

Move 8 – Prussian – reserve (chip 12)

Orders : Halt

Move dragoons to right flank

Test Shaken artillery morale (roll 5) pass become Disordered

Move 9 – French – reserve (chip 6)

Orders: Engage
Both brigades move forward within charge move of enemy

Artillery limber and advance in support

Move 10 – Prussian – 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders: Engage
Commander changes orders to Halt

French cavalry reserve is close to his flank

Move 11 – Prussian – CinC (chip 7)

Too much to do to give move to 4 corps

Move to centre right change 6 corps orders to Hold

Move to Prussian right to 1 corps

Move 12 – French – 4 corps (chip Gifted)

Orders: Hold Helmstedt
Rally garrison in preparation to remove them

Move in Shaken brigade

Test morale (roll 6) pass become Disordered

Test morale for Routed brigade (roll 6) pass become Shaken

Move 13 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold left flank

Unable to move as still on Hold orders

Form column of attack with all infantry brigades

Limber artillery ready to advance

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 3 corps are still on Hold orders, but have formed column of attack ready to advance. CinC has arrived to issue new orders

Centre left - Cavalry reserve has received Engage orders and has moved forward supported by their horse artillery. 4 corps artillery is also moving forward to engage the Prussian centre

Centre right - The routing infantry brigade has rallied and is now Shaken. 13 corps have moved through them and are taking up position on the road between Helmstedt and the right flank.

Right - 6 corps is holding the flank and is not at present under any threat from the Prussian army.

SUMMARY OF MOVE 7

One of those moves when the French could do no wrong and the Prussians could do no right

Blucher is very concerned, the battle is going badly wrong

On his left his Poor 4 corps has refused to move 4 times

In his centre left 2 corps has halted his advance

In his centre right 3 corps are in disorder

On his right 1 corps is holding

On his far right cav reserve are rallying

His intention is to hold along his whole line

The French counter attack has started and it looks bad for the Prussians

Demo Game - Move 6

2009-05-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

Taken from Prussian right flank. The French army are deployed along the Wolfsburg road, with Helmstedt in the centre. The Prussian right wing is in disorder and trying to rally. The centre has halted and the left wing slow to advance.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Prussian cavalry and artillery very lucky to make morale, but still Shaken

Right flank waiting for orders

Centre right waiting for orders

Centre left ready to advance and Engage enemy

Left again halted due to Poor card, but ready to advance and Engage enemy

Blucher has managed to issue fresh orders to engage with his left flank

Centre waiting for orders, but unable to advance due to stronger enemy

Right looking better, but cavalry still Shaken

The Prussians are fortunate that the French have not yet reacted to disaster on the right. This might be due to indecision by the French CinC or insufficient command Pips to issue necessary orders.

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps will hold the right flank

Cavalry reserve will rally behind 1 corps

2 corps will hold the centre

3 and 4 corps will engage enemy on left flank

His intention is to attack with his left

Hold his centre

Hold and really his right

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 4 corps has a Poor commander, who has failed to move a couple of times. Blucher has moved to his side to ensure that he moves this time.

Left centre - 2 corps is advancing towards Helmstedt

Right centre - 3 corps has taken casualties and has the French cavalry reserve opposite them. Their commander has changed his orders to Halt, formed his infantry in square and withdrawn out of artillery range.

Right - Commander 1 corps has changed his orders to Halt, and is holding his own. The cavalry commander has rallied his dragoons and horse artillery, but the hussars have routed from the field. He is moving his command behind 1 corps to regroup them.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – French - reserve (chip 6)

Orders: Hold

Out of artillery range

Unable to move forwards due to orders

Move 2 – French – 6 corps (chip 4)

Orders: Hold right flank
Fire on cavalry (roll 6), miss

Move 3 – French - Blind (chip 5)

Orders: Move to road on right of Helmstedt
Move to right and spotted

Place figures on the table
Move 4 – French - 4 corps (chip 2)

Orders: Hold Helmstedt

Fire on enemy square (roll 5) 1 hit

Square test morale (roll 5) fail, Shaken

Move 5 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders : Halt

Await further orders from CinC

Move squares back out of artillery range

Move 6 – French – CinC

Change orders for 4 corps

Move to 6 corps

Move 7 – Poor Card

Move 8 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders : Halt

Await further orders from CinC

Fire on guns (roll 5) and miss

Move 9 – Prussian – reserve (chip 12)

Orders : Rally behind 1 corps

Move routine dragoons away from supports
Move hussars behind 1 corps

Test morale for dragoons (roll 1), fail, continue Rout

Test morale for hussars (roll 3), pass, become Disordered

Test morale for artillery (roll 4), fail, remain Shaken

Move 10 – Prussian – CinC (chip 7)

Give move to 4 corps

Move 11 – Prussian – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders : Engage Enemy

Move guns forward and unlimber

Move rear infantry forward

Move 12 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold left flank
Fire on gun (roll 3) miss

Move infantry forward to road

Move 13 – Prussian – 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders : Engage Enemy

Fire on infantry (roll 9) 1 hit

Infantry test morale (roll 1) fail and Rout

6 brigades are within 8" and must test morale

2 fail and are shaken, 6 pass and are ok

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 3 corps are secure and in a good position to take advantage of the enemy disorganisation. However they are on Hold orders and must wait for new orders to advance.

Left Centre - French cavalry reserve are also ready to attack, but again must wait for new orders from the CinC. The Prussians have withdrawn out of range of the artillery, and again they need new orders to advance.

Right centre - 13 corps were in reserve behind 4 corps. One brigade routed into them, causing a lot of disorder, fortunately none of them joined the rout

French right - 6 corps is also in a strong position on the right flank. The Prussian corps opposite them is very slow to advance. The CinC has just joined them, so perhaps they are about to receive new orders?

SUMMARY OF MOVE 6
Prussian situation is improving
Recovering on the right flank, but still Shaken
Retreating in the centre, still awaiting orders
Advancing on the left and about to Engage

French are slow to react, still waiting for orders
Right flank secure
Centre waiting for orders to advance
Left flank waiting for orders to advance

Demo Game - Move 5

2009-05-22T06:50:00.000-07:00

Distaster on the Prussian right flank. Two cavalry brigades and the horse artillery all in rout having lost melee with single French dragoon brigade. Prussian infantry or 1 corps have formed square.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

In one move the situation has changed from excellent to desperate for the Prussians

Cavalry reserve is broken and in rout

Right flank has halted and formed square, awaiting new orders

Centre right has also halted and formed square, awaiting new orders

Centre left is the only corps available to advance

Left flank again failed to move due to Poor Card

Blucher must switch his advance from his right to his left flank if he is to retain the initiative.

His centre can not advance due to superior enemy cavalry and artillery.

His right flank is in disorder and will be lucky to hold.

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps will halt and hold the right flank

Cavalry reserve will rally behind 1 corps

2 corps will halt and hold the centre

3 and 4 corps will advance on the left flank

His intention is to attack with his left

Hold with his centre

Hold with his right

Rally cavalry reserve behind right

PHOTOGRAPHS OF PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Prussian Left - Prussian CinC has joined 4 corps to ensure that they move this time. Hussars on their right belong to 3 corps. 6 French corps are deployed either side of the T junction.

Prussian Centre - 3 Prussian corps continue to advance towards Helmstedt. 2 corps have halted and formed square having spotted French cavalry to the right of the town.

Prussian Right - 1 Prussian corps have halted and formed square. The reserve cavalry commander has halted the rout, he has ralled both cavalry brigades and the horse artillery, who are now all Shaken.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders : Halt

Wait for new orders from CinC

Out of artillery range

Move 2 – French – 6 corps (chip 4)

Orders: Hold right flank
Out of artillery range

Extend infantry line

Move 3 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders – Halt

Await further orders from CinC

Artillery fire on enemy guns and miss

Infantry form square as no cavalry support

Move 4 – French – 4 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold Helmstedt
Fire and hit enemy square, who make morale

Move 5 – Prussian – Prussian CinC (chip 7)

Move to centre and change 3 corps orders to Engage Enemy

Move 6 – Prussian - 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders : engage enemy

Artillery fire on infantry and miss

Infantry move forward

Move 7 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold left flank
Artillery fire on enemy guns and miss

Move cavalry back

Move 8 – Prussian – reserve (chip 12)

Orders : Rally and regroup

Dragoons test morale, fail and remain Shaken

Hussars test morale, pass and become Shaken

Artillery test morale, pass and become Shaken

Move 9 – French – French CinC (chip 1)

Move to Blind behind Helmstedt

Move 10 – Blind Card

Move 11 – French - reserve (chip 6)

Orders: Move to road left of Helmstedt
Artillery out of range, manhandle forward

Cavalry move forward to main road
Move 12 – Prussian – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders : Engage Enemy

Miss move due to Poor card
Move 13 – French – blind (chip 5)

Orders: Hold in reserve
Move to right, not spotted

PHOTOGRAPHS OF FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 5 French corps are on hold orders and therefore unable to take advantage of the Prussian disorder.

Centre - French CinC has joined the reserve behind Helmstedt, and is moving it to the right. 4 corps holds the village, with the cavalry reserve on their left.

Right - 6 corps hold the right flank. The left hand brigade has formed square, and the cavalry have advanced to hold the approaching Prussian cavalry at bay.

SUMMARY OF MOVE 5

Prussian cavalry and artillery very lucky to make morale, but still Shaken

Right flank waiting for orders

Centre right waiting for orders

Centre left ready to advance and Engage enemy

Left again halted due to Poor card, but ready to advance and Engage enemy

Blucher has managed to issue fresh orders to engage with his left flank

Centre waiting for orders, but unable to advance due to stronger enemy

Right looking better, but cavalry still Shaken

The Prussians are fortunate that the French have not yet reacted to disaster on the right. This might be due to indecision by the French CinC or insufficient command Pips to issue necessary orders.

Demo Game - Move 4

2009-05-21T03:47:00.000-07:00

The cavalry melee on the Prussian right flank which was to have such disasterous results for the Prussian attack. The French dragoon brigade has charged the Prussian hussar brigade. There is a Prussian dragoon brigade in support on the left, and the horse artillery behind.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Blucher is very pleased with developments

His left is keeping the enemy pinned, and advancing slowly

His centre is advancing slowly, but unable to spot enemy

His right is well placed to attack, but orders arrived too late this move.

His intention is to attack on his right and support with his centre

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps and cavalry reserve will advance on right flank

2 and 3 corps will advance in centre but await developments

4 corps will advance on left as far as broken ground

His intention is to attack with his right

Exploit any success with his centre

Hold with his left

PHOTOGRAPHS OF PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 4 Prussian corps is half way through the broken ground, and nearing 6 French corps at the T junction. The lancer brigade on the right is from 3 corps.

Centre - 3 Prussian corps on the left are still advancing towards Helmstedt. 2 Prussian corps has halted and formed square due to the cavalry melee out of sight on the right of the photograph.

Right - The Prussian hussars and artillery have both routed, and failed their morale test to rally. The dragoons have passed their morale test, but are still Shaken. 1 Prussian corps, on the left, are attempting to form square having spotted the French cavalry reserve to their front left, and the French dragoons who broke the Prussian cavalry to their front right.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – French centre – blind (chip 6)

No action remain stationary

Move 2 – French centre – French CinC (chip 1)

Move to reserve behind Helmstedt

Move 3 – French right – 5 corps (chip 3)

Artillery fire and miss

Infantry on right form square

Cavalry charge enemy hussars (roll 6 and 5) and rout hussars

Prussian dragoons test morale (roll 2) and rout

Prussian artillery test morale (roll 1) and rout

Move 4 – Prussian centre – 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders : move to Helmstedt on left of main road

Spot enemy blind 4 on French right flank

Artillery fire and miss

Infantry move towards Helmstedt

Move 5 – Prussian right – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders : move to Wolfsburg road

Spot enemy blind right of Helmstedt, who turn out to be cavalry reserve and artillery

Commander changes orders to Halt and awaits further orders

Forms square with infantry as no cavalry support

Move 6 – Prussian right – Prussian CinC (chip 7)

Change cavalry reserve orders to Rally

Move to centre attach to 3 corps (chip 10)

Move 7 – French centre – blind 5

No action remain stationary

Move 8 – Blind Card

Move 9 – Prussian left – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders : move to forward edge of broken ground

Misses move again due to Poor card

Move 10 – French centre – Helmstedt garrison (chip 2)

No action, out of range

Move 11 – French right – blind (chip 4)

Extend, spotted and deploy

Move 12 – Prussian right – cavalry reserve (chip 12)

Orders : Rally

Whole command is in rout

Dragoons test morale (roll 6), rally and become Shaken

Hussars test morale (roll 2), fail and continue to Rout

Artillery test morale (roll 1), fail and continue to Rout

Move 13 – Prussian centre – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders : move to Helmstedt on right of main road

Commander changes orders to Halt and await further orders

No corps artillery to fire

Infantry form square as cavalry heavily outnumbered

PHOTOGRAPHS OF FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 5 French corps are relieved that their dragoons have broken the Prussian reserve cavalry. They are unable to advance as they are on Hold orders. 1 Prussian corps to their front have halted and are trying to form square.

Centre - 4 French corps hold Helmstedt and are deployed either side of the town. To their left, the blind has been revealed to be the French cavalry reserve, and their artillery are deployed alongside 4 corps artillery. There is another French blind in reserve behind the town.

Right - 6 French corps are deployed either side of the T junction. Their left hand brigade has formed square against the approaching lancers of 3 Prussian corps.

SUMMARY OF MOVE 4

In one move the situation has changed from excellent to desperate for the Prussians

Cavalry reserve is broken and in rout

Right flank has halted and formed square, awaiting new orders

Centre right has also halted and formed square, awaiting new orders

Centre left is the only corps available to advance

Left flank again failed to move due to Poor Card

Blucher must switch his advance from his right to his left flank if he is to retain the initiative.

His centre can not advance due to superior enemy cavalry and artillery.

His right flank is in disorder and will be lucky to hold.

Demo Game - Move 3

2009-05-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Prussian army in review order prior to the battle.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Blucher is very pleased with his right flank

The cavalry reserve are in position to charge, but need new orders

1 corps (his best commander) is well placed to support them

His centre is well placed to pin the enemy, and support when necessary

His left flank is slow, but capable of pinning the enemy

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps and cavalry reserve will advance on right flank

2 and 3 corps will advance in centre but await developments

4 corps will advance on left as far as broken ground

His intention is to attack with his right

Exploit any success with his centre

Hold with his left

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 4 Prussian corps advance through the broken ground towards the French blind holding the T junction. The cavalry on the right are from 3 corps.

Centre - 3 Prussian corps on the left, and 2 corps on the right, advance towards Helmstedt. The town is held by 4 French corps, with one French blind in reserve. Another blind has advanced to the left of the town, but has not yet been spotted.

Right - 1 Prussian corps is advancing in support of the cavalry. The second brigade from the left has received one casualty. The reserve cavalry are within charge move of 5 French corps, and their artillery has limbered to move up in their support

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – French – 4 corps (chip 2)

Orders: Hold Helmstedt
Out of artillery range

Extend right of town

Move 2 – Prussian – 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders : move to Wolfsburg road

Artillery fire and hit enemy guns, who make morale

Move reserve infantry forward

Move 3 – French - Blind (chip 4)

Orders: Hold right flank
Stationary this move

Not spotted
Move 4 – Prussian – 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders : move to Helmstedt on left of main road

Move cavalry forward to spot

Move infantry towards Helmstedt

Move 5 – French – 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold left flank
Artillery fire and hit infantry, who make morale

Infantry on left withdraw, but remain in line

Move 6 – French – CinC (chip 1)

Change orders of blind 6

Moves to join 5 corps on French left

Move 7 – Prussian – 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders : Move to forward edge of broken ground

Move forward into broken ground and spotted

Put figures on table
Move 8 – Prussian - reserve (chip 8)

Orders : move to Wolfsburg road

Cavalry deploy into two lines and move forward

Artillery limber and move forward in support

Note: orders to attack arrive after their move phase

Move 9 – Poor Card

Move 10 – Prussian – 2 corps (chip 9)

Orders : move to Helmstedt on right of main road

Move cavalry back out of artillery range

Move infantry forward towards Helmstedt

Move 11 – French – Blind (chip 6)

Orders:: Move to road right of Helmstedt
Move forward

Not spotted

Move 12 – French – blind (chip 5)

Orders: Move to Helmstedt
Move up behind Helmstedt

Not spotted

Move 13 – Prussian – CinC (chip 12)

Move to right flank

Change reserve cavalry orders to Attack

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN ON FRENCH SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 5 French corps is deployed in line, except for one brigade on the right who are in square. Their cavalry brigade is on the left, opposed to the approaching Prussian cavalry. Their artillery has received one casualty.

Centre - 4 French corps are in and either side of Helmstedt, with their artillery on the left. There is one French blind to their left, and another in reserve behind the town.

Right - A French blind is deployed either side of the T junction. 3 Prussian corps is approaching directly against them, and 2 Prussian corps on the left.

SUMMARY OF MOVE 3

Blucher is very pleased with developments

His left is keeping the enemy pinned, and advancing slowly

His centre is advancing slowly, but unable to spot enemy

His right is well placed to attack, but orders arrived too late this move.

His intention is to attack on his right and support with his centre

Demo Game - Move 2

2009-05-19T03:35:00.000-07:00

2 Prussian corps advance past a village as they approach Helmstedt. One brigade on the left has already received one casualty.

THE BATTLE SO FAR

Blucher is concerned that both commands on his right have been spotted

The French are now aware that he has the bulk of his cavalry on his right flank

He is also concerned that there are three sets of blinds, against his two, in the centre

There are at least two, and possibly three, French corps holding the centre.

He is satisfied with progress on his left, and content to remain hidden

Despite this he is content to continue to probe with his right, and attack if given a good opportunity.

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

1 corps and cavalry reserve will advance on right flank

2 and 3 corps will advance in centre but await developments

4 corps will advance on left as far as broken ground

His intention is to attack with his right

Exploit any success with his centre

Hold with his left

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - Prussian CinC is keeping an eye on 4 corps as they pass between the rough ground towards the French blind at the T junction.

Centre - 3 Prussian corps on the left, and 4 corps on the right, advance towards Helmstedt. The town is held by 2 French corps, with two French blinds in reserve behind the town

Right - 1 Prussian corps on the left, and the cavalry reserve on the right, advance against 3 French corps, who hold the French left flank.

BATTLE REPORT

Move 1 – French - blind (chip 4)

Orders: Hold right flank

Remain stationary this move

Not spotted
Move 2 – French - blind (chip 2)

Orders: Hold Helmstedt
Extend and spotted
Put figures on table
Move 3 – Prussian - CinC (chip 7)

Stationary this move
Remain on left flank to keep an eye on his Poor commander

Move 4 - French - 5 corps (chip 3)

Orders: Hold left flank
Artillery fire and miss

Move 5 – French - Blind (chip 5)

Orders: Hold in reserve
Remain stationary this move

Not spotted
Move 6 – Poor Card

Move 7 – Prussian - Blind (chip 9)

Orders : move to Helmstedt on right of main road

Extend and spotted

Put figures on table
Send cavalry forward to spot enemy

Move 8 – French - CinC (chip 1)

Remain stationary this move

With French reserve

Move 9 – Prussian - 3 corps (chip 10)

Orders : move to Helmstedt on left of main road

Extend and spotted

Put figures on the table
Move 10 – 4 Prussian - 4 corps (chip 11)

Orders : move to far side of broken ground

Miss move because Poor card still in play

Move 11 – Prussian - 1 corps (chip 8)

Orders : move to Wolfsburg road

Artillery fire and miss

Infantry advance

Move 12 – Prussian - reserve (chip 12)

Orders : move to Wolfsburg road

Artillery fire and miss

Cavalry advance

Move 13 – French - blind (chip 6)

Orders: Hold in reserve

Remain stationary this move

Not spotted

SUMMARY OF MOVE 2

Blucher has made a bad mistake in not being attached to his Poor corps

As a result his left flank has not advanced this move.

He is still concerned that he is unable to spot the enemy reserves in the centre.

He is very pleased with his right flank.

His cavalry reserve are within charge move of the enemy, but still on move orders

He will have to change their orders next move.

Demo Game - Move 1

2009-05-18T09:26:00.000-07:00

French infantry in and either side of Helmstedt, artillery on right. French reserve, still on blind, behind the town.

THE PRUSSIAN PLAN

Blucher has created a cavalry reserve as follows:

hussar brigade from 1 corps

dragoon brigade from 4 corps

artillery from 2 corps (which now becomes horse artillery)

His has deployed his corps as follows;

1 corps (chip 8) – gifted commander - right flank

2 corps (chip 9) – average commander - centre right

3 corps (chip 10) – average commander - centre left

4 corps (chip 11) – poor commander - left flank

Reserve (chip 12) – average commander - far right flank

His plan of battle is as follows:

1 corps and cavalry reserve will advance on right flank

2 and 3 corps will advance in centre but await developments

4 corps will advance on left as far as broken ground

His intention is to attack with his right

Exploit any success with his centre

Hold with his left

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM PRUSSIAN SIDE OF TABLE

Left - 4 Prussian corps (still on blind) advance towards T junction, which is held by French blind. Prussian CinC keeping an eye on 4 corps commander.

Centre - 3 Prussian corps on the left, and 3 Prussian corps on the right, advance towards Helmtedt. There is one French blind in and around the town, and two in support behind.

Right - 1 Prussian corps on the left, and Prussian reserve cavalry on the right, advance towards Wolfsburg road, which is held by 3 French corps.

BATTLE REPORT

1 – French – Blind (chip 4)

Orders: Hold right flank

Extend blind

Not spotted

2 – Prussian – Blind (9)

Orders: Move to Helmstedt

Advance and extend blind

Not spotted

3 – French – Blind (chip 3)

Orders: Hold left flank

Extend blind

Spotted and put figures on table

Move cavalry to cover left flank

4 – French – CinC (chip 1)

Stationary this move

Remain with reserve

5 – Prussian – Blind (chip 11)

Orders: Move to broken ground

Advance on blind and extend

Not spotted

6 – Prussian – Blind (chip 8)

Orders: Move to Wolfsburg road

Advance and extend

Spotted put figures on table

7 – French – Blind (chip 2)

Orders: Hold Helmstedt

Extend

Note spotted

8 – Prussian – CinC (chip 7)

Near to 4 corps

Stationary this move

9 – Prussian – Blind (chip 12)

Orders: Move to Wolfsburg road

Extend and advance

Spotted put figures on table

10 – French – Blind (chip 5)

Orders: Hold in reserve

Stationary this move

Not spotted

11 – Poor card

12 – French – CinC (chip 1)

Stationary this move

Close to reserve

13 – Prussian – Blind (chip 10)

Orders: Move to Helmstedt

SUMMARY OF MOVE 1

Blucher is concerned that both commands on his right have been spotted

The French are now aware that he has the bulk of his cavalry on his right flank

He is also concerned that there are three sets of blinds, against his two, in the centre

There is at least two, and possibly three, French corps holding the centre.

He is satisfied with progress on his left, and content to remain hidden

Despite this he is content to continue to probe with his right, and attack if given a good opportunity.