The scenario that I came up with in an instant was that an outnumbered Union Corps with an overly strong Cavalry division, had to cross a broad ford at a creek and prevent that an upcoming Rebel force (2:1) but with half the Cavalry reached the other side of the table. I asked Bart and he choose the Union.
The Union cavalry attacked early to give their troops time to cross and deploy, but we soon learned that Cavalry attacks were not a well thought through thing in that era and my volleys sent Bart‘s beloved riders bleeding home. Then his complete corps was stuck in transfer in mid river.
Well the Rebels were formed up on a hill and had a formidable position to meet the onslaught perfectly. That was when I fell also to a typical misconception of these days, that an all out infantry without previous fire support "carry the day" just like in the old days (Napoleon??) ... perhaps not even in those.
I let my complete front attack, yes, I had some "softening-up" successes, but Bart's brutal closing fire set regiment after regiment of my stout Southerners to hell. In the end, we had roughly an equilibrium of shaken and bloodied troops on the field, but my guns and left flank was open like a gaping carp‘s mouth on dry land. My gamble for victory died a blood-soaked and prolonged death.
Never the less it was tremendously enjoyable game, maybe or better because of the simplicity of the rules, we kept the "useful rules" to a minimum. Good to see that even then the basics of the system kept the feeling of the era, including the movement of bigger contingents just felt right, and yes including blunders. BP recommendable in 10mm for bigger battles as well.
Our photographer were at the scene of carnage, so let us formulate these wise words of wisdom: blessed souls of a lighter nervous constitution might find the following reportage disturbing - you have been warned...
