Following the very enjoyable Battle of Wingen with Simon a couple of weeks ago, there are plans for a bigger game some time in the future, involving 4 players. This appeals a lot, and I think the rules will easily support a multi-player set up and allow each player to command a full corps or so without getting bogged down in complexity or slow play.
I have most of the figures I’d need for this game, but it’s an opportunity to return to some ideas I’d previously had for increasing the forces on both sides – something every wargamer’s inner megalomaniac loves!
My existing Prussian/German and French forces are based on infantry corps of 2 and 3 divisions respectively. I have a full Prussian corps of 2 divisions plus corps assets, and 1 Bavarian division. I intend to expand the latter into a composite German allied corps by adding a 2nd division made up of various contingents, namely some Wurttemburgers, Brunswickers and possibly some Hessians. In addition there will be a couple of reserve cavalry divisions, which are largely done already.
The French have 4 divisions already, plus the Guard Grenadier division (well, you have to don’t you?) and a reserve cavalry division. I would aim to add 1-2 more infantry divisions and a 2nd corps command to roughly match the Germans.
This will give me overall forces representing almost 60,000 men per side – enough to give a decent impression of a good-sized battle of the period.
I need to have a look through my remaining stocks of unpainted Heroics & Ros to work out what I’ll need to order to complete this project, and then I’ll need to set some painting time aside over the summer to get them all done!
Maybe next year for the 1859 Austrians and Italians then.
In the meantime a quick pic of the other type of thing I’ll be doing a bit more of – army baggage and equipment. These are Line of Communication markers for the French and Prussians (with a French general in the background enjoying some shade while he reads his map) I use for certain scenarios, but can otherwise be used as general scenery in quiet corners of the table to add a bit of atmosphere. Baccus wagons with H&R figures.
Look forward to seeing the 4 player game. It should be most impressive.