FPW Game

Played a FPW scenario last Sunday which I'd been wanting to game to try out my
period modifications. It was based on a fictional scenario in the Miniature
Wargaming Magazine involving two advance formations fighting it out over a
strategic railway junction.

Both forces were deployed in march column to allow rapid movement up the
approach roads. The French were able to deploy first and the bold use of their
cavalry forced the Prussian lead units to halt their advance. The French also
seized an opportunity to catch a Prussian infantry unit in March column and with
a quick charge eliminated it. The Prussian cavalry did come in and chase the
cuirassiers away and a rear attack from a unit of uhlans finished the French off
but it was a gallant use of battle cavalry which seemed in keeping with the way
this arm was still viewed in a tactical sense.

I was expecting the game to settle down a bit more after this initial exchange,
however, the fluid deployment of both forces lead to a more cut and thrust
approach, particularly for the Prussians who used their superior artillery to
pound the French infantry and allow the Prussians to exploit a couple of gaps in
the French lines.

The French valiantly tried to hold onto a central hill but were forced back and
with the Prussian cavalry menacing their weaker flank and the Prussian artillery
in full swing, were forced to withdraw, conceding a defeat.

The difference between the needle gun and chassepot was an area I might want to
change. The effectiveness of the former was greater but the ranges didn't feel
right – I think I might reduce the Prussian rifles to half the range of the
French – I was working on a 20cm v 30cm convention.

Overall a very satisfying game where both sides displayed the élan and dash
associated with the period. The formality of formations, battle cavalry and
tactics contrasted with the superior technology and lethality of weapons, making
frontal assaults costly and more preparation a necessity.