Thursday 26 June 2014

Franco Prussian War in Weardale


As you can imagine, my first contact with Black Powder on a visit up Weardale required slightly more recent figures than I am used to and caused a few misgivings. I must thank Colin for his hospitality and a great day, with a fantastic result - a draw which we could both claim as a moral victory. Using a CS Grant table top teaser, my French had to hold up the advancing Prussians for long enough to prepare the bridge for detonation, then get as many of their troops back over the bridge as possible before blowing it up. I held Colin's Prussians and Bavarians off successfully but got very few troops back over the bridge.

At this point I intended to add a photobucket sideshow but I just can't get the link to work - so lots of photos instead. tells (most) of the story - unfortunately I don't seem to have taken any photos of the Imperial Guard marching bravely over the bridge then smartly back again.


I will have to reflect a bit on the Black Powder experience - I was interested to see whether I would be happy using it for refighting some of the Georland battles. I think they work well enough, though there are a few things I might find difficult in the long run. All was arranged through a forum where Colin and I realised we had worked together a good few years ago.


As mentioned in his comment below, Colin has now posted a much more detailed account of the scenario and action, with his pictures, on his blog here.

4 comments:

MSFoy said...

Very interesting indeed - would be pleased to see your views on Black Powder - I feel the rules work better for a smallish game, but they get a good press generally. Nice pics - lots of dice in evidence!

Vintage Wargaming said...

Answer is…. It is quite hard to cause casualties (saving throws etc.) but when they go, units go quickly; not sure the ability automatically to pass through other units is a good thing (manoeuvre is too easy); ditto how long movement distances are; and I’m not sure what period feel they give – would need to use them with a couple of other periods first and see how different they might be.

I can see the attraction of using one rules system across al periods and I’d certainly be willing to give them another go,

Does this help?

Clive

Colin Ashton said...

Clive, great photos. Glad you enjoyed it. More on my blog http://carryinngsonupthedale.blogspot.co.uk if you don't mind the shameless plug!

BP usually take a few games to get 100% used to and it helps if I don't forget some of the twiddly bits around troop characteristics!

Phil said...

Nice looking game with beautiful troops!