Salutations!
Now when we both have mustered one infantry brigade each we can start trying out the rules and mechanics of Republic to Empire. In this first battle we saw an infantry brigade compromised of four infantry battalions. With limited cavalry support of one squadron. Facing of in the fields of Sachsen.
Although sometimes the game mechanics were a bit hard to follow, we still find the rules to provide a fun and interesting experience which match our (slightly romanticised) view of the battles of the Napoleonic wars. The Order system forces you to think ahead and also focus on the logistics of battle. It can easily become hard to deploy or make movements if slight mistakes are made early on. And battalions can be immobilised if something goes wrong.
Our battle began with a hard French right hook that pushed the Prussian infantry back. Later, the Prussian hussars managed to get around the French left flank, attacking the rear of the infantry brigade. This led to the disintegration of the French forces on that bloody day.
We know now, after the battle, that we made a few mistakes and misread the rules on occasion. It was, however a really fun battle containing cinematic events. Such as the French line infantry climbing over the hedge and walking steadily across the mud field, under fire from Prussian Landwehr. Or the massive French attack columns breaking the 1st Silesian infantry battalion, forcing them into a fighting retreat. Our initial plans were quickly swept from the table as the battle soon got a life of its own. We consider this to be the greatest strength of this ruleset. We look forward to future divisional engagements!
Right now, Anders the younger is finished with the line infantry of his Silesian regiment, and starting in January he will move on to fusiliers, more Landwehr and cavalry. Some smaller detachments of Jägers or skirmishers as well as officers will also be prioritised. Anders the elder will start on a light infantry regiment, line artillery and a few surprises...
Until next time, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy New year!
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| As Anders the elder have been testing R2E, we first did a test round to show Anders the younger some mechanics. |
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| We decided that both brigades would march unto the battlefield in march columns to simulate a meeting engagement battle |
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| Anders the elder preparing his French for the attack while the 2nd Silesian regiment manoeuvres |
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| Prussian Silesian grenadiers and landwehr |
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| French infantry on the offensive |
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| The Prussians having trouble deploying and being checked by French dragoons watch uneasily as only two of their battalions stand in line the face the entire French brigade! |
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| The 2nd Silesian hussar squadron has routed on French infantry battalion and now prepares itself to take on the dragoons. |
