Our contribution to celebrating International Naval Wargaming Day (Fred T. Jane’s Birthday) was to go back in time to the age of sail and visit the scene set by Nelson as he attacked the French fleet in Egypt.
This was something of a work in progress game as I was trying out some small plastic ships that were picked up online several years ago before deciding upon committing the time and effort to painting them. Also being tried out was pushing the size of the game vs the rules system being used (my favorite of those available for the era “Limeys & Slimeys”) along with some mods to make a fast playing game play faster.
Nelson and his fleet under the able command of Greg D, Steve T and Jon B. took on the French under Jules R, Mark W, Kurt L and Pat L.
Historically the French started and stayed at anchor as their ships were at half strength with the remaining crew ashore as forage parties. To make it more a fair fight the French were allowed to cut anchor, pivot and then move slowly on their first activation. The French were also allowed to have full crews aboard although this maybe modified in future games.
The green areas represent shoals that were a hazard to the ships of the line. Frigates and smaller could transit with no impediments. This also made a handy spot to place the dice trays. Ship activation was by cards to keep things interesting. Above we see the British taking full advantage of the wind and moving quickly to engage the French who are fighting not only their foes but the headwinds.
With the ability to fire at any point along your move there were many a raking shot fired as ships passed one another.
Steve T and Greg coordinate to engage the leading French ships under Jules R.
Our only boarding action took place when Greg sent his frigate HMS Leander against the 74 gun ship of the Line Guerrier and in a marvel of dice rolling came out on top capturing the ship, be it with a vastly reduced crew that could just barely man both ships.
Late game action.
The game was called and judged to be a draw with perhaps a very slight edge to the French. The ships on their sides in the photo are hulks are nearly so. Some without crew, some without masts, some without guns, some barely afloat.
Thanks to all the players for both playing and their suggestions on where the game can be improved. We will see this on the table again sometime along the way.
Thanks also to the fine folks at Miniature Market Cave Springs for their continued support.
