Marlborough’s Battles: Ramillies and Malplaquet (2009) Board Game

Marlborough’s Battles: Ramillies and Malplaquet is a wargame that focuses on two significant battles during the War of the Spanish Succession. The game allows players to take on the roles of the English and Dutch coalition forces led by the Duke of Marlborough, or the French forces under the command of the Duke of Villeroi.

Game Components of Marlborough’s Battles: Ramillies and Malplaquet

Map Scale: 225 yards per hex.

Infantry Units: Each double-length infantry unit represents about 2,000 to 3,000 men, composed of four battalions. Square infantry counters for Malplaquet represent about half that number.

Cavalry Units: Each cavalry unit contains about five or six squadrons, totaling around 600 mounted men.

Artillery Units: Each artillery unit represents 12 to 18 guns.

Game Mechanics: Continuation activation, movement, firing, rallying, shock attacks, and charging.

How To Setup Marlborough’s Battles: Ramillies and Malplaquet

Setting up the game involves deploying the units according to the historical battles of Ramillies and Malplaquet. The game does not have distinct game turns; instead, it uses a continuation activation mechanic. Players activate one of their side’s commands, and the units within that command can move, fire, rally, or perform other actions before the player activates another command.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Continuation Activation: Players activate one command at a time, with the ability to move, fire, rally, or attack. Activation is based on the command leader’s activation rating.

Command Activation: Players roll a die to activate the next command; if the result exceeds the leader’s rating, play passes to the opponent.

Game Objective: The objective is to exceed the opponent’s “flight level,” indicating that side has lost the battle.

No Per-Turn Time Scale: The game continues until one side wins.

Player Experience

**Marlborough’s Battles: Ramillies and Malplaquet** offers a immersive and challenging experience for wargamers. The game’s mechanics capture the transitional period between the musket-and-pike era and the more fluid tactics of the 18th century, particularly highlighting the impact of the socket bayonet. Players must strategically manage their commands, leveraging the strengths of different units and adapting to the dynamic activation system.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched and reflects the historical contexts of the battles.

Dynamic Mechanics: The continuation activation system adds a layer of realism and unpredictability.

Strategic Depth: Players need to balance unit movements, firing, and attacks, requiring careful planning.

Scale and Detail: The game components represent large-scale battles with detailed unit compositions.

Cons

Complexity: The game is of intermediate complexity, which may be daunting for new wargamers.

Learning Curve: Understanding the continuation activation mechanic and other rules can take time.

No Distinct Turns: The lack of traditional turns can make the game feel less structured for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Marlborough’s Battles: Ramillies and Malplaquet

This game is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a keen interest in the War of the Spanish Succession. It offers a unique blend of historical accuracy and dynamic gameplay, making it a great choice for those who enjoy strategic depth and realism. However, new wargamers may find the complexity and unique mechanics challenging to grasp initially.

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