Austerlitz 20 is a historical wargame that simulates the Battle of Austerlitz, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, which took place on December 2,
This battle was fought between the French army under the command of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and the Russian and Austrian forces. The game captures the strategic and tactical challenges faced by both sides during this pivotal moment in Napoleonic history.Game Components of Austerlitz 20
Maps: Two 22” x 34’’ hexagonal grid Map Sheets with Terrain Key, Elevation Guide, and tracks for casualties and ammunition.Counters: 560 ½” back-printed cardboard Counters.Rulebooks: One 8½” x 11” Napoleonic Brigade Series Standard Rules Booklet and one 8½” x 11” AUSTERLITZ Exclusive Rules Booklet.Charts & Tables: Two 8½” x 11” Standard Charts & Tables Booklets.
How To Setup Austerlitz 20
Setting up **Austerlitz 20** involves placing the maps, deploying units according to the scenario instructions, and preparing the necessary record sheets for tracking unit step-losses and order status. The game includes detailed setup instructions in the Exclusive Rules Booklet, which guides players through the initial deployment and preparation phase.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Game Phases: Each game turn is divided into five phases: Command Phase, Cavalry Charge Phase, Movement and Close Combat Phase, Fire Combat Phase, and additional combat phases.Combat Mechanics: Includes Morale Checks, Straggler Checks, and Step-Losses. Leadership, command, and control are crucial.Unit Formations: Rules for unit facing, skirmisher units, line of sight, different infantry formations (square, line, column, road march), and night operations.Victory Conditions: Determined by the destruction of enemy units, wrecking of larger formations, and the killing or wounding of enemy leaders.
Player Experience
**Austerlitz 20** offers a rich and detailed experience for wargamers, particularly those interested in Napoleonic-era battles. The game’s complexity is balanced by the use of master record sheets that simplify the tracking of unit losses and orders. Players can engage in various scenarios, ranging from short introductory battles to more extensive simulations of the entire battle.
Pros
Historical Accuracy: The game closely follows historical details of the Battle of Austerlitz.Detailed Mechanics: Incorporates many elements that contribute to the period feel, such as unit formations and ammunition supply.Replayability: Offers multiple scenarios and detailed record-keeping to enhance replay value.Educational Value: Provides insight into Napoleonic-era warfare tactics and strategies.
Cons
Complexity: While the game includes tools to simplify record-keeping, it still requires considerable effort to track unit losses and orders.Time Commitment: Some scenarios can be quite long, requiring several hours to complete.
Personal Thoughts on Austerlitz 20
**Austerlitz 20** is ideal for seasoned wargamers and those with a deep interest in historical military simulations. It offers a challenging and immersive experience that rewards strategic thinking and historical knowledge. However, due to its complexity and the time required to play, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to wargaming.
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