tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74972034422609457932024-03-05T19:58:48.150-08:00"This One's Split" Fantasy Wargame RulesUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-1464104135081244082010-01-24T01:09:00.000-08:002010-01-24T01:30:13.606-08:00Progress with the rulesIn the evening hours of the past weeks I have been very busy converting all the draft rules from the wiki page to a proper book format. I had been going back and forth between Scribus (DTP package) and Openoffice writer, and in the end settled on Openoffice writer.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnS91rAk4PcaTwZXgb7Ipa_friCL4uLsDKiId5WWpWSJcBmhraAu4EzoRDGdosN1ksWxRI278XfB0LUBm8yxwkLSdv_vsFQY3qQpm72oEu9Gahvskp0uxxR9DFwMZmc4ufa1bCvxjEp1rJ/s1600-h/book_preview.PNG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnS91rAk4PcaTwZXgb7Ipa_friCL4uLsDKiId5WWpWSJcBmhraAu4EzoRDGdosN1ksWxRI278XfB0LUBm8yxwkLSdv_vsFQY3qQpm72oEu9Gahvskp0uxxR9DFwMZmc4ufa1bCvxjEp1rJ/s400/book_preview.PNG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430234951634349602" /></a><br /><a name='more'></a> <br />This also meant some drastic and less drastic re-writes to put things in the proper sequence, clarify where necessary, adding terrain and LOS definitions etc.<br /><br />At the moment the page count is at 35, with the following still left to do:<br />* Write the introduction<br />* Finish the status definitions<br />* Add the sample army lists<br />* Create the 15-odd illustrations that should help clarify the rules<br />* Work through all the existing comments and verify they have been taken into account<br /><br />After that, I intend to send the file out for reviewing and playtesting, while at the same time tarting them up with photos and more graphics.<br /><br />So, even if things have been a bit silent, a lot of progress has been made!<br /><br />Please comment or mail what army lists you'd like to see included?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-68024380832921180012009-11-04T05:04:00.000-08:002009-11-04T05:17:27.307-08:00International exposureThe internet is an interesting place, and sometimes you forget just how much smaller it makes the world.<br /><br />And then you look at the google analytics on the blog, and you find this site linking to your blog.<br /><br /><a href="http://fieldofbattle.ru/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=602">http://fieldofbattle.ru/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=602</a><br /><br />So there's people (wargamers) in Russia reading the blog and apparantly taking an interest. This made me dig a little bit deeper. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a> <br />Here's the distribution of visitors across the world:<br />* Netherlands: 23%<br />* United Kingdom: 21%<br />* United States: 20%<br />* <strong>Afghanistan:</strong> 10%<br />* <strong>Russia:</strong> 6%<br />* Spain: 4%<br />* Australia: 4%<br />* Germany: 3%<br />* France: 2%<br />* Italy: 1%<br />* Belarus: 1%<br />* South Africa: 1%<br />* Indonesia: 1%<br />* Canada: 1%<br />* Hungary: 1%<br />* United Arab Emirates: 1%<br />* India: 1%<br /><br />There is no way I would have picked Russia and Afghanistan as #4 and #5 on that list.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-87577779547487970192009-10-21T13:18:00.000-07:002009-10-21T13:31:25.930-07:00Crisis 2009 DemoAlright, I received confirmation that we have a table at Crisis 2009 in Antwerp to run our This One's Split demo. So now it's full on getting things ready for November 7th.<br /><br />Things to do:<br />* Complete scenario<br />* Playtest scenario & rules finalizations<br />* Prepare commander handouts<br />* Update card set<br />* Update QR sheets<br /><br />* Paint miniatures (orc skirmishers, behemoths)<br />* Make new/additional promo posters<br /><br />Unfortunately the goal I had set myself - getting the rules finished by Crisis - is nowhere near happening. I'll have to re-evaluate the situation there, gonna be a good few months still. Most of that time will be spent on refining text and rewriting it into the full-on book.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-17138856319386962922009-10-21T13:06:00.000-07:002009-10-21T13:12:57.134-07:00Cartful of Gold - Missing PhotoNow here's the photo Dick demanded I take. It's his flyer hero - basically a lunatic dwarf strapped to a glider - diving at my commander, trying to kill him.<br /><br />It went almost entirely to plan. A moment after this shot, Krassush got knocked clear off his seat, face first into the mud. However he was lucky enough to get clear without a scratch, watching the flyer zoom past as he got to his feet.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4wvuTZ4LiqNpo_KF4ELq79Iroyho2XG6jIMdeIknF1uLYIZkSEAr2_aoefG2kmsfWj-50-RwvWjyR0Ujn3fzw8rxIezqq59aKhyphenhyphenykmq_3xkrFuf7J-8SPnHO_526on7gVSPSswv7tZa9/s1600-h/DSC_2875.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4wvuTZ4LiqNpo_KF4ELq79Iroyho2XG6jIMdeIknF1uLYIZkSEAr2_aoefG2kmsfWj-50-RwvWjyR0Ujn3fzw8rxIezqq59aKhyphenhyphenykmq_3xkrFuf7J-8SPnHO_526on7gVSPSswv7tZa9/s400/DSC_2875.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Growling annoyedly, he set Wuff loose, the hellhound eagerly bounding after the kite, catching it in a flying leap just as it struggled to pull up away from the ground. Instants later, there was little left but a bloody mess of wood, cloth, string and dwarf.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-44593624681983475042009-10-19T11:46:00.000-07:002009-10-19T12:58:50.759-07:00For a cartful of loot.... This One's Split PlaytestThe last playtest session saw an orcish tribe throw themselves on the dwarven trading caravan, hoping for easy plunder. Unfortunately the dwarves take their trading dead serious, sending half of their army along with the yearly trade expedition where they trade gold, high quality metalwork and porc (Yes, porc. Don't ask me, I'm just the messenger) for goods such as spices, fabrics, wood and just about anything that can't be grown under a mountain. <br /><br />The game went well, with real high and lows for both sides. We came across a fair few sections of the rules were some clarifications would be helpful, and these have since been added. Overall the balance with e.g. giants seems better now, and the order system seemed to do it's job just fine. Also, the recommended number of units per command seems to give the right kind of flavour for both the orc and dwarf armies.<br /><br />Below picture shows the starting deployment, with the dwarves deployed behind a gully, with an impromptu barricade blocking off the open field in the middle. The orcs deployed across the width of the table, with 2 commands on march column on their far left.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNJ7qEITqv6eOEkF7NZutcjMJHpn52wFFkjYyiz2SYGrVboCYwFey3otXzF6kUochddoCFM_cM5CWISVqPS9b-W3h2N3lLXhOcOWNTrNjtJ_T4345ylVJZhlcE4tvSgt5EIV1wn34z_Y5V/s1600-h/DSC_2869.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNJ7qEITqv6eOEkF7NZutcjMJHpn52wFFkjYyiz2SYGrVboCYwFey3otXzF6kUochddoCFM_cM5CWISVqPS9b-W3h2N3lLXhOcOWNTrNjtJ_T4345ylVJZhlcE4tvSgt5EIV1wn34z_Y5V/s400/DSC_2869.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />The remainder of this report is written from the glorious point of view of his greatness tribe leader Krassush of the most powerful orc tribe ever. It is an entirely biased report - just because I can.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><hr><br /><br />I, Krassush, have found the dwarven wagon camp, and from the reports from my scouts, it's ripe for plunder. I can almost smell how heavily loaded the wagons are with gold, and there really can't be all that many dwarves to stand between me and great wealth and power.<br /><br />In a masterful stroke I sent Blogsok off on his own to advance through the woods on the right, and keep as many dwarves occupied as possible. Not sure if he'll make it, but I don't trust him anyway. He has a reputation as a traitor. <span style="font-style:italic;">(This once actually undeservedly)</span><br /><br />On my left I sent my nephew Ragnok forward, leading half the tribe. I sent Akz, my ogre commander to support him with his ogres. Told them to hurry up through the valley, and then pile into the dwarven flank. Nicely avoiding the gully that way.<br /><br />In the center I sent Magrott on his way. With the other half of the tribe, and the giants to support him, he should be able to break through without a pause.<br /><br />Between the two, I advanced with my loyal bruisers, and my pet helldog Wuff. Addertongue, my shaman, was kept close by as well. I trust him even less than Blogsok.<br /><br />I'm not sure what Ragnok had for dinner, but he took off like a bat out of hell. His column raced forwards through the valley, unseen by the enemy. Magrott and myself, as well as the screen in front, were much delayed making our way through these damned woods. Elves or no, I don't hold with trees. Blogsok seemed of similar opinion on the far right.<br /> <br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ONx5zIwUvye4mUsAu8SZ7FVsoKuPcIsAwgPlcpYVUoYsXUCfCpJs0PL6PvpSmry2nDTEe7P35-8yg3DJhAlBncGJddAhgnZ7xdauGwUCw8ZuhWhS80PgfuQPAlDifC0cvUkV7aadUXtB/s1600-h/DSC_2870.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ONx5zIwUvye4mUsAu8SZ7FVsoKuPcIsAwgPlcpYVUoYsXUCfCpJs0PL6PvpSmry2nDTEe7P35-8yg3DJhAlBncGJddAhgnZ7xdauGwUCw8ZuhWhS80PgfuQPAlDifC0cvUkV7aadUXtB/s400/DSC_2870.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />So far the dwarves had seen none of us, and we were starting to make out stunty little shapes behind the barricade. Were they in for a surprise! They must have panicked when thay saw the troops come across the hill, because one of their flag-waving alchemist crazies came running to the fore to throw some magic at me. I think it was supposed to make me cry or something, but I wasn't impressed.<br /><br />Besides, we have crazies too! Lobear started a run, charged straight down the hill, and managed to grab the dwarf's beard just as he tried to run. Holding onto the beard he sliced off everything below the neck. Good riddance I say.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdMsZM3OSmObfVOS174vKTOqAbJ6S6co7AXlrk70yWFhVgIZJbnsQjIHf6WPbAGjaVONN9zE59d_lzP9q-dAz5bkXDWVd1Xvizj55bNS9DBFMqy1TnNuekzhjomNkoYmXo-mN1M8Il0FZ/s1600-h/DSC_2872.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdMsZM3OSmObfVOS174vKTOqAbJ6S6co7AXlrk70yWFhVgIZJbnsQjIHf6WPbAGjaVONN9zE59d_lzP9q-dAz5bkXDWVd1Xvizj55bNS9DBFMqy1TnNuekzhjomNkoYmXo-mN1M8Il0FZ/s400/DSC_2872.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />However, as the stunties body fell to the ground, something weird happened, and a spirit of some sort rushed at Lobear. Lobear didn't last long really, the charred bits scattered all around. It must have taken most out of the spirit, as it charged the unit of spears behind, and vanished into thin air.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">(What happened here was that, after failing the evade roll and dying messily, the mage still had magic power gathered that went haywire. As a random resultof which a minor elemental came into being and attacked the closest being)<br /></span><br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyV1jRH3X3LK1DZMA-IhBRwTpkpy3Qdc6gtXQmurRd-oe4hL_dSbbvTaTn28YXZ_t88CHC6_tzOOgW4wILQXOCoXM4n7xFxHNX8dsBlj5GgJU3zosOhyNkpUV9D9Y24L4Szl3afXCpAuQl/s1600-h/DSC_2874.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyV1jRH3X3LK1DZMA-IhBRwTpkpy3Qdc6gtXQmurRd-oe4hL_dSbbvTaTn28YXZ_t88CHC6_tzOOgW4wILQXOCoXM4n7xFxHNX8dsBlj5GgJU3zosOhyNkpUV9D9Y24L4Szl3afXCpAuQl/s400/DSC_2874.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />When finally they laid eyes on all of my tribe, I could hear the nigh panic in the enemy camp. They were surrounded on three sides, with Blogsok's wolfriders preventing the dwarves on that flank moving away to reinforce the other. We vastly outnumbered them, and were about to deploy our secret weapon.<br /><br />But not yet. First, I had to watch Addertongue cut himself, foam at the mouth, digest some slimy reptile and perform the most disgusting dance ever. All part, it seems, of his magic ritual that sent a black, foul-smelling cloud down towards the dwarven line. It fell on three units of dwarves, making them choke, gag, some of them succumbing to the weakness and falling to the ground. And you know the most horrible part? It sticks around and keeps sucking the life out of them, until eventually the cloud evaporates.<br /><br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKGJfBPZXCzBdD3XpQtI2TOAiCuJpVy4Loigwm6_xIL_3W8eKUkxvHo8SWdTvJMSolXk0A6bdwF06FI0ESIDPyhwsgRoMdmZ7IKjQO9_bwh5ljqCLAeC7R2_asuDoQxdoVn4CadltYvJzZ/s1600-h/DSC_2875.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKGJfBPZXCzBdD3XpQtI2TOAiCuJpVy4Loigwm6_xIL_3W8eKUkxvHo8SWdTvJMSolXk0A6bdwF06FI0ESIDPyhwsgRoMdmZ7IKjQO9_bwh5ljqCLAeC7R2_asuDoQxdoVn4CadltYvJzZ/s400/DSC_2875.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />No, you'll have to wait a bit longer for the secret weapon. Looking towards the right flank, I could see Blogsok's wolfriders coming under fire from dwarven crossbows. He'd never be able to stand up to the fire for long, i guess. But he was actually standing, enough of a threat to keep the dwarves from turning their back. Some of the foolish dwarves advanced forward, trying to shoot the wolfriders from up close. Of course Blogsok's riders charged, wolves throwing them at the crossbowmen. Bah. Dwarves don't know how this is supposed to work, they're supposed to panic and run away. This time they didn't, and Blogsok's wolfriders got thrown back with some nasty losses.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k2O4Ow93x2_TZo4a_txzh_h_boupEjvajW_EownMB-adxiUWNgv5-vj1TztPbmhUB1dHY4cboRPXb_ZaIVPY5edXl04Ln0yG_dUh7OOT0ikAh2NIPBk2tSe2joKQ21-PFT2x1fC0593-/s1600-h/DSC_2876.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k2O4Ow93x2_TZo4a_txzh_h_boupEjvajW_EownMB-adxiUWNgv5-vj1TztPbmhUB1dHY4cboRPXb_ZaIVPY5edXl04Ln0yG_dUh7OOT0ikAh2NIPBk2tSe2joKQ21-PFT2x1fC0593-/s400/DSC_2876.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />What secret weapon you ask still? Oh alright, I'll let you bask in my greatness. You see, this day I unveiled the might of the orcish sharpshooters. Cunningly picking our weakest, mangiest kind, giving them a bow and telling them to hurry up to the front before we turn them into lunch, my sharpe wit has given rise to a fearsome weapon. It seemed each volley fired into the barricade found it's mark, dwarves dying in scores to the barbed orcish arrows. These guys deserve something better than a loincloth. Something to show just how fearsome they are. Maybe a green shirt with some black stripes. <br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />(The odds of these guys being useful is minimal. D and E class inferior bowmen... But there's little that will negate a streak of double sixes, much to my opponent's chagrin...)</span><br /><br />In fact, they did more harm to the enemy than my backwards friends the giants. Bellowing loudly they threw themselves at the stunty defences. They must have hurt their feet on a cart splinter or something, as they stumbled back in surprise. Only to be rewarded with a salvo of dwarven artillery striking them true, and doing them in for the day. If only I had had more than those five giants fighting for me!<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />(Large giants pack a hefty punch. In this case, they went in ahead of the infantry, facing the whole enemy line on their own. They almost made it, but didn't roll high enough. With their large size come low numbers, so their staying power is somewhat limited)</span><br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg706zoZh50asDpot-pXdSBjoI1cf_7bW8YAFLFgpV0j4ENnoPwdPhao_I_F_qSJrFnM-wdSImONIsIx2JyYFvkz1T5kZ6Hr88ghe7exTFGdmqIH47d3MIWqDTC_yjOCq6SbKe5xm6I0BVl/s1600-h/DSC_2878.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg706zoZh50asDpot-pXdSBjoI1cf_7bW8YAFLFgpV0j4ENnoPwdPhao_I_F_qSJrFnM-wdSImONIsIx2JyYFvkz1T5kZ6Hr88ghe7exTFGdmqIH47d3MIWqDTC_yjOCq6SbKe5xm6I0BVl/s400/DSC_2878.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Unfazed, I motioned my nephews forward, and told my bearers to carry me to the battle. I would lead my bruisers into the the center of the dwarven position and break through. As a matter of coincidence it was only defended by some skirmishers, which appealed to me. Both wings of my army were now in position for the assault, and Blogsok was still holding the far flank while taking serious losses from the crossbows - maybe not such a traitor afterall.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQk5mtQ3JYEMCyLIXsCMkfeha-efKZNKD-EdBNNFqUU3SqLBl01v0nemY9_g4FePQcraGc83zbk1coUAoQa2AUBiGpvpXBHctX3ODEuYRc1oS2ZolEDQ265SwYN9qFb2NkjfoO6WdOEIF/s1600-h/DSC_2879.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQk5mtQ3JYEMCyLIXsCMkfeha-efKZNKD-EdBNNFqUU3SqLBl01v0nemY9_g4FePQcraGc83zbk1coUAoQa2AUBiGpvpXBHctX3ODEuYRc1oS2ZolEDQ265SwYN9qFb2NkjfoO6WdOEIF/s400/DSC_2879.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />With my army crashing onto the dwarven position, we easily pushed the miner militia from the barricade. They would have routed, even, had they not been stubborn like all dwarves. Never mind, more dwarves for us to kill. The spirits that Addertongue had pulled from the ground were fighting alongside my spearmen, the combination a fearsome sight to behold!<br /><br />On the left flank things were less glorious. Ragnok charged at the thin line of shiny dwarves, and came to a crashing halt. Impossible! There were only so few of them! Maybe I should have heeded all the warnings about the shiny dwarves?<br /><br />As for myself, I gloriously led the charge from 6 rows back, bellowing the bruisers forward from the comfort of my seat. We swept across the barricade, and threw the skirmishers back. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">(The dwarves behind the barricades were already damaged goods, not very good quality, and vastly outnumbered. The barricades did not prove enough of a defence to stop the orcish onslaught. The rout result, however, was reduced to thrown back shaken, due to the dwarven innate stubbornness.<br /><br />As for the flank, that was a different matter. There, the dwarves had everything going for them. Far superior morale, advantage of position, much better armoured and good leaders to boot. In some cases the result was a standstill, in some cases the orcs were thrown back shaken.)<br /></span><br /> <br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVJXSI_TBqv7cVcQOGPn5yFB-ZAGK3L3lprOZC2sgzWzhogkf7PpI2bxt1NDOUVMJgFYPSbXh9QbYFKKAAI0tpQqF-twtycUyhG4GkBvTmVOHPT7A3FdlVKv6IEn82RX4hgaaiaRZaDbV/s1600-h/DSC_2880.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVJXSI_TBqv7cVcQOGPn5yFB-ZAGK3L3lprOZC2sgzWzhogkf7PpI2bxt1NDOUVMJgFYPSbXh9QbYFKKAAI0tpQqF-twtycUyhG4GkBvTmVOHPT7A3FdlVKv6IEn82RX4hgaaiaRZaDbV/s400/DSC_2880.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />All was going to plan, even if the left flank was going not as quick as planned. I watched Ragnok personally rally his troops, and send them up the hill again! Ah, quicker motion now. Except... It's all going in the wrong direction! Why are my troops running from so few dwarves?<br /><br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7P9TfDqqEaNg8tCh6qGxsomGtO19MPJo3PLGEBVxy6_T-wyh4VgKqFkNSI7znbsw650tKy_K8V0iXbEvbjaK8H9kYqWsnwcOcTEnSn0KrFF_CuBlcPARm7vPS7rVL4agq3KCE5YpIdWv/s1600-h/DSC_2881.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7P9TfDqqEaNg8tCh6qGxsomGtO19MPJo3PLGEBVxy6_T-wyh4VgKqFkNSI7znbsw650tKy_K8V0iXbEvbjaK8H9kYqWsnwcOcTEnSn0KrFF_CuBlcPARm7vPS7rVL4agq3KCE5YpIdWv/s400/DSC_2881.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Things were suddenly not looking so good. I had to snatch defeat from.. No, victory from the jaws of defeat. Leading my bruisers in one more charge, with Akz's ogers supporting my flank, I drove at the heart of the dwarven position. I was sure this would be my moment of greatest glory.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oyOy5AsPQD1zjZcRoYOfSRU9n7HNsKjsNVmoGNQiwNz-S41MUY3mQwvCU_sLZ5QO3xomZG605zu8F7TP_H5QVy8eHQTEb9hTTA_CyanuFl6QuVMscz1lQVPmgo9OsFf3eq1mUH-Usxv4/s1600-h/DSC_2883.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oyOy5AsPQD1zjZcRoYOfSRU9n7HNsKjsNVmoGNQiwNz-S41MUY3mQwvCU_sLZ5QO3xomZG605zu8F7TP_H5QVy8eHQTEb9hTTA_CyanuFl6QuVMscz1lQVPmgo9OsFf3eq1mUH-Usxv4/s400/DSC_2883.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Alas, it was not to be. I too, was to find out just how nasty those dwarven tin cans can be. My bruisers panicked, and my bearers almost could not keep up with them as I hurriedly adjusted my master plan. Ragnok had abandoned the assault to save what he could of his tribe, and there was no way Magrott would be able to break through on his own.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrjMAI2ahsQO52jdEc5LtV_W7QfSzAcusaBbzKNmR5FAoO4wgAkyvSRBvtct6mTYFNgUE7SANe43Qe69PGyoFnnpgLnkf_5mtO-Y97ucQYohAsgxC4oEBR75KxIfxAnXEo9QE3Pz0vNxV/s1600-h/DSC_2885.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrjMAI2ahsQO52jdEc5LtV_W7QfSzAcusaBbzKNmR5FAoO4wgAkyvSRBvtct6mTYFNgUE7SANe43Qe69PGyoFnnpgLnkf_5mtO-Y97ucQYohAsgxC4oEBR75KxIfxAnXEo9QE3Pz0vNxV/s400/DSC_2885.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />So, haven taught these stunties a lesson, we fell back in (mostly) good order and headed back the way we came. The stunties seemed none to keen to follow, what with their miner militia slain almost to a dwarf.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />(All in all, things mostly worked the way we wanted them to work. Magic added an interesting note, but did not dominate. Neither the orcs nor the dwarves seem overly powerful, and the game was interesting from start to finish. Also, we picked up on a good many sections of the rules that require some small clarifications, whuch was helpful)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-18346110435508763302009-10-14T15:59:00.000-07:002009-10-14T16:09:30.250-07:00Feudal humans, army lists and some small tweaksAs I have been slightly busy re-enacting, I only got around to working on the rules again today.<br /><br />The army lists have been enhanced with a description of the army structure, including the number of heroes and mages that may typically be included.<br /><br />I've also added the feudal humans army list, with the renaissance humans to follow soon (I hope).<br /><br />Some minor tweaks have been made, in particular to the mechanism for infantry fighting cavalry (attacking infantry no longer have to charge into certain death vs counter charging cavalry)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-53443947617697603832009-10-03T14:35:00.000-07:002009-10-03T14:43:38.260-07:00Playtest: Feudal humans versus UndeadWe held another playtest today, with Michel's feudal humans versus his Undead.<br /><br />The feudal humans were loosely based on english medieval troops, with generous amounts of heavy cavalry, archers and spear armed infantry. They had some pretty good troops and good commanders even if a bit rash - giving the overall commander some grey hairs in keeping them from going on the attack at unwanted moments.<br /><br />The undead had a large horde of skeletons, some giant skeletons and a brigade of cavalry, a chariot and a skeletal dinosaur monster.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMOHdQg7i-cugkSoJcmBHr1lr1CihHTeEPS724dv9qMxWdya32HcogwcnhWSR5nxWLBNdrN5hIzA8LWt9WRIb-gyYOCYCHSlErWCWQkyocFzau5tbkRTzIDtX7XDbzBkPbHmYEz9rooF8V/s1600-h/DSC_2803.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMOHdQg7i-cugkSoJcmBHr1lr1CihHTeEPS724dv9qMxWdya32HcogwcnhWSR5nxWLBNdrN5hIzA8LWt9WRIb-gyYOCYCHSlErWCWQkyocFzau5tbkRTzIDtX7XDbzBkPbHmYEz9rooF8V/s400/DSC_2803.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><br />My 2 prime goals were to playtest the undead, and to see how the proposed list for the feudal troops worked.<br /><br />I may write a full report later, but for now the main observations:<br /><br />* Feudal list worked fairly well. Their knights are scary, but not excessive. Remainder is a fair mix. The rash commanders will promote an agressive game style - good for a cavalry army. For more "english archer" type armies, slightly different commander ratings would be applicable.<br />* Undead worked okay. I graded them as D across the board now, that may be a bit too harsh. The undead will not walk over any oposition easily, but they will wear them down. Used in successive waves they have potential.<br />* Need to work on infantry/light giants vs cavalry dynamics. Right now, if infantry charges cavalry they die (get disordered the moment cav countercharges). However, with attack orders they HAVE to charge. I am considering allowing unshaken infantry in good order to push cavalry back without disordering them, instead. In a similar vein I may have to do something to allow blown cavalry to evade if charged by slower troops.<br />* Monsters are now 'heroes that can also fight entire units'. Dick made a case to instead classify them as 'units that can also engage individuals'. I'm still torn there.<br />* Chariots. They're not in yet. I'll probably make them a subclass of cavalry.<br />* Multiple moves outside 16". I only allowed this for blinds. Dick made a case to also allow this for deployed troops. Looking at the past few games, there is something to be said for this as we tended to have a few brigades not making it into contact. Is that a bad thing? Undecided still.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-36428570797846471982009-09-28T13:51:00.000-07:002009-09-28T13:55:32.613-07:00Single colour vector graphicsThe previous attempt at vector grqaphics results in some pretty chunky files (lots of vectors to render), and I'm worried it will cause issues in the combined book. I've tried something simpler now, with just the outline filled in in black. I think it will work just as well, and potentially distract less from the message I'd be trying to get across.<br /><br />I'm also not sure whether I want to give them more of a mob-like appearance by rotating them by increments, as in the other picture.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktQ3HCCpc_kKz4l8ITio3RmHGZEtOJsXYEbKbp3I2K_4ZlxXxtuJ29vIUx-OnQmCzqFLM6lQm0yfQ8o4cU0VwmPWxBUhLkuycTwS89IxHOSPdtGP4GlC9LsJnC3CCsbbvcWI-olu_d88X/s1600-h/light+spear+unit.jpg'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktQ3HCCpc_kKz4l8ITio3RmHGZEtOJsXYEbKbp3I2K_4ZlxXxtuJ29vIUx-OnQmCzqFLM6lQm0yfQ8o4cU0VwmPWxBUhLkuycTwS89IxHOSPdtGP4GlC9LsJnC3CCsbbvcWI-olu_d88X/s400/light+spear+unit.jpg' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-86383627948052108512009-09-25T15:06:00.000-07:002009-09-26T07:34:27.975-07:00Vector graphics of unitsI've been playing around with my photo camera and inkscape for a bit, working out how I want to make the diagrams for the illustrations.<br /><br />Even though I do want to include some wargame porn colour shots, I don't think they are the way to go for the regular illustrations. But just blank rectangles gets boring too.<br /><br />So, I figured I'd use vector graphics for the 'men' on the bases. I went tand took some nice high-contrast shots looking down on individual figures, hiked up the contrast still further, and vectorified them using Inkscape.<br /><br />The result lends itself to easy modification and tuning, and I created the below 'unit' using just one of the pictures, copying it and tweaking the angles to create a nicely random orc mob.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKPSZzJ-VxpN7phiSyryKXoSaHVaNl02AlFlGBqh6lCf1aRWr7PEXUCk9Y1Sq-0xdF7fiE4jhXi3d6dT3kPVLpIPJj5bFML7gUECjlOiwnOZuIjjwFrK1LXMwoD9viU_w3FO_Mz96MwbM/s1600-h/orc+light+spear+unit.jpg'> <br /><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKPSZzJ-VxpN7phiSyryKXoSaHVaNl02AlFlGBqh6lCf1aRWr7PEXUCk9Y1Sq-0xdF7fiE4jhXi3d6dT3kPVLpIPJj5bFML7gUECjlOiwnOZuIjjwFrK1LXMwoD9viU_w3FO_Mz96MwbM/s400/orc+light+spear+unit.jpg' border='0' alt='' /><br /></a></div><br /><br />Feedback on whether you like this approach, and comments on how to improve would be appreciated.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-57941146532750162352009-09-24T09:40:00.001-07:002009-09-24T09:50:09.890-07:00Added definition of ordersI spent some time this week jotting down the definition of the various orders that can be given to a commander. I've chosen to differentiate between:<br />* Attack<br />* Defend<br />* Support<br />* Maneuver<br />* Reserve<br /><br />Each of these orders will have an impact on the options available to that commander. The overall text is much more extensive, I have included only a summary below.<br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Attack</span><br />This order is given to advance on an objective and to capture it by force. Once the objective has been cleared of enemy troops, the order changes to defend to hold the captured objective.<br /><br />Possible objectives are:<br /><br /> * Terrain Feature<br /> * Clearly identified and visible enemy troops<br /> * Direction <br /><br />Commanders that have attack orders must advance the majority of their troops towards their objective at at least 1/2 speed, until they are either within contact, of for missile armed troops, within short range. They must move directly towards their objective. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Defend</span><br />This order is given to defend a named terrain feature. The commander may only initiate charges to recover lost ground or to attack missile armed troops that are shooting from within short range. Cavalry and creatures are permitted opportuntity charges. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Support</span><br />This order is given to support a named friendly command. The order should include what position should be taken relative to this command (rear or left/right flank). Units will advance to move into the supporting position and to stay in the supporting position. Units may charge hostile troops threatening them or the units they are supporting, but may not otherwise charge into combat. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Maneuver</span><br />This order is given to a commander in order to move his command to a different position, without intent to engage an opponent in combat. The target for this command is a terrain feature, a position relative to a friendly or hostile command, or a direction. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reserve</span><br />A command with reserve orders will sit and hold awaiting orders from the commander-in-chief. Troops will be fresh and ready for action, but are not at the moment taking an active interest in the battle.<br /><br />As a result they are able to respond quickly should orders arrive. As they are not expecting to have to defend their position, they will be slow to react to hostile troops.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-88929230094239918282009-09-20T14:23:00.000-07:002009-09-21T02:44:26.733-07:00Playtest - Orcs: Their own worst enemyWe had another play-test yesterday, with Farid and Michel playing Orcs and Plains Elves respectively. I wanted to test some specific aspects:<br /><br />* Monsters<br />* Flyers<br />* Is it possible to fight a delaying action<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclkg9ZeBxFa7HLFBMPLZGYUnPA02C6j3G4q72saGka1aUuEO8Hd5nC-VD1RD0Wml1LPLcVvkOXIfZXa7oTsCDNeiKqlwnS2s8I6DxSnreXLsNfzmqjMAOVuNs-mL8ydXkqitrxY2AvY3l/s1600-h/DSC_2725.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclkg9ZeBxFa7HLFBMPLZGYUnPA02C6j3G4q72saGka1aUuEO8Hd5nC-VD1RD0Wml1LPLcVvkOXIfZXa7oTsCDNeiKqlwnS2s8I6DxSnreXLsNfzmqjMAOVuNs-mL8ydXkqitrxY2AvY3l/s400/DSC_2725.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><br />The orcs had a strong numerical superiority and some pretty crack troops (lots of B class due to lucky dice rolls, and quite good commanders). They were also supported by a small observing force of dark elves. They had gotten wind of a plains elves tribal camp a short way ahead past a ridge line, and wanted to get their paws on that. In addition the orcs had one hellhound, a 'big' single monster (but not huge or gargantuan), that was 'hard to kill' and 'spoiling for a fight'.<br /><br />The plains elves ranger forces were tasked to delay the orcs for long enough to allow the tribe to pull up their tents and get the caravans out of there. To this end they had good troops, but unfortunately pretty crap generals. (Incredibly lousy die rolls).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Chapter One: Command Reshuffle</span><br /><br />The elves deployed under blinds, and the orcs had to march onto the table as their cards came up. Grrr, the ogre hero strolled ahead of the army and roared loudly, obviously spoiling for a fight. The next to arrive was Grumbuzz, the orc warlord - surprisingly leading WAY from the front. The next thing to happen was a shocker. The 'Spoiling for a Fight' card came up, followed by a hero card - causing the ogre hero to look around for something to crunch. With no enemies in sight, he caught sight of a particularly obnoxious orc. He roared, charged, and beat Grumbuzz to pulp. Resulting in career opportunities for the first Orc commander to arrive and take the lead.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaFsaA7sHcsX36_ZP-KLYctieO3gLnXV7jh6f00mbnyUA5xUDoRXl-zJ9oHyZZaJvJt7E20UiWaO5NxLGHo26grnGEHIGAmTQQhgrK00LgSU9Dk_jL5qecL2MiT21gyVk1L9FrQ8rADQw/s1600-h/DSC_2716.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaFsaA7sHcsX36_ZP-KLYctieO3gLnXV7jh6f00mbnyUA5xUDoRXl-zJ9oHyZZaJvJt7E20UiWaO5NxLGHo26grnGEHIGAmTQQhgrK00LgSU9Dk_jL5qecL2MiT21gyVk1L9FrQ8rADQw/s400/DSC_2716.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />The remainder of the orc army started to arrive on table, soon followed by the small dark elf observing force. No elves had been spotted yet, but Michel was starting to look worried at the numbers facing him.<br /><br />NB. The elves in the foreground are not deployed yet, they will be deployed on the blinds further down the field.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw15P5pFn0EliQNZefbpNXE_7HH1i4RT1_wrPviunVADf4ZRJoMB6PmpG0F5C193elWCouJj6MU_Kqo-QLdngeCohd26Hmg8XBEhTmP57Sal3hDwp7OevAhILYZwsPe0AYqBKoszyK227N/s1600-h/DSC_2717.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw15P5pFn0EliQNZefbpNXE_7HH1i4RT1_wrPviunVADf4ZRJoMB6PmpG0F5C193elWCouJj6MU_Kqo-QLdngeCohd26Hmg8XBEhTmP57Sal3hDwp7OevAhILYZwsPe0AYqBKoszyK227N/s400/DSC_2717.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Trying to shake up the army facing him, one of the elf heroes strolled forward. He caught sight of the Akz, leveled his spear, ran ahead. Akz leapt forward, probably tripped, and ended up with a good part of the elf's spear burried in his chest. Scratch two leaders on the orc side.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HRp5W8xf1Tkaau3B71NP3TbdpICAVtLYGQZ15dgayeem_Ru8mGDctniWbukpsPZWv5zUdRJCfcGxdAuyHZggGyR4jaeP5ft5RBA3qFUW4kkEZ_71XBSPY5eLItNXOUWihxkZR18JgTvB/s1600-h/DSC_2719.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HRp5W8xf1Tkaau3B71NP3TbdpICAVtLYGQZ15dgayeem_Ru8mGDctniWbukpsPZWv5zUdRJCfcGxdAuyHZggGyR4jaeP5ft5RBA3qFUW4kkEZ_71XBSPY5eLItNXOUWihxkZR18JgTvB/s400/DSC_2719.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br /><br />Shortly after, the elf would make the mistake of challenging Blogsok, the wolfrider leader. His luck did not hold out, and he got put to good use as wolf fodder.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Chapter Two: Taking it to the elves</span><br />Seeing the ogres coming to a halt, Grr personally took charge of the lead unit and got them moving again. In the center, meanwhile, one bunch of orcs was making good progress, but the other half of their infantry got bogged down due to their commander being an incompetent git. ('Poor' card consistently coming up before his, and no CiC to pass on an activation)<br /><br />On the elvish left, a combination of Blogsok's wolfriders, and Grr's ogres charged down the hill onto the ranger cavalry. The rangers kept their ground for a short while, but were soon thrown back in disarray.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQW6InyCPx5TIR1yVqexkK8ZfDyW_VRNfhNOgV8ZBEyG8MXdIbJU7YnX-hj4a9vxJaz8-O9OjtWA5oxrWe8eszd5Cehm-95KT_CbbgjyjkoRLdei9jh9Kx08CRTtfbeZaZB415x4q8Ls9/s1600-h/DSC_2721.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQW6InyCPx5TIR1yVqexkK8ZfDyW_VRNfhNOgV8ZBEyG8MXdIbJU7YnX-hj4a9vxJaz8-O9OjtWA5oxrWe8eszd5Cehm-95KT_CbbgjyjkoRLdei9jh9Kx08CRTtfbeZaZB415x4q8Ls9/s400/DSC_2721.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />The next thing to happen was quite a surprise. Farid had kind of ignored his hell-hound, and he was just about to pay the price. The 'Spoiling for a Fight' came about again, followed by the hero/monster card that allowed his hell-hound to activate. The hell-hound looked around for something tasty, but in front of him was nothing but orcs and dark elves. In fact, the dark elf general with his bone armour looked kinda crunchy. The combat was short and decisive. The dark elf general got picked up, chewed, toyed with, then discarded. Due to being an extremely tough guy, he clung on to consciousness, but only barely - still able to operate as a leader, but not a very good one by far.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF2a0orviKUmixyWAKBclWmx02tcLOmiV1hCc7Kd1lpz47WRGLkM1vfh__wYEZQEvWKdBYmA8InQsi7KqldbS0D_v02CLjMI0Yq4ulw6LVHWeny5JEZFC2kXGfQ5T0hjRb2Qijdv_kSvN4/s1600-h/DSC_2723.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF2a0orviKUmixyWAKBclWmx02tcLOmiV1hCc7Kd1lpz47WRGLkM1vfh__wYEZQEvWKdBYmA8InQsi7KqldbS0D_v02CLjMI0Yq4ulw6LVHWeny5JEZFC2kXGfQ5T0hjRb2Qijdv_kSvN4/s400/DSC_2723.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />None of this, however, delayed the main advance of the orcish army. Both on left and right flank, they were pushing back the elven light cavalry, and the first real line of defence was discovered in the woods in front of them.<br /><br />Unfortunately, the elven army was too far spread out in depth for the separate brigades to support each other, so the only option open was to fall back at best speed. <br /><br />An explosion spell, followed by orc skirmishers amazing friend and foe by actually hitting something, set the stage for the orc infantry clearing the first clump of trees of elven defenders, without significant losses on either side.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuZx-sbaIDbK7-PvD-kGDMfsOjWgjSpqtjHo6cFQBx4mTqqQBs8ksXrpm8pili0lLcq0nacX6yEjeBsiAKDeZvKigHXrEgrfA-OjoUYtCNNBFottuCJbhS1wSd1XrlGH5FqqtiLAodbkJ/s1600-h/DSC_2724.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuZx-sbaIDbK7-PvD-kGDMfsOjWgjSpqtjHo6cFQBx4mTqqQBs8ksXrpm8pili0lLcq0nacX6yEjeBsiAKDeZvKigHXrEgrfA-OjoUYtCNNBFottuCJbhS1wSd1XrlGH5FqqtiLAodbkJ/s400/DSC_2724.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />As the elven army was far too spread out to support eachother, the game wasn't a good test of whether or not a fighting withdrawal is possible. However, one last aspect that I wanted to test came up soon after. The elven pegasus riders had just risen odd the ground when the hell-hound crested the hill, and charged straight at them. Luckily, the elves did not panic and sent a quick volley of arrows at the hound. A lucky shot caught the creature in the eye, causing it to fall flat on the ground underneath them heaving it's dying breath.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBkcb2K0-B77eFtgOFReUwnzzFY9HM9X5YweRUhXY2DbQnwWK-2Pt_i4-b9n6sW_t-_tSAhrS4hR7igYCqedKJqzgM8ueTLVbNxDFtztgI9glDfOu6Vs90w48PsBCV4UzTBqkW8YteMgz/s1600-h/DSC_2728.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBkcb2K0-B77eFtgOFReUwnzzFY9HM9X5YweRUhXY2DbQnwWK-2Pt_i4-b9n6sW_t-_tSAhrS4hR7igYCqedKJqzgM8ueTLVbNxDFtztgI9glDfOu6Vs90w48PsBCV4UzTBqkW8YteMgz/s400/DSC_2728.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Observations and thoughts</span><br />* Spoiling for a Fight is scary. If you have any of those morons, get them in range of the enemy as soon as possible so they don't go off at their buddies.<br />* Monsters seem to work okay, both in combat with individuals and with units. However, the freedom they have makes them pretty damn powerful. Use with care.<br />* Flying: Didn't really get to test them much. However, as an interesting side effect of the altitude bands, a grounded unit cannot evade out of reach rightaway, since the first band is still within melee range. I kinda like that, makes them vulnerable on the ground.<br />* Orders: I need to work on the list of available orders and the definition thereof. In particular, what is allowed under manoeuvre orders.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-54391196735537790562009-09-18T13:45:00.000-07:002009-09-21T02:45:19.593-07:00Monsters in the making!Tomorrow we'll be having another playtest session. I still have to decide what I want Farid and Dick to have a go at.<br /><br />However, in preparation for that I added the rules for <span style="font-style:italic;">Single Large Monsters</span> - big creatures that are not part of a unit. For a bit of an appetizer I'll post a few bits of text below.<br /><br />My thoughts and intentions are:<br />* Monsters should be able to fight regular units, they are big enough for that. They should not be all-powerful, though.<br />* Monsters should however be vulnerable to enterprizing bands of heroes - even though the heroes would have to take a big chance.<br />* I do not want to add entirely new combat mechanisms, instead I want to tie them in with the existing ones.<br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><br />Let me know what you think, does this fit in with what you'd be looking for?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Single Large Monsters</span><br /><br />Single Large Monsters are very powerful creatures that are strong (and big) enough to, on their own, stand up to a unit of formed troops. To reflect this, they get a unit strength number as well. They often do not have leadership abilities. Examples would be the dragon Smaug, a major daemon or a huge giant. They are a very exceptional occurrence, and should not constitute a significant part of an army. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Combat with regular troops</span><br />Combat between monsters and regular units works the same way as combat between units - with the difference that monsters never get 'shaken' morale, and that instead of suffering strength losses, they roll for wounds instead.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Combat with individuals</span><br />The same rules for duels between individuals apply, with the below exceptions:<br /><br /> * Monsters may never refuse a challenge<br /> * Individuals are allowed to invite friendly individuals within 16" to form a part to fight the monster - both when challenging and when being challenged<br /> * All dice of the party members are added together to achieve a result<br /> * In case of a tie or loss by the party, the hits are divided between the party members, with each suffering a minimum of 1 hitUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-43017183698870944722009-09-15T13:43:00.000-07:002009-09-21T02:45:49.847-07:00Wiki updated, pdf download works againAs some of you know I am using a wiki to write the rules, and share them for playtesting/feedback.<br /><br />About 2 months ago, a standard software update caused the collection extension to fail. Why is this important? Because that is the software that lets me create a pdf book from the wiki, enabling off-line access to the rules.<br /><br />After a long struggle without any result, I decided to bite the bullet. I backed up all data, and did an upgrade of the mediawiki software to 1.1.15, and spent a few hours fiddling with settings. The upshot of this being:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">PDF download of the rules from the wiki once again works</span><br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><br />Back on track for more playtesting come Saturday. Flyer rules have been written. I plan to write up the 'monsters' segment before then, and perhaps 'undead' as well.<br /><br />As a side note, I could really do with some suggestions on how to get me some 'overhead' vector drawings of various troop types to make diagrams to help explain the rules. Anyone?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-30961007661245195612009-09-14T14:07:00.000-07:002009-09-15T14:41:39.568-07:00Playtest after long absence, rules for flying troops and monstersIt's been a long while since my last update, mainly because I have been very busy with:<br /><ul><li>Work & business travel</li><br /><li>Holiday</li><br /><li>(Napoleonic) Re-enactment</li></ul><br /><br />Last Sunday however the good cause got picked up again. I playtested some new rules for flyers and individual monsters with Dick Bax, and am now working on writing up the actual rules. Some highlights:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Flyers</span><br /><ul><li>Additional rules for using flying troops</li><br /><li>Flying troops can either be classed as flyer or hoverer</li><br /><li>Flying troops can be at different altitudes</li><br /><li>Close order troops cannot fly</li><br /><li>Heavy armour troops can only fly in extraordinary circumstances (munchkin alert!)</li><br /><li>Possible interaction with ground troops depends on altitude band </li></ul><br /><br />With the first draft of the flyers rules has been written, next action items are:<br /><ul><li>Large single monsters: Single monsters strong enough to individually engage units (e.g. dragons, really large giants etc). Single monsters can be effectively engaged by (groups of) heroes</li><br /><li>Undead: Basically troops that need mages to control them and never test for morale</li><br /><li>Terrain: Some further definition of terrain classifications</li><br /><li>Evading: Refine text for evading</li><br /></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-48970290335998545202009-05-09T07:30:00.001-07:002009-09-21T02:55:11.285-07:00Action 2009 DemoWell, it's been a (very very busy) week, and I finally have a bit of time to sit down and write the report on Action 2009 and our demo there.<br /><br />Unfortunately I did not grab the opportunity to go out and take pictures of some of the excellent other demos there. I am in particular looking forward to seeing the ace Nosferatu demo that will be completely finished for Crisis in Antwerp. I WILL take pictures in Antwerp.<br /><br />The event was a lot quieter than in previous times I had been attending. It is very obvious that the amount of UK troops deployed to Germany has dropped a great deal; it was new for me to run into more Germans and Dutch than English, at Action Rheindahlen.<br /><br />Trader selection was fair, but not much to tempt my wallet this time. I did splurge on paint though, should have most of the deficiencies in my stock sorted again.<br /><br />As for our own games, we got a fair amount of interest - but primarily in the miniatures and painting, not quite as much in the rules themselves. I think we must have created some name recognition though, as the plates were hard to miss:<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQszyzXApLCLUhyphenhyphenGevX93b5pQQ36htDtZvD7F7NqlZH_5TfZTYagonvN1EE_6MbfeNLETmcl5O3c-NnekVw8gmJn6WgAm7Q5yXxoIprfoSzDF0Bf-VMVinAk8F76o4WWfy7OVz08iqxeQa/s1600-h/DSC_2379.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQszyzXApLCLUhyphenhyphenGevX93b5pQQ36htDtZvD7F7NqlZH_5TfZTYagonvN1EE_6MbfeNLETmcl5O3c-NnekVw8gmJn6WgAm7Q5yXxoIprfoSzDF0Bf-VMVinAk8F76o4WWfy7OVz08iqxeQa/s400/DSC_2379.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><a name='more'></a> <br /><br />Overall I'm looking to change some things for subsequent demos that we might put up, e.g. at Crisis in Antwerp:<br />* Run with designated referee / crowd interaction person. We didn't, this time even though we knew better<br />* Need some cool fantasy looking scenery to make the table stand out at a first glance<br />* Need some clear scenarios that sell themselves<br />* Run a smaller game with less troops<br />* Have less text on the inside of the boards, in a MUCH larger font. This was just too small<br />* Increase size of posters from A2 to A1, possibly A0<br /><br />All that said, I'm now going to bore you with the details from the games we ran. On Saturday we ran orcs attacking elves, with a combination of plains elves and mountain elves defending.<br /><br />On Sunday we ran orcs versus dwarves, with the dwarves defending.<br /><br />Since I did not take detailed notes, I'll add random comments to the pictures as they come to mind.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOZlv9sC2k9BpDS15Z5SKf1tJzc4GfxJFeVf5qrUdSoggDOyGaoDAu3aLWu7RBVSqhwGGWJlzdeeJWGYM6g1cNzN9rY7c_h3o7yJCZB6mnZO2f5LsTUrvK7gg9YmZz63O-o9Nze5NyNxYg/s1600-h/DSC_2357.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOZlv9sC2k9BpDS15Z5SKf1tJzc4GfxJFeVf5qrUdSoggDOyGaoDAu3aLWu7RBVSqhwGGWJlzdeeJWGYM6g1cNzN9rY7c_h3o7yJCZB6mnZO2f5LsTUrvK7gg9YmZz63O-o9Nze5NyNxYg/s400/DSC_2357.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>The battle started with the orcs mounted charge - on the elven left, Blogsock's wolfriders piled into the mountain elf infantry, whereas on the right hand side it was Aznar's massive block of Warg riders that threw themselves at the plains elves.<br /><br />At the same time, Grr, the ogre champion stepped forward and belched a challenge. An elven hero, Incelan, saw this opportunity to demonstrate his incredible swordmanship, and strode forward to accept the duel. Little did he know that although he himself was a Slayer of Men, the ogre was a Slayer of All - and quickly proved the point by splitting Incelan in half with one mighty blow of his greatsword.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr00Rgl8sYUYrqfVyDNa1tmWMjoLcdsGEKxWXfRbJF-A8Jgo0AqHma29Yhfw0EDyYc8qrrXIvDHfs08OXWRLkzQaMZ8k7-QKNA3dLQzyArkk_D-ic9IxG6NWPflwhDFGGniiLopFoTuHZz/s1600-h/DSC_2358.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr00Rgl8sYUYrqfVyDNa1tmWMjoLcdsGEKxWXfRbJF-A8Jgo0AqHma29Yhfw0EDyYc8qrrXIvDHfs08OXWRLkzQaMZ8k7-QKNA3dLQzyArkk_D-ic9IxG6NWPflwhDFGGniiLopFoTuHZz/s400/DSC_2358.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>The mountain elf infantry (far heavier than the plainselves) held fairly easily, with Blogsok clearly standing no chance to break through.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvV7AnwWYxJjg-vu2cnt8lnIHySD_yVxyDMiRoU5k-hCE7I_7Dvre0gXphq40p-WaqXT2TcBX43bx5d4Xb4Vd4KZ8uEyPg9-RerwqT3zR8yh5fjPkTXW_BoVsnisUaa0ykHQHPdWe1YfCn/s1600-h/DSC_2362.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvV7AnwWYxJjg-vu2cnt8lnIHySD_yVxyDMiRoU5k-hCE7I_7Dvre0gXphq40p-WaqXT2TcBX43bx5d4Xb4Vd4KZ8uEyPg9-RerwqT3zR8yh5fjPkTXW_BoVsnisUaa0ykHQHPdWe1YfCn/s400/DSC_2362.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div><br />On the right hand side the situation was far more precarious. That bastard ogre Grr had seen the opportunity to rush the Mounted Rangers leader, Erimor, and strike him clear off his horse. (Note that this was only possible due to me neglecting to move the general to the safety of his own lines, leaving him dangerously exposed. Ooops!) The first squadron of mounted rangers now lacked the leadership to respond, and got overwhelmed in place. On the intervention by the Plains Elf Commander-in-Chief taking charge of the remaining squadron of mounted rangers and the assistance of mountain elf heavy cavalry managed to prevent a major breakthrough.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaRpVfePuRcS0kklkW3mih4hbI9jt-bELoSF9mSPlJ3nTXUhKG9205FjPwmPBN21p451nISfRajazbiLcEvYYBRcUga50DSNYnWKZtzIB0XqephdTtvTOvxx4RIMT_CHL9mim428-C3LF/s1600-h/DSC_2367.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaRpVfePuRcS0kklkW3mih4hbI9jt-bELoSF9mSPlJ3nTXUhKG9205FjPwmPBN21p451nISfRajazbiLcEvYYBRcUga50DSNYnWKZtzIB0XqephdTtvTOvxx4RIMT_CHL9mim428-C3LF/s400/DSC_2367.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>Trumpets sounded and the finest elven cavalry levelled lances and charged into the huge pack of warg and cut clean through them. With a good part of Aznar's warg riders on the rout, the situation looked far more stable.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWG1FWmhwfcr8kNcOzA_qMFvuKAhq7CIGT8iprA4zNYnSaBQxpILtXSTMicLajfYftE09DbFqECD-dRowxYLqNA2OfJiylGOHSoXwOKyYniAjGuJ0w-tXdpHPNKxXXyV5JmoJXj6TGusjl/s1600-h/DSC_2368.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWG1FWmhwfcr8kNcOzA_qMFvuKAhq7CIGT8iprA4zNYnSaBQxpILtXSTMicLajfYftE09DbFqECD-dRowxYLqNA2OfJiylGOHSoXwOKyYniAjGuJ0w-tXdpHPNKxXXyV5JmoJXj6TGusjl/s400/DSC_2368.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>However, Grr wasn't quite done yet. In addition to the slain plains elves, he would add a mountain elf hero to the list. Belanthron had ridden out to intercept the ogre menace. Thus far, the plan had worked. But faced with the brute, he came to realise this may have been a mistake. This elf was going to be the last kill scored by the ogre. With the wounds he had already sustained, he had had enough and returned to his fellows, carrying three fresh elven heads.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKjSQYlXRV26ORSGTt36VOD-Hf20Odn0Q5137k2P11SELEMYyQYwm_NQ9VB4I3tc2QlfXTFS8B9yPzTkS866crKGdPAcW3MBZbsTK3LR87vahsdqx8bKbkgzO9fxyJQT7ztKR5UUWaXeb/s1600-h/DSC_2370.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKjSQYlXRV26ORSGTt36VOD-Hf20Odn0Q5137k2P11SELEMYyQYwm_NQ9VB4I3tc2QlfXTFS8B9yPzTkS866crKGdPAcW3MBZbsTK3LR87vahsdqx8bKbkgzO9fxyJQT7ztKR5UUWaXeb/s400/DSC_2370.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>On the left flank, the mountain elf mage Uthnal was adding misery to Blogsok's already not too bright day. They had failed to break through and were not winning the staring contest either. Letting lose a string of explosions amidst their ranks, Uthnal reduced the enthusiasm of the closest wolf riders well below the freezing point.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fT2NMmLJg61ySoVK5066vzbDUIdOmAE-xWBtGKoiAzOcZfr65olSYfYpkD1sjkrAFGoap3JVF9Vid-Jb1L4APmKYeVfIEhjwF5-wRZs3iafF8nVLo3JpL6b4Sfg7D9lznLidqPG3Lncq/s1600-h/DSC_2371.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fT2NMmLJg61ySoVK5066vzbDUIdOmAE-xWBtGKoiAzOcZfr65olSYfYpkD1sjkrAFGoap3JVF9Vid-Jb1L4APmKYeVfIEhjwF5-wRZs3iafF8nVLo3JpL6b4Sfg7D9lznLidqPG3Lncq/s400/DSC_2371.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>Not very far from there another elven mage was wielding the fierce magic energies. However, this time it would not go so well. Having gathered more energy than she could control, Therthazara stumbled off the field with a splitting headache. She was lucky, as in her case her head retained structural integrity.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxd2X1tkYFStL1rjR5wldxn-EuNyQXODS8KXASiS9j6plaMu1G0TWxo8F7yVNJog6ACgDvLk8JW1h2xCQDHLFCyIXqc4dciJrWKQ6JPI14KMa9kqH3WVgw26kmfB-0FRYH-9sDr0bGJTiY/s1600-h/DSC_2372.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxd2X1tkYFStL1rjR5wldxn-EuNyQXODS8KXASiS9j6plaMu1G0TWxo8F7yVNJog6ACgDvLk8JW1h2xCQDHLFCyIXqc4dciJrWKQ6JPI14KMa9kqH3WVgw26kmfB-0FRYH-9sDr0bGJTiY/s400/DSC_2372.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>Although the situation was under control at the moment, there was great uncertainty amongst the elves whether they would be able to hold against the forces that were bearing down on the left flank. The giant loomed over all the troops around him, and looked fierce enough.<br /><br />What was worse, on the far left flank the summoned elementals were not offering anything much in the way of resistance to the orcs smashing through their lines.<br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Q9W88Hy5vbt2pyxzXT1ac7jkDOJsyLF3x1MNzxdYzhqL0hHPQJC9KskN9fHGcfE6suvmiUgcni1ssGQq0sWQIBU7hqgGlJIJvTQ0mW7haoEzB-UG-ozoPetQGkXzidr_6RaHlTNbEhZP/s1600-h/DSC_2375.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Q9W88Hy5vbt2pyxzXT1ac7jkDOJsyLF3x1MNzxdYzhqL0hHPQJC9KskN9fHGcfE6suvmiUgcni1ssGQq0sWQIBU7hqgGlJIJvTQ0mW7haoEzB-UG-ozoPetQGkXzidr_6RaHlTNbEhZP/s400/DSC_2375.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIPs8-ihejjin-geez7vNzA3Szk5Y66-LsvKGacM9ceFd7jUOU1R9oTFkQ0X_4gpFUFvIGdctKTsdsVbGX1sv0UDwjJI-K8Tex0CaRYEUbe14OpONy0OrDLFugoDYFFASNhQExy61a4ID/s1600-h/DSC_2377.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIPs8-ihejjin-geez7vNzA3Szk5Y66-LsvKGacM9ceFd7jUOU1R9oTFkQ0X_4gpFUFvIGdctKTsdsVbGX1sv0UDwjJI-K8Tex0CaRYEUbe14OpONy0OrDLFugoDYFFASNhQExy61a4ID/s400/DSC_2377.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>Hoping to turn the tide, the elven hero Caethin led the Noble cavalry forward. Charging down the hill, they swept away the remaining warg riders and send them back to the wastelands they had come from.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmj9PSvFWT5XVZ2s-UH4TZfHg8J7SSziTPAP4b1aFTcPLFgusAFRh6jbvMqPIfevqyejJD9eKfvMJDNhUJ3gQPiTGsXeui1-W8TwlEwTTvsWMo9ZNmib-4hSTSj7SpE2Rl662B4-Ad180l/s1600-h/DSC_2378.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmj9PSvFWT5XVZ2s-UH4TZfHg8J7SSziTPAP4b1aFTcPLFgusAFRh6jbvMqPIfevqyejJD9eKfvMJDNhUJ3gQPiTGsXeui1-W8TwlEwTTvsWMo9ZNmib-4hSTSj7SpE2Rl662B4-Ad180l/s400/DSC_2378.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>However, that victory would be too late. With the right flank command structure dead or dying, a quick left hook would never materialise in time. Especially given the sheer feriocity with which the giant cut through the elven spearmen, scything them down and routing them. Things might have gone very differently if he'd hit the far superior pikemen to their right, but such was not to be.<br /><br />Overall, the elves had suffered a grave defeat. The mountain elf infantry would never make their escape, even if their cavalry might. By now the plains elves had fought their opposition to a standstill, b ut they had no choice but to retire.<br /><br />Worse still was the count of elven heroes, generals and nobles littering the field. A good portion of which due to the actions of a single ogre.<br /><br />After this game and dinner, we indulged in a game of "Bag the Hun" - Dutch pilots and some RAF versus a German divebombing raid with fighter cover. Great fun, even if my pilots obviously lacked 20/20 sight. Or anything resembling sight. Useless gits failed to hit a thing. Still, my newbie almost made it home with a highly damaged plane. It was only when the plane was about to crash into the ground with 4 critical hits that he decided to eject. I'm sure he would have made it across the channel to make a reputation in the Battle of Britain. He was stubborn enough.<br /><br />On Sunday we put up another game, this time the orcs were attacking a strong defensive line manned by dwarves.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr910N_dSC0i11kKCs_bOQY9f_VAc3GlU5GkmUlc2NZVXZL8jD1FFQtF-y_aMpN7J3pRaMB7wkvNuV7RA_3cztEQVqFTQjAkWXu_GfKw1Ai8CRfOerTAbuNuXMJ0qypypFTsifMseZKCrM/s1600-h/DSC_2383.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr910N_dSC0i11kKCs_bOQY9f_VAc3GlU5GkmUlc2NZVXZL8jD1FFQtF-y_aMpN7J3pRaMB7wkvNuV7RA_3cztEQVqFTQjAkWXu_GfKw1Ai8CRfOerTAbuNuXMJ0qypypFTsifMseZKCrM/s400/DSC_2383.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>The battle involved some fighting between heroes from both sides, with the dwarves proving stubborn little fellows. Grr even had to scoop one out of the swamp and slaughter him. Only to then be slain himself by a great white yeti-like creature. Which reputedly is otherwise a really tame and gentle being. As if.<br /><br />I once again managed to prove my luck with magic. This time my spirit mage, Shineyskull, was in the process of casting the "Voices" spell on a hostile commander when something went wrong. Instead of the hostile commander listening to all sorts of voices in his head, Shineyskull got to listen to one loud WOOSH as he incinerated himself.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZNM3NUKrCwfbqLz5iaR8eHUo0Gcg00EvVfOMdmL40wAZu0WT9LCcf-ErwMOtTHD3T2wX32I716dUeq9lmHYbvE9_btnUfHQ9FWCwiqYe5wOlQlhHSkmHDs-6yZEqeRBtAjB_CQKFnqo-/s1600-h/DSC_2387.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZNM3NUKrCwfbqLz5iaR8eHUo0Gcg00EvVfOMdmL40wAZu0WT9LCcf-ErwMOtTHD3T2wX32I716dUeq9lmHYbvE9_btnUfHQ9FWCwiqYe5wOlQlhHSkmHDs-6yZEqeRBtAjB_CQKFnqo-/s400/DSC_2387.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>My plan had been to hold Aznar's warg riders in reserve in the centre - thus preventing the dwarves from pulling troops of the front line - while throwing the main attack on the flanks. Unfortunately, Aznar has a "Rash" streak.<br /><br />Which means that when the Rash card came up, followed by the Bold card (which applied to Aznar), Aznar decided that his a Good Offense is really the Best Defence.<br /><br />This just when the dwarves had released swarms of vampire bats directly to his front.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjigsm9LW9HBaq1kBmDWCjhJFMLbJubEZFhuWlgeQbKvKdqkBpZ4IKl1roQtBSNxXrmwXXQdUm82veAp5Rf4_WAtVNjGs-T1DQ0TF-KvPL_EtFBfenyH4xRjgKD-93jer6G-r6SihGcPMGr/s1600-h/DSC_2389.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjigsm9LW9HBaq1kBmDWCjhJFMLbJubEZFhuWlgeQbKvKdqkBpZ4IKl1roQtBSNxXrmwXXQdUm82veAp5Rf4_WAtVNjGs-T1DQ0TF-KvPL_EtFBfenyH4xRjgKD-93jer6G-r6SihGcPMGr/s400/DSC_2389.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>Plowing into the bats, then through into the dwarven line, the warg riders arrived in complete disorder. Half of the warg riders routed straight away after the first contact, the remainder fell back shaken but for a single unit that faced a battery of artillery. Managing to overrun the battery, they were stopped short by a volley from the second battery behind it.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihHMFg1aMB7L7gQdlUjorvqhUtNTdEUM5Z8hyphenhyphenv1L7SgEpmfsEybjtUxF-AYWYvcFohwGNnXGvavn8SZS8J4xJMsKMha_BZoxUgLD5W9fVq9iwUREDhqYIT1v_W8-GgQVRn-vTm4wBSboOT/s1600-h/DSC_2391.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihHMFg1aMB7L7gQdlUjorvqhUtNTdEUM5Z8hyphenhyphenv1L7SgEpmfsEybjtUxF-AYWYvcFohwGNnXGvavn8SZS8J4xJMsKMha_BZoxUgLD5W9fVq9iwUREDhqYIT1v_W8-GgQVRn-vTm4wBSboOT/s400/DSC_2391.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>We had to stop this battle short, but with no real threat to the centre anymore, the dwarves would have held.<br /><br />Some overall observations and thoughts on the rules:<br />* Flinch test: I want to remove it. It adds an additional test to the close combat system that is superfluous and can be integrated with the overall test.<br />* Orders: Attack, Defend, Support and Maneuver need to be clearly written out in the rules<br />* Some factors (Shock, missile support etc) should only apply in the first round of a melee<br />* Cavalry losing versus infantry probabably simply should not go in, rather than go in and get routed<br />* Need to differentiate terrain effects between infantry, cavalry, giants etc. Not just skirmish/open/close formation<br />* Need to add obstaclesUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-81794879694259412992009-05-03T15:25:00.000-07:002009-05-03T15:30:08.261-07:00I'll be posting a further report from our demo at Action 2009 lateron. For now here's just a quick copy of the posters I used to put on the promo board - A2 this time, I'm looking at A1 or A0 next time. <br /><br />I'll be re-evaluating what to put on them text-wise. But I'm quite happy with the graphics as they stand, got lots of nice feedback on it too.<br /><br />First, I'll be off to bed though.<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeb1rcSnpRA8ggEYrPGqhqmNPFh6mNdq_fEAl6vqY8Gs1ZyMyK72_PAZ3aP5y-BtyhJ8qApJ-VYW-frEzBJVoa2Ov7fBl-yheYbPWNvprnedbiE4LiE2brDbBAGbd1OFo1aZr2XDyJTVoW/s1600-h/Promo+Plaat+Links.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeb1rcSnpRA8ggEYrPGqhqmNPFh6mNdq_fEAl6vqY8Gs1ZyMyK72_PAZ3aP5y-BtyhJ8qApJ-VYW-frEzBJVoa2Ov7fBl-yheYbPWNvprnedbiE4LiE2brDbBAGbd1OFo1aZr2XDyJTVoW/s400/Promo+Plaat+Links.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFoDhHQgNA6tJ9fYAx2wcApASUKuxayn6iyzUQ1CZQQtmp_vx5GG-cPDT867Xwme7JFvt2io2HFSnRiX1pFkVP_cbcCCi0S_HrjG93uuUZpZ6BkmroTiAex0ZzV7SBOx8D3FZTvJSWPWu/s1600-h/Promo+Plaat+Rechts.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFoDhHQgNA6tJ9fYAx2wcApASUKuxayn6iyzUQ1CZQQtmp_vx5GG-cPDT867Xwme7JFvt2io2HFSnRiX1pFkVP_cbcCCi0S_HrjG93uuUZpZ6BkmroTiAex0ZzV7SBOx8D3FZTvJSWPWu/s400/Promo+Plaat+Rechts.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-70395912678012568152009-05-01T03:06:00.001-07:002009-05-01T03:07:34.079-07:00Action 2009: T-1 daysI've been quite busy the last couple of days. Good news is I'm nearly<br />ready for the demo game tomorrow:<br /><br />- Cards are all done<br />- Quick Ref sheets are all done (Thanks for the help, Lorne!)<br />- Built my whopping big promo board (2x 1.20x60cm), and it's actually stable and holding together ;) <br />- Just got back from the copy shop with oodles of copies to go onto the promo board<br />- Army List Dwarves is done<br /><br />- Still need to do: Army List Orcs, Army List Elves (Plains + Mountain)<br /><br />This means I might get some sleep tonight ;)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-32872954953078732702009-04-22T14:16:00.000-07:002009-04-22T14:17:25.026-07:00This One Split Card Deck (Orc)During last weekend's playtest I tried out the cards I made for the command and control system. It seemed to work nicely, but the legibility from any kind of distance needs to be improved.<br /><br />Here's an example:<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdRfv4Qs9LVzho1lTS45L8xayUxrzUOV8QzVfktIv-UAmsL-pF07OZEC3mvvo7UcqrsvONcfpH_p8ZWRcxUvYk0sCSEcM8Jrnp8QJj5cIh_SGqywJuYQyrKRnm5_-9pfyW5vCTqKAmdkR/s1600-h/Vastleggen+in+volledig+scherm+22-4-2009+231333.jpg'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdRfv4Qs9LVzho1lTS45L8xayUxrzUOV8QzVfktIv-UAmsL-pF07OZEC3mvvo7UcqrsvONcfpH_p8ZWRcxUvYk0sCSEcM8Jrnp8QJj5cIh_SGqywJuYQyrKRnm5_-9pfyW5vCTqKAmdkR/s400/Vastleggen+in+volledig+scherm+22-4-2009+231333.jpg' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-64737008575355818142009-04-22T12:57:00.000-07:002009-04-22T14:12:29.025-07:00This One Split Playtest: Here There Be GiantsAnother day, another playtest. This time Farid volunteered to join in, playing with my plains elves (but pretending they were dark elves, hence dark magic). Farid had not been exposed to the rules before, so to me this served as a basic test on how we were doing.<br /><br />I fielded my orcs again, this time enhanced with the giant I had just finished painting. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Orc Army: Grumbuz's Tribe</span></span><br />With Aznar's faillure, the challenge of breaking through into the elven plains fell to Grumbuz again. Why this was so important he did not know, but the emissary had been very clear on the importance and the dire consequences of failure.<br /><br />However, luck was on Grumbuz's side today. Not only had the blood moon risen, furthermore his ranks had been bolstered by a small band of giants - the promise of revenge on menfolk and those vile elves enough to convince the elder brutes to join in.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj40fRgDQBfqOLvdCmc3hrohrEOhVSnpzA4tUvaCkzmXl5DazkOrDuubrbm21HEAG2JmE-G77fakd00c2ngLGli-hTjUAozYomqLdJfmce-8z72SDv-oOZJM6QQmm9UYs_GeNcGGEf0CRGJ/s1600-h/DSC_2325.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj40fRgDQBfqOLvdCmc3hrohrEOhVSnpzA4tUvaCkzmXl5DazkOrDuubrbm21HEAG2JmE-G77fakd00c2ngLGli-hTjUAozYomqLdJfmce-8z72SDv-oOZJM6QQmm9UYs_GeNcGGEf0CRGJ/s400/DSC_2325.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br /><br />Certain of the upcoming glory, Grumbuz's plan was a simple one. On his left flank he would have Blogsok - another recent addition to his forces, the day must be glorious indeed - with strict orders to protect the flank and not attack of his own initiative.<br /><br />The right flank, along the river, would be Magrott's task, with the giants fighting amidsts his troops. Their task was to push forward and protect the right flank of the army.<br /><br />In the center he had Ragnok's tribe, with Akz's ogres in support. They were to break through the thin elven line, with both flanks secured it should be easy enough.<br /><br />Now all they needed to know WHERE those pesky elves were. They had been under observation by their scouts for days, but so far he had yet to see more than a shadow.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Grumbuzz's tribe:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Grumbuzz Chief:</span> Solid, Inspirational, Staunch, Rash<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Addertongue shaman:</span> Junior dark mage (Dav), Capacity 16, Staunch. Spells: Despair, Weakness, Confusion<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Thwok hero:</span> Poor, Liked, Slayer of All, Hard to Kill, Initiative II (Enthusiastic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Magrott Chief:</span> Able/Bold, Inspirational, Staunch, Hard to Kill<br /><br /> Bruisers: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10, Shock<br /> Bruisers: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10, Shock<br /> Heavy Spears: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10<br /> Heavy Spears: OO HI C, two-handed weapons, 10<br /> Light spears: OO MI C, spear shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI D, spear shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI D, spear shield, 10<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI D, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI E, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI E, inferior bow, 7<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ragnok's tribe:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ragnok chief:</span> Solid/Thick, Liked, Staunch, Rash, 2x Hard to Kill<br /><br /> Bruisers: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10, Shock<br /> Giant: Large Giant B, Heavy Armour, Shield, 10, Shock, Terror<br /> Heavy spears: OO HI B, Spear and shield, 10<br /> Heavy spears: OO HI C, Spear and shield, 10<br /> Heavy spears: OO HI B, Spear and shield, 10<br /> Light spears: OO MI C, spear shield, 10<br /> Light spears: OO MI D, spear shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI C, spear shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI D, spear shield, 10<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI D, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI E, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI E, inferior bow, 7<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blogsok's Wolfriders:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"> Blogsok chief:</span> Atrocious, Liked, Staunch<br /><br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /> Wolfriders: OO HC D, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Akz's Ogres:</span><br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Akz Chief:</span> Able/Bold, Inspirational, Slayer of All, Hard to Kill<br /><br /> Ogres: Light Giants B, two-handers, 10<br /> Ogres: Light Giants C, two-handers, 10<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Grrr Hero:</span> Poor, Liked, Staunch<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Losses:</span><br /> Akz: Slain by a pesky elven hero<br /> Akz's ogres: Serious casualties from elven bows<br /> Magrott: Severely wounded by the same pesky elven hero<br /> Magrott's tribe: All the best troops bled to death in the stream<br /> Ragnok's tribe: A few units lost, otherwise minor<br /> Blogsok's Wolfriders: no casualties.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Elven Army: Thanalis's Border Rangers</span></span><br /><br />Apparantly we were facing the same elves that Aznar failed to defeat. We don't know what went on in their head, but have a pretty accurate list of their forces. Then again their mage seemed to be casting dark spells?<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Thanalis Commander in Chief:</span> Allegedly a poor commander<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Insuldir Mage</span> Master (schooled) Spells: Some dark spells?!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Erimor, East Rides mounted rangers:</span> <br />* 2x Mounted Rangers: OO Light Cavalry B, spear, elven bow, strength 6<br />* 2x Centaurs: SO Light Cavalry C, bow, strength 5<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Leinor, East Rides foot rangers:</span> <br />* 3x Foot Rangers: OO Light Infantry B, spear, elven bow, strength 10<br />* 2x Skirmishers: SO Light Infantry C, elven bow, strength 7<br />* Hero Incelan <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Veriborn, Lonely Hills foot rangers:</span> <br />* 3x Foot Rangers: OO Light Infantry B, spear, elven bow, strength 10<br />* 2x Skirmishers: SO Light Infantry C, elven bow, strength 7<br />* Hero Caethin <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Eilas, White Sun Pegasus Scouts:</span> <br />* 3x Pegasus Scouts: SO Medium Cavalry B, shield, elven bow, strength 5<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Vanuldir, Grove Cavalry</span><br />* 1x Noble Cavalry: OO Heavy Cavalry, B, lance, javelin, shield, strength 8<br />* Hero Avelion <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Taluwya, Grove Cavalry</span> <br />* 3x Unicorn riders: SO Light Cavalry C, elven bow, strength 5<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Losses:</span><br />* Vanuldir: Almost wiped out and routed along with his noble cavalry and the hero Avelion<br />* Eilas's pegasus scouts: Thrown back with losses, and one flight routed<br />* Erimor's mounted rangers: Thrown back with heavy losses<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;">The Battle</span></span></span> - Grumbuzz's perspective<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecA4N473vkX_PDeKM_v8e6RKbrMoBfUWxQgnOZt8Qw8U7Q3TCsa33QzKhNNXtUR9fIrHOH6uAzGwPeeSsovdm-VOfh5GdndnbrheXpsp7v_f3XfNsaD7ZOAe42xM33UkzX2F5fzgF0Yt5/s1600-h/DSC_2326.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecA4N473vkX_PDeKM_v8e6RKbrMoBfUWxQgnOZt8Qw8U7Q3TCsa33QzKhNNXtUR9fIrHOH6uAzGwPeeSsovdm-VOfh5GdndnbrheXpsp7v_f3XfNsaD7ZOAe42xM33UkzX2F5fzgF0Yt5/s400/DSC_2326.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Once again we could only see a scouts, and no sight of the elven army. Kicking Blogsok forward on the left flank (never seen a more useless leader!), I left Ragnok to deal with the right flank, with orders to use the woods for cover to advance close to the elven line.<br /><br />In the center my tribe was advancing steadily, and Akz's ogres along with them. Roaring laughter rose when an elf strode across the stream, and called out a challenge to Akz. The fool did not seem to realise that Akz slew elf heroes for breakfast. Lazily trotting forward, Akz swung his axe, cleaving straight through the elf. Or rather, the space the elf occupied instants before, instead only lightly clipping the elf. In turn, the elf stabbed Akz once. We could not believe our eyes as Akz's tumbled, the elf coolly cleaning his blade on the ogre's trousers.<br /><br />A setback, but nothing that could not be dealt with. On the left flank Blgsok had fallen still again, only to have a cloud of budgies (pegasus riders? - ed.) swoop down on them. The wolves seemed to be having a blast, teeth tearing out feathers and tails. Most amusing to see them scurry back into the distance, not to be seen again.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpn02LapCm3j_gnSZsFMKL-ix6J_DCM-320bwRtHjCBb0pUBDElpmyw3gT12tlbyj_ul-vVsQIaecypyctr1qSjrFZiDrxq2Q_IYw1_FgPvxMuf1AJvq7X8IfQjeR__CL4MYBg8lmD_M0E/s1600-h/DSC_2330.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpn02LapCm3j_gnSZsFMKL-ix6J_DCM-320bwRtHjCBb0pUBDElpmyw3gT12tlbyj_ul-vVsQIaecypyctr1qSjrFZiDrxq2Q_IYw1_FgPvxMuf1AJvq7X8IfQjeR__CL4MYBg8lmD_M0E/s400/DSC_2330.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />The right flank was starting to become a problem though. First of all, just as the archers approached the thick woods, the hostile mage did... Something. Something that caused the leaves to fall and the brush to shrivel and die. Blinking in surprise, the most forward younglings were cut down in a hail of elven arrows. So much for that plan.<br /><br />More importantly still, some very bright looking elven heavy cavalry had advanced all along the river, supported by their rangers. If I did not act soon they would get behind Ragnok and cause all sorts of trouble. After personally instructing him to deal with the threat, I took charge of a unit of ogres and started to flog them forward again.<br /><br />Addertongue reassured me he had things in hand though. He strode forward, and cast the magic of Despair on the leader of the elven cavalry. Soon, he promised, the leader would run away in tears.<br /><br />Ragnok may be a bit thick, but from the looks of it Ragnok sure knew how to handle his troops. Leaving his skirmishers to cover the front, he pushed the remainder of his troops to the right, and through the water. It was a risky choice, as it would leave them disordered upon arrival on the hostile banks, and at risk to a strong charge by the hostile cavalry. Still, they outnumbered them vastly, and the giants would not be easily intimidated, he was sure of that.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_umu3kPymR0J-lQ0-FPOwT57WdGJb_-oRWZel4UfiyPw5DcghACQe6SS0hMO6hfP508KSV8XUqfAOZL2sBxEMvdaoEE_3BbtRhCp7s8rLqs9PBKFJcaF-MqcNXQC3gQxfVHv9aj6ZulFb/s1600-h/DSC_2331.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_umu3kPymR0J-lQ0-FPOwT57WdGJb_-oRWZel4UfiyPw5DcghACQe6SS0hMO6hfP508KSV8XUqfAOZL2sBxEMvdaoEE_3BbtRhCp7s8rLqs9PBKFJcaF-MqcNXQC3gQxfVHv9aj6ZulFb/s400/DSC_2331.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />I must get that idiot Addertongue flayed. No tears, from the elven leader. Instead, a single, lilting laugh seemed to shake off the entire magics that our shaman had ensorceled him with. Trumpets sound, and the elven cavcalry comes thundering forward. Met with an unswerving line of orc steel and spear, the cavalry is thrown back in some confusion, and we hold the right bank!<br /><br />In the center, Magrott will not be outdone. Leading from the front, he sees an elf step out of the archery line, and skip across the river. The same one Akz fought against, probably. The challenge from the elf was still spilling from his lips, when Magrott charged forward, bold as ever. Blades flashed for what seemed like an eternity - until Magrott stumbled back to his lines, severly wounded, and leaving the elf triumphant. Again.<br /><br />Still, Magrott had enough presence of mind left to urge his tribe forward, in one close block of orc anger. They charged down the hill, and fully expected the elf to skip back across the water even hastier than he had come. Instead, the flanking units watched in soem amazement as the elf stiid his ground, stopping the center in it's tracks, slaying a few orcs, and THEN skipping back to his lines. With a few more wounds for the effort, but nonetheless STILL alive. This disrupted the orc formation, and the wounded Magrott would never get them moving forward in any coordinated fashion, again.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVydlzjJKvTaRuZ7w5Jzrhc7JjSa15-r79VjYec_Zfb9YZtwlTSWcHorMWtbkoOUcuaYkx9hswRZp4_2anJdJWA2nkM0jaYQGlAJezRc-EvWMvN7uL9EW2AvnI8t7u4hyRSG0178SwA32X/s1600-h/DSC_2332.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVydlzjJKvTaRuZ7w5Jzrhc7JjSa15-r79VjYec_Zfb9YZtwlTSWcHorMWtbkoOUcuaYkx9hswRZp4_2anJdJWA2nkM0jaYQGlAJezRc-EvWMvN7uL9EW2AvnI8t7u4hyRSG0178SwA32X/s400/DSC_2332.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />On the right flank, things were going much better. Having stood their ground, Ragnok's orcs were pushing the elven heavy cavalry back, and the giants were wading through a thin cloud of fresh centaur blood. Soon, the heavy cavalry would root, very close to annihilation.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4nd6vE1GaEe7CzlHyYhMJSdqHr3LfSzmtRKi61H4LEGD-uOBHZqyPcjaRZmZ3c7hmOTX6U-OZSJJzpWa6EKD7kKGwMI97DEIu9AJys3eUVjqBJMFsokqZgCSmV67wzjwJPpLUq0SpSve/s1600-h/DSC_2337.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4nd6vE1GaEe7CzlHyYhMJSdqHr3LfSzmtRKi61H4LEGD-uOBHZqyPcjaRZmZ3c7hmOTX6U-OZSJJzpWa6EKD7kKGwMI97DEIu9AJys3eUVjqBJMFsokqZgCSmV67wzjwJPpLUq0SpSve/s400/DSC_2337.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Sheer grit and determination from Magrott pushed the forward units of spears into the stream, to assault the archers on the far side. Already, the elf hero had cost them direly, spending more time within range of those blasted archers. Now, wading through the stream things got really close. If only he could get his spears in contact with the rangers facing them, he was sure they would break through. Unfortunately, the attack faltered within arm's reach of the opposing shore.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFXr2H3eFPCQ0V8aFTaJcYAGdeFQvzYcwmFxppO01pcguFl1lbP8zUR3nExIht7lB1VCYjCVfca5KYlhrPqVSsCuyX2zB-WRGsRTUTr9JXKIXSfoqhFutyESBEHCezHZxepGBfEejEWwl/s1600-h/DSC_2342.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFXr2H3eFPCQ0V8aFTaJcYAGdeFQvzYcwmFxppO01pcguFl1lbP8zUR3nExIht7lB1VCYjCVfca5KYlhrPqVSsCuyX2zB-WRGsRTUTr9JXKIXSfoqhFutyESBEHCezHZxepGBfEejEWwl/s400/DSC_2342.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />The orcs trapped in the stream were hastily being turned into living pincushions, arrows sticking out in all directions. <br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uZymys0-bLPxNNNDF1qyys86T1k8yiLjuX0hDNJYZGhWw3-AUnpLogNzvDON9R3GAAN0GcGyY-oPQYPw4Ry0m92HYVUer9dhEmN7-PHEaQHOlfgzIZr1qX_i6b_K7-hsnuROUp1gwbO_/s1600-h/DSC_2343.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uZymys0-bLPxNNNDF1qyys86T1k8yiLjuX0hDNJYZGhWw3-AUnpLogNzvDON9R3GAAN0GcGyY-oPQYPw4Ry0m92HYVUer9dhEmN7-PHEaQHOlfgzIZr1qX_i6b_K7-hsnuROUp1gwbO_/s400/DSC_2343.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Too wounded to do much, Magrott could but watch as finally their morale faltered, his finest troops running back to preserve their hides. Grumbuzz tried to intervene, brining up a unit of ogres, but these too would arrive too late to make a difference. The attack in the center had failed dramatically, and the stream flowed red with orc blood.<br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoicJgfL2fhh59-v4L_Gcedsw9z80Mo1mck90gIqMWpu2scqe3kd-QjewcwPf4bmZJZLjo0HMMHT3iZYJTN6LlcS1bpCEUCq0c0yzX01ecN47tMgKWN9bvrGPzji3ecjL6QZRCXutNXfk/s1600-h/DSC_2344.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoicJgfL2fhh59-v4L_Gcedsw9z80Mo1mck90gIqMWpu2scqe3kd-QjewcwPf4bmZJZLjo0HMMHT3iZYJTN6LlcS1bpCEUCq0c0yzX01ecN47tMgKWN9bvrGPzji3ecjL6QZRCXutNXfk/s400/DSC_2344.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />On the right flank, the elven rangers would manage to break one unit of heavy spears, before they themselves were chased off by the giants and the remainder of Ragnok's orcs.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yNqt8cKaohIOafRiUuQOjltH3VwSq6stiAk449cdyjIcclw8XrjqaVNgZPL8Or1ZiGDTNlF7wWJqEtNnnIcjGmGz-c2Mrj0V0Kg1xrPYWktR0mWs28RKmWnjUDo4axzKx1Ga0XgSlVri/s1600-h/DSC_2351.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yNqt8cKaohIOafRiUuQOjltH3VwSq6stiAk449cdyjIcclw8XrjqaVNgZPL8Or1ZiGDTNlF7wWJqEtNnnIcjGmGz-c2Mrj0V0Kg1xrPYWktR0mWs28RKmWnjUDo4axzKx1Ga0XgSlVri/s400/DSC_2351.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Overall, an elven victory. But an expensive one, with one regiment of their nobles left crumbled on the field. For Magrott, the price was heavier still, with the muscle of his tribe left dead or dying in a stream.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Observations:</span><br />* Farid had a lot of fun, and seemed to pick up the overall intent of the rules quick enough. Success!<br />* The battle was interesting enough - by making use of the terrain the elves were able to hold, but only just. They were certainly not helped by their poor commander in chief<br />* Magic added flavour, but did not dominate<br />* Defensive shooting is probably too effective, as it is already a bonus round of shooting. Will be amended.<br />* Rules need to be amended to the effect that infantry cannot provide rear support to giants etc.<br />* Blogsok is a useless git.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-20564137844309946692009-04-13T08:35:00.000-07:002009-04-22T13:28:15.825-07:00Playtest: Orc raiders versus Plains Elf border rangersThis weekend saw another playtest at <a href="http://www.murphysheroes.nl">Murphy's Heroes</a>, this time of my plains elves army versus my orc raiders. I played the elves, whereas Dick played the orcs.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Orc Army: Aznar's Tribe</span></span><br />Aznar had taken his fresh new alliance on a raid into Elven territory. Aznar had recently become the leader of his tribe. That made him the default leader of the local tribes, for now.<br />Being neither popular nor strong he had made his career up the leadership ladder by subterfuge and the occasional backstabbing (preferably in the dark). He would have to prove his strength to his men and the other tribes quickly or he would find himself on the wrong end of a pointy stick. Striking against the men would have been easier but he needed a big win to stay on top. So now they faced the Elven border guards.<br />Aznar laid out his plan. They would attack through the woods and thorny areas to negate the long ranging and stinging elvenbows. Aznar's and Ragnok's tribes would form the centre. Blogsok's wolfriders the left flank and Grrr's Ogres the right flank. Wozzot the shaman would provide a diversion on the left flank to keep the elves guessing about the plan. This plan was met with a well meant "Huhh?" by all concerned. The army then set off to teach those pesky elves a lesson still guessing about the plan and greatly diverted by the antics of Wozzot.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Aznar Chief:</span> Able/Bold, Cold Fish, Staunch, Spoiling for a fight<br /><br /> Aznar's Bruisers: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10<br /> Aznar's Bruisers: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10<br /> Aznar's Bruisers: OO HI B, two-handed weapons, 10<br /><br /> Light spears: OO MI C, spear shield, 10<br /> Light spears: OO MI C, spear shield, 10<br /> Light spears: OO MI C, spear shield, 10<br /><br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI D, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI D, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI D, inferior bow, 7<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Wozzot Shaman:</span> Initiate spirit mage(d3), born leader, staunch, capacity 10,<br /> 3 spirit spells: Spirit Aid, Spirit Feet, Confusion<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Knobrot Shaman:</span> Incompentent spirit mage(d2), liked, Staunch, Capacity 10,<br /> 1 spirit spell: Spirit aid.<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Noknok Hero:</span> Solid/Thick, Born leader, staunch, meek, rash<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ragnok's tribe:</span><br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ragnok chief:</span> Able/Bold, Liked, Staunch, Rash<br /><br /> Heavy spears: OO HI B, Spear and shield, 10<br /> Heavy spears: OO HI B, Spear and shield, 10<br /> Heavy spears: OO HI C, Spear and shield, 10<br /> Heavy spears: OO HI B, Spear and shield, 10<br /><br /> Mob: OO LI D, Sword and shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI D, Sword and shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI C, Sword and shield, 10<br /> Mob: OO LI C, Sword and shield, 10<br /><br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI D, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI E, inferior bow, 7<br /> Skirmishing younglings: SO LI E, inferior bow, 7<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Grishnak hero:</span> Atrocious, Inspirational, Slayer of all, Enthousiastic<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blogsok's Wolfriders:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"> Blogsok chief:</span> Solid, Inspirational, Staunch, Unreliable<br /><br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /> Wolfriders: OO HC C, Handweapons and shields, Carnivorous mounts<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Grrr's Ogres:</span><br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Grrr Chief:</span> Atrocious, Inspirational, Slayer of men, Rash<br /><br /> Ogres: Light Giants B, two-handers, 10<br /> Ogres: Light Giants B, two-handers, 10<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Arrr Hero:</span> Solid/Bold, Inspirational, Slayer of men, Enthousiastic, Spoiling for a fight.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Losses:</span><br /> Aznar: Killed in action leading his bruisers.<br /> Noknok: Killed while trying to keep the elves from flanking Aznar's tribe.<br /> Aznar's tribe: Skirmishers killed in firefights. One unit of Bruisers and light spears destroyed by elven bows.<br /> The remainder of the tribe destroyed in the rest of the fighting.<br /><br /> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ragnok's tribe:</span> minor casualties among the skirmishers.<br /> Grrr's Ogres: no casualties<br /> Blogsok's Wolfriders: no casualties.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Result:</span> A win for Ragnok's tribe! Aznar? Who is Aznar?<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Elven Army: Thanalis's border rangers</span></span><br /><br />Thanalis had received reports from his scouts of an unusually large orcish raiding party approaching through the human lands. They seemed to head directly for the plains, and so far the humans had not moved to stop them. Sending riders out to bring in the patrols, he grouped a fighting force of both mounted and dismounted rangers. In addition he had some pegasus scouts at his disposal, and a cavalry detachment from the standing army. Quite predictable, Vanuldir, commander of the cavalry detachment, immediately pointed out he should be taking command as highest ranking standing army commander. A brief discussion indeed.<br /><br />Taking stock of the situation, Thanalis deployed the pegasi on his left flank, his foot rangers on the foothills, with the mounted rangers supporting on the left flank and the cavalry in the middle. A small patrol was deployed on the right flank to watch for any orcs trying to flank the rangers.<br /><br />Overall, it was important to stop these orcs. Then again, they were still well away from the elven homelands, so fighting another day was definitely an option.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Thanalis Commander in Chief:</span> Solid, Born leader, Staunch<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Insuldir Mage</span> Master (schooled) DAv+2, capacity 34. Weakling. Spells: Heal, Light, Boost Morale, Voices<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Erimor, East Rides mounted rangers:</span> Gifted, Liked, Staunch<br />* 2x Mounted Rangers: OO Light Cavalry B, spear, elven bow, strength 6<br />* 2x Centaurs: SO Light Cavalry C, bow, strength 5<br />* Hero Avelion Solid, Inspirational, Slayer of Men, Meek (I)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Leinor, East Rides foot rangers:</span> Solid, Liked, Staunch, Hard to Kill<br />* 3x Foot Rangers: OO Light Infantry B, spear, elven bow, strength 10<br />* 2x Skirmishers: SO Light Infantry C, elven bow, strength 7<br />* Hero Incelan Poor, Liked, Slayer of All, Enthusiastic (II)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Veriborn, Lonely Hills foot rangers:</span> Gifted, Liked, Staunch<br />* 3x Foot Rangers: OO Light Infantry B, spear, elven bow, strength 10<br />* 2x Skirmishers: SO Light Infantry C, elven bow, strength 7<br />* Hero Caethin Solid, Cold Fish, Has Fate (III)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Eilas, White Sun Pegasus Scouts:</span> Solid, Liked, Slayer of Men<br />* 3x Pegasus Scouts: SO Medium Cavalry B, shield, elven bow, strength 5<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Vanuldir, Grove Cavalry</span> Solid, Cold Fish, Staunch, Hesistant<br />* 1x Noble Cavalry: OO Heavy Cavalry, B, lance, javelin, shield, strength 8<br />* 3x Unicorn riders: SO Light Cavalry C, elven bow, strength 5<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Losses:</span><br />* Eilas: Slain by Ogre hero in personal combat<br />* Incelan: Slain by Aznar in personal combat<br />* 1 unit of centaurs routed after taking heavy fire<br />* Grove cavalry routed but rallied<br />* Small losses throughout skirmishers<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;">The Battle</span></span><br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKT3rB9bQUd4KLukORLFVzz_u54wktfKkDRu3OzVJ2Ugj1V66sErU6EPtjgPtRgnR6-JbDt08bs3y3gU0LS58brKYJNRILt6gzC8X_sQLHElBP5Y00XDYoE42__zb3qRnqJjjwI5zA8ZUj/s1600-h/DSC_2282.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKT3rB9bQUd4KLukORLFVzz_u54wktfKkDRu3OzVJ2Ugj1V66sErU6EPtjgPtRgnR6-JbDt08bs3y3gU0LS58brKYJNRILt6gzC8X_sQLHElBP5Y00XDYoE42__zb3qRnqJjjwI5zA8ZUj/s400/DSC_2282.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Having thoroughly outscouted their opponent, Thanalis got the pick of the ground. He was only slightly worried about the woods to his front blocking some of the enemy movement from view. However his pegasus scouts should provide ample warning there.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNg6ZR90y7uQDPurbEaVKZZjVhr-T-YWHaEyxhQtQKFrbjkbkkBepSnH6vlvdx9-xrnNcZ0KbdW41e8BJIcsrcmL1Zm1KW-DbdWwWyBzHR2ly5ivebkVuw_sLVAK9JtPmVO1tBtAD9h7o/s1600-h/DSC_2284.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNg6ZR90y7uQDPurbEaVKZZjVhr-T-YWHaEyxhQtQKFrbjkbkkBepSnH6vlvdx9-xrnNcZ0KbdW41e8BJIcsrcmL1Zm1KW-DbdWwWyBzHR2ly5ivebkVuw_sLVAK9JtPmVO1tBtAD9h7o/s400/DSC_2284.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />As expected, the scouts revealed the bulk of the orc forces - using the cover of the woods to try and close the bow range as quickly as possible. The orc forces threatening the right flank turned out to be a simple ruse, and only a small force of wolf riders were moving into the intended killing grounds.<br /><br />Around this point, fighting nearly broke out between Arr, the ogre hero who was clearly spoiling for a fight, and his blood brother Grrr. Fortunately it resulted in nothing more than a staring match, with Arr finally reserving his anger for the enemy.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-53T8UeZ0y8umd4GedhcWdEn0c5iq4HXygI3dVagKUQBQI5sscP9gaZXVY5VhuOBgq27hgbXjWadYWvqfP4c6vQE2iOrr6J0EfVqzhh2a4K7iOSYjtvpaTKFNYkr8oha1mRygd3onw3va/s1600-h/DSC_2285.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-53T8UeZ0y8umd4GedhcWdEn0c5iq4HXygI3dVagKUQBQI5sscP9gaZXVY5VhuOBgq27hgbXjWadYWvqfP4c6vQE2iOrr6J0EfVqzhh2a4K7iOSYjtvpaTKFNYkr8oha1mRygd3onw3va/s400/DSC_2285.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />On the far left of the army, the pegasus scouts put a few well aimed volleys into the orc skirmishers, but had to evade as the ogres agressively charged forward.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKgYhKBtXnuQR0UM3e45MIfEtj5mLQLRW8IvBwzNjAVJ721Ru_wNVZeSMic2iE1bVbUbt1Y4s-9ZngOg2YZP_7qhMPrLgl5hlBg73LKCeJpgtkDM33lltBau5TJ_JdDKhVbY-8vHUc5fe/s1600-h/DSC_2288.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKgYhKBtXnuQR0UM3e45MIfEtj5mLQLRW8IvBwzNjAVJ721Ru_wNVZeSMic2iE1bVbUbt1Y4s-9ZngOg2YZP_7qhMPrLgl5hlBg73LKCeJpgtkDM33lltBau5TJ_JdDKhVbY-8vHUc5fe/s400/DSC_2288.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Insuldir, expecting dark magic to be used by the vile orcs, cast a spell, bathing the direct surroundings in magical light to inhibit the use of such vile forces.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAfcrnVo0Oc6E-qLQlxqHdN96ZqVfg1RH5_-2FLtwGgOSdtLOs1ezBSM9kKtdBNy-3ZewuIlBDDnw8bI4yXQAH023lvbxKeaDPcbL5Ih8-dtT-RL9GUw6E9wQcBj9Mkbqo4V7O7QPQFQ8/s1600-h/DSC_2289.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAfcrnVo0Oc6E-qLQlxqHdN96ZqVfg1RH5_-2FLtwGgOSdtLOs1ezBSM9kKtdBNy-3ZewuIlBDDnw8bI4yXQAH023lvbxKeaDPcbL5Ih8-dtT-RL9GUw6E9wQcBj9Mkbqo4V7O7QPQFQ8/s400/DSC_2289.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Thanalis commanded the left flank of his army to fall back slowly, keeping the orcs at bow range and out of close combat. He also sent orders to Leinur to bring forward his rangers and flank the enemy.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDp9kseaeHpVpXlqSrER0huu-fQJgjiQpcOavAuQGhY9EKPSh6KE_BLWfg0M39oIZqbCQ1vqgLT9DmenTDpZvW9urdLOjUbfjGYOn0gpiGT4X4CODvHvBrWAKAR2veWVAwMWnHwu4LcxOO/s1600-h/DSC_2290.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDp9kseaeHpVpXlqSrER0huu-fQJgjiQpcOavAuQGhY9EKPSh6KE_BLWfg0M39oIZqbCQ1vqgLT9DmenTDpZvW9urdLOjUbfjGYOn0gpiGT4X4CODvHvBrWAKAR2veWVAwMWnHwu4LcxOO/s400/DSC_2290.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Whether it was the advance of Leinur's rangers or simply the absence of Aznar, we will never know. What we do know is that the unreliable Blogsok chose not to face the elves in front of him, and instead turn around to re-pillage the human lands to the rear. He would not play a further part in the battle. Due to the speed of their retreat, our artist only managed a blurry sketch.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiifooGGPgBsYeIrjC5iyl3lvHqly4IS4F2lIzMidysBSlBUXcWQ2VpN5f5x5-NUZDTqpu70nsu-kgyMAH5vFB1asmvP5yPQ1tB54wK3UIQ2IpT8_TXWAtLJOiRcod1MR5nMtwUeleda8_L/s1600-h/DSC_2291.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiifooGGPgBsYeIrjC5iyl3lvHqly4IS4F2lIzMidysBSlBUXcWQ2VpN5f5x5-NUZDTqpu70nsu-kgyMAH5vFB1asmvP5yPQ1tB54wK3UIQ2IpT8_TXWAtLJOiRcod1MR5nMtwUeleda8_L/s400/DSC_2291.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />However, not all was going well for the elves. One of the herds of centaurs drew fire from the entire cloud of orcish skirmishers, causing them to turn tail and run. Seeing this, Insuldir prepared the spell 'Voices' and cast it on Aznar. As a result of which Aznar, instead of commanding his troops, spent the next good while yelling at the voices in his ear, and punching a few close-by subordinates out of sher frustration. This briefly took the pressure of the elves, allowing them to fall back to a safe range.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkV2Zeg7NUc8PGRU3CrMClOVfiMWSACRsDDgmB4Ty3NVO_1EqjkT7EwiwZ-0wyTi3iwJWbe_HKWTHWsjFTrKHdh_WjFI2jHoo-bk8pDRLKlons1StJkpodyPJZug2W_CAc0zSRrXrnvRzw/s1600-h/DSC_2292.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkV2Zeg7NUc8PGRU3CrMClOVfiMWSACRsDDgmB4Ty3NVO_1EqjkT7EwiwZ-0wyTi3iwJWbe_HKWTHWsjFTrKHdh_WjFI2jHoo-bk8pDRLKlons1StJkpodyPJZug2W_CAc0zSRrXrnvRzw/s400/DSC_2292.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Or at least something resembling a safe range. Zooming about low over the grassy fields on his pegasus, Eilas was fully focussed on commanding his troops, when suddenly from almost just below him he heard a loud bellow. <br /> This bellow originated from Arrr, who had finally spotted an elf to vent his rage on. Charging across the field, he raised his huge sword to cleave through the elf and steed. Little did he know Eilas was a hero of reknown, and slayer of many things.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwC5TKL6PVjFzKiZpDlRjdvnOkX_W3HtD9DV0Oo72z36jj0KiiisjcMrMLcdtsLkZ4K86x6DNyahnuK653ubrR3_nHPr5o-OLdqnFEru-Eialnj5bAmex9rq7rHrWHrvEs4BPsghZS7gdx/s1600-h/DSC_2294.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwC5TKL6PVjFzKiZpDlRjdvnOkX_W3HtD9DV0Oo72z36jj0KiiisjcMrMLcdtsLkZ4K86x6DNyahnuK653ubrR3_nHPr5o-OLdqnFEru-Eialnj5bAmex9rq7rHrWHrvEs4BPsghZS7gdx/s400/DSC_2294.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Nor did this make much of a difference. Rising in an arc, Arr's sword was only seen by the elf once it had cloven through the pegasus, and was within inches of cleaving through the rider as well. Far too late for the elf to act and avoid his fate.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSShIPfNrawtnYH04sKBxoQzcOwDFRjf101g-B1YvNDUFC6paERXXirnyUWpD0sN69T02GC1U5qxmzo-3IqG0laVvBV-PDcSEKnr4howDsjBmYKfIXnW5Owellmx2anG7nqm2G8dH-wHR/s1600-h/DSC_2297.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSShIPfNrawtnYH04sKBxoQzcOwDFRjf101g-B1YvNDUFC6paERXXirnyUWpD0sN69T02GC1U5qxmzo-3IqG0laVvBV-PDcSEKnr4howDsjBmYKfIXnW5Owellmx2anG7nqm2G8dH-wHR/s400/DSC_2297.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />This tragic loss would not however deter the elves from the plan already set in motion. Leinur moved most of his troops forward, with Incelan taking personal command of the regiment that briefly got left behind. Wheeling in on the exposed orc flank, they took full advantage of the distraction suffered by the orc commander.<br /><br />They had, however, not taken Noknok into account. Kicking, yelling and pushing the tough orc Bruisers, he managed to turn at least one mob to face the opposing threat.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigI8viiGt4CZL2sX5TknXKTrElzHem1kbBLj1n57NpsJQ-KG26BSnXD3Gs1LWbidCOlsC36k6YFWXCzOywOzG2XZPYf_fIzOWSFqOjOm7JH8ZrsEboJy5jEDwV0_MMCFjyDKxlK3phykJ/s1600-h/DSC_2299.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigI8viiGt4CZL2sX5TknXKTrElzHem1kbBLj1n57NpsJQ-KG26BSnXD3Gs1LWbidCOlsC36k6YFWXCzOywOzG2XZPYf_fIzOWSFqOjOm7JH8ZrsEboJy5jEDwV0_MMCFjyDKxlK3phykJ/s400/DSC_2299.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />It is highly dubious whether the bruisers would ever forgive Noknok for this, as their position made them the prime target for all the rangers of the East Ridings, the sky darkening with arrows, and the ground darkening with orc blood.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXVV1jTnDb-8-2fqBVw_9lLnwALK49-MAsRa0rkvGv7De_ALrTzyAGGZvazZ24AnKxx_oBdlhvJAb74ehutop6q1qWgC6JnGDZnQHqyIgGpVjyHHBa7zGMgMi3HDER-lAPKrFE20jGU4N1/s1600-h/DSC_2301.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXVV1jTnDb-8-2fqBVw_9lLnwALK49-MAsRa0rkvGv7De_ALrTzyAGGZvazZ24AnKxx_oBdlhvJAb74ehutop6q1qWgC6JnGDZnQHqyIgGpVjyHHBa7zGMgMi3HDER-lAPKrFE20jGU4N1/s400/DSC_2301.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Enraged at the magic tricks played with his mind, and more so by the slaughter visited on his bruisers, Aznar strode forward and belched a challenge at the closest elven hero, Incelan. He may have been all the more motivated as slaying the pesky elf would surely increase his status within the orc tribe. Foolishly, he had just picked the other slayer of reknown in the elven army.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1TvbeRkjxselZ9Q82k_d1uZu5S5F8sps_wfdxXdWCC1h9ABAMMxJ_IYzm0Lw14uv_dAc7NvMqazNiK1FVRkN-zte-l5efvU15-t07brdNgr89J6LBHcQb_K2BZUZ3bYmxfnw0xC73iXk/s1600-h/DSC_2302.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1TvbeRkjxselZ9Q82k_d1uZu5S5F8sps_wfdxXdWCC1h9ABAMMxJ_IYzm0Lw14uv_dAc7NvMqazNiK1FVRkN-zte-l5efvU15-t07brdNgr89J6LBHcQb_K2BZUZ3bYmxfnw0xC73iXk/s400/DSC_2302.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />But again it would make little difference. Incelan considered for a moment to simply ignore the challenge of the filthy orc, but then decided to throw caution to the wind. He charged up the hill, deftly fended off one cleaver, and stopped the other with his forehead. With the rusting metal sinking down between the elves shoulderblades, another valiant light extinguished.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGk_cmllf5xZasv89CMHaQzjHln1n1AyBthJc6JGEZVz8CkZreB3mkGMWQ0T3Z2SECBXTGSqxJW7M3Jj4t8xpzJ-a_bcqXR58yBXQcPsZ2hszf_R5ufDCtJuu63fMS1H66N8VwXJjP9qRX/s1600-h/DSC_2304.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGk_cmllf5xZasv89CMHaQzjHln1n1AyBthJc6JGEZVz8CkZreB3mkGMWQ0T3Z2SECBXTGSqxJW7M3Jj4t8xpzJ-a_bcqXR58yBXQcPsZ2hszf_R5ufDCtJuu63fMS1H66N8VwXJjP9qRX/s400/DSC_2304.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Aznar's glory would however be brief. As they pushed forward, his troops found fierce looking (for elves...) cavalry facing them, and much less fierce looking but nonetheless angry rangers flanking them. There seemed little chance of avoiding a disaster. Again, Noknok intervened. Stepping forward, he motioned at the gully, and called out the orcish equivalent of 'ye shall not pass' at the rangers.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11sPQxmW0ZW_sFL2YmKh29AJq1jYz9PG5KsEAUfvom4tmImAmTYXl5PoB8meI2h3QUyFgfyAQpq8_TIRXgMY8sDyHGIXhSK4DZn_mE5LRDw8Ru6NyqToUNA4wkpjZD_nB_s-VtP6obhkF/s1600-h/DSC_2308.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11sPQxmW0ZW_sFL2YmKh29AJq1jYz9PG5KsEAUfvom4tmImAmTYXl5PoB8meI2h3QUyFgfyAQpq8_TIRXgMY8sDyHGIXhSK4DZn_mE5LRDw8Ru6NyqToUNA4wkpjZD_nB_s-VtP6obhkF/s400/DSC_2308.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Unable to believe the stupidity of the orc, the elven rangers marcherd forward to the edge of the gorge, nocked their arrows, and fired. Pierced by many an arrow, the orc still stood. A small detachment from the rangers rushed forward and put the orc out of his misery. In the process of which they had lost the momentum of their advance, freeing the orcish warband to face the cavalry without immediate threat to their flank.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3MlarVaF2ArHly76x6aazR4yT4NJJrKIVQaGE3k8IPx1V20O_cEcSpIdVhEJ6dbudUvEV5Rdzhzc9uX19cERd_-9tNjMqLowiwH93Jo_KS4ad2o6sKDLvlwkjVHHAlKeaqdmKOaskJqD/s1600-h/DSC_2306.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3MlarVaF2ArHly76x6aazR4yT4NJJrKIVQaGE3k8IPx1V20O_cEcSpIdVhEJ6dbudUvEV5Rdzhzc9uX19cERd_-9tNjMqLowiwH93Jo_KS4ad2o6sKDLvlwkjVHHAlKeaqdmKOaskJqD/s400/DSC_2306.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Horns called, hooves clattered, manes drifted in the wind. Poets could spend years writing about the charge of Vanuldir's cavalry. They would spend much less time on the shocked looks on the elves faces as their opponents did not waver, or the hasty retreat that would follow. Behind, the unicorn riders did not hesitate one moment, and joined in the hasty retreat.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgViN2UOA5JNgT_VLN3pHrzhhHVBl3CpkrmX0iU49cpm9Z7QbJIcYwudP-pZrndXCny3EG-_6ymCWHAJgyKIDA8E6QJ3JpH4O6JfzUBt4wGNtXttgbS2rk81Y3O7Z4_hs8J6WQFhjst7sWl/s1600-h/DSC_2309.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgViN2UOA5JNgT_VLN3pHrzhhHVBl3CpkrmX0iU49cpm9Z7QbJIcYwudP-pZrndXCny3EG-_6ymCWHAJgyKIDA8E6QJ3JpH4O6JfzUBt4wGNtXttgbS2rk81Y3O7Z4_hs8J6WQFhjst7sWl/s400/DSC_2309.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />this may have come as a surprise to some. But certainly not to the elven mage. Having just cast another 'voices' spell, this time on ragnok, she was already preparing the 'Boost Morale' spell.<br /><br />The battle was now reaching it's dramatic end. On the far right, Leinur's rangers were making short work of the two bands of orcs facing them. The two orc shamans cast spells to hope stave off the unavoidable, but to no avail. <br /><br />In the centre, a regiment of rangers charged into the flank of Aznar's troops, whereas Veriborn's rangers charged up the hill into the levelled spears. After, of course, having peppered them with a few solid volleys of archery.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFIpCMPZqvU1QhFjjTA0zfzPulTGyIxLo1U_pvYpA2h7dPKmlx8e8XZwapX1SDRM6MMI_C8EPxHgJJwhM3vfqNGNCsYbcs5pCi2EMEpdEgpRgoWApCOCLGhPxZBbahmhaA4HcLC_vUnzq/s1600-h/DSC_2310.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFIpCMPZqvU1QhFjjTA0zfzPulTGyIxLo1U_pvYpA2h7dPKmlx8e8XZwapX1SDRM6MMI_C8EPxHgJJwhM3vfqNGNCsYbcs5pCi2EMEpdEgpRgoWApCOCLGhPxZBbahmhaA4HcLC_vUnzq/s400/DSC_2310.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Caethin, seeing the orc commander cowering amongst his troops, waded through the fight, slaying orcs left right and center. Finally he faced the vile orc. And this time the poems would not be tragic, as they had every cause to describe epic victory. Caethin sliced the orc commander, Aznar, into more manageable pieces while to his left and right his fellow rangers were breaking through the orcish ranks and sending them to the rear.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtkn_nMiDJ0pRddiApHwr_jZVGKG9BnwjRkXS0Gzb3jV8QXkWjpqDIKGDeTjwFHPY1ic1yXzhCl9TvgAzUhirZnNQngA5k9xbgARr2SBaWcSteGTOMTf5vZDW3FhNCVM7w5Y0HepVWp9Yd/s1600-h/DSC_2311.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtkn_nMiDJ0pRddiApHwr_jZVGKG9BnwjRkXS0Gzb3jV8QXkWjpqDIKGDeTjwFHPY1ic1yXzhCl9TvgAzUhirZnNQngA5k9xbgARr2SBaWcSteGTOMTf5vZDW3FhNCVM7w5Y0HepVWp9Yd/s400/DSC_2311.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Routing the orcs to their front, the elves might have called this a victory. But for the life lost of two of their most beloved heroes. But for the handful of lives lost amongst their rangers. And certainly but for the shameful retreat of the heavy cavalry.<br /><br />For some orcs, the day would also be a victory. Such as Ragnar, who still had the opportunity to withdraw his tribe mostly intact. The loss of a serious competitor would not be mourned either.<br /><br />The ogre brothers had also much to celebrate. They had slain the leader of the 'budgies', and had seen them off the battlefield entirely. In the process of which they had not suffered any losses whatsoever.<br /><br />Overall, the battle did end the orcish invasion. For now.<br /><br />To lessen the slight on elven honour, Insuldir's timely preparation even managed to put a stop to the rout of the cavalry. The 'Boost Morale' spell proved effective enough to bring the cavalry to a halt, leaving them shaken but no longer routing. Not that the border troops would soon forget the sight of the retreat of the noble heavy cavalry.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzFy8t-unCfLP8KGDtL2BFeroBjXGqe4_uFJrihbveZ0JF1sD9rs3A-oTCbf97Xtk7vDlNukgNJhcsfwcEE1gpXPIQOwb-FziJ2QpmxRVJrA6xoLPnb9fqKfjTLerP9MfzJZOhC60R_rs/s1600-h/DSC_2312.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzFy8t-unCfLP8KGDtL2BFeroBjXGqe4_uFJrihbveZ0JF1sD9rs3A-oTCbf97Xtk7vDlNukgNJhcsfwcEE1gpXPIQOwb-FziJ2QpmxRVJrA6xoLPnb9fqKfjTLerP9MfzJZOhC60R_rs/s400/DSC_2312.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Overall the rules seemed up to the job. A few things were noted, some of them requiring change. Indirect archery by troops in the rear over troops to their front is too effective. This will now be further penalized. <br /><br />The hero and duel mechanisms seemed to work well, and definitely added fun and flavour to the game. Magic proved powerful but probably not overly powerful. <br /><br />Poor dice rolls by the orcish side did result in their commanders being distracted for great lengths, but this was a statistical anomaly. Speed of play was fair, with approximately 20 minutes used per game turn. This with still a lot of checking to see whether we were using the rules as written down.<br /><br />As a first start to dealing with flying troops, simply allowing them to ignore terrain effects seemed a start, but certainly not yet the complete answer.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-61196652103394950572009-04-07T13:05:00.000-07:002009-04-07T13:54:47.569-07:00Playtest Battle of Blue Gully II - The battleThe mist faded and revealed the two small armies facing each other. On the right flank, Twohorns could see the dwarven blunderbuss regiment under Thorin Crooked move forward, probably hoping to flank the skirmishers. The remainder of the dwarven army so far held still.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzXJbl0Avub34y38fEO2nsf-z0nt6fvrJt8m_1d9AJxqa6B9rfbbOcji1WGE7lXxsPCnAmUz0s0mXiRAL60r2HDlb-MxBt0sX7UbbbgiR4T4KaaCD4WY_bB40UQNw5Z56_ERhNI1Oym1E/s1600-h/DSC_2265.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzXJbl0Avub34y38fEO2nsf-z0nt6fvrJt8m_1d9AJxqa6B9rfbbOcji1WGE7lXxsPCnAmUz0s0mXiRAL60r2HDlb-MxBt0sX7UbbbgiR4T4KaaCD4WY_bB40UQNw5Z56_ERhNI1Oym1E/s400/DSC_2265.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Not one to be distracted by such a ploy, Twohorns ordered the advance of all troops under his command. Simple plans are always best, and attacking suits orc nature. Defending certainly did not suit Yellowcrest and Akz, both noted for their Rash character. Indeed, Akz was already wading through the mud of Blue Gully. Which turned out to be more of an obstacle than expected - maybe Twohorns should have checked the ground first, but too late for that now.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6n3A5McN08AAJkwczg2QJEE87kQePxw26Mgq8_rWGlimUlNBKw9MxcAsks9VMbMsTW4uznKfNMcmyS3GW32x5YnlRkXU2DT4k9DW_sqx3vI7c-B2p8mwC97Y4vhG9t4ivc37CIySf9FI/s1600-h/DSC_2266.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6n3A5McN08AAJkwczg2QJEE87kQePxw26Mgq8_rWGlimUlNBKw9MxcAsks9VMbMsTW4uznKfNMcmyS3GW32x5YnlRkXU2DT4k9DW_sqx3vI7c-B2p8mwC97Y4vhG9t4ivc37CIySf9FI/s400/DSC_2266.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Besides, his attention was on the big green thing, with a small castle on top. Manned with more dwarves. Curious, and possibly a bit of a concern. And what's that, dwarves with pikes? What is the world coming to?<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJYbgLnjhiDBwVkFMWrzgX2Z0XJ4m581otsrzq16nVi1ldo0kHdLf1lM_M3nWzLz8nFVRPXpdzeGXCEAv_gScHwkc6nWmaUcU7aiI_NcFnfZEagEnAKazgO7hy-tWCQUeG6Mrw_qrtXrM/s1600-h/DSC_2269.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJYbgLnjhiDBwVkFMWrzgX2Z0XJ4m581otsrzq16nVi1ldo0kHdLf1lM_M3nWzLz8nFVRPXpdzeGXCEAv_gScHwkc6nWmaUcU7aiI_NcFnfZEagEnAKazgO7hy-tWCQUeG6Mrw_qrtXrM/s400/DSC_2269.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Ah, Bigears has finally advanced as well. Trust that idiot to not manage more than send his skirmishers forward. Does a good orc have to do everything himself? Twohorns decided he would stay close to Bigears, in case he would falter at a critical moment.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvKoBsDyPNkCv0pEzTPfJGHmkr-SGCEze4q-xsW0Vq3LCKYZCh5n07Mxc4lc6R_YrcipbbDzcclebB8CLqsK37aI8VnvKqcBVSj_f9_9EKtz0TuMoPFHL8yZFERt0T92UgIRXdyd88sUy/s1600-h/DSC_2270.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvKoBsDyPNkCv0pEzTPfJGHmkr-SGCEze4q-xsW0Vq3LCKYZCh5n07Mxc4lc6R_YrcipbbDzcclebB8CLqsK37aI8VnvKqcBVSj_f9_9EKtz0TuMoPFHL8yZFERt0T92UgIRXdyd88sUy/s400/DSC_2270.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Swarming ahead of the dwarven army came a cloud of bats. And from the looks of it, particularly vicious ones, too. Splitting in three smaller clouds, one dove down onto a unit of skirmishers, covering them in biting, gnawing, vicious bats, thousands of them. Against all odds, these bats would over the coming turns gnaw away and break up the skirmishers. Further back, the remaining bats threw themselves on the orcish front line. They would severely delay and hinder the orcish formation, without inflicting casualties.<br /><br />Just behind the lines, both Addertongue and the opposing mage were tapping the ether for their magical powers. Sensing a local surge, Addertongue grabbed the initiative, and cast "Despair" on the closest dwarven leader, Balin Digger. Surely he would break down in tears soon enough now.<br /><br />Unfortunately, fate was not with the orcish shaman. Almost as soon as the corrupting effect of the magic set in, did the dwarf manage to shrug it off again, with no noticeable effect. Much to Addertongue's shagrin, he had to stand and watch while the dwarven Element-mage Mug threw a massive explosion at the front rank of orcs, inflicting serious casualties on two units. And to top it off, Twohorns was glowering at him too, now.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbNHbZUI7MwSg3dCyRIs3i_49gJ7P17X42MHq4aYeTE2l0OqF2cCtN15qdL0sqMRMWhH1LRxONFvAs1optlCCYUNtvFwF0CwdggeG99aYkrmf-mKmFpxu5b_irhFgMYASS3j0YGGDVJ9r/s1600-h/DSC_2272.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbNHbZUI7MwSg3dCyRIs3i_49gJ7P17X42MHq4aYeTE2l0OqF2cCtN15qdL0sqMRMWhH1LRxONFvAs1optlCCYUNtvFwF0CwdggeG99aYkrmf-mKmFpxu5b_irhFgMYASS3j0YGGDVJ9r/s400/DSC_2272.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />On the left flank, meanwhile, Bigteeth's wolf riders waded across the muddy stream. Only to be greeted by a metal and particularly wicked grins. on the far side. Still clawing up the banks, trying to get close to the Shock regiment facing them, the wolf riders were practically scythed down. <br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIdriKQ4cHK-lecq3fWijwpVaU1c0POVyMVC7J5WfWPa0figfbTWVWk590v7rNxU37z_5lX9Ifq0ICOGy0jKh4Ijo6S4few2wS10ooytv-pKc4dm2GMdKpRGq5LnYbegRJKsY_meWW3_o/s1600-h/DSC_2273.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIdriKQ4cHK-lecq3fWijwpVaU1c0POVyMVC7J5WfWPa0figfbTWVWk590v7rNxU37z_5lX9Ifq0ICOGy0jKh4Ijo6S4few2wS10ooytv-pKc4dm2GMdKpRGq5LnYbegRJKsY_meWW3_o/s400/DSC_2273.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Three units routed straight away, with only the troops directly under Bigteeth's command able to fight to a standstill. So much for Bigteeth's chance of some good looting, the bastard Twohorns would keep it all to himself now. It almost smelled like a setup. Bigteeth did not get much of a chance to care about it, though, as both Bigteeth and Thorin the Bold fell somewhere in the slaughter, never to be heard of again.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCB6gNc43aFJ5MmRwXQ__BOXdBcEsczB_Nw0KDDtD5EqNfmE6syhrcr7l-bi7_5Y7Jb2XSH_-vWkNATjHTcpfhh_CBuJhDruA5toiJHdrPceP_fwSa5-9eOk1rvU1Nw4UIT38rew4_AJa/s1600-h/DSC_2274.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCB6gNc43aFJ5MmRwXQ__BOXdBcEsczB_Nw0KDDtD5EqNfmE6syhrcr7l-bi7_5Y7Jb2XSH_-vWkNATjHTcpfhh_CBuJhDruA5toiJHdrPceP_fwSa5-9eOk1rvU1Nw4UIT38rew4_AJa/s400/DSC_2274.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />With the bat swarms finally dealt with, and fed up with taking more artillery fire, Yellowcrest kicked screamed and threatened his troops forward. On his left flank Akz's ogres were advancing as well, but unfortunately the defeat of the wolf riders left the dwarven shock regiment without opposition and free to move. Little did Yellowcrest know that due to the defeat of their commander, it would take a while for the dwarf flank to get moving. Nobody was surprised to see Bigears lagging behind on the right flank...<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfI0AoDRTyaHInwLEOPxY1Aw6D6Lwd4u1zyDx1HhJ80bZFAYR2O2gIYyYkGjRW2SJfwO4PXTkDLiH6kqrLEbKtkJ7Jx5z8AzwP0xunx-GD9l2xTRE8FbVYbLD63tOQfDDRYA4iXs_77L5/s1600-h/DSC_2276.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfI0AoDRTyaHInwLEOPxY1Aw6D6Lwd4u1zyDx1HhJ80bZFAYR2O2gIYyYkGjRW2SJfwO4PXTkDLiH6kqrLEbKtkJ7Jx5z8AzwP0xunx-GD9l2xTRE8FbVYbLD63tOQfDDRYA4iXs_77L5/s400/DSC_2276.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />On the left flank, Akz eyed the big green thing. If anyone would be able to cut that down to size, it would be his ogres. And it would probably make a fine meal, too. Leaving the remnant of the wolf riders and one unit of ogres facing the shock regiments, Akz took one of his ogre units forward and charged the behemoth.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiWLQJT2HAeYFZ7Cmyp0tFtbfMvK0FWOFrDCEsy_6Yuney-fxYKnO7A5vRbLTeUlIlEIkLJXUTj7IW305LQvtIZyq8-srUhQ9RF11h4aA9JDp-akg1JvdXnD-KfTpmygZ1unZ_D8TlkrD/s1600-h/DSC_2278.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiWLQJT2HAeYFZ7Cmyp0tFtbfMvK0FWOFrDCEsy_6Yuney-fxYKnO7A5vRbLTeUlIlEIkLJXUTj7IW305LQvtIZyq8-srUhQ9RF11h4aA9JDp-akg1JvdXnD-KfTpmygZ1unZ_D8TlkrD/s400/DSC_2278.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />A bloody struggle followed, with the ogres smashing into the behemoth and pikemen, and throwing them back in some disarray. Unfortunately the losses suffered by the ogres, and the much more serious losses suffered facing the shock regiments, left the ogres still standing but too fragile to do anything much. Akz having the poor grace to die in the combat did not help much either.<br /><br />In the centre, a very bloody fight was fought, with the orcs looking about to break through. Another explosion thrown by the dwarven mage, and the combined artillery fire throughout the day, were however starting tot take their toll. Exhausted, Yellowcrest and his orcs glowered at the dwarves facing them.<br /><br />Balin Digger stared back at the orcs facing him. A quick survey of his troops reinforced his determination. With a loud bellow he ordered his militia forward, into the orc ranks - clearing them off the ground they had just conquered, and sending them running back to where they came from. One of the victims of the vengeful access was Yellowcrest, yet another orc commander to die on that day.<br /><br />Twohorns saw only one opportunity left in his reach. Taking personal command of some spears, he motioned to his shaman to 'do something'. Only to realize that Addertongue probably was not clutching at his head and screaming because he was doing well. In fact, the shaman had just overreached himself and tapped into more energy than he could handle, leaving him unable to play a further role, and suffering a splitting headache.<br /><br />Twohorns charged forward, pleased to see that finally it had dawned on Bigears to join in the effort, too. A pleasure that would be rudely interrupted by a descending dwarven axe. Leaving Bigears as the most senior orcish commander on the field. <br /><br />By this point, the orcish center had disintegrated, with a stretched, battered and exhausted dwarven line holding, and the flanking attack by the orcs too late to turn the tide. Seeing the dwarf with the demon pet (Thorin Crooked) fall boosted Bigears's spirits, but would not turn the battle.<br /><br /><div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIghZ6Odd3qNtPStLG1x7o1EO_oK56qC1Diq4tdkfKsF7WHgmSvfbXzh0HCAql7O4f5Dv6mmNlHohs1Y5WmFJNKN9btC1j-pQCP5W-IdTuT5IOMZH8KaCYAMly86atdbGc1_5AwSJoC5NP/s1600-h/DSC_2279.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIghZ6Odd3qNtPStLG1x7o1EO_oK56qC1Diq4tdkfKsF7WHgmSvfbXzh0HCAql7O4f5Dv6mmNlHohs1Y5WmFJNKN9btC1j-pQCP5W-IdTuT5IOMZH8KaCYAMly86atdbGc1_5AwSJoC5NP/s400/DSC_2279.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Overall summary</span><br />* Combat mechanisms seemed to work as expected<br />* Swarms worked well - basically they act as mobile difficult terrain that latches on to a target unit. Every turn thereafter there is a chance of the swarm dispersing, and a smaller one of the unit suffering a hit.<br />* Pinning/Zone of Control was kept at 4". This feels as too long for fantasy games, and has since been reduced to 2".<br />* Melee casualties for continued melee and fall back were too heavy, and will be halved.<br />* Magic worked well, and added fun & atmosphere. The 'flux' card may be a bit too much though, to be reviewed. Spell costs definitely need more reviewing.<br />* Even with the significant disparity in numbers and troop types, the battle could have gone both ways and hung in the balance for a good while. (The orcs suffered from really good luck when rolling for troop ratings. They would normally have had more 'D' and much less 'B' class troops)<br />* We're on way to having a playable system in time for Rheindahlen!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-17998459903858186712009-04-07T12:31:00.000-07:002009-04-07T13:03:51.809-07:00Playtest: Battle of Blue Gully I - the armies<div style='text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;'><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWoaWBB7r2hvajSkcUO2WosQ5Z-ZpWLlZVn1y4LLG9Fd7RAm0o-AIjg3nlyoDiVJpfA9zamrlzDEIBoXU_cG6m91U47Ba7RQyjaTOTbUKH6n01_YZTJXhIKkND8qAHXp0PvTZvWv03NhV/s1600-h/DSC_2264.JPG'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWoaWBB7r2hvajSkcUO2WosQ5Z-ZpWLlZVn1y4LLG9Fd7RAm0o-AIjg3nlyoDiVJpfA9zamrlzDEIBoXU_cG6m91U47Ba7RQyjaTOTbUKH6n01_YZTJXhIKkND8qAHXp0PvTZvWv03NhV/s400/DSC_2264.JPG' border='0' alt='' /></a> </div><br /><br />Last Saturday we held another playtest of <em>"This One's Split"</em>, now that we have most of the troop types defined, and the magic system is in as a rough draft. The battle was between Dick's "Gray Mountain Dwarves" and my orcs. We spent around 3 hours playing, with 20~30 units a side.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><strong>Armies: Grey Mountain Dwarves</strong></span><br /><br />The Dwarven division of Thorbald the Grim anxiously awaited the onslaught of the Orc raiding force facing them. Thorbald's division consisted mostly of militia and just a few regular units. If they fail to stop the Orcs on this field the raiding force will be able to break through to the foothills of the Gray Mountains and raid the farming communities there with impunity.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Force Commander</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Thorbald the creepy</span> (So named because of his unfortunate habit of keeping a pet demon with him at all times)<br />(Able/Bold, Liked, Slayer of All, hesitant)<br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">In the above, Able/Bold refers to the command rating of the character, Liked refers to his "charisma" (LFS factor for those familiar with TFL rules), Slayer of All refers to their individual combat prowess, and hesistant is a special attribute</span></blockquote><br /><br />Magic support by: <span style="font-style:italic;">Mug</span> a magician of the Elements school (Inept, Cold Fish, Weakling), Capacity 15, Memory 2. Mug memorized "Explosion" from his own school and "Boost Morale" from the school of Light before the battle.<br /><br />Hero: <span style="font-style:italic;">Grimwald Loudmouth</span> (Solid, Liked, Staunch, Hard to kill)<br /><br />Attached to the division: 3 swarms of vampire killer bats.<br /><br />Thorbald's force consists of 5 brigades.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1st Brigade:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Thorin the Bold</span> (Solid, Liked, Slayer of All, Hard to Kill)<br />* 1/1 Shock regiment: B class CO EHI, superior polearms, shock class<br />* 2/1 Shock regiment: B class CO EHI, Shield + superior handweapons, shock class<br />* 3/1 Shock regiment: B class CO EHI, superior polearms, shock class<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">2nd Brigade:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Thorin the Crooked</span> (Because of his posture not his morals) (Solid, liked, Slayer)<br />* 1st Lowland Crossbows: C class OO HI, Crossbow<br />* 3rd Lowland Crossbows: C class OO HI, Crossbow<br />* The Blunderbuss Regiment: C class OO LI Blunderbuss (Explosive crossbow)<br /> attached:<br />* 4th Miner's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">3rd Brigade:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Balin Digger</span> (Poor, Inspirational, Staunch, Hesitant)<br />* 1st Miner's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br />* 2nd Miner's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br />* 3rd Miner's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br />* Engineer's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br />* 1st Engineer's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br />* 2nd Engineer's Militia: C class OO MI, two-handers and shield<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">4th Brigade:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Renatus </span>(Solid, Cold fish, staunch)<br />* 3rd Outsider Militia Pike: C class HI, Pike and shield<br />* Stomper's Styracos: C class Behemoths with howdah<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5th Brigade:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Prof Boris</span> (Able/Cautious, Inspirational, Staunch, Hesitant)<br />* Elf Hammer: C class Medium Mortar: Medium High Trajectory Artillery<br />* Orc Splatter: C class Medium Mortar: Medium High Trajectory Artillery<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Armies: Twohornzes raiding orcs</span></span><br /><br />Twohorns had killed, intimidated or otherwise rid himself of all competition, and as of last night was in charge of the raiding force headed for the rich dwarven farming communities. Loot would be plenty, and resistance was supposed to be light. No way would the dwarven army be able to react in force fast enough to stop them. Glory was imminent.<br /><br />A few foolish dwarves had decided to stand and fight. From the looks of it only a few of them professional soldiers of any kind. Although there was a lot of shiny stuff on the left flank. And that big green animal did look intimidating.<br /><br />A quick analysis of the situation at hand - an easy task for an orc of his great intellect - resulted in an unbeatable plan of action. The treacherous bastard Bigteeth would take the left flank with his wolfriders, and take care of the shiny dwarves. Yellowcrest, a young but reliable upstart would take the center. Twohorns decided that Bigears would have to take the weak looking right flank. How such a moron of an orc ended up in charge of that big a tribe was still beyond Twohorns. Gorge, a tough bruiser would be best kept close to Bigears to keep an eye on things, whereas Nohair would help out in the centre. Meanwhile, the ace in the hole would have to be Akz with his ogres. Maybe they could take care of the big green thing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Force Commander:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Twohorns</span> (Gifted, Born Leader, Staunch)<br /><br />Shaman: <span style="font-style:italic;">Addertongue</span>, an adept of the Dark magic school. Junior, Capacity 15, Memory 2. Memorized the Dark magic spells "Despair" and the Spirit spell "Spirit Aid".<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Bigears's Tribe:</span> Commander <span style="font-style:italic;">Bigears</span>, Atrocious, Inspirational, Staunch<br />* 1x Spears: B class open order heavy infantry, spear and shield<br />* 1x Spears: C class open order heavy infantry, spear and shield<br />* 2x Bruisers: B class open order heavy infantry, two-handed weapons, shock class<br />* 1x Light Spears: C class open order light infantry, spear and shield<br />* 2x Light Spears: D class open order light infantry, spear and shield<br />* 1x Gits: C class open order light infantry, sword and shield<br />* 3x Archers: E class skirmish light infantry, inferior bow<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Yellowcrest's Tribe:</span> Commander <span style="font-style:italic;">Yellowcrest</span>, Solid/Bold, Liked, Staunch, Spoiling for a fight, Rash<br />* 2x Spears: C class open order heavy infantry, spear and shield<br />* 1x Bruisers: B class open order heavy infantry, two-handed weapons, shock class<br />* 1x Gits: C class open order light infantry, sword and shield<br />* 2x Gits: D class open order light infantry, sword and shield<br />* 3x Archers: E class skirmish light infantry, inferior bow<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Akz's Ogres:</span> Commander <span style="font-style:italic;">Akz</span>: Solid, Liked, Staunch, Allied, Rash<br />* 2x Ogres: B class small giants, Shock class<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Heroes:</span><br />* Gorge: Atrocious, Inspirational, Staunch, Has fate by the short and curlies, hard to kill<br />* No hair: Atrocious, Liked, Slayer of all, Enthousiastic, Spoiling for a fight<br />* Paddy (Ogre): Inept, Cold fish, Slayer of all, Enthousiastic, Spoiling for a fightUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-40712734344487386162009-04-06T03:18:00.001-07:002009-04-06T11:56:12.632-07:00Magic SchoolsI've been fleshing out the magic system. Have a look below for a quick summary. Names and descriptions are still quite corny but it should get the general idea across...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Turn sequence</span><br /><br />Every time the mage's card comes up:<br /><br /> * Roll for accumulation of magical energy<br /> * Do any one of:<br /> o Start a spell<br /> o Hold a spell that has already been started (not automatic!)<br /> o Finish a spell - this releases the magical energy <br /><br />If at any point the mage has more energy stored than he can control, things go (badly) wrong <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Schools of Magic and Spells</span><br /><br />The type of spells a mage can use is determined by the school of magic he is trained to. There are four schools of magic:<br /><br /> * Light magic<br /> * Dark magic<br /> * Element magic<br /> * Spirit magic <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikE_slgVO6m0Rqb7pu7WR8lNqoazQtdAsuYX08sCw0L0E_cxTZOlPrACCFwprNEJDw0asMkLNIqML0sRhZOqz_uhp8il1za4EmnqMri54TZ9FPRCoHkTwTF11dS1TT_G0uwR3OX6Z99GAd/"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikE_slgVO6m0Rqb7pu7WR8lNqoazQtdAsuYX08sCw0L0E_cxTZOlPrACCFwprNEJDw0asMkLNIqML0sRhZOqz_uhp8il1za4EmnqMri54TZ9FPRCoHkTwTF11dS1TT_G0uwR3OX6Z99GAd/" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Light Magic</span><br />This school focuses on the use of magic to protect and aid. Spells either give a near-permanent effect that lasts the entire battle, or an instantaneous effect that does not last. The protective spells tend to be of the permanent type, whereas the aiding spells tend to do so only for a very short while.<br /><br />A selection of Light spells is listed below:<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Shield: </span>Protects an individual or unit against magical effects. This protection lasts until it is used to ward off the effects of a spell<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Boost morale: </span>Rally D3 units. Routed troops become shaken, and are not permanently routed?<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Heal/Bolster: </span>Remove D6 hits within a formation<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Destroy undead: </span>Inflict D6 hits on 1-5 units of undead. Any unit reduced below 50% strength is removed<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Light: </span>Illuminate an area of 4"/8"/16" around the mage. Roll D6 for any dark magic cast on/within this area, 4-6: dark magic fails <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dark Magic</span><br />This school focuses on the use of magic to corrupt and demoralize. The corruption spells have a gradually increasing effect, whereas the demoralizing spells have a brief instantaneous effect. Furthermore, this school includes the realm of necromancy.<br /><br />A selection of Dark spells is listed below:<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Despair: </span>Cast on a target individual. Each turn roll a D6. On a 5-6, the character loses 1 Charisma. On a result of 1, the spell ends. If Charisma is reduced below 0, the individual loses all hope and defects - remove from battlefield. Or do we want to make them change sides?<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Mindrot: </span>Cast on a target individual. Each turn roll a D6. On a 5-6, the character gets a cumulative -1 to his PIP roll (or -1 to magic source roll for mages). On a roll of 1 the spell ends. If the penalty equals the maximum score, the individual falls into a coma, to die within days/weeks.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Weakness: </span>Cast on a target unit. Each turn roll a D6. On a 5-6, the unit gets 1 wound. On a roll of 1 the spell ends. Possibility to target more units in a formation?<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Create undead </span>tbd<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Doom:</span> Force D6 units in a formation to do a morale check<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Element magic</span> <br />This school focuses on control of the elements. The spells in this school either permanently modify their environment, or they expire slowly over a large number of game turns.<br /><br />A selection of Element spells is listed below:<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Change terrain: </span> This spell changes natural terrain by one stage - Open to Light or vice versa, or Light to Difficult and vice versa. Area is multiples of 1 base (80x40mm) in a continuous area. This spell does not affect structures or fortifications, nor the units within the affected area.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Storm:</span> This spell summons a storm, focused on a target unit or small area. Within the affected area, movement is reduced, and both flying and shooting are impossible. At the end of each turn after the first, roll a D6. On a roll of 5 or 6, the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Poor weather: </span>Change the weather in a large area, e.g. rain, mist, etc. All spotting worsened by 1 range band, and all movement reduced by 25%. At the end of each turn after the first, roll a D6. On a roll of 5 or 6, the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Earthquake:</span> Cast on a continuous area of multiples of 1 base (80x40mm). Reduces all fortifications by 1 step, and roll for each unit in that area. In the open, suffer one hit on 5-6. In buildings/fortifications, suffer 1 hit on a 3-6.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Explosion:</span> Inflict D3 damage on one unit. If max damage is inflicted, roll for an adjacent unit again, and apply damage to that unit. Repeat until a lower roll is made. A unit can only be hit once.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Conjure elemental:</span> Conjure an elemental that will fight/work for the caster. At the end of each turn after the first, roll a D6. On a roll of 5 or 6, the spell ends. Chance of elemental going rogue rather than disappearing?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Spirit Magic</span><br />This school focuses on the use of spirits, forefathers and ghosts to either aid the own troops or to hinder the opponent. They either have an instantaneous effect, or they fade quickly, spirits being fickle and unlikely to be bound for a long time.<br /><br />A selection of Spirit spells is listed below:<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Confusion:</span> Cast on a target unit. That unit does not act during their next activation, and also may not opportunity charge.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Voices:</span> Cast on a target individual. The target individual is distracted by spirit voices and loses his next activation. At the end of each turn after the first roll a D6. On a 3-6 the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Haunt:</span> Cast on x*D3 target units in a formation, that are haunted by a large number of spirits. The affected units suffer a -1 on all morale tests. At the end of each turn after the first roll a D6. On a 3-6 the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Bloodlust:</span> Cast on D3 target units in a formation, that are enraged. The affected units must advance at full speed towards hostile troops within sight, and if in range engage them in close combat. They do get the +1 for hatred. If no enemies are in sight, or they are not reachable due to obstacles, roll a D6. On a 6 the unit must treat the closest friendly troops as hostile. At the end of each turn after the first roll a D6. On a 3-6 the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Summon/Banish spirits:</span> Summons a host of spirits (1 base) that will fight for the caster. At the end of each turn after the first roll a D6. On a 3-6 the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Spirit's Aid:</span> Cast on a friendly unit. Spirits fight with the troops. This gives a +2 to close combat strength. At the end of each turn after the first roll a D6. On a 3-6 the spell ends.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Spirit feet:</span> Cast on friendly units. Spirits lift the troops and give a 4" bonus to movement. All light terrain may be ignored. At the end of each turn after the first roll a D6. On a 3-6 the spell ends.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-23491206829541508782009-03-25T14:24:00.000-07:002009-03-25T14:29:36.435-07:00Troop types addedBeen making some more progress in the evening hours while away on (skiing) holiday. Added some trooptypes including the special rules related to them. I'm hoping to review and playtest them the coming weeks.<br /><ul><br /><li>Creatures - a herd/pack of non-intelligent creatures that is controlled by magic or drivers</li><br /><li>Behemoths - large non-intelligent creatures controlled by a crew, and possibly with a howdah</li><br /><li>Giants - a small group of (very) large intelligent beings</li><br /><li>Swarms - a large quantity of small creatures, that basically acts as mobile difficult terrain that has a small chance of inflicting damage</li><br /></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497203442260945793.post-87763474411739751182009-03-17T13:11:00.000-07:002009-03-17T13:13:22.465-07:00Action 2009We've just reserved a table at <A HREF="http://www.rheindahlen-wargames.com/action/overview_e.htm">Action 2009</A> in Rheindahlen, to put on a "This One Split" demo. Guess we've got to get our act together and get a playable set going by then!<br /><br /><B>May 2nd, 2009</B> it is. Nothing like a deadline to get things going....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0