Scenario test, a cavalry skirmish

Both armies have established a defensive line spanning a distance of 30 to 40 kilometers. Garrisons hold key positions and during the subsequent waiting game both sides send patrols to probe weaknesses or any significant changes. In this scenario, the attacker’s objective is to engage an enemy patrol and take prisoners. A reconnaissance in force has been assembled for the task, but take caution as the enemy may do likewise.

 

Test one.   

Constricted by marsh and wood, French dragoons and the Bercheny hussars deploy and prepare to engage the Hanoverian troops.

The French dragoons launch their attack keeping the Bercheny hussars as a reserve.

The cavalry action in centre results with both sides falling back to rally, unfortunately, for the French, the Holstein-Gottorp dragoons have turned the table to rout their opposition. Having lost a third of his command and fearing the return of Holstein-Gottorp, the French general wisely leaves the field to Hanover.  

Test two.

A second encounter takes place in a forested area yet an open area offers sufficient ground for all to deploy.

This time, both sides leave adequate distance between lines so as to build sufficient momentum to charge. Holstein-Gottorp dragoons opened the dance and charge the Bercheny Hussars. The remaining regiments held their positions and await the outcome of the first combat.

After an inconclusive melee, the dragoons and hussars break off combat to reorganise. Feeling lucky, French command launched both dragoon regiments, La Reine and Colonel General, and attack the Reusch and Malachowski hussars.

Both sides, evenly matched break off after an inconclusive fight to fall back to their original positions. Casualties are slight and honour now satisfied, both generals salute one another and marched their command off the field.

Observations.

Of the twelve scenarios, this one requires the least amount of time to play and for that reason, players may wish to replay the scenario adding one or more options listed, such as, alternative terrain choice, adding a general’s characteristic, and varied troop class. 

In these tests, both generals were deemed average and troop were classed as trained. Hanover fulfilled their objective by capturing a number of prisoners in test one. The second test ended in a bizarre manner with both sides engaging all their units, but inflict no casualties (no prisoners).