Rossbach: The Battle

11:30 and Frederick is on the move

I hinted that the Prussians had made a subtle, but serious error in my previous post. In this entry we'll see what they did, and how that combined with another unfortunate happening led to a surprising outcome at the Battle of Rossbach.

Rossbach: The Flank March

The aftermath of the French attack on Schortau

Historically, Rossbach was a Prussian triumph, a battle fought not just against inferior French and Imperial troops, but by Frederick against a pair of French and Imperial generals who probably had no business being on the field.

That may not be the case on my table.

Rossbach: Prelude

Rossbach: Prussian initial approach and retreat. Because Frederick might have been aggressive, but he was no fool.

The battles of Rossbach and Leuthen in 1757, during the Seven Years War, are like something from a movie.

What Do You Mean, I Have An Addiction?

I ordered Leuthen: Frederick's Greatest Victory today from Victory Point Games. Because only have two other versions of the battle (not counting computer games) is not enough. Plus, the limited intel rules looked cool.

Now I want Command Post Games to make a version, too.

On the table: Rossbach

The battle of Rossbach from GMT's Prussia's Glory. Hopefully I'll have sufficient post-work brain power available this week to play before the weekend.

Battle of Kolin: Prussia's Glory II - 5

Finishing up the game. The Prussian attack fails and the Austrians manage a marginal victory.

Battle of Kolin: Prussia's Glory II - Cavalry Fight

At around 2PM, Zeiten's hussars swing into action, striking the right of Nadasdy's hussars northwest of Kutlirz. The charge is successful, eliminating and driving off much of the Austrian light horse. Zieten presses his advantage into a sweeping charge. Meanwhile, the Prussian second line cavalry wing under Krosigk along with a brigade of dragoons from Hulsen's wing smash into the left side of Nadasdy's formation.

Battle of Kolin: Prussia's Glory - Croat Sniping

63 Croats snipe Prussian column causing disorder

The optional rules really make this game system shine.

One of the major differences between the Prussian army and the Austrian army during the Seven Year's War was the Austrian use of light troops. Frederick though that using irregular infantry was dishonorable and cowardly, and refused to employ them. This led to situations during campaigns and battles where his troops were at a disadvantage in terms of reconnaissance and in fighting in constricted terrain.