An ECW Test Game

 For many a year I have wanted to have a go at English Civil War wargaming, but have been frustrated by the various sets of rules that I have tried.  A year or so ago, Bob Black gave me his massive 28mm ECW collection and I felt that it was time to put some figures on the table.  

A couple of weeks ago Will came over and it seemed like the perfect opportunity to try out some ECW rules.  I have had a copy of Bob Cordery's book, 'The Portable Pike and Shot Wargame'.  It is not really a rule book but more a collection of ideas.  Within the book is a set of rules by Alan Saunders, which adapt his own rules to match a gridded playing area.  We decided to give these a go.

Will commanded a Scottish army and I the English.

Two similar armies were laid out on an open table, with a single road and a few low hills:

We worked our way through the rules.  The game begins by both sides rolling for initiative.  If both players roll the same number a random event is introduced from a list within the rules.

As in many ECW encounters our game began with a cavalry engagement on the flank.  This would last most of the game.

Both sides exchanged artillery fire:

The cavalry action went back and forth with a slow accumulation of casualties.  

Infantry units began to close

Will attempted a flank attack on one of my units using another of his cavalry regiments, but that did not go well and they were beaten off.

An English cavalry counter charge occurs against Will's horsemen that have pulled back:

Battle is joined between the two cavalry units as some pikemen try to turn the cavalry flank.

At the same time, I launch my infantry

Battle is joined in the Scottish centre:

Finally on the left Will's cavalry collaps and this allows my cavalry to run riot amongst Will's guns and infantry

The high point of the battle as the Scots are forced back.

Finally the Scots break and the English claim victory.

After a slow start we got the hang of the rules.  They provided a fast moving and really enjoyable game.  We plan to give them another go when we next meet.