HMGS-MidSouth

A critical component to any game is the layout. A chess board is elegant and serves a multitude of tasks such as regulating movement. A miniature wargame layout has the added requirement of being visually appealing so as to add to the enjoyment of the game. Still, the board acts as a limiting factor requiring us to literally think outside the box for actions going on “around the board.” This can be such things as “off board” artillery or reinforcements that can come on in unknown places.

Click on any of the images in this post to Enlarge.

Several years ago I ran a pirate game at a convention. The board was fairly long but ships at one end could never really get to other end in time to fight each other. The was plenty of shooting but darn little strategy. I was always plagued by the fact that no matter how long the board, we were limited by the six foot width.

Thinking “outside the board” is hard to do when the ships are constrained by wind direction and a limited amount of time to play any game. Moreover, I have a hard and fast rule in my convention games, that almost every player is moving on the first turn and shooting and killing stuff by the third turn at the latest. Who wants the be a reinforcement that doesn’t show up for an hour?  The only way to comply with this requirement was to bunch both sides close to one another and have at it. Playtesting produced a jumble of ships and darn little movement and zero fun. Back to the drawing board.

Much thought produced the theoretical donut board.  A giant round board with the ships able to get at each other by circling round the lagoon. Naturally such a board would be gigantic. So I flattened out the world like a Mercator projection and came up with the idea that a ship sailing off one end of the world would appear at the other end. Distortions of distance at the north and south were ignored.  There isn’t  much new about this; old video games let ships re-enter the world from the opposite side.

The game board ended up 6 foot wide and 24 feet in length. The two feet at either end were “transit zones.”  When you got to one end you were effectively at the other end as well.  You pick up the ship and move to the other side and away you go. We didn’t allow ships to fight or shoot in the transit zone.

If a ship sailed off the long sides, I would allow the ship to return from the exact spot of exit, albeit facing in the inward direction three turns later.

By using these conventions there was no longer an “edge of world” and folks could sail about worrying only about the occasional sea monster.

By having an ‘endless world’ I could have the ships fight over islands. Whoever held three islands at the end of the time limit won the game. The Pirates of the Caribbean card game uses a variation of this.

And so I was set. The game board design let my boats sail about shooting and boarding each other which is the point of the game.

Having amassed hundreds of pirates and more than a  dozen fully rigged ships set the stage for the pirate extravaganza at Nashcon. The problem was that so many folks wanted to play I needed more ships.  The Sea Lord provided.  Scott “Wingnut” Christian emailed me asking  if he could bring four ships to the game. One look at his fleet was enough. He and his crew were in.

I posted the rules online and advised that whomever appeared appropriately dressed got first choice of ships. There was no shortage of folks to play. What was in shortage was transportation. My son, Ben,  and I took two cars to load up all the stuff for  the game.

The game went 20 turns over three and half hours. The Red Pirates held off a counter-attack on their third island and just barely won the game. Perhaps half the ships were sunk or set afire.

The home island concept did not work as I intended. People were afraid to attack each other’s home island although each was only held by but 10 guns. In future games there will be no “home” islands which should move things along. On this score I must confess I was ruthless in making folks move and shoot as fast as possible. Somebody who worried about some stupid angle of fire or blocking terrain was attacked by a sea monster and some of their crew was eaten alive. That ended tardy play.

So here are the photos from the game. The photobucket slideshow will let you see all the photos. If your browser will not accommodate the slideshow, the photobucket list will work just fine.

There is no one photo of the entire board. It is just too long. The first photo is taken from one end; the second form the other end. The rest of the photos are eye candy. The Rules are HERE. The Ships are Out of production Old Glory, some new Old Glory, some custom ships and several display models I waterlined. Many of the pirates and several of the ships are painted by Rhea Baskette who came in full pirate attire and whose photo is on the right

David Raybin

Given last year’s economic crunch and this year’s flood we had  thought Nashcon might be  a world-class  solitaire convention. Not so. The tables were full. Attendance was in the hundreds and it was a smashing success. This was due in no small measure to some really hard work from some really dedicated old guard leaders who made this a smooth, easy convention. Moreover, we had the good sense to partner with a computer wargaming group to help meet the room quota. There was healthy cross-pollination.

Nashcon is the premier event of HMGS-Midsouth. We have very strong cadre of experienced hands and there are newer folks coming online. Speaking of online, this Web Blog you are reading is a product of our Web Master working to keep things cutting edge so people can see what we are up to.

The game tables were full and the best way to review all the events is to canvas the final events list.  This will give you some idea of the breadth and depth of the games. There really was something for everyone.

The photos I have here were taken on Friday and Saturday.  I played in all but one session on both days and ran around shooting photos and so I didn’t have as much time to record who was doing what. I did try to identify some faces you will recognize by name.  indeed, I have now taken to photographing more folks having fun so you might see yourself here or there.    I did not attend the Saturday morning games because my son and I were loading up two cars with pirate ships and terrain for our Saturday night pirate game. Thus, I missed some really good photos of such games as Midway and other great events. I hope others can add to the photos later 9as well as supplying photos form Sunday morning) .

These photos are just a selection of some 400 shots. I  have not labeled all of them at the risk of making an error as to what is what. Note that there are TWO gallery groups; each contains about 50 photos. If you have problems with this gallery you can use the photobucket slideshow which is the best way to see all the photos at once; or if your browser does not support the slideshow feature try the photobucket album view.

Photos of my giant pirate game on Saturday night will have a later posting so I can devote some detail to all of that project.  There are a few photos of the game here

Nashcon was outstanding. A great success and an example of why our hobby is so much fun. Carry on. Enjoy the photos.  And for those distant friends, see you next year. David Raybin

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Nashcon 2010 Final Events List

(This List consolidates the List of Games and the timed PEL into one document.  As noted there are some empty tables and folks can use them  for pickup games after first  consulting with Bryant.  Play the Game  !)

SESSION I            (Friday, 2pm – 6pm)

 Table 1 *                     Aerodrome 2.0 WWII Aerial Combat   

       Stanley Kubiak presents WW2 aerial combat using the popular Aerodrome 2.0  WW2 Aerial Combat game and 1/144th scale aircraft.  The rules, adapted from Aerodrome 1.1 remain easy-to-learn, easy-to-play and great fun, but take into account the faster speeds and greater weapons lethality of WW2 aircraft.  All rules will be explained and charts provided. Wings and medals awarded. Up to 10 players per round.  Rounds last about 1 hour running continuously through the allotted time. Under age 15 with a playing adult, only.

 Table 2                                    The Battle of Breitenfeld

The Imperial army, commanded by Johan Tserclaes , the Count of Tilly, had captured Leipzig on the 15th of September, 1631. Tilly intended to wait there for reinforcements as his army of 36,000 was outnumbered by the joint Swedish and Saxon army of 42,000 men, commanded by Gustavus Adolphus. However, Gottfried Heinrich, the Count of Pappenheim and Tilly’s deputy, desired battle. His rash actions forced Tilly to come to his rescue. And thus, on September 17th, 1631 began the Battle of Breitenfeld, a major Imperial defeat during the Thirty Years War. Using 15mm figures and modified “Might of Arms” rules, Joe Evans presents this scenario which is a variation of the Battle of Breitenfeld. Seemingly invincible Imperial tercios meet the new Swedish battalia formations. Which will win the day? Room for six players.

Table 3                                   

 Table 4                                    Shadows over Camelot

Jim Cacy invites you all to discover if you have the traits to be one of King Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table. “Shadows over Camelot”, by Days of Wonder, is a game of Arthurian myth that supports up to 8 players working together to try and defeat the game. Yes, that’s right…..the game! All the players work TOGETHER against the game, itself. Many threats exist throughout Arthur’s kingdom and it is your job, as Arthur’s company of knights, to defeat the threats before they engulf Camelot. But alas, the forces of evil may not only exist outside the circle of players. Even amongst your band there may be a traitor to the crown. Nevertheless, Arthur has summoned all of his greatest knights to help secure his realm. Will you take up his banner and fight to save King and Kingdom?

Table 5                     *              Crimean War “What if?”

Michael Graziano makes his long-awaited return to Nashcon with this “what if?” battle set during the Crimean War. Somewhere in the Balkans, in the year 1855, the Russian high command has given its army the task to root out and destroy a dug-in Turkish force. Will they be able to carry out their orders? Will they have any support from their allies? Can they stiffen their resolve and rally to the cause? Brought to you using 15mm figures and “Blood and Guts” rules. Come join the action and see who will reign victorious.

Table 6                                    The Battle of Front Royal

May 23, 1862. The advance elements of Gen. Stonewall Jackson’s Army of the Valley must capture two vital bridges over the Shenandoah River. This will allow his main force to advance on the Union’s rear echelon. The Northern commander must defend or burn the bridges in order to prevent the Confederates from outflanking the Union Army under the command of Gen. Nathaniel P. Banks. This will be a fun 15mm ACW game run by Cory Ring using the popular “Johnny Reb II” rules. Yankee Blue or Rebel Gray? You help decide which color will stand victorious! Room for 4 players. No experience with the rules necessary.

Table 7                                   

Table 8                                     New Market – 1864

General Breckenridge has decided to clear out the Yankee infestation in the “Valley” once and for all. Although he is outnumbered, Breckenridge strikes Gen. Sigel’s forces at New Market, Virginia. The Confederates initiate the battle and attack Sigel’s over extended lines while the Union troops work to hold out. The battle pits Virginians against West Virginians and includes the VMI cadets. Cavalry plays an important role as well. Jim Birdseye, of Arsenal Publishing, presents this ACW regimental game using 25mm troops with multiple brigades on each side. Published by Arsenal, the “New Market” ACW rules set will be used to moderate the game. “The rules are very player friendly!”, Jim tells us. “I use them in my classes, 7th grade to graduate students, and they all pick them up quickly!” There will be room for up to 10 players.

Table 9                     *              The Battle of Hastings          

Harold Godwinson has his Saxon army drawn up into a huge shield wall atop Senlac Hill in the extreme south of England. For reasons known only to himself, he has no archers and no cavalry but he does have a large body of his fearsome, heavily armored Huscarls. The rest of his army is made up of sturdy men of the Fyrd. From the bottom of the hill, William the Bastard, Duke of Normandy, surveys their bristling line. And he has brought archers and cavalry. Lots of cavalry. His army, made up of Normans, French and Bretons has come, not just to fight a battle, but to win a kingdom. The future history of Great Britain will be marked from this day, and a decision will be made whether it will be a Saxon England or Norman. Bob Duncan hosts this large game in 25mm using rules of obscure origin and dubious value. 6 main players with some room for a few subordinate commanders. Under 16 must be accompanied by a parent playing.

Table 10                      “All the King’s Men” Napoleonic Demo Games

Go to war as a true gentleman … with 54mm toy soldiers! Join the guys from “All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers” as they demo their own rules for the horse-and-musket period. And rest assured this is NOT skirmish gaming! Everything will be provided. All you need to bring is your memory of what got you into wargaming in the first place. These demos, set in the Napoleonic era, will be run by Ken Cliffe and Mike Lee using their line of 54mm soldiers and the popular “All The King’s Men” rules. 1-4 players per game. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

*Big Table

SESSION II             (Friday, 8pm – 12 midnight)

Table 1 *                     Race to Fort Crownover

May 15, 1756. The British have re-occupied a dilapidated Fort Crownover and are low on supplies. While some men repair the Fort, others are sent out to forage for food. As the foraging parties complete their tasks, they find their return trips have turned into a race to get back to the Fort for safety. A large French raiding party, bent on eliminating British influence in this area, is advancing on the British position and they mean business. Bob Moon, of the Jacksonville Garrison, brings you this French and Indian War skirmish game extravaganza in 40mm using the F&IW variant of “Brother Against Brother”. Openings for 10 -12 players. Children must be accompanied by a playing adult. An MVP trophy will be awarded.

Table 2                                    Passage of the Schwabenland

The British naval forces have been inflicting heavy losses on the Swedish ore carriers bringing desperately needed raw materials for the German war industry. The Swedish government has threatened to stop all shipments if the Kreigsmarine does not provide better protection for these ships. The SS Schwabenland is en-route to Antwerp. It must arrive safely! Joe Evans brings us this exciting WW2 coastal night action using 1:1250 scale boats and modified “Hunters on the Shoreline” rules. Her Majesties finest or the Fuehrer’s brave seamen…..who will rule the narrow seas? Room for 6 players.

Table 3                                    Battle of Borodino

The Battle of Borodino, fought on September 7, 1812, was the largest and bloodiest single-day action of the French invasion of Russia.  Involving more than 250,000 troops and resulting in at least 70,000 casualties, the French Grande Armée under Emperor Napoleon I attacked the Imperial Russian Army near the village of Borodino.  They eventually captured the main positions on the battlefield but failed to destroy the Russian army.  Can you change history?  The HMGS-Gulfsouth River Parishes chapter and Steve Wirth proudly present the Battle of Borodino in 1/72nd scale using the quick play, grand tactical rules, “Le Petit Empereur”, published by Chipco.  There are openings for 2-6 players.  Everything needed will be provided.  Gamers 16, and under, must be accompanied by an adult.

Table 4                                    Wings of War Miniatures WW1 Fight for the Skies!

WW1 Fight for the Skies!
The Duke boys are back and Kevin and Steven are hosting the gorgeous Wings of War miniatures by Fantasy Flight games as we battle over the skies of France in World War I. Wings of War takes 5 minutes to learn and is a fast playing, fun and visually appealing game for young and old. 2-12 people will fly their planes on a variety of missions. The Allies are trying to conduct some reconnaissance of the German lines. Sent in are several two-seaters and their escorts. Waiting for them are German fighters and the defenders on the ground. A dueling match in the air ensues. Who will be the victor? Points scored for shooting down enemy planes and for hitting ground targets. If you are shot down, you can rejoin the fight in another plane, though you will lose some points. Prize awarded for overall best pilot and also the unluckiest one! Rules available online from Fantasy Flight but we will cover the rules for all before we start. Fun for all! Find your Gin and Tonic or your Schnapps as you take to the skies for the dance of death!

Table 5  *                    Crimean War “What if?”

Michael Graziano makes his long-awaited return to Nashcon with this “what if?” battle set during the Crimean War. Somewhere in the Balkans, in the year 1855, the Russian high command has given its army the task to root out and destroy a dug-in Turkish force. Will they be able to carry out their orders? Will they have any support from their allies? Can they stiffen their resolve and rally to the cause? Brought to you using 15mm figures and “Blood and Guts” rules. Come join the action and see who will reign victorious.

Table 6                        Blore Heath 1459

After the First Battle of St. Albans in 1455, an uneasy peace held sway in England. Attempts at reconciliation between the houses of Lancaster and York enjoyed some marginal success but soon each side became increasingly wary of the other. By 1459, they were actively recruiting armed supporters. As tensions mounted, and it became inevitable that hostilities would begin anew, the Yorkist force at Middleham Castle in Yorkshire needed to link up with the main army located at Ludlow Castle in Shropshire. Led by the Earl of Salisbury, they marched south-west through the Midlands towards their objective. At the same time, Queen Margaret of Anjou, loyal supporter of the forces of Lancaster, ordered Lord Audley to raise a force to intercept them. These two forces met on the barren fields of Blore Heath. It’s said that Hempmill Stream ran red with blood for 3 days! Joe Collins hosts this 25mm War of the Roses game using the DBJ rules system, being a mixture of DBA/DBM3.1 and some DBMM thrown in for fun! There will be openings available for 6 players.

Table 7                                    Battle of Botzer, Sinai

October 17th, 1973. Israel is fighting for its life during the Yom Kippur War. In a desperate move, the 25th Egyptian Armored Brigade is rushing north along the Suez Canal to stop Ariel Sharon from crossing the canal to the west. The Israeli Natke Armored Brigade is moving South to stop the Egyptians and secure the victory in the Sinai. The outcome of this action will seal the fate of either the Israeli bridgehead on the west bank or the Egyptian stronghold at Chinese Farm. Jamie Gentry returns to Nashcon and brings his popular computer moderated rules, “Desert Whirlwind”, to entertain us with his fun and furious brand of 15mm Arab/Israeli War gaming! Openings for 7 players.

Table 8                                    New Market – 1864

General Breckenridge has decided to clear out the Yankee infestation in the “Valley” once and for all. Although he is outnumbered, Breckenridge strikes Gen. Sigel’s forces at New Market, Virginia. The Confederates initiate the battle and attack Sigel’s over extended lines while the Union troops work to hold out. The battle pits Virginians against West Virginians and includes the VMI cadets. Cavalry plays an important role as well. Jim Birdseye, of Arsenal Publishing, presents this ACW regimental game using 25mm troops with multiple brigades on each side. Published by Arsenal, the “New Market” ACW rules set will be used to moderate the game. “The rules are very player friendly!”, Jim tells us. “I use them in my classes, 7th grade to graduate students, and they all pick them up quickly!” There will be room for up to 10 players.

Table 9  *                    Action Off Skomvoer

The first capital ship action of WWII took place in the Norwegian Sea approximately 50 nautical miles west of the Lototen Islands on April 9th, 1940 around 0430 hours. Allied intelligence reports warned that an attack on Norway is imminent. The HMS Glowworm identified a German task force, including at least one cruiser, in the vicinity of Trondheim and heading north. Royal Navy heavy units in the vicinity supporting “Operation Wilfred” were ordered to cover the approaches of Vestfjord. Choose your side and watch the hammer fall! Yes, friends, it’s another session of WWII high seas action brought to you by Steve McBee using “Battleship’s Zenith” computer moderated rules and plenty of 1/6000 scale miniatures. Open slots for 3 to 6 players.

Table 10                      “All the King’s Men” Napoleonic Demo Games

Go to war as a true gentleman … with 54mm toy soldiers! Join the guys from “All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers” as they demo their own rules for the horse-and-musket period. And rest assured this is NOT skirmish gaming! Everything will be provided. All you need to bring is your memory of what got you into wargaming in the first place. These demos, set in the Napoleonic era, will be run by Ken Cliffe and Mike Lee using their line of 54mm soldiers and the popular “All The King’s Men” rules. 1-4 players per game. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

*Big Table

SESSION III        (Saturday, 9am – 1pm)

Warlords of Europe

Russ Rupe, full time dad, part time game designer, member of the planning committee for Tennessee Game Days, and all-around nice guy, will be running demo sessions of his new game on Saturday in the open gaming area across the hallway from the dealers room. Russ, and co-developers Ken Griffin and Kyle Battle, published “Warlords of Europe” this February under their Conquest Gaming brand. Warlords is an area movement, epic strategy game of medieval warfare set in 13th century Europe. The production quality on the game set is on par with the best plastic piece games currently being offered by the big powerhouse publishers. In Warlords, players compete to militarily dominate the fiefs and castles of Europe and thus be crowned Emperor by the Pope. The game features nine major kingdoms of the time period, each subdivided into vassal fiefs. Each fief has its own terrain that affects its economic and defensive value. The Pope, Merchant, and Conquest decks of cards keep the action unpredictable. But, good fortune is no replacement for solid strategy, cautious planning and an excellent sense of timing. Players may start in any of the nine kingdoms making each play a unique experience. So, come pick up your swords and charge into “Warlords of Europe”!

Table 1 *                     Capture The Comm. Center(And while you’re out there, grab me some AC rounds.)

The military forces of The Draconis Combine have launched a system-wide offensive throwing The Federated Suns planetary defense units into a panic. But the tactical masterminds of House Davion have an Ace-in-the-Hole. And it all centers around a communications center on an insignificant little planet called Roca Muerta. A Fed Sun strike force has been dispatched to secure a beachhead for the main invasion. Combine troops are en-route to try to stop them. And just to add a bit of expediency to the situation, vast stores of valuable ammo and supplies are stored there as well. Come join the fun as we see who can complete their mission. Bryant Williams brings you this Battletech scenario using re-based “clicky” Mechs and his own set of easy to learn rules…..”80 Tons of Metal & a PPC!”. Space is available for up to 8 players. Strap in, light up and get ready to rock!

Table 2                                    Egbert’s Kingdom In Peril

The Danes have descended upon Wessex and the fate of the Saxon Kingdom is in the hands of King Egbert.  The fyrd has been assembled but will it be enough to stop the hordes of Norsemen?  This Viking vs. Saxon scenario, loosely based on history but mostly inspired by reading too many Bernard Cornwell novels, is presented by Mike Randles using 15mm figures and his own set of Dark Ages rules entitled, “Vikings Rule“.  Grab your axes, strap on your shields and help decide who will be the victor in this epic struggle.  Slots are available for 6-10 players.

Table 3                                    Wake Island

On December 11th, 1941 Japanese forces tried to invade Wake Island and got many of their ships shot up and a couple sunk. After two weeks of repairs, refits and receiving some needed reinforcements, the Japanese are ready to try again. Mike Peccolo brings us this exciting WWII Pacific Theater game using “Politics by Another Means” and loads of 15mm figures. Will the US Marines hold their ground or will the “Banzai!” shouts of the 2nd Maizuru Special Naval Landing Force ring victorious? You help decide! Openings available for six players.

Table 4                                    Space Hulk

Keith Jordan returns to Nashcon with his incredible 3D rendition of the ever popular Space Hulk board game. Once again, the stalwart defenders of the Emperium, encased in their Tactical Dreadnaught armor, will attempt to wipe clean the Genestealer infestation from the corridors of a drifting space hulk and retrieve the treasures hidden therein. Come journey into the world of the 41st Millennium and experience the heart pounding, sci-fi goodness using 28mm figures and the new Space Hulk 3rd edition rules. Slots are available for up to 4 players.

Table 5  *                    25th Infantry Division on Luzon 

25th Infantry Division on Luzon

Moving across the rice fields of north central Luzon in the Philippines, the US 25th Infantry Division was to secure the left flank of the Sixth Army as it drove for Manila. The Division, nicknamed Tropic Lightning, attacked Japanese forces in the Caraballo Mountains beginning on 21 February 1945. In some of the fiercest fighting of the Pacific theater, the 25th fought its way through the Japanese defenses on one hill after the other before moving on to approach their main objective…..Balete Pass. Capturing and holding this pass would be critical for maintaining control of the northern half of the big island. Before it was taken off the line on 30 June 1945, Tropic Lightning had suffered the most casualties of any division of the Sixth Army in its record establishing 165 days of continuous combat. Come join Charlie Clay, and others from the Riverbluff Irregulars out of Memphis, as they re-create this brutal WWII combat action in spectacular 25mm . The game, moderated using “Fast and Bloody Skirmish” rules will have slots for 10 players. Players under 16 must be accompanied by an adult player.

Table 6                                    Operation Jupiter: 130th Brigade’s Attack on Etterville

In a preliminary action to the British attempt to seize a crossing of the Orne River, just south of Caen, the 9th Royal Tank Regiment was tasked to support an attack by the British 130th Infantry Brigade. The British high command’s plan was to capture the Chateau de Fontaine and the village of Etterville. The German’s, however, have other ideas. Elements of the 10th SS Panzer Division stand in the way of the Brits’ intended goal. Button up the hatches and get ready to roll out with James Rogers, of the Track & Hull Club, as he brings us this WWII epic in 20mm using “Command Decision Test of Battle”! Room for 8 players.

Table 7                                    Bravoir Bavariane

In 1809, Napoleon’s armies and attention were focused on Spain. Austria saw its opportunity and invaded Bavaria in order to strip away Napoleon’s largest German ally. The opening weeks of the campaign were characterized by massive Austrian units driving back a hodge-podge of French, Bavarian and mixed German units. The Bavarians fought well in defense of their homeland and in support of their French allies. Defend the realm and counterattack with brave Bavarian troops or lead large regiments of white-coated Austrians to victory. Mark Johnson brings us this Napoleonic extravaganza using 25mm figures and “Bonaparte” rules.

Table 8                                     New Market – 1864               

General Breckenridge has decided to clear out the Yankee infestation in the “Valley” once and for all. Although he is outnumbered, Breckenridge strikes Gen. Sigel’s forces at New Market, Virginia. The Confederates initiate the battle and attack Sigel’s over extended lines while the Union troops work to hold out. The battle pits Virginians against West Virginians and includes the VMI cadets. Cavalry plays an important role as well. Jim Birdseye, of Arsenal Publishing, presents this ACW regimental game using 25mm troops with multiple brigades on each side. Published by Arsenal, the “New Market” ACW rules set will be used to moderate the game. “The rules are very player friendly!”, Jim tells us. “I use them in my classes, 7th grade to graduate students, and they all pick them up quickly!” There will be room for up to 10 players.

Table 9  *                    Arctic Action

The South Norwegian Sea just east of Iceland around 1300 hours on November 25th, 1939. The German ships Gneisenau and Scharnhorst have been dispatched to break into the North Atlantic and attack Allied convoys. Late on the evening of November 23rd, the two raiders were sighted by the Rawalpindi, an auxiliary cruiser. She put up a valiant fight, but was sunk in thirty minutes. The AMC was successful in broadcasting a warning, but only reported the Deutschland as being the attacker. Two Allied forces, built around the HMS Hood and the HMS Dunkerque, were dispatched to deal with the Deutschland. Although this is technically a hypothetical action, the fact that the forces involved were in close proximity to one another but never had the chance to come to grips means this engagement just barely missed being a page in the history books. Steve McBee presents this 1/6000 scale WWII naval action using “Battleship’s Zenith” computer moderated rules. There will be room for 3 to 5 players.

Table 10                      “All the King’s Men” Napoleonic Demo Games

Go to war as a true gentleman … with 54mm toy soldiers! Join the guys from “All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers” as they demo their own rules for the horse-and-musket period. And rest assured this is NOT skirmish gaming! Everything will be provided. All you need to bring is your memory of what got you into wargaming in the first place. These demos, set in the Napoleonic era, will be run by Ken Cliffe and Mike Lee using their line of 54mm soldiers and the popular “All The King’s Men” rules. 1-4 players per game. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

*Big Table

SESSION IV                (Saturday, 2pm – 6pm)

Table 1 *                     Turning Point Stalingrad

In September of 1942, General Friedrich Von Paulus unleashed the elite German 6th Army against the Russian defenders of Stalingrad.  Von Paulus hoped to take the city in a week but the dogged defense put up by the Red Army turned the Battle of Stalingrad into a four month long meat grinder that is unparalleled in our time.  The game, which covers the action during the first week of the campaign, is a miniatures version of the old Avalon Hill board game run on a terrain board measuring 14ft.x 6ft. with around 400 buildings representing the city and outlying areas next to the Volga River.  While quite large, the mechanics are simple and use a speedy “area movement” system so no measuring tapes are necessary.  Turns are divided into semi-simultaneous “impulses” with only a few units moving at a time and incorporate historically accurate day and night time advantages specific to each side.  Panzer IV or T-34/76…..who will be master of Stalingrad once the smoke clears?  Come join the action and help decide the outcome.  Designed for 6 players, this visually stunning, tactically challenging yet easy playing game is brought to you in glorious 15mm by the Northwest Arkansas HOGS (Historically Oriented Gaming Society).

Table 2                                    Space Marines Victorious! 

The planetary governor of the industrial world Victros III, in the Davos Subsector of Obscuram Segmentia, has requested assistance in dealing with an insurrection. The VDF (Victros Defense Forces) have so far been unable to locate the source of their troubles. As soon as one rebellion is quelled another rises in a different city to take its place. The Governor fears the VDF, itself, may have a hand in these uprisings. Clearly an outside force is needed to located and eliminate the source of the planet’s troubles. Enter the Xth Legio Marines…..scions of the pre-heresey Emperium. Come join the fun of this “Warhammer 40K” game sponsored by Joe Collins and be ready for some odd twists and turns! Kids 10 and older are welcome when accompanied by an adult and experience with the rules isn’t necessary.

Table 3                                    Napoleon’s War The 100 Days

Worthington Games is on the edge of releasing their latest offering entitled “Napoleon’s War The 100 Days”. This is the first game of a series that extends the “Hold the Line” system to the Napoleonic era. Using plastic figures and hexes, this exciting new game offers players a “command action point” system for making their choices as generals. Worthington Games has asked the Duke boys to demo this game at this year’s Nashcon and Kevin and Steven have graciously obliged. The demo will include several of the new scenarios, with modifications to the game to include up to 8 players. No previous experience or materials are required. Come ready to roll dice, have fun and shoot the shakos off the opposition.

Table 4                                     Space Hulk

Keith Jordan returns to Nashcon with his incredible 3D rendition of the ever popular Space Hulk board game. Once again, the stalwart defenders of the Emperium, encased in their Tactical Dreadnaught armor, will attempt to wipe clean the Genestealer infestation from the corridors of a drifting space hulk and retrieve the treasures hidden therein. Come journey into the world of the 41st Millennium and experience the heart pounding, sci-fi goodness using 28mm figures and the new Space Hulk 3rd edition rules. Slots are available for up to 4 players.

Table 5  *                     

Table 6                                    Pomp & Dash – English Gentlemen on Safari

HMGS-GulfSouth River Parishes Chapter and Steve Wirth proudly present their 25mm version of Big Game Hunting in Victorian Africa…..with a twist! In their game, moderated using a set of house rules, these English Lords of the jungle and veldt run into some REALLY big game and subsequently become overdrawn at the Bank of Suave and Debonair! This game can accommodate up to eight players. Gamers 16 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. All materials will be provided.

Table 7                                    Bravoir Bavariane

In 1809, Napoleon’s armies and attention were focused on Spain. Austria saw its opportunity and invaded Bavaria in order to strip away Napoleon’s largest German ally. The opening weeks of the campaign were characterized by massive Austrian units driving back a hodge-podge of French, Bavarian and mixed German units. The Bavarians fought well in defense of their homeland and in support of their French allies. Defend the realm and counterattack with brave Bavarian troops or lead large regiments of white-coated Austrians to victory. Mark Johnson brings us this Napoleonic extravaganza using 25mm figures and “Bonaparte” rules.

Table 8                            New Market – 1864

General Breckenridge has decided to clear out the Yankee infestation in the “Valley” once and for all. Although he is outnumbered, Breckenridge strikes Gen. Sigel’s forces at New Market, Virginia. The Confederates initiate the battle and attack Sigel’s over extended lines while the Union troops work to hold out. The battle pits Virginians against West Virginians and includes the VMI cadets. Cavalry plays an important role as well. Jim Birdseye, of Arsenal Publishing, presents this ACW regimental game using 25mm troops with multiple brigades on each side. Published by Arsenal, the “New Market” ACW rules set will be used to moderate the game. “The rules are very player friendly!”, Jim tells us. “I use them in my classes, 7th grade to graduate students, and they all pick them up quickly!” There will be room for up to 10 players.

Table 9   *                     Aerodrome 2.0 – Carrier Attack in the Pacific                     

Stanley Kubiak presents World War II air combat in the Pacific using Aerodrome 2.0 rules and 1/144th scale aircraft.  Complete with air-naval combat extensions, bombs, torpedoes and flaming Zeros an American strike force of dive bombers, torpedo bombers and fighters attacks a fleet of Japanese aircraft carriers, escorts and defending fighters. Fight to sink or to defend the carriers.  Wings and medals awarded.  Up to 16 players.   Aerodrome® 2.0 experience helpful but not necessary.  The rules will be taught at the game.  Under age 15 with a playing adult only.

Table 10                      “All the King’s Men” Napoleonic Demo Games

Go to war as a true gentleman … with 54mm toy soldiers! Join the guys from “All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers” as they demo their own rules for the horse-and-musket period. And rest assured this is NOT skirmish gaming! Everything will be provided. All you need to bring is your memory of what got you into wargaming in the first place. These demos, set in the Napoleonic era, will be run by Ken Cliffe and Mike Lee using their line of 54mm soldiers and the popular “All The King’s Men” rules. 1-4 players per game. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

*Big Table

SESSION V                  (Saturday, 8pm – 12 midnight)

Table 1 *                     Turning Point Stalingrad

In September of 1942, General Friedrich Von Paulus unleashed the elite German 6th Army against the Russian defenders of Stalingrad.  Von Paulus hoped to take the city in a week but the dogged defense put up by the Red Army turned the Battle of Stalingrad into a four month long meat grinder that is unparalleled in our time.  The game, which covers the action during the first week of the campaign, is a miniatures version of the old Avalon Hill board game run on a terrain board measuring 14ft.x 6ft. with around 400 buildings representing the city and outlying areas next to the Volga River.  While quite large, the mechanics are simple and use a speedy “area movement” system so no measuring tapes are necessary.  Turns are divided into semi-simultaneous “impulses” with only a few units moving at a time and incorporate historically accurate day and night time advantages specific to each side.  Panzer IV or T-34/76…..who will be master of Stalingrad once the smoke clears?  Come join the action and help decide the outcome.  Designed for 6 players, this visually stunning, tactically challenging yet easy playing game is brought to you in glorious 15mm by the Northwest Arkansas HOGS (Historically Oriented Gaming Society).

Table 2                                    Punic War DBA Mini Tournament

For this event, each player takes control of one of the major powers of the Mediterranean during the 3rd Century BC. But the winner will not be determined by might of arms, alone. Whoever ends up with the biggest empire, by conquering wealthy provinces and not having to spend your riches on more troops to hold them, will reign supreme. Bill Banks brings us this three round event using DBA rules with minimal campaign modifications. Spots will be available for 3-8 players and the figures will be supplied. Win the most battles! Build the mightiest empire! Rule the Med!

Table 3                                    Command and Colors Ancients EPIC

The Command and Colors Ancients system goes super size! Once again, the Duke boys (Kevin and Steven) are running this event for 2-8 players. Richard Borg’s acclaimed series of ancient warfare is now expanded with the Epic version, played on double maps with up to four players per side. One player per side serves as overall commander, deciding how his side will use the various maneuver cards issued to their hand each turn. But be careful, certain key events could unseat the overall commander, replacing him with one of his subordinates! If you are familiar with the base rules and have never played Epic, or you just want to learn what has become possibly the most popular game ever from GMT Games, come on out. Up to two scenarios will feature Romans against those treacherous (and a little smelly) Barbarians. Units represent infantry, cavalry, slingers, bowmen, war machines, and a host of other ancient warfare types in this fast playing and fun game of ancient combat. Partaking in mead (or a suitable substitute) consumption before during and after the game session is highly encouraged! All items provided.

Table 4                                    Punic War DBA Mini Tournament

Punic War DBA Mini-Tournament

For this event, each player takes control of one of the major powers of the Mediterranean during the 3rd Century BC. But the winner will not be determined by might of arms, alone. Whoever ends up with the biggest empire, by conquering wealthy provinces and not having to spend your riches on more troops to hold them, will reign supreme. Bill Banks brings us this three round event using DBA rules with minimal campaign modifications. Spots will be available for 3-8 players and the figures will be supplied. Win the most battles! Build the mightiest empire! Rule the Med!

Table 5  *                    The Pirates of Cutlass Lagoon

Back by popular demand it’s David Raybin’s spectacular Pirate Game! Played on a 20 foot table, this game will feature a dozen 28mm fully-rigged pirate ships and crews all contesting three tropical islands. Each island is the home to blood-thirsty cannibals or other unknown dangers too horrible to mention. And it’s not just the islands what hold mortal danger to all who tread their paths. The very waters, themselves, are filled with nasty beasties of every description. Cap’n Raybin’s own “Barnacle Bill” rules, which are a pirated (Har! Har! Har!) version of Bob Duncan’s “Gun Boat Diplomacy” rules, will be used to moderate the action. As always, first choice of ships goes to the brave men properly attired in Pirate garb. So don’t wait for the press gangs to find ye! Sign up now for the action! The game can accommodate a dozen hardy souls! Aaarrrgghhh !!!

Table 6                                    The Pirates of Cutlass Lagoon (table continued)

Table 7                        Boney’s Irish Adventure

Back by popular demand it’s David Raybin’s spectacular Pirate Game! Played on a 20 foot table, this game will feature a dozen 28mm fully-rigged pirate ships and crews all contesting three tropical islands. Each island is the home to blood-thirsty cannibals or other unknown dangers too horrible to mention. And it’s not just the islands what hold mortal danger to all who tread their paths. The very waters, themselves, are filled with nasty beasties of every description. Cap’n Raybin’s own “Barnacle Bill” rules, which are a pirated (Har! Har! Har!) version of Bob Duncan’s “Gun Boat Diplomacy” rules, will be used to moderate the action. As always, first choice of ships goes to the brave men properly attired in Pirate garb. So don’t wait for the press gangs to find ye! Sign up now for the action! The game can accommodate a dozen hardy souls! Aaarrrgghhh !!!

Table 8                                     New Market – 1864

General Breckenridge has decided to clear out the Yankee infestation in the “Valley” once and for all. Although he is outnumbered, Breckenridge strikes Gen. Sigel’s forces at New Market, Virginia. The Confederates initiate the battle and attack Sigel’s over extended lines while the Union troops work to hold out. The battle pits Virginians against West Virginians and includes the VMI cadets. Cavalry plays an important role as well. Jim Birdseye, of Arsenal Publishing, presents this ACW regimental game using 25mm troops with multiple brigades on each side. Published by Arsenal, the “New Market” ACW rules set will be used to moderate the game. “The rules are very player friendly!”, Jim tells us. “I use them in my classes, 7th grade to graduate students, and they all pick them up quickly!” There will be room for up to 10 players.

Table 9                     *              The Battle of Otumba                      

The Spanish and their Indian Allies are attempting to escape back to safe territory after La Noche Triste (night of sorrow) in the city of Tenochtitlan. Cortes marches the survivors of his force in the direction of Tlaxcala but before reaching their destination the Spaniards arrive on the plain of the Otumba Valley where they are confronted by a large Aztec army. The Aztecs, led by Cuitlahuac (the new leader of the Aztec empire and a brother of Motecuhzoma II) intend to cut short the Spanish retreat from Tenochtitlan. Spanish histories of the Conquest emphasize the significance of this battle as a key turning point in the fortunes of the Spanish in Mexico. Can you change history? Keith Sullivan brings us this 25mm game, set during the Conquest of Mexico, using easy, fast-play rules and over 1600 miniatures. Space is available for 8 players.

Table 10                      “All the King’s Men” Napoleonic Demo Games

Go to war as a true gentleman … with 54mm toy soldiers! Join the guys from “All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers” as they demo their own rules for the horse-and-musket period. And rest assured this is NOT skirmish gaming! Everything will be provided. All you need to bring is your memory of what got you into wargaming in the first place. These demos, set in the Napoleonic era, will be run by Ken Cliffe and Mike Lee using their line of 54mm soldiers and the popular “All The King’s Men” rules. 1-4 players per game. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

*Big Table

SESSION VI        (Sunday, 9am – 1pm)

Table 1 *                    

Table 2                                   

Table 3                                   

Table 4                                   

Table 5  *

Table 6

Table 7                                    The Battle of El Al, Golan Heights

October 7th, 1973. The Yom Kippur war rages in the Middle Eastern desert and the 5th Syrian Infantry Division has almost reached the Sea of Galilee on the Southern Golan Front. After rushing to the area, the Israeli Peled Division counterattacks to stop the Syrians and start the roll back to Damascus. Once again, Jamie Gentry uses his computer moderated rules, “Desert Whirlwind”, to bring us yet another session of his 15mm Arab/Israeli War gaming excitement! Openings for 7 players.

Table 8                                    New Market – 1864

General Breckenridge has decided to clear out the Yankee infestation in the “Valley” once and for all. Although he is outnumbered, Breckenridge strikes Gen. Sigel’s forces at New Market, Virginia. The Confederates initiate the battle and attack Sigel’s over extended lines while the Union troops work to hold out. The battle pits Virginians against West Virginians and includes the VMI cadets. Cavalry plays an important role as well. Jim Birdseye, of Arsenal Publishing, presents this ACW regimental game using 25mm troops with multiple brigades on each side. Published by Arsenal, the “New Market” ACW rules set will be used to moderate the game. “The rules are very player friendly!”, Jim tells us. “I use them in my classes, 7th grade to graduate students, and they all pick them up quickly!” There will be room for up to 10 players.

Table 9  *                    The Greatest Raid That Never Was

The Greatest Raid That Never Was

In Late 2005 a positive ID was made on Al Qaida’s second in command, Al Zawahiri who was meeting with elements of the Afghani Al Qaida in a compound approximately one kilometer inside Pakistan. The US SOCOM planned to parachute a platoon of Navy Seals into an LZ adjacent to the compound then use a Ranger Company as a Quick Reaction Force to extract the SEALS and their prisoner. The Pakistani Government agreed to the plan with the single condition that no US soldiers or US assets be left on their side of the border. The SEALS were already in the air when cold feet in Washington caused the mission to be scrubbed for fear of creating a national incident. But take heart, true believers in the cause, for here in the safe confines of Nashcon the raid will go off as planned. Neel Woodall presents this modern warfare scenario for 8 to 12 players using “Ambush Alley: Force on Force” rules and 20mm figures. Will you mount up and try to capture and bring to justice the #2 man in Al Qaida before he can escape…..again? Or will you, as one of the faithful defenders, try and stop the infidels of the fourth crusade showing the world that Allah smiles on your cause?

Table 10                      “All the King’s Men” Napoleonic Demo Games

Go to war as a true gentleman … with 54mm toy soldiers! Join the guys from “All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers” as they demo their own rules for the horse-and-musket period. And rest assured this is NOT skirmish gaming! Everything will be provided. All you need to bring is your memory of what got you into wargaming in the first place. These demos, set in the Napoleonic era, will be run by Ken Cliffe and Mike Lee using their line of 54mm soldiers and the popular “All The King’s Men” rules. 1-4 players per game. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

*Big Table