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CIVILWAR BATTLE SET
Documentation
American Civil War Version 2.4
1 or 2 Player War Game
(c) 1993-1994 W. R. Hutsell

C O N T E N T S
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Description
1.2 Hardware Requirements
1.3 Files
2 MAIN MENU & GAME PARAMETERS
2.1 Main Menu
2.2 2 Player Option
2.3 Game Parameters
2.4 Screen Blank Function
3 MAIN BATTLE SCREEN
3.1 Main Battle Screen
3.2 Battle Map
3.3 'Terrain' Command
3.4 Armies Summary Data
3.5 Active Unit Data
3.6 Message Window
4 UNIT TYPES & ATTRIBUTES
4.1 Unit Types
4.2 Unit Attributes
4.3 Generals
4.4 Cancel Orders
4.5 Inspire Units
4.6 Group Move-to-Location Orders
5 VISIBILITY & MOVEMENT
5.1 Visibility
5.2 Movement
5.3 Controlling Diagonal Moves
5.4 Single Hex Movement
5.5 Move-to-Location Orders
5.6 Group Move-to-Location Orders
5.7 Charge
5.8 Rest
5.9 Wait
5.10 Stacking
5.11 'Join' Command to Check Stacking Options
6 COMBAT
6.1 Normal Combat
6.2 Artillery
6.3 Line of Sight
6.4 'View' Command to Check Line of Sight
6.5 Limbering Artillery
6.6 Cannonade
6.7 Cavalry Charge
6.8 Resolving Combat
6.9 Combat Results
6.10 Retreat
6.11 Killed Leader
6.12 Eliminated Units
6.13 Capturing Artillery
6.14 End of Game
7 HOT KEY COMMANDS
7.1 Hot Keys
8 OTHER COMMANDS - MENUS
8.1 Unit Command Menu
8.2 Move to Location
8.3 Intelligence
8.4 Rest
8.5 Game Options
8.6 (special options)
8.7 Game Options
8.8 Order of Battle ('O')
8.9 Game Score ('G')
8.10 Screen Redraw ('S')
8.11 Briefing
9 NOTES
9.1 Realism
9.2 Time
9.3 Distance & Other Factors
10 BIBLIOGRAPHY
CIVILWAR BATTLE SET 2.4
===========================================================
1 INTRODUCTION
===========================================================
1.1 Description
==================
CIVILWAR BATTLE SET Version 2.4 is an EGA tactical level war game based
on battles from the American Civil War. It represents over four years
of research, programming, and play testing. It is an evolution of the
prize-winning ASCII game which has earned accolades from wargamers around
the world. The game is easy to play, yet difficult to master, and provides
an almost endless set of variations and challenges.
"Winning" the battles depends on relative casualties, number
of units eliminated, and controlling a key location on the
battlefield (the 'objective'). There are several types of units and varying
terrain situations, all of which affect
the battle outcome. With this game , you can create, customize, and reconstruct
Civil War battles. As much as
possible, the game allows you freedom to not only play the scenarios,
but also adjust the armies, and even modify most
of the important aspects of the game itself.
If you are not a registered user, you should become one and receive the
latest version of the game, more scenarios,
along with technical support.
1.2 Hardware Requirements
============================
This version requires EGA graphics or better (VGA or SVGA). It is written
in Microsoft Program Development Basic 7.1 and requires DOS 2.1 or higher.
The program is provided in complied form, and all required files are included.
1.3 Files
===========
There are 2 main program files, 2 utility files, and several supporting
data files:
CW22.EXE - the main CIVILWAR EGA game program
CS22.EXE - the CIVILSET EGA scenario editor
xxx.CIV - EGA battle data files, each representing a battle scenario.
Ones with a '$AVE' prefix are used to save games in progress.
PREFER.CFG - configuration file to save your customized game parameter
preferences
UNION.LDR - file of 15 Union leaders and ratings
REBEL.LDR - file of 15 Rebel leaders and ratings
TERRAIN.EGA |
STDICON.EGA |
MISC.EGA |
ALTICON.EGA |- EGA icon files (MUST HAVE!)
REBEL.EGA |
YTANK.EGA   |
GENERALZ - history file of games played and scores, by player name
MAXSKORS - high scores achieved for each scenario played
NEWHI.SCR - high scores for each scenario completed
MONTHS.DAT |
PNAMES1.DAT |
PNAMES2.DAT |- supplemental files for CS Editor
RNAMES.DAT |
YNAMES.DAT |
===========================================================
2 MAIN MENU & GAME PARAMETERS
===========================================================
2.1 Main Menu
===============
The main menu appears as shown below. Additional information is provided
in the following paragraphs.
+======================+
| MAIN MENU |
+======================+
| Player : UNION |
| Load File |
| Save File |
| Fight |
| Parameters |
| Directory C:\CIVIL21 |
| Scenario Editor |
| Quit |
+======================+
Menu options are selected by moving the highlighted bar over the desired
choice (using up/down arrow keys) and pressing
the 'Enter' key.
The choices are:
a. Select player (shows the current side selected and allows you to toggle
between Union or Confederate side)
b. Load File (load EGA 'xxx.CIV' scenario file on current directory).
A menu window will then appear listing the
scenario files available on the current directory.
c. Save file (save in-progress battle) Most scenarios will play quickly
enough that you will not need this option. You will need to use F10 to
return to the MAIN MENU to save a game once it has Provision for up to
5 saved games (named $AVE1.CIV through $AVE5.CIV). The date and time of
the games is stamped when the file is saved to help in
identifying the files. NOTE: If you save over another saved game, the
older one will be overwritten.
d. Fight (run a loaded battle file). Selecting this option will display
the main battle screen (described elsewhere). Once the battle is begun,
you may return to the main menu by pressing the F10 key when it is your
turn to move.
e. Adjust various game parameters. This gives you access to customize
the game itself to meet your needs.
f. Directory allows you to enter a new drive and directory. Press "Enter"
after you have typed the desired drive and
directory. When the main menu reappears, the new directory information
will be displayed. If there is an error, the directory will not be changed.
g. Option to go directly to the scenario editor, without having to exit
to DOS. Be sure to save your game if you
have one in progress.
h. Quit option (allows you to exit the program).
NOTE: All menus may be used by selecting desired option with arrow keys
(up/down, 'Home' for top, 'End' for
bottom) and pressing 'Enter'. A short cut is to enter the first letter
of the desired command. 'Escape' cancels the menu.
2.2 2 Player Option
=====================
To choose this option, keep changing the SIDE option at the top of the
main menu until it indicates "BOTH SIDES". Then
load a scenario and begin to play as usual. When the first side finishes,
the screen is redrawn, and you will be allowed to play the other side.
This can be used for a 2 player game, with both players sitting at the
keyboard. It is probably even better suited to allow one person to play
both side to recreate an entire battle. The way the simulation is designed
results in a lot of side changes, with some turns being very short. This
means that is 2 people are playing there will be a lot of switching from
one to the other. Also, when this option is selected, the RECON condition
is turned ON, which means that movement is not hidden.
Each time the side changes, the number of total possible
moves for that side for that turn is shown. This number is
also displayed at the top right of the screen during the turn. The number
of actual units that can actually be moved
may be fewer, since some units may be "under orders" and will
move automatically.
Occasionally, one side will have no units that can be moved for a particular
turn. In that case, the turn is advanced, and control is passed back to
the other side.
As a convenience to the second person, some additional keys
can be used for important commands. The gray "*" key on the
numeric keypad can be used as the "escape" key, to facilitate
a second person sharing the keyboard, without having to reach
all the way across the keyboard to reach the "Esc".
Likewise, the gray "+" key on the numeric keypad can be used
as the "F" key to fire artillery.
2.3 Game Parameters
=====================
CIVILWAR BATTLESET was designed for flexibility to suit your personal
preference. Most of the important game parameters are available to you
to customize as you wish. If you select the game parameter option, a sub
menu will appear (as shown below) which allows you to select and adjust
the parameters desired. Unless you save them in PREFER.CFG, they are set
only for the duration of the game. Until they are adjusted, they will
remain at a "normal" setting as specified by the
current PREFER.CFG file.
+=======================+
| Set Game Parameters |
+=======================+
| Difficulty 3 |
| Adjust Start Position |
| Visibility 16 |
| Enemy Aggression 3 |
| Message Display 3 |
| SOUND |
| Scoring Factors |
| Unit Reliability 3 |
| Computer vs. Computer |
| Stack Limit 500 |
| Limber: ON |
| Line of Sight : ON |
| Capture Artil: ON |
| History : ON |
| Artillery Fire Rate:3 |
| SAVE Settings |
+=======================+
a. DIFFICULTY : Difficulty level makes your opponent either easier or
harder to fight. If difficulty is low, the enemy takes proportionately
more losses, and is more likely to retreat. If difficulty level is high,
the enemy takes fewer losses, and will tenaciously hold his ground. Difficulty
ranges from 1 (very easy) to 5 (very hard) and is maintained in PREFER.CFG.
b. ADJUST START POSITION : Adjusting the starting position randomizes
the initial position of units slightly to
provide variety in scenarios. Adjusting the start position will randomly
shift unit locations slightly (both yours and the enemy's). This has no
effect on the scenario file; only the game currently being played is affected.
This is NOT maintained in the configuration file.
c. VISIBILITY : Visibility affects the range at which units can see other
units and fire on them with artillery. This is normally set at 18 spaces
(a hex is 2 spaces). (See also Visibility and Movement).
d. ENEMY AGGRESSION : The enemy is preset with an 'aggression level' from
1 (very timid) to 5 (recklessly
aggressive), which controls his likelihood of moving to engage and attack,
and the intensity of his attacks. This
can be adjusted to make the enemy either more or less aggressive. A more
aggressive enemy will shift to the
offensive and launch more and stronger attacks. A timid enemy will seek
cover, launch weaker attacks, and play a more defensive-minded battle.
Increased aggressiveness does not necessarily make the enemy harder to
defeat, nor
does more timidity mean he will be easier to defeat. Good defensive terrain,
coupled with a less aggressive strategy, can be very effective.
e. MESSAGE DISPLAY : Option to let you set how long messages are displayed.
Previously if the sound option was turned
off, some messages went by too fast for some users to read. Now you can
play without the noises and still see
what just happened. This can be set in 5 graduations from very fast (1)
to very slow (5). The default setting is 3.
NOTE: Anytime a message is being displayed in the game and you want to
go on, simply hit a key. This works
regardless of how long message are set to be displayed.
f. SOUND : Option to let you toggle between SOUND and QUIET. This is mainly
for the purpose of saving in your
PREFER.CFG since the game has another toggle that is easier to access
when it is in progress. (See GAME OPTIONS menu).
g. SCORING FACTORS : You can adjust the some of the factors used in scoring
the game. These factors are:
Number of enemy casualties caused...... 1 point
Number of enemy units eliminated....... x points
Number of turns Objective controlled... y points
Bonus: Objective held on last turn..... z points
Bonus: Annihilating All Enemy Units.. 250 points (fixed)
Initially x is 5 points, y is 10 points, and z is 100 points. You should
be careful not to vary these values too much from the initial values.
Very large scoring factors may result in numbers too large to compute,
causing an overflow error.
h. UNIT RELIABILITY : Leaders in the Civil War often acted on local initiative
rather than following the original
plan. This is simulated through unit reliability. A very reliable unit
will always follow your orders exactly. A very unreliable unit will be
difficult to control, and will often charge in directions and engage in
fights you didn't intend. This tendency can be somewhat frustrating (although
realistic) and can be adjusted from (100% reliable) to 5 (maverick). The
default is 3, which
provides some of the challenge of controlling the units without being
reduced to the role of spectator.
A option is provided a truly 'absolutely reliable' setting. However, this
override prevents issuing 'move to location' orders when units are set
on maximum reliability. The override essentially clears ALL move orders
a unit might have prior to its turn.
i. A computer vs. computer option has been provided to help in evaluating
playability/balance of scenarios you
design. You must first load a scenario, then select the "Computer
vs. Computer" option. Sound is automatically turned OFF and message
delays are set at minimum level to make this play as fast as possible.
The RECON option is turned ON to allow you to view all units in play.
(Note that units that have not yet arrived will NOT be shown until their
time of arrival). The elapsed time used (real time) is displayed as the
game progresses. Play should proceed very rapidly.
Although the computer plays both sides using the same logic rules, it
displays the score from the point of view of the side you have chosen
(in your preference file).
To interrupt the computer vs. computer game in progress, press AND HOLD
F10 until the opening menu appears.
(Control-Break will not interrupt the game). However, once the automatic
computer vs. computer mode is begun,
you CANNOT toggle to the normal fight mode from the opening menu. If you
wish to play a game normally after you have used this option, you should
restart the program.
j. The STACK LIMIT can be adjusted in increments of 500 from a stack limit
of 0 (no stacking permitted) to 2000. The default is 500.
k. Artillery LIMBER toggle : The default setting is ON, which means that
artillery must be limbered to move and
unlimbered to fire. (See unit information for instructions on limbering/unlimbering
artillery).
l. Artillery LINE OF SIGHT toggle : The default setting is ON, which means
that artillery must have a clear line of
sight to target an enemy. (See unit information for more detail on how
line of sight is determined).
m. Artillery CAPTURE option toggle : The default setting is ON, which
means that some portion of eliminated artillery
units may be captured. (See COMBAT section below for a more complete explanation).
n. HISTORY toggle : The default setting is ON, which means that game high
scores will be reported and saved (file
MAXSKORS), as well as the cumulative performance of each commander (file
GENERALZ).
o. ARTILLERY FIRE RATE : Artillery rate of fire can be adjusted in the
PARAMETERS menu from 1 (very slow) to 5
(very fast). This setting applies to all artillery pieces in the battle.
Default setting is 3 (moderate).
o. SAVE SETTINGS : Option to create a new PREFER.CFG file. The setting
will be displayed on the title screen when the game is started.
2.4 Screen Blank Function
===========================
A screen blank function has been added, activated by "Ctrl-B".
The game screen will be replaced by a blank screen with a C:> prompt.
To go back to the game type "Ctrl-B" again.
===========================================================
3 MAIN BATTLE SCREEN
===========================================================
3.1 Main Battle Screen
=========================
The battle screens is divided into 4 zones as shown:
+==========================================================+
| | |
| | 2 - Armies |
| | Summary |
| | Data |
| | |
| 1- Battle Map +===============+
| | 3 - Active |
| | Unit |
| | Data |
| | |
| | |
+==========================================================+
4 - Message Window
3.2 Battle Map
=================
The battle map is based on a hexagonal layout, 27 hexes wide by 20 hexes
high, with terrain features shown by EGA graphic
icons. More complete information is provided on-line via the F1 help key.
DESCRIPTION MOVEMENT EFFECT
----------------------- ---------------------
forest/wooded terrain slow
road fast
bridge fast
plowed field slow (same as woods)
clear or open terrain normal
swamp/small stream very slow
hill/elevation slow
river/lake/water prohibited
mountain very slow
fortification normal
objective normal
village/house normal
3.3 'Terrain' Command
=======================
A "T" (for Terrain) command has been added to show the terrain
without units. This temporarily toggles the unit icons off, then replaces
all visible units after you have viewed the terrain.
3.4 Armies Summary Data
==========================
The number of turns remaining in the battle is shown in the top section
of this zone. A summary is given of the total
losses incurred by each army and the number of turns each side has controlled
the objective. The side you are playing is indicated by a '' character.
The side currently controlling the objective is indicated by a '' character.
3.5 Active Unit Data
=======================
A summary is given for the player-controlled unit that is active, showing
unit number, unit name, unit type, current
strength, terrain, leadership, and morale. In addition, the time the unit
will next be available for movement is shown. If the unit is under 'orders',
the message "ORDERS" will appear next to the unit number. The
message "DUG IN" appears
for entrenched units. The unit displayed is available for moving, is attacking,
is being attacked, or is being 'scanned' by the cursor.
3.6 Message Window
=====================
The message window provides comments on battle maneuvers and outcomes
as they occur. It also shows when the enemy
(computer) is taking its turn. At the very beginning of the game, the
enemy will take a longer turn as he sets his overall strategy. Afterwards,
enemy turns will be quicker.
===========================================================
4 UNIT TYPES & ATTRIBUTES
===========================================================
4.1 Unit Types
=================
There are 4 basic unit types, Infantry, Artillery, Cavalry, and Generals.
Artillery has 4 main subtypes: Rifled Artillery, Napoleons (smoothbore),
Horse Artillery, and Emplaced Guns (stationary). In addition. there are
Boat units (representing gunboats) which are a special form of artillery.
They are shown on the display by distinctive "standard" military
icons, in gray for Confederate units and blue for Union units. (Press
'F1' to get a full display of icons, terrain features and effects, and
hot key commands).
Melee
Type Movement Combat Special Abilities
------- ------- -------- -------------------------
Infantry average average may 'charge' on open ground if morale is 60 or
greater
Cavalry fast good very good ATTACK on open terrain; movement very slow
if not on roads or open/clear terrain
Artillery slow poor may fire on units at a distance; (rifled) more accurate
than smooth bores
Napoleon slow poor may fire on units at a (smooth distance; less range
and bores) accuracy than rifled artillery, but more effective at close
range targets due to use of canister shot
Horse average poor may fire on units at a Artillery distance; more mobile
than other artillery but causes less damage
Emplaced NONE poor may fire on units at a Guns distance; large caliber
& powerful guns; can not move even if attacked
General average poor increased combat effect on adjacent friendly units;
can cancel orders of other units; can inspire units
into action
Boat average (only acts as artillery unit in vs. water hexes; will sink
if other receives severe hit boats)
4.2 Unit Attributes
======================
Each unit has the following attributes:
Attribute Limits Influences
--------- ------- ------------
Unit number 1-80 Identifier only
Name 16 characters max Identifier only
Unit Type I,è,A,N,H,C,G,B Combat, move, & other
Strength depends on type Combat
Leadership 10-110 Combat, move, & other
Morale 10-110 Combat, move, & other
Units which have leadership lower than about 50-60 are poorly led, and
will have difficulty in movement and combat. Likewise, units with morale
less than about 50-60 will not be very effective, and should be rested
if possible. Units with morale lower than 60 cannot use the 'charge' option.
During the heat of battle, morale and leadership may briefly go outside
the ranges shown.
4.3 Generals
===============
A General unit greatly improves the fighting abilities of adjacent units,
both attack and defense. In addition, Generals have a powerful ability
to iNspire units into action. However, you must be careful in actually
engaging General unit itself, since it is usually relatively weak (which
reduces combat effectiveness).
4.4 Cancel Orders
====================
Sometimes in the thick of battle you will have units engaged in cmbat
(and not moving) or with movement orders which you
need to redirect. To cancel existing orders for all friendly units, type
'X' when a General unit has its turn. As described earlier, this is not
100% effective (some units will ignore it) and may cause morale and leadership
to suffer in units that do comply.
Friendly units that are "under orders" are indicated on the
map as units WITHOUT a contrasting color border. For instance, Union units
normally have a light blue border, but Union units currently under orders
do not have the border.
When a General cancels orders, units that obey will flash briefly after
the order is issued. Then a message indicates how many units obeyed out
of the total currently 'under orders'. This allows you to see whether
you need to issue additional commands to cancel orders.
The "cancel orders" option shows how many units FAILED to obey
orders and thus are still on local command. Using this in conjunction
with the intelligence option change allows more control over units.
4.5 Inspire Units
====================
General units may issue an iNspire command to rally another individual
unit. The hot key for this command is 'N' (for iNspire). Using this command,
a General unit may activate another unit nearby IF the target unit meets
all these conditions:
(a) unit is close enough - maximum distance is .5 of the visibility limit
set for the game
(b) the sum of the General's leadership and morale factors is greater
than the sum of the target unit's leadership and morale.
(c) unit's next move will occur within 10 turns
The General unit does not move when iNspiring another unit. The target
unit has its time of next action set to the current turn. The General
unit has its time of next action set to the time the target unit WOULD
HAVE moved. The target unit gains 5 morale points; the General unit loses
7 morale points.
If the target unit is too far to communicate, there is no penalty.
If the General unit has insufficient leadership and morale to inspire
the target unit, the General loses 7 morale\points AND 5 leadership points
due to the loss of respect. If the target unit's time of next action is
more than 10 turns away, the General unit suffers the loss of 7 moralepoints.
The "iNspired" unit normally will activate and be ready to move
within the same turn. In effect, the General unit has passed its movement
turn to another unit (by exhorting and inspiring them into action). This
allows you to rally worn-out troops for one last action (e.g., to seize
the objective).
4.6 Group Move-to-Location Orders
====================================
General units may order several nearby units to move to a destination
by issuing a group move-to-location order. The hot key for this command
is F6. More information on this command is given in the visibility &
movement section.
===========================================================
5 VISIBILITY & MOVEMENT
===========================================================
5.1 Visibility
=================
All your friendly units are visible, but enemy units are not always visible.
Enemy units do not become visible until they are within a certain visibility
range from friendly units. The visibility range is calculated from a base
visibility range (set in the battle data file), and adjusted based on
the terrain occupied by both the friendly unit and the enemy unit. If
your unit occupies a mountain or hill it has increased ability to see
enemy units; while occupying a forest or swamp, it has decreased ability
to see enemy units. If the enemy is in a forest, he is much more difficult
to see, and your unit must be closer. Enemies that move into forests may
disappear from view. The base visibility range may be altered (see Game
Parameters section).
5.2 Movement
===============
When one of your units is ready to move, it will be highlighted and a
short tone will sound. At that point, you have several command options
as described in the paragraphs below. If the unit is entrenched, you will
be prompted to confirm that you want it to move. If you do not confirm
the move, the unit automatically is Rested.
5.3 Controlling Diagonal Moves
================================
Diagonal movement is supported in this game, using the numeric key pad,
with NUMLOCK turned OFF, as shown below:
+------+------+------+
| 7 | 8 | 9 |
Move UP & LEFT -----> | | <----- Move UP & RIGHT
| Home | | PgUp |
+------+------+------+
| 4 | 5 | 6 |
Move LEFT -------> | | <----- Move RIGHT
| | | |
+------+------+------+
| 1 | 2 | 3 |
Move DOWN & LEFT ---> | | <----- Move DOWN & RIGHT
| End | | PgDn |
+------+------+------+
Note that this scheme is required because the map is hex-based. The game
will respond to the Up or Down moves (either on the numeric keypad, or
the "inverted T" arrows), but since there are no directly up
or down moves on the map, it must convert them to a diagonal move, which
is done on a 50%-50% random basis, either left or right.
TO BE ABLE TO CONTROL THE EAST-WEST DIRECTION OF NORTH-SOUTH MOVEMENT,
YOU MUST USE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD.
5.4 Single Hex Movement
==========================
You may move the unit to an adjacent unoccupied hex by using the appropriate
arrow key (numeric key pad). Since the unit
may not move directly up or down on the hexagonal map, the 'up' or 'down'
keys are reinterpreted as diagonal 'up' or
'down' moves. You cannot control whether these reinterpreted diagonal
moves are right or left (done randomly), so you
should generally avoid using the 'up' and 'down' keys for single hex movement.
If you attempt to move into a prohibited hex (occupied or water), a tone
will sound. There is no movement penalty.
After the unit moves, it may reveal enemy units that were previously hidden.
Any units that were entrenched at the beginning of the scenario (using
the scenario editor) may be reluctant to move from the safety of their
trenches. Occasionally such units will not respond to move orders (a message
to that effect is displayed). Units that are low on morale or that are
poorly led are more likely to do this.
5.5 Move-to-Location Orders
==============================
Single hex movement may be tedious. You may wish to give your units orders
to move to a particular location instead. To do this, press 'M' when the
unit is highlighted and a cursor will appear on top of the unit. Move
this cursor with the arrow keys to the desired destination, and pres 'Enter'.
When the "move to" order is issued, the destination is will
be indicated by a small white circle and a line will connect the unit
with its intended target. On its next turn, your unit will then begin
to move to the selected destination, following the most direct path. (It
will not necessarily follow the same path you used in moving the
cursor to the destination). If it is blocked by a friendly unit or by
prohibited terrain (water or edge of map screen),or if the unit is attacked
in any way, the movement order will be cancelled, and the unit will wait
for new instructions.
Artillery units must be LIMBERED (or the limber option must be turned
off) to respond to move-to-location orders. Orders
can be issued to unlimbered artillery, but the orders are ignored, and
the unit will not move. This applies to the special group move-to-location
orders issued by General units as well. Emplaced artillery can not receive
move-to-location orders.
For destinations that are far away, moving the cursor may be speeded by
holding down 'Shift' before pressing the desired arrow key. The cursor
will then move to the indicated map edge. Pressing the '5' key at the
center of the key pad will
center the cursor on the screen.
Once a unit has reached its assigned destination, it will flash and a
tone will sound, along with a message that it has arrived at its destination.
At that point its orders are cancelled, and it will await further instructions.
While units are 'under orders' to move you will not normally be able to
access them, even if you change your mind about what they should do. The
only way you can overcome this is having one of your General units cancel
the unit orders
using the 'X' command. (See 'hot keys' section). This is not 100% effective
(due to communication breakdowns and stubborn
subordinate officers). Even if the orders are actually cancelled, morale
and leadership may be reduced in units affected due to the conflicts between
unit commanders and General unit. Thus, the 'cancel orders' option should
be used only as needed to free units that have become locked in combat.
Since the General units are your only means to cancel orders, you should
usually not give them movement orders. That way, you will be able to access
them more frequently.
Though your units will normally wait for your commands, on occasion they
will decide to move on their own initiative (generally in an attempt to
engage an enemy unit which they have sighted). Such units issue their
own orders to move to the chosen destination. You can choose to adjust
the tendency of your troops to do act on their own by setting the 'Reliability'
level in the 'Game Parameters' menu.
5.6 Group Move-to-Location Orders
====================================
A General unit ONLY may order a group of nearby units to move to a destination.
To activate this feature, press F6 when a General unit is highlighted
and awaiting your command. A cursor will appear as described in the Move-to-Location
option above. Move the cursor to the target destination and press 'Enter'.
The number of nearby units that plan to obey the order is given in the
screen message. Units must be no further away than half the visibility
limit to receive the order. Likewise, in order to obey the order, the
unit must not be 'under orders'. Note that the General unit himself does
not go 'under orders', only those OTHER UNITS that comply with his orders.
5.7 Charge
=============
Infantry units ONLY may double their speed for short distances on OPEN
TERRAIN OR ROADS only with a 'C' (CHARGE) command. Units in 'charge' mode
will be shown with a distinctive icon. While in 'charge' mode they will
move
twice as fast as normal infantry.
If charging units become involved in combat, or are attacked by artillery,
or move into any other than open or roads
terrain, they will switch out of 'charge' mode. In addition, each time
a unit in 'charge' mode is moved, there is a
chance that the unit will simply become too tired to continue the charge.
Units that are moved until they are too tired will be delayed in their
action for a time while they rest.
The 'charge' option affects both movement and combat (increases 'shock'
effect of attacks). Units with too low morale will not be able to charge
at all until their morale improves.
Note that switching to 'charge' mode requires one turn. Then the unit
may be moved a single hex or given orders.
5.8 Rest
===========
You may not wish to move a unit on its turn. By pressing the space bar
you can skip the unit and allow it to rest for a
few turns. If the unit's morale is low, it will improve slightly after
resting.
5.9 Wait
===========
To avoid having to repeatedly issue a 'Rest' order, an option is provided
whereby units may 'Wait'. Press 'W' when
the unit has its turn. The unit icon will change to a solid colored block.
The unit will become inactive, automatically resting to regain morale.
The unit will reactivate if attacked (either melee or cannonade). Waiting
units suffer no penalty if attacked.
In addition, you may activate the WAITing unit at any time another friendly
unit has a turn. Press 'I' for the intelligence cursor and pass it over
the inactive unit you wish to wake. The icon will change to the normal
icon. Now press 'esc' and the first unit can take whatever action you
wish.
5.10 Stacking
===============
Normally, units cannot move onto other friendly units (stack). However,
units can now be stacked under certain conditions:
(a) TOTAL unit strength resulting from stacking must be stack limit or
less (stack limit default is 500)
(b) If dissimilar units are stacked, an INFANTRY unit will result, unless
one of the units is a GENERAL, in which case a GENERAL will result
The leadership value for the stacked unit will usually be the higher of
the two units that are being combined. An exception is
if one of the units is a General and the other is not; in that case, the
resulting leadership value is always that of the General unit.
Morale will generally INCREASE slightly if LIKE units are stacked. It
will generally DECREASE slightly if UNLIKE units are stacked.
Stacking results in a time delay for the unit to get reorganized. The
reorganization delay is reduced if leadership is high.
5.11 'Join' Command to Check Stacking Options
==============================================
The 'J' (for 'JOIN') option allows a unit to check for other units it
might combine with, given the current stack limit. All
units which the unit in question could join will be displayed (if any),
while all other friendly units will temporarily be blanked
out.
===========================================================
6 COMBAT
===========================================================
6.1 Normal Combat
====================
Units can attack enemy units in an adjacent hex. To do so, attempt to
move the selected unit on top of the enemy. A menu will appear in the
'Armies Summary Data' zone of the screen showing the attack options. Four
different
intensities of attack are permitted:
Option Relative Intensity
-------------- ------------------
Light Skirmish 1
Medium Fight 2
Heavy Attack 3
All-Out Assault 8
Note the 'All-Out Assault' is just that, and that it should be used relatively
sparingly, since it will result in heavy casualties for BOTH sides. If
you do not wish to attack at all, you may cancel the attack by pressing
the 'escape' key; however, that will forfeit the unit's turn for the current
round (the price paid for indecision).
Normally your units will wait for you to issue an attack order. However,
they may occasionally attack on their own initiative. When this happens,
you will receive a message in the 'Message Window' zone, and the attack
intensity menu will appear for you to select the intensity, as described
above. Pressing 'Esc' will abort the attack for now, but the unit will
miss its turn.
When units become engaged in combat, they are somewhat 'locked in place',
and their ability to respond to orders is reduced. They also are more
likely to act on their own initiative, to renew the combat without any
orders to do so.
6.2 Artillery
================
Artillery ('A','B','E', 'H', or 'N') units may bombard visible enemy units
some distance away, rather than melee adjacent units (which they do very
poorly anyway). To fire the cannons, press 'F' (for 'FIRE') when the artillery
unit is given its turn to move. (If LIMBER option is ON, you will be prompted
to unlimber first)
When you fire artillery, a cursor will appear. Also, the range of the
cannon and the current distance to target is displayed in the 'Message
Window'. If the cursor is moved out of range of the cannon, the distance
will be highlighted(to remind you it is out of range). You may move the
cursor using the key pad (as described earlier for unit movement) to the
selected target, then press 'Enter'. Both the firing cannon battery and
the defending unit are highlighted until the results are displayed in
the 'Message Window' and in the 'Armies Summary'.
When firing artillery, the valid enemy targets only will be visible during
the firing phase. Valid targets must be in range. Additionally,if the
line of sight option is ON, they must also be in line of sight. ALL visible
enemy units will reappear after firing.
Range of the artillery depends on the same factors as visibility (elevation
and cover). Rifled artillery ('A' and 'E') is more effective at longer
ranges than smoothbore napoleons ('N'). Horse artillery ('H') is lighter
and more mobile than either and causes less damage.
An 'EMPLACED GUN' unit type has been added to allow for fixed, fortified
gun positions. These are treated as very heavy rifled artillery for the
purpose of range and damage. For a given artillery unit strength, EMPLACED
GUNS will do more damage than any other artillery type. They fire at a
slightly slower rate than other rifled cannons, however. EMPLACED GUNS
can not retreat or otherwise move. They can be captured if the 'artillery
capture' option is activated.
Enemy artillery will concentrate more fire on units that threaten the
artillery unit (especially those immediately adjacent). Damage from canister
fire at close range is often devastating. This makes artillery units tough
to overrun, if they have a chance to fire.
There is a (low) probability of artillery exploding and killing members
of the firing battery.
6.3 Line of Sight
====================
The line of sight option restricts artillery units to fire only at enemy
units not blocked by obstructing terrain features. Line of sight is considered
by tracing an approximate straight line path from the firing unit to the
enemy (while keeping to the map hexes). Line of sight is traced until
an obstruction is encountered. If there are no obstructions, the line
of sight is reported as clear. Otherwise, the artillery unit cannot see
the enemy and is prohibited from firing at that target.
Trees, villages, hills and mountains are considered obstructions. Army
units are NOT considered as obstructions.
A firing unit on a hill may see over ONE obstructed hex with a forest
or village (but not any additional obstructed hexes). A firing unit on
a hill cannot see over a hill or mountain.
A firing unit on a mountain may see over TWO obstructed forest or village
hexes. A firing unit on a mountain can see over ONE hill, but never over
another mountain.
The line of sight option can be toggled on or off as desired in the game
parameter menu. Because gunboats will generally have a more unobstructed
view, they have an increased line of sight ability vs. land based artillery.
6.4 'View' Command to Check Line of Sight
===========================================
Any unit may check for visible enemy units within line of sight from the
location of the checking unit by typing 'V' (for 'VIEW'). This helps you
scout where to set up your artillery. Visible terrain hexes are shown
in reverse color, as are visible friendly units. Enemy units visible to
the checking unit are shown in normal colors. Enemy units that are not
visible to the checking unit are not displayed until you press a key.
6.5 Limbering Artillery
==========================
A 'limber' feature is provided to add realism by requiring all land-based
artillery units (Artillery-Rifled, Napoleon, and Horse Artillery) to limber
before being moved and to unlimber before being fired. The 'L' hot key
will toggle land-based artillery units between limbered and unlimbered
states. A LIMBERED unit is represented on the map by an open circle (think
of it as a "wheel") and its unit description has an 'L' in front
of the name (e.g. LNapoleon). Unlimbered units are represented by icons
as in the regular game. Changing between limbered/unlimbered requires
5 additional turns. In addition, units with morale less than 60 require
an additional 5 turns to change.
The feature is activated via a toggle in the 'Game Parameters' and-based
artillery units (Artillery-Rifled, Napoleon, and Horse Artillery) to limber
before being moved and to unlimber before being fired. When the limber
feature is ON, you cannot move unlimbered artillery units nor fire limbered
units.
Limbered artillery is extremely vulnerable to attack, either melee or
artillery fire. Limbered artillery is very ineffective in melee attack.
If limber option is set ON, all unlimbered artillery unit types cannot
retreat until they are limbered. This means unlimbered artillery units
simply have to take the punishment while they are under attack.
6.6 Cannonade
================
Attacks by artillery (cannonades) are a special type of combat. The outcome
depends on the strength of the attacking
unit, the strength of the defending unit, the terrain, and luck. Given
the more uncertain nature of this form of combat, the outcomes are more
variable. However, in the long run cannonades will cause considerable
damage. Cannonades against units immediately next to the artillery unit
will cause twice the normal damage, as the defenders receive canister
fire at pointblank range. Napoleon units are even more effective in pointblank
attacks due to their use of canister (grapeshot).
6.7 Cavalry Charge
=====================
When cavalry in a CLEAR or ROAD hex attacks an enemy also in a CLEAR of
ROAD hex, the cavalry may 'charge' (receive an attack bonus). The charge
option is automatically put into effect and a special message will announce
it. Note that bridge hexes do not allow charges due to the constricted
space.
6.8 Resolving Combat
=======================
In resolving the combat, the attacker goes first, then the defender. While
the attacker is attacking, the defender's terrain is used in determining
defender casualties. When the defender returns fire, the attacker's terrain
is used in determining extent of attacker casualties.
Attacking is risky business, since the attacker must expose himself, while
the defender can take advantage of whatever
cover is available. Thus, attackers will generally take proportionally
more casualties. The results will be displayed as the battle progresses
in the 'Armies Summary' area and in the 'Message Window'. Morale of both
armies under fire will decrease.
6.9 Combat Results
=====================
The primary factors affecting combat results are shown below:
Factor Relative Effect
----- ---------------------
Intensity .......... Major
Unit Strength ...... Major
Unit Leadership .... Moderate (major if very low)
Unit Morale ........ Moderate (major if very low)
Terrain ............ Moderate (major for some (see note) conditions, such
as cavalry in swamps)
Unit Type .......... Moderate (major if Artillery or General units directly
involved in combat)
Adjacent Friendly .. Moderate
General LUCK ............... Slight-Moderate
Adjacent Friendly
Unit ............... Slight
NOTE: The terrain occupied by BOTH combatants is considered in adjusting
combat outcome. A unit is at a disadvantage in
swamps, but is at an advantage in forest or hill hexes. A unit is at a
considerable advantage on mountains or in fort hexes. Cavalry and Artillery
units (all types) are particularly disadvantaged in swamps, and somewhat
disadvantaged in forests. Entrenchment (if any) is also considered. Entrenched
units gain a bonus in addition to any terrain effect.
6.10 Retreat
==============
If a unit takes particularly heavy casualties, and leadership and morale
are sufficiently low, it will decide to retreat. When this happens, the
unit attempts to move to one of the 3 hexes furthest from the attacker.
The selected hex must be an unoccupied hex. When a unit attempts to pull
back, a message will appear and the unit will appear in purple. When an
army retreats, its morale suffers, and it takes a few additional casualties
as wounded men are captured.
Since pulling back means exposure to enemy fire, units will take additional
casualties when they decide to retreat. Units that are cut off and unable
to retreat will take particularly heavy additional losses in the confusion.
Botched retreats will also reduce effectiveness of unit leadership.
Sometimes the enemy unit will have to retreat as well, if it has taken
heavy losses. In some instances, one unit in combat will have to retreat
while the victor has not taken much damage. The victorious unit may advance
to pursue the fleeing unit. Morale increases for the pursuing unit; leadership
may also improve, as the commander hones his skills.
The human attacker is given the option to pursue if reliability setting
is normal or better (instead of automatically pursuing).
6.11 Killed Leaders
====================
Occasionally, the unit commander himself will be killed in the combat.
When this happens, a message to that effect will
appear in the 'Message Window'. The leadership ability of the new leader
will be displayed. It will usually (but not always) be lower than the
deceased commander.
6.12 Eliminated Units
======================
Occasionally units will be eliminated from the battle. This is announced
in the message window and an "death's head"
icon will appear in the hex the eliminated unit occupied. When this happens,
the opponent is awarded additional victory points (as established in the
scoring factors) for eliminating the unit.
If one side is completely annihilated by having ALL of its units eliminated,
the game will end. A bonus of 250 points is awards to the victor in this
case.
6.13 Capturing Artillery
=========================
In the case of eliminated artillery, some portion of the eliminated unit
may be captured by the attacker. This will occur if: (a) The "artillery
capture" option is ON (b) There is an unused unit number for the
attacking side for the new artillery unit that will be formed. (c) The
attacker chooses to pursue into the hex where the eliminated unit had
been. The option to capture occurs only when the artillery unit is eliminated.
Otherwise, the unit is permanently removed from the remainder of the game.
6.14 End of Game
=================
The game ends when time expires or one side is annihilated. The side controlling
the objective at the end gets a bonus as
explained earlier.
When time expires, you are given an option to allow you continue to play
10 more turns even though the scenario has ended. The side controlling
the objective gets the end-game bonus each time\ this option is chosen,
even though the game continues. Scenarios may be extended indefinitely
using this option.
===========================================================
7 HOT KEY COMMANDS
===========================================================
7.1 Hot Keys
===============
In addition to the movement and combat commands, there are several commands
available during the battle. Some of these
are accessed through the menus described later. Most can be reached using
'hot keys' as described below.
Command Use
-----------+----------------------------------------
(space bar)| Rest the unit - skip a turn
G | Game score
O | Order of battle summary
Q | Toggle between SOUND and QUIET
R | RECON Mode Toggle *
S | Screen redraw
-----------+----------------------------------------
I | Intelligence on visible units
| and Activate WAITed units
J | Check for valid stacking options
M | Move to destination - give move orders
T | Terrain - temporarily remove all unit icons
V | View line of sight (All Units)
W | Wait (All Units)
-----------+----------------------------------------
N | iNspire Unit (General units only)
X | Cancel orders (General units only)
F6 | Group Move to Destination (General units only)
-----------+----------------------------------------
C | Charge (Infantry units only)
-----------+----------------------------------------
F | Fire (Artillery, Napoleon, Horse Artillery only)
-----------+----------------------------------------
(F1) | On line Help
(F2) | Unit Command Menu
(F3) | Game Options Menu
(F10) | Return to main menu from game level
-----------Å---------------------------------------- -
* When RECON is activated, ALL enemy units currently in the battle will
become visible, even if they are out of visibility range. Eliminated units
and units that are delayed and have not yet appeared in the battle will
NOT be revealed.
===========================================================
8 OTHER COMMANDS - MENUS
===========================================================
8.1 Unit Command Menu
========================
This menu is accessed by pressing the F2 key when one of your units is
waiting for orders (is highlighted).
Menu Hot key Equivalent
+==================+
| UNIT COMMAND |
+==================+
| Move to location | M
| Intelligence | I
| Rest | (space bar)
| Game Options | ---
| (special options)| X,C,or F depending on unit type
+==================+
8.2 Move to Location
======================
This option is described in the Visibility and Movement section above.
Note that the group move to location option is not
available from the Unit Command menu.
8.3 Intelligence
==================
This option causes cursor to appear on your highlighted unit. The cursor
may be moved to get strength and terrain
information on any unit that is currently visible. Press 'esc' when done.
Placing the cursor over a friendly unit will display that unit's current
status in the 'active unit data' window.
If the friendly unit under the cursor is WAITed, it will activate on its
next time of action. (Note that this may not be immediately).
Intelligence is useful to identify units that are weak or are bogged down
by terrain or combat and not likely to move very soon. When doing an intelligence
scan of friendly units that are 'under orders' to go to a specific location,
that location is shown on the map and with a line connected to the unit.
Use of the Intelligence command does not cost a turn. This gives the human
player more information in selecting units to attack.
8.4 Rest
==========
This option is described in elsewhere. The Wait option allows units to
repeatedly rest.
8.5 Game Options
==================
This is another way to the game menu option (see below).
8.6 (special options)
=======================
This option will appear only if a General, Artillery, or Infantry type
unit is waiting for orders. It will give these options:
Cancel Orders (General)
Fire (Artillery)
Charge (Infantry)
Note that all of these may be directly accessed using the appropriate
'hot key'. In addition, the 'W', 'N', and 'F6' commands may ONLY be accessed
by hot keys.
8.7 Game Options
==================
This menu is displayed by pressing the F3 key, or via the unit command
menu.
Menu Hot key Equivalent
+====================+
| GAME OPTIONS |
+====================+
| Order of Battle | O
| Game Score | G
| Screen Redraw | S
| Briefing | ---
+====================+
8.8 Order of Battle ('O')
===========================
This option gives a detailed listing of all your units and their status,
as well as listings of known (visible) enemy units. While the information
for your own units is accurate, it is only approximately correct for enemy
units. Units in trouble will be shown in red.
8.9 Game Score ('G')
======================
This option gives the current game score. The score depends on the scoring
factors and the current game status. Scoring depends on relative casualties,
number of units eliminated, and number of turns of control of the objective.
(A ''
character will appear in the 'Armies Summary Data' zone next to the word
'Objective' for the army controlling the
objective). The objective is 'controlled' by moving a friendly unit onto
the 'é' character on the battle map. ONCE
OCCUPIED, THE OBJECTIVE REMAINS UNDER CONTROL UNTIL AN ENEMY MOVES ONTO
IT - you do not have to CONTINUE to occupy the objective to get further
credit for control.
8.10 Screen Redraw ('S')
=========================
This option redraws the screen.
8.11 Briefing
==============
Information on the battle (background, objectives, commanders, special
problems, significance, etc.) will be provided if it is available in the
scenario.
===========================================================
9 NOTES
===========================================================
9.1 Realism
=============
Liberties have been taken with time, distance, movement, and unit attributes
in the scenarios provided, in the interest
of simplicity and game playability. However, the historical scenarios
have been researched and play tested for correspondence to actual results.
9.2 Time
==========
You cannot give orders to every unit on every turn as the game progresses.
This is unlike some other war games, where
each unit can move each turn, but units move different numbers of spaces.
In this game, movement is always one space, but the different unit movements
take different amounts of time due to unit type, terrain, leadership and
morale factors. In my mind this more closely simulates the confusion of
battles at a tactical level, and still allows the game to be easily played.
Fast moving units will still move fast (they get MORE TURNS!) but cannot
dash 5 hexes to the objective on a single turn while all other units are
in suspended animation.
In the included scenarios, a time unit may be considered about 3-5 minutes.
9.3 Distance & Other Factors
==============================
Hexes are about 150 yards each, making game map about 2 miles (high) by
5 miles (wide). An infantry unit can travel
at a normal pace 10 hexes (1 mile) in about 40 turns (1/2 - 1 hour). In
'Charge' mode an infantry unit can travel at twice the normal pace (for
short distances only).
Civil war artillery pieces were quite varied, but a range of about a mile
(20 spaces or 10 hexes) is not unreasonable. Most of the effective firing
will done at targets that are closer.
Unit strengths are intended to be relative approximations only. All these
factors can be modified as desired, either in the design of the scenario,
or through the game parameters.
===========================================================
10 BIBLIOGRAPHY
===========================================================
Angle, Paul M. A Pictorial History of the Civil War Years.
------------------------------------------
Garden City, New York: Doubleday, 1967.
Churchill, Winston S. The American Civil War.
-----------------------
New York:Fairfax Press, 1958.
Clark, Champ. Gettysburg : The Confederate High Tide.
--------------------------------------
Alexandria, VA: Time-Life Books, 1985.
Davis, William C. Gettysburg, The Story Behind the Scenery.
----------------------------------------
Las Vegas, Nevada: K.C. Publications, 1983.
Dunnigan, James F. How to Make War.
---------------
New York: Quill, 1983.
Flato, Charles. The Golden Book of the Civil War.
--------------------------------
New York: Western Publishing Company, 1961.
Horn, Stanley F. The Battle of Stones River.
---------------------------
Harrisburg, PA: Historical Times, 1972.
Jordan, Robert Paul. The Civil War
-------------
Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Society, 1969.
Kennedy, Frances H. ed., The Civil War Battlefield Guide
-------------------------------
The Conservation Fund, Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston,
1990.
Stevenson, Paul. Wargaming in History:The American Civil War
-------------------------------------------
New York. Sterling Publishing, 1990.
Sword, Wiley. The Battle of Shiloh
--------------------
Harrisburg, PA: Historical Times (National Park
Service), 1978.
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