All, I apologize for such a large gap with few posts. The plan was to get this scenario rolling much sooner, but that just didn't happen. I was also hoping to have some good programming updates, but I have no news there either. In a sense we have been idle for a few months, though I can assure you I have been making some progress in a number of different areas.
Among other things I have created the scenario visuals using the excellent Vassal engine with a considerable amount of time and effort. It's not perfect, but it is good enough to effectively display this scenario. I will continue to tweak things as we go along, but you should get a real feel for what I am trying to accomplish. So I will have 2 threads for this scenario: one for the Americans and one for the Germans. This scenario will implement various different game algorithms such as combat resolution, command delays, detection, and artillery fire missions. These items still require thorough play-testing which can only be achieved once we have an alpha version well under way. Needless to say we are not there yet, so that means I am applying all algorithms manually using spreadsheets to calculate various things, and using my Vassal scenario to plot it out. This scenario will also highlight the multiplayer concept for TO. We currently have 3 players all geographically separated, with 2 American players and a German player. I am only playing the role of "computer". If we have any takers we can show how battles can be played using a different game and inputting results. For instance if we have some Combat Mission players that want to play out a battle that develops, we can do that! Game turns will proceed for 2 game hours, at which time the players will have the opportunity to tweak/issue new orders.
So without further ado...
0600 11 JUL 44 SitRep- Today we unleash our offensive with the goal of taking St. Lo. The 115th regiment is in line formation occupying a large frontage. 2nd battalion is occupying an area further west, and is not immediately available. A and B companies are currently disorganized (amber cohesion indicator) due to a pre dawn attack from the FSJ. 116th is in column and poised to be the primary attack force. The 3rd battalion has 2 attached tank companies plus an engineer company, while the 1st and 2nd battalions only have an engineer company attached. The 175th is entirely in reserve, but is available and awaiting orders. They can be used to help exploit any success that the 116th has during their assault. We have an excellent supply situation with an adequate number of replacements. The division has been in constant enemy contact since June 6, but is in good condition to conduct the attack. Lastly, while we have undisputed air superiority, though weather has prevented airpower from being decisive recently. Expect more of the same weather, though airpower will be on standby when the weather clears. You have 1 week to take St. Lo, now make it happen.
Enemy Intel- the enemy we have been facing continues to be a weakened regiment of Fallschirm troops, almost exclusively. They are well trained, well led, and highly motivated. They have proven excellent in defending the hedgerows, however they have been in continuous combat for a month with little respite, limited resupply, and virtually no replacements. Due to the complications from hedgerow fighting they have been able to continually form new lines of resistance with prepared defenses as we overwhelm the previous position. Furthermore, the Fallschirm are widely spread, and only show the ability to conduct limited local counterattacks to date. The Germans know the importance of St. Lo, so expect possible enemy reinforcements the more we threaten St. Lo.
Player orders for game start: the immediate plan is to attack on a wide front when 1/115 is ready. In the mean time, the "dogs of war" (i.e. artillery) will be used to harass German positions and pin them. 4 batteries of 105's are given the Harass Fire Mission, with 1 battery engaging each company position. Notice I said "battery" (i.e.firing element). Each battalion had 3 batteries and players can coordinate a fire plan for each battery. The remainder of the arty will be on counter-battery and opportunity fire missions.
The battle is on, stay tuned for results! For more details regarding this scenario you can visit
http://dogsofwarvu.com/forum/index.php/topic,2157.0.html As always, feel free to ask questions.
