Yesterday I decided to proceed with the next step which involves repainting the table top with a 5" grid, trimming a selection of hills to make modular 5" grid hills as well as updating other terrain. I've left myself an option to expand this permanently to a 9x11 grid by adding a 7" strip on the end rather than having a 22" expansion leaf tucked away but that decision can wait a bit.
An opaque green latex undercoat has been laid over the old grid and work has begun on the new terrain features and grid. There is a lot of 'prettification' to be done but the table is use-able so I broke out the War of 1812 figures and decided to turn them loose on the OHW "Melee" scenario inspired loosely by Lundy's Lane.
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| Lots more colour and detail to add in the months ahead as well as terrain modules. |
The game worked as anticipated and was fun though the battle wasn't fought quite the way I expected. That, and various posts on FB about wargamers and ways to keep oneself busy in these days of Pandemic Social Distancing, have led me decide to do a series of more detailed posts on Solo Wargaming and some of the ways I go about it. My hope is that it might be useful for some who have either never tried it or not had any success and if nothing else may distract others for a few minutes.
So, I'll start with a step by step replay of this game including a turn by turn what, how and why I do.
Excellent idea. Never really cracked the knack for solo gaming. Did a test game once or twixe to prep for a club or convention, but always wanted to get more in the habit of doing so for myself.
ReplyDeleteThere was a definite learning curve for me.
DeleteThis made me wonder, how many times have you changed grid square sizes? ha ha
ReplyDeleteBut seriously, solo wargaming and solo gaming in general has a long history and there are lots of resources for anyone who might be considering it, but may not be sure how to go about it. It can be a fun hobby/pastime, whether in addition to gaming with other people or as one's main or only approach. :)
Re changing grid sizes
DeleteI wondered the same!
3 times plus one shape change. Always for external reasons crossed with limited funds.
DeleteStarted by laying a wonky 4" grid square and eventually gave up trying to cut modular hex hills and decided to go with 4" squares.
When I resurrected my 54's, the 4" grid was too small so I went up to 6" after some experimentation but it didn't give me enough enough cells and attempts to make the table bigger interfered with using the room for all the other purposes I use it for. A 5" grid seemed a good compromise so I did one on a cloth and tested it as well as 6" and 4" ones for almost 3 years before committing to a choice.
Oops that was meant to say "started with a wonnky 4 inch hex grid"
DeleteI look forward to reading your solo wargaming posts, just what we all need at this time. I for one find solo gaming to be wonderfully diverting and imagineering too .The creation of characters and countries is great fun.
ReplyDeleteI rather envy those who can get properly into the creation, I lank the discipline to do more than flirt.
DeleteI'm also keen to read your approach to Solo games!
ReplyDeleteIt remains to be seen how well I do at communicating things that are done by habit etc
DeleteLooking forward to seeing more of this, looks like regular gaming is going to be on hold for some time to come.
ReplyDeleteUnless solo gaming is one's regular but I will miss my occasional social games in the meantime.
DeleteGreat shout Ross, I think there will be some useful posts coming out in the coming days..
ReplyDeleteCheers
Stu
On various blogs!
DeleteI will look forward to seeing that unfold. Perhaps it would also be useful to review the remote games already played, and add a little “how to” for that ...
ReplyDeleteThat is next. I need better light before I host again!
DeleteRoss, I await your solo Wargaming presentation. Solo Wargaming is a staple in my Wargaming life and look forward to a series on your approach to this fascinating approach to gaming enjoyment. Stay well!
ReplyDeleteI suspect most solo gamers develop their own ways of going about it but its always interesting to hear other approaches.
DeleteThis should be interesting...
ReplyDeleteI am looking forward to hearing your thoughts.
All the best. Aly
It'll be a challenge to make the thought intelligible to others.
DeleteHi Ross - We've postponed our next MARS 1860 and AWI games to April...in the mean time it is Model making and Figure Painting- glad to see your entertaining some more Solo Games- I've done a bit of Solo, though prefer to have an opponent friend. Cheers. KEV.
ReplyDeleteStay healthy Kev!
DeleteAlways look forward to your updates, Ross, and solo wargaming related ones would be much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteNot much if anything new but hopefully something in the posts will be of use to someone.
DeleteSo do I! And your ideas on solo wargaming will be particularly helpful, partly because I am confined home - apart from essential trips - by coronavirus and because my wife and I will be retiring to Wales fairly soon and I shall no longer be able to game regularly with my London opponents.
ReplyDeleteMay the two of you survive to enjoy a long happy retirement! If anything I find to say will be of interest for your future gaming then that's a bonus!
DeleteExcellent initiative Ross!
ReplyDeleteWe'll see...
DeleteTable looks good already, and I too look forward to your solo gaming exp[editions and Expositions!
ReplyDeleteUhoh, the PR dept may be getting me in trouble again!
Delete