Quantifying the effect of the ground

Hi there! Reading TFL rules I found some problem in quantifying the effect of ground or, in case of cavalry, the trot or similar, on the subsequent attack: Exemple One, at pag. 42, makes reference to a 20 minutes trot causing the squadron to be 'shaken' and, later, to the disadvantage to attack downhill. In wich way is it possible to quantify these conditions, in terms of Index Points? I found something in the Appendix but ....... Thanks, Paolo

I think it's a question of judgement.  That's a key difference between kriegsspiel and say a commercially-produced boardgame, where the rules attempt to cover every eventuality.

Although sometimes played for entertainment, the game was primarily designed to train junior officers in preparation for commanding larger bodies of troops later in their career.  More senior regimental officers would have been on hand to give rulings in cases where the effect was not obvious to everyone.

In your first example, a body of cavalry would obviously have been at full efficiency if they had not been exerting themselves over a significant period just prior to the charge.  And yes, somewhat counter-intuitively, a charge downhill could give rise to disorder, as it went against a horse's natural instincts and meant maintaining formation was more difficult.  

But exactly how much of a slope did there need to be before that became an issue?  In such situations, the umpire needs to give a ruling, and the players need to accept it.  The willingness of all parties to buy into this is key to running a game.  Whichever player(s) takes the role of umpire, needs to be respected by the players so that disputes are unlikely to arise.  

If you are running a game, it's a good idea to do a couple of things:

1. resolve all combat away from the players and simply report the results.  Do not give them detail on die-rolls and any adjustments

2. leave any question or discussion of umpiring decisions until the debrief.  That both means the game can continue without interruption, and any subsequent discussion can take place over tea & crumpets in an atmosphere of zen-like calmness

Hope that helps

Martin (J)

Dear Martin,
thanks for Your very appreciated and exhaustive answer! As You easily can understand, this is my first approach to this kind of game and I need to be cleansed of years of classic boardgames! Thanks again, Paolo

You're welcome Paolo

Where are you based? Are you aiming to get a group together to play? Do let us know how you get on.

Martin (J)

Dear Martin,
I live in Italy, San Vincenzo (Livorno), Tuscany, but I work in Pisa. Best, Paolo

A lovely part of the word. We had 2 weeks holiday there 20 years ago. Lucca was my favourite town, I think, with the ramparts and a fine piazza.

Good luck with your kriegsspieling. We do have some long-standing (occasional) Italian players, but I think they are all based in Rome.

Martin (J)

Yes, Lucca is a very little beautiful city. Let me know if You decide to visit this part of the world again. Best, Paolo