083 - Chattahoochie July 7 - 8 v.3
Why Should You Play This Scenario?
First off, it's not a scenario people talk about or play very much, which is fun. But more importantly this is a very amusing scenario.
For the Federals, they cannot attack the main Confederate lines with any expectation of success, so they must think outside the box. But the Federals are bad at this so that works in our favor. But for us Rebels, we need to minimize our cavalry losses while still preventing the Federals from outflanking us and isolating our whole army north of the river. Otherwise we will need to attack north with our main body to break the Federal lines.
Both sides have some thinking and strategizing to do in this one.
Although the Federals have more men and regiments, and very respectable quality, the odds to not feel overwhelming at all.
Did you know?
This is one of the few times the Confederates have more "D" rated men than do the Federals. This is mostly a result of the presence of the Georgia State Militia.
Infantry Summary
The Federals have a respectable infantry force here in this scenario. But they are without some of their most dangerous units armed with Repeating Rifles. They may still have more men, but they feel defanged in this setup being so spread out. Bring them on.
Advantage
Where is the Federal cavalry? Who cares?
Cavalry Summary
What a shame the Yankees don't have any cavalry here... what a shame... oh well!
Advantage
With twice as many movable batteries and guns, the Rebel army here has a massive advantage.
Artillery Summary
Not only is the Federal cavalry missing, but their artillery is also gone from this battle. Thanks!
Advantage
While both sides likely have enough infantry ammo for one good battle, it might be cutting it close. Therefore, with more wagons and supplies, the Rebs have the advantage.
Advantage
While the difference isn't all that great, the Confederates at least have AP Stewart in command of Polk's Corps over Loring, and still benefit from the likes of Johnston, Cleburne, and Hood in command.
Advantage
Setup
The Federal army is spread thinly from their right flank and through the center of their army. The Army of the Tennessee is dangerously separated from the Army of the Cumberland by a creek with only a few convenient crossing places in their rear. Their main power is on their left flank where Howard's veteran IV Corps is about to storm over the river against Wheeler's cavalrymen. The main action is likely to start here as Howard drives on Wheeler.
The Rebels are spread thinly also though they at least have interior lines and roads to use. Hood's Corps is nicely concentrated and represent a threat against the Union right flank when potentially used with the Georgia Militia and the cavalry nearby. Ector's Brigade represents a small reserve in the rear.
Setup Summary
The Confederate setup here is hardly ideal, but the Federals have a far worse setup. With their army divided by one creek, and a part of it headed over another river, and no interior lines, they will have a rough battle if they are not careful.
Advantage
Alright, with EVERY advantage in the game, why is this scenario one that I recommend? Because you can still royally screw this up and be defeated. This is a thinking game with numerous options which will affect everything both sides do from turn one until it finishes. It is also a unique battle and one worth playing if you ever get the chance to.
Three Tips
1) Wheeler's Losses Must be Minimized.
Wheeler's position on the right flank is precarious with a full Union corps coming right at him across the river and beyond his flank. Nothing Wheeler does will be able to repulse the Federals for very long. If you stick around and fight a heavy battle with Wheler's men, and lose 2,500 cavalrymen to the Federals 1,500 infantrymen, the end result would be a 1,400 point gain for the Federals! That would be enough to gain them a Minor Victory and put you into a world of trouble.
2) Don't Get Isolated!
You might be thinking, "why don't I just pull in my flanks and hang out in this nice pocket of embankments and abatis." You could do that. But it would be really dull. Also, more importantly, if the Federals are able to get south of the river they can block all of the river crossings behind Johnston and literally isolate your entire army! Disaster. Keep a lifeline to the south of the river open at all times.
3) Strike the Enemy Right Flank.
What else are you going to do with Jackson's cavalry division on the far left? Send them over the river and cause havoc on the Yankees. The Georgia Militia would probably be better served to move to the right and reinforce Wheeler's activities on the army's right flank.
Final Thoughts
This unique setup and challenge look to be a lot of fun. Against the right opponent this could be an exciting chess match of a game.