42 - Nashville (Hist)
Why Should You Play This Scenario?
I really can't think of a good reason to play this if I am just being honest. Unless you have a real desire to play every possible historical battle in the Civil War series, this is a battle to just leave alone. It is hard, it isn't any fun, and you have very little maneuverability or chance of winning. Not a great combination. But it is historical so I include this guide.
Infantry Summary
There is a no point in sugar-coating it, we are in a very bad spot at Nashville.
Advantage
Cavalry Summary
Brutal. The Union cavalry is very dangerous here.
Advantage
Artillery Summary
We do have more guns here! That's something. But they are generally of poorer quality and we can't really spare the men to protect them very much.
No Advantage
The supplies for the two sides are about even and don't help either side more than the other.
No Advantage
Having better leadership won't help you much here. I am surprised we are rated so high all things considered.
No Advantage
Setup
The Federal army is spread out south of Nashville and preparing to advance against the Confederate lines. The Federals in Nashville are FIXED but they still have plenty of men to move south and engage you across a long front. The Rebel line is spread dangerously thin with no prepared defenses or reserves.
Setup Summary
With your army in a completely defenseless position, the setup here heavily favors the Union side.
Advantage
Overall, the Battle of Nashville is unlikely to end well for the Confederate army. The battle is a long two-day affair and over time the Federal army can wear you down and begin to break apart your line rather easily.
Three Tips
1) Try to Consolidate
Much easier said than done. Maybe advance a few regiments to attack the Federals and maybe buy your main line a little time to reposition somewhere else.
2) The High Ground
There is decent high ground south of the starting Confederate position. Can you reach it? Maybe. It might be worth a try.
3) Punch them Hard
Holding off the initial Union attack is another possible way you might win. If you can demoralize your opponent by giving them a bloody nose at the start, maybe they will quit on the scenario and you can gain a victory through demoralization. Some players won't play after that first big setback and will just resign.
Final Thoughts
Good luck! This scenario, at 86 turns, is a nightmare. You might defeat a poor opponent, but a quality opponent will take his time and methodically chew you up.