"Best Scenario for Testing New ACW Regimental Rules?" Topic

Let's say you want to test several different ACW rulesets, all of which hover around 1" = 25 yards ground scale.

Which historical scenario would you recommend, to play and test under each ruleset, to determine your ultimate favorite?

I think it would depend on how big of a game you want to do. How many players, and how big of a playing surface?

New Market, 1864

I would also suggest the initial Union assault on Henry House Hill at Bull Run. Mostly as Union Regiments were committed one at a time against a lone Confederate Brigade, so it should test any rules fairly well!

McPhersons Ridge – the opening rounds of Gettysburg. Low unit density, infantry, artillery, dismounted cavalry present. cover and reinforcements arriving (deployment from the march).

I would agree with Dan – Have used New Market for years to teach new players – it includes a good back story from a former Vice President to VMI, small numbers, good terrain etc

The opening stages of Bull Run at Matthew's Hill. On the Confederate side you have two well lead regiments (the Louisiana Tiger could almost be rated veteran) with artillery support deployed on a hill verses green Federal brigades with average to poor commanders arriving one at a time and having to change formation from road column. The Confederates can only last so long as fatigue, ammo loss and casualties start to take their toll so it is a good test of morale rules. Also allows for various unit and leader stats to be tested. You could throw in Terry's Rangers if you wanted to test how cavalry is handled.

Great ideas – thank you all!

Try something that has several overlapping melees. 2-3 units on one side locked into 3-4 on the other side AND many units not touching their friendly neigbor's opponent.