"Battle of Prague- Final Phase" Topic

Our 7YW Campaign battle for Prague reached a decisive conclusion today. The Austrians had decided to deploy all their infantry and guns on only 2 of the 3 9x5 tables and hold all of their cavalry in reserve behind the left flank and center tables. The Prussian plan was to execute a flank march and come in on the far right of the center table. Even though the Austrians knew this was happening they chose not to respond..immediately. The Prussians took considerable time to develop such an aggressive and large (in troop numbers) flank attack. But when it did finally develop the Austrian reaction was too late. They had been turned and the Prussians were now "operating" on their exposed flank and soon rear. The Austrians ordered an immediate retreat of their infantry into Prague proper and sent all their cavalry on a forced march to join General Daun near Koniggratz. Unfortunately they lost all their artillery that had been deployed in the earthworks.

A glorious victory for Prussian and one with very few losses. But the Austrians still have 3 armies in the field and their allies are beginning to "encroach" on Prussian territory. In the end this may be a hollow victory for the Prussian king because he missed his chance to destroy a large portion of the enemy.

Their is a youtube video of the moment when the Austrians decided to…runaway! youtu.be/TxpgoAo5P8M

Incredible, all that setup and in the end no fight. Downer….

"mghFond",
If this had been a "one of" or "scenario" game I would totally agree with you about it being a…"downer" In fact I probably would have protested! But it is part of a ongoing campaign…and yes as a Prussian I was disappointed that I didn't get a chance to destroy the Austrians, but their decision was probably wise. The Austrians outnumber the Prussians 3 to 2 and add in the Russians, French, Saxons, and Imperialist (no Swedes) and the Prussians are outnumbered at least 3 to 1. So the Austrians are playing for the long term. But losing all their field artillery (second time this has happened) and being forced into Prague means that the Prussians have the strategic advantage for the moment. Also, if the Austrians lose Prague it may mean that France and/or Russia may decide to "wait" before becoming more belligerent!

And that is why I prefer campaigns!

Oh I agree with you, I love campaigns also. But if our group got together on Sat nite for a huge game, placed all those figs on the board, made battle plans, and then one side suddenly fled – it would still be a downer!

Impressive collections though, those look like actual armies.

Thank you mghFond! There is probably 2,000+ hours in all that prepping and painting! Good thing I'm retired!