writes:
Struggling through the tightly packed competition area, I sighted one WWII land battle that tested my emotions between humour and disbelief. Unbelievable hordes of M3 Stuart tanks - rather resembling a large flock of sheep trying to hide from a wolf! - were cowering behind a couple of buildings. I was not sure if I should laugh or cry at such a sight. The rules appeared to be Flames of War. I'm not sure what this remarkable number of light tanks were hiding from, but it must have been particularly ferocious, as the M3's were packed in solid; side to side, and one behind the other at least three deep. Crikey! I blinked a few times and pinched myself, but it really was happening, and worst of all, I could not see any infantry trying to shepherd these obviously distressed and panicked tanks. I hope that someone stepped forward to put them down humanely and relieve their obvious collective terror, but it was too much for me and I headed to other areas. Hmmm. I can't help wondering…what were those M3's doing?
Many attempts at good game presentation were made, but it was often spoilt when an otherwise nice layout was ruined by something that was completely out of place. However, in general, I think the players did make more effort this year, and that therefore the standard of game presentation was higher than usual, so I hope it is a trend that will continue. Of course, the Ancients competition gamers might have to be dragged kicking and screaming on to better scenery, but most of the others seem to be already trying to move in that direction - so I hope they take my comments as 'constructive' criticism.
