Friday, July 20, 2012

Suddenly Useful Book --   

On March 28, 1990 I purchased a copy of Charles Stewart Grant's "Programmed Wargames Scenarios.   I know this because it still has the receipt in it . . . probably because prior to today I had not really looked at it because it was basically for "solo wargaming" and I play with other people.

Well, while I dohave some available opponents, I'm still tire very quickly because of my cancer surgery . . . and will probably continue to do so once the chemotherapy begins.

So, since I don't have the stamina to face a live opponent for very long (I keep having to take naps); today I started to take a good look at Grant's book.

And it looks like it will work very well.  I can see using it to play some "mini-campaigns" (two have been created using these scenarios):
 Mind you, taking over 22 years to look at this volume wasn't the smartest thing I've ever done . . . but it looks like I will finally be getting it right.

-- Jeff




9 comments:

Scottswargaming said...

Best of luck with your convalescence and enjoying a moment with oneself and 'solo gaming' as required,

Archduke Piccolo said...

I have a high opinion of C.S. Grant's scenario books, and the ideas they contain. The ones in this volume can be played between live players, as no doubt you will have discovered by now (and don't you regret not looking between the covers for 21 years...?? Tsk, tsk).

In attempting to randomise the terrain a bit - 27 possible battlefields for each scenario - and the army compositions as well, there is plenty of variety to be had, even if you play the same chapter more than once or twice...

Relax, and enjoy
Cheers,
Ion

Archduke Piccolo said...

Mind you, reading something fresh and new can be just the thing during a difficult convalescence.

Fitz-Badger said...

That book has long been one of my treasured wargame books. I have played several of the scenarios and have gotten lots of inspiration and practice at solo gaming through it. And as the Archduke says, the scenarios can be played between more than one live player. They can also be played "programmed" for both sides (might be a good way to test rules?), or a with a single player against a programmed opponent. With the latter you can play either side, so that adds even more variety.
Happy gaming and continued best wishes on your treatment and recovery!

A J said...

I'm glad to hear you're finding the energy to game, Jeff. A bit of relaxation in our hobby is just what the doctor ordered. I like Grant's books.

Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.com said...

Never too late Jeff. As some of the lads have pointed the scenarios are just as valid as 2 player (or more) games which is how I have usually played them, is just about every historical period and scale. Mostly ancients & horse & musket but many of them work for Colonial games once you translate the units (making Imperial units smaller or doubling the number of native units etc.

Great thing is you can play a turn or 2 then have a nap and some herbal tea. No rush to finish.

Enjoy & heal!
-Ross

MurdocK said...

Take the time YOU need Jeff.

though a relaxing painting afternoon/night would also be fun.

tradgardmastare said...

Enjoy the book,dream ,plan and allow yourself to get better.
best wishes
Alan

abdul666 said...

Great to see you're feeling to take the wargaming road again!
Best wishes,
Jean-Louis