This past week marked a significant milestone as the Virtual Historical Wargamers Network (VHWN) launched its first network game. This after action report of the virtual tabletop session captures how a small but passionate group of historical wargaming enthusiasts from around the U.S. and Europe came together for a virtual tabletop wargame. The event marks the beginning of what promises to be a thriving community of gamers exploring historical scenarios through immersive virtual gameplay.
Background of the Virtual Historical Wargamers Network
The Virtual Historical Wargamers Network was formed to connect enthusiasts who share a passion for recreating pivotal moments from history. Our mission is to provide a platform where solo players can engage with other players in strategic gameplay, learn from one another, and build lasting friendships. Virtual tabletop gaming allows players from different locations to participate in complex historical scenarios without geographical barriers.
The First Network Game
Three network members participated in this first game: L Massimo, Marshal Davout, and PerilousBus (all Steam or Discord handles). They played the Eagles to Glory demo scenario “Eagles on the Danube” with modifications on Tabletop Simulator. The scenario included three additional Victory Positions—small villages/BUAs situated in the valley between the opposing hills. Combined with the original Victory Positions (one village on each ridge occupied by the opposing forces), this created a total of five villages, each worth 100 points if captured. Each side began with control of the village on their respective ridge.
Marshal Davout and PerilousBus co-commanded the French forces, while L Massimo commanded the Austrians. The only other major modification was removing skirmishing capabilities from the Austrian Grenadier reserves.
A Quick After Action Report of the Virtual Network Game
The Austrians had luck on their side, maintaining the initiative for the first seven turns. This allowed them to capture all three victory positions in the valley before the French could respond. Once the Austrians entrenched themselves in the villages, the French faced the challenge of pushing them out.
On the Austrian left, French cavalry successfully immobilized the center Austrian division. Forced into squares, the Austrians couldn’t capitalize on their early gains. The French pushed the Austrians out of the center village and the village at the stream crossing—only to watch the Austrians reclaim both positions on their next initiative roll. Meanwhile, the village on the Austrian right remained firmly in the hands of the formidable Grenadier Reserve division.
However, the ambitious French cavalry threw themselves at the Austrian center division’s artillery and were gradually worn down over several turns. Their losses created a hole in the French right center that the Austrians began to exploit.
By the end of the eighth turn, the French recognized they needed to pull back their right flank to protect their line of communication. By mutual agreement, the game was called with the Austrians earning 600 victory points (positions plus enemy losses) and the French earning 530 points—a minor Allied victory.
Looking Ahead: Future Network Games
This game helped us learn Discord Voice and explore features of the Tabletop Simulator multiplayer platform. The session lasted about three hours, though we expect to play faster as we gain experience with the tools and rules.
Eagles to Glory (EtG) is an excellent grand tactical wargame that enables fast-paced play. While the network will explore other historical rule sets, EtG will likely become a core game for the group.
We plan to host at least one gaming session each week—sometimes two. There’s plenty of action ahead for current and future members. So, if you have not joined the (Free) Network, click here to learn more and sign up!
