Lead Adventure Forum
Miniatures Adventure => VSF Adventures => Topic started by: flatpack on January 03, 2025, 08:49:51 AM
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After putting off VSF and Steampunk for several decades, a couple of years ago, I thought I’ll see what figures are out there ?
I was surprised that I couldn’t find many companies making them, but after looking into the subject, I’ve come to the conclusion that I may of missed the boat ?
I’d attend shows and see very little VSF items.
Then I discovered Ironclad miniatures and their very nice VSF/Steampunk range of figures.
As I went to more shows, I’d pick up a few more of their figures and maybe a couple of their steam contraptions.
Then I noticed Blotz selling VSF flying machines.
“They’ll be handy” I thought, so once again, if Blotz were at a show, I’d pick up a couple of their vsf flying machines.
Well over about a 2 -3 year period, my collection of VSF has grown.
But what rules are out there ?
We, as a group, really enjoy Fistful of Lead rules by Wiley games, as they have a nice FUN element to them.
So when I read that FFOL were about to launch their own VSF rules, called Glorious adventures in the age of steam, I was on it.
This weekend sees the first installment of our GAAS games.
This is the culmination of those years, collecting and painting my VSF figures.
I’m sure we can have some fun.
Here are a few pictures of items I’ve collected, and I’ll report back with an AAR.
Wish us luck lol
(https://i.postimg.cc/dtMf8pYm/IMG-6474.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Z0cjmf0C)
Prussian armored troops.
(https://i.postimg.cc/dVjgQBgR/IMG-6506.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JstpPbrt)
One wheel recon lol
(https://i.postimg.cc/fbg2kgCd/IMG-6470.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WDg6H8Qp)
The metal men
(https://i.postimg.cc/ZnyHFQQv/IMG-8336.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jntyRMtR)
Armored steam support
(https://i.postimg.cc/nV5WcrSg/IMG-8500.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/t73kBqjN)
A Walker on the prowl.
(https://i.postimg.cc/pXF69vgT/IMG-8505.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/LnmT7c4K)
British airborne Guards and naval detachment.
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I’m not into VSF but it’s interesting to read about and your project looks very l interesting. I look forward to seeing more. What you’ve done so far looks great.
Doug
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Looking forward to the game Bob.
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Exciting stuff Bod, looking forward to tomorrow. I know what you mean about Ironclad, I have a soft spot for their martians.
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I have a soft spot for their martians.
Could that be because they have an Ottoman vibe? lol
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Westphalia is NOT an option!
Upon the tiny Mediterranean island of Campo Alto (Highfield) an ancient Henge has revealed the secret
it has kept for millennia. Beneath the trio of standing stones lies a store of the legendary Resuscitatio Lapidis,
(Raising stone), now vital for the construction of Airships & various War Machines.
The race is on to secure the island & therefore the ore.
A small French force holds the nearby village of Caeruleum (Sky Blue). A telegraph to their Entente Cordial allies
(the British) has resulted in HMS Triumph steaming towards the Isle.
The pressing problem however is a contingent of German (Westphalian) troops, who, with typical Prussian efficiency,
are preparing to gain control of the ore. In fact some of their troops have already landed.
Let battle commence!
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Not sure what you're asking luck wishes for...
You certainly seem to have it well in hand!
Having the ruleset myself, though no opponents with whom to give it a go, I shall be eagerly waiting dispatches. Everything read looks straight forward so far, but middling inconsistencies become glaring on the table.
To the glory of Westphalia!
Doug
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Nice selection of VSF figures and equipment, I look forward to seeing them in action.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again now, Ironclad miniatures are the makers of my favourite VSF miniatures and accessories!
😁
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Yesterday saw our first battle using FFOL GAAS rules.
5 players.
Great fun had by all.
Mission - secure the ancient stone circle on the tiny Mediterranean island of Campo Alto
Why - Beneath the stones lies a store of legendary Resuscitatio Lapidis (rising stone) now vital for the construction of airships and various war machines.
French force - Lt Beau Gest (young Sam)
Your orders are to stop the Germans getting past you in the village.
You have few troops, but as you have had a little time you have prepared a few surprises for’Les Boche’.
British flying corps - Simon Cloudshovel , Commander Royal Navy (James)
Your command is the first ashore as always :o
You MUST rush to the aid of the French.
The Boche must NOT get ore.
British follow up force - Lt. Marius Argent (Me, Flatpack)
Your mission is to gain control of the ancient henge, and thereby the ore.
German assault force -Rudolf Arndt (Dave)
You are to lead the German assault.
The French (and their allies) are NOT to gain control of the island.
WESTPHALIA IS NOT AN OPTION.
German second wave - Hermann Von Alvensleben (has.been)
You are in charge of the second wave of German troops.
Rudolf(that arrogant Prussian) has been given the honour ( and all the airships !) to lead the attack.
Your main aim is to take the town.
Try to keep your loses down if possible.
The battle site.
The calm before the gas storm.
(https://i.postimg.cc/LXFRP77z/IMG-8497.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Ffp25PhR)
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Initial moves saw the Germans appearing from the top edge of the table.
French forces did well, fighting them off in the village.
(https://i.postimg.cc/6qQrfH4Q/IMG-8522.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/5YZQxS3c)
French defenders at the ready.
(https://i.postimg.cc/bvQ9ySjq/IMG-8523.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/KK8MQzzW)
German initial deployment.
(https://i.postimg.cc/m2t3c5GX/IMG-8529.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/N5v2SbFm)
French metal monster redeploys.
(https://i.postimg.cc/KvwPtDGZ/IMG-8528.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/fJ7SNXSF)
German flying forces attack the village.
(https://i.postimg.cc/JnpJ0bYC/IMG-8530.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/bD2dF2jm)
British naval flying force arrive to reinforce the village.
(https://i.postimg.cc/W3Ngs9n7/IMG-8532.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/1gdfHrbg)
British naval flying force deploys a little early, just before the village.
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(https://i.postimg.cc/CLBDMnj9/IMG-8537.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MvwXdT3Y)
German flying forces attack the French metal monster.
(https://i.postimg.cc/tCK6sRkJ/IMG-8538.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/LnV57prF)
More German airborne forces attack the village.
(https://i.postimg.cc/tTcT8DmJ/IMG-8553.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/8JhN6dGg)
French forces fought valiantly to hold the village.
(https://i.postimg.cc/BQHTc1XH/IMG-8558.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/3dr03Njx)
Even downing a German flyer.
(https://i.postimg.cc/FRwS09vT/IMG-8561.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jwQCbYLf)
The battle rages in the village.
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(https://i.postimg.cc/tgyVzrLH/IMG-8541.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ZW7RbLbf)
British steam tank arrives.
(https://i.postimg.cc/G3N8f3ZK/IMG-8546.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/23QSbYjL)
British forces advance on the stones and village.
(https://i.postimg.cc/vHVgwFys/IMG-8547.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/kB7XWHD1)
British naval officer advances at speed towards the village.
Pity his troops didn’t do the same :o
(https://i.postimg.cc/C155v979/IMG-8551.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MMkzHPhY)
British Walker secures the stone circle.
(https://i.postimg.cc/3wSmJXc5/IMG-8560.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/d7CL5yF4)
British flying machine downed. How did that happen ?
(https://i.postimg.cc/J0Bn8J9q/IMG-8554.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/zH85SLDb)
Stone circle successfully held by British troops.
German troops nowhere near it.
Well done French boys.
Outcome - Allied victory.
Stone circle held.
Village still held by French forces.
Germans get a bloodied nose.
Great game, played in exactly the right spirit.
Good, fun rules, and easy to use.
Pete, thanks for umpiring - GREAT JOB.
Unfortunately one of our number (John Cunningham, the elephant chaser) couldn’t be with us as he’s in hospital but we sent him thro this photo of old men wearing silly hats, to try to brighten his day.
(https://i.postimg.cc/SxVzDLq2/IMG-8569.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jDw5j7Dt)
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As Bob has said, great fun.
Time to add my pictures, despite being German, very little from the German viewpoint.
Well it was at the other end of the table & my chair was the comfortable one. lol
8583 = The French Armoured Walker. The best looking thing on the table ;)
And the ONLY thing I provided. EVERTHING else was from Flatpack (AKA Bob)
Well done Bob.
8585 = "Zer iz sumzing wrung wiz le carboretta!"
8586 = Sam (French & on the left). Dave (German & on the far right) :D
8587 = James, the Navy is here!
8588 = Bob, our very generous host & purveyor of fine butties (sausage & bacon) with hash browns.
8589 = Yours truly. Not looking happy, but this was before the butties. :D
8590 & 8591 = The Royal Navy sail in.
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The British advance.
8592 = The Guards glide in serenely, as befits their superior status. :D
8593 = The impressive HMLS (Her Majesty's Land Ship)
8594 = The Heavy Armoured Walker
8595 = The Sailors land (Well short of their French Allies in the village)
8596 = The Guards look down upon the Navy. No big surprise there. :D
8597 = The impressive British force gets to the Henge...& stays there!!!!
Despite frequent pleas from the French they advance no further.
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Meanwhile there was lots of fighting at the village.
This was Sam (French) against Dave (1st wave Germans)
I, as 2nd wave Germans, did...bugger all. By the time I'd footslogged to the village it was all over!
8598 = One of the German Air Ships (SMS Seigfried) bombs the French.
8599 & 8600 = But come under VERY effective anti-aircraft fire, mainly from the Chasseur
D'Afrique armed with the latest repeating carbines.
8601 = Disaster for the British!!!!
While Bob nipped off to put the sausages, bacon & hash browns on, James tried
to restoke the engines on the Guard's ship. several unlucky dice later it fell from
the skies. :o :o :o (French comment at this point, ' The ONLY British casualties
are due to their own incompetence!)
8602 = The other German Airship, SMS Beowulf, tries to build up steam to ram & board
the last remaining British Aircraft.
A bit about the rules.
1) We all had fun, this was despite steam machinery not being very reliable. Or maybe
because of that? :D
2) Anyone familiar with any of the Fist Full of Lead stable of games will have no trouble
playing these rules.
3) Most of the work is involved in the set up, so as I did that any errors were mine.
4) There are THREE sets of rules in GAAS.
Skirmish, battle i.e. units & Airship v Airship.
We were playing 'Big battles' i.e. the unit based version.
Not helped by the rules for Aircraft are not in that section. I modified some parts
of the Airship v Airship rules, but as Wiley games frequently point out their rules
are a 'Sandbox' for gamers to mess about with. That we will. I already have plans
(& am gathering figures for) Barsoom (Mars). :)
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Thanks so much to all for sharing!
I will say Dave's delight at young Sam's predicament is not quite up to old school...
Okay, you all look young to me. lol
I would like to hear more about how you brought the air craft into play. Bombing sounds as problematic as I assumed, which matches my pontificating elsewhere.
More, more, more!
Doug
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Now for the glorious French explanation of how the battle unfolded.
In short for those who don't like reading:
French: Glorious.
1st lot of British: Incompetent Cowards.
2nd lot of British: Cowards.
1st lot of Prussians: Nasty bastards but stood no chance against French steel.
2nd lot of Prussians: Cowards and Nasty bastards.
Now for the more developed report for the French gvt. and a nice promotion for Lieutenant Beau Gueste.
The town, I am stealing Bob's picture as I forgot to take one. The French were told to fortify the town and ambush the Prussians, do not let the Casque a pointe through. The belief was, providing the French can hold out long enough, the British will come and re-enforce them. HUH!
(https://i.postimg.cc/LXFRP77z/IMG-8497.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Ffp25PhR)
The French decided to lay out some booby traps for La Boche to have to deal with, hopefully slowing them down and allowing them to be ambushed by French units. Lieutenant Beau Gueste, due to the small but mighty size of the French force, decided to use the booby traps to slow down the Prussians and hinder attempts at flanking the town. The French force was really to small to defend effectively all areas of the town, it was there decided to place all units hidden around the main road, with one unit of French line defending a barricade designed to stop the Prussians cutting through the countryside in a direct path to the stones.
Booby traps were set up in front of the main road between the two houses. One in the vineyard across the opposite side of the road to the village. One at the far side of the village by the wheatfield, and one in the door way of the high wall to the left. A cunning trap except the Prussians did not move their infantry close enough to actually spring one! Damn these slow moving Teutons. The two other french units hid in buildings. One in the second story building, the other in the building across the road.
(https://i.postimg.cc/pXmBcPXB/VSF-La-Boche-040125-2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mtGMtf9c)
You can see the defence position of the French here with support of the Steam Scarab!
On come the Prussians!
(https://i.postimg.cc/W48rby13/VSF-La-Boche-040125-3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/sBB1TwSd)
Sacrebleu! The Prussians have decided to come on in the direct of the only French week spot, no booby trap or infantry unit to hold them. Lieutenant Beau Gueste keeps his nerves, despite the rumours he had a massive panic that he was about to be outflanked and outgunned to begin with.
(https://i.postimg.cc/jj1NBFqJ/VSF-La-Boche-040125-4.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JybGkKk1)
The full Prussian force emerges to the North, however the unpredictability of the steam aircraft causes major breakdowns for the Prussians, providing valuable time for the French to start moving the Scarab to take on the steamcraft. For those interested in the rules, every time a steam contraptions wants to move it must be stoked by rolling a dice, if this fails the role get progressively harder. Aircraft also loose height each time they fail, meaning there's a posibility of crashing.
(https://i.postimg.cc/rwmDcNPG/VSF-La-Boche-040125-5.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/3ds8Fm7W)
The Scarab starts to reposition itself to take on the Prussian steamcraft, but also fails to stoke its engine, therefore slowing it down significantly.
(https://i.postimg.cc/rwmDcNPG/VSF-La-Boche-040125-5.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/3ds8Fm7W)
I decide to spring one of my hidden units, out comes my dismounted *cough cough insert Frenchie name I've forgot cough cough*. They decide to unload their magazines in an attempt to blast the Prussians to hell and back. All miss bar one. Burst fire means for each hit any figure within three inches of said figure may be hit and BANG!
Now you see them.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Vkdk2LJD/VSF-La-Boche-040125-7.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0z1vwvdw)
Now you don't
(https://i.postimg.cc/Vkdk2LJD/VSF-La-Boche-040125-7.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0z1vwvdw)
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Huzzah! That first volley of fire was tremendous! Killing all but two of the dark blue pain. The other two were so shocked they dare not do anything!
However the second steam ship with Prussian sailors decides to retaliate, wounding one of the heroes of the Empire!
(https://i.postimg.cc/hPGD7P1c/VSF-La-Boche-040125-9.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Btd9r3zV)
Now the Prussians are wanting blood as revenge, as the dismounted cavalry scramble to get back in doors the airship looms above them getting ready to bomb the building. Quick! Something muse be done!
(https://i.postimg.cc/DfpVHQ13/VSF-La-Boche-040125-11.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/V5tHbC7K)
Queue ads proudly sponsored by the British Empire, as you can see from the picture, the British are still doing nothing. Ads break ends.
(https://i.postimg.cc/bv9WT1qM/VSF-La-Boche-040125-12.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/nsM3VjjY)
The second hidden French unit, this time of sailors, pops out of there building and lays fire into the Prussian aircraft, causing it to retreat. Huzzah! No bombs dropped here today!
(https://i.postimg.cc/zvVQ8MTZ/VSF-La-Boche-040125-13.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JHCxQpTP)
The pushed back aircraft, undeterred rallies itself to attempt to assault the French again.
(https://i.postimg.cc/3w1fp7BQ/VSF-La-Boche-040125-14.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Y44xK5Zd)
In she comes, with heavy fire down on the sailors.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Rh6gjtzv/VSF-La-Boche-040125-15.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/XBWK5pJP)
What will happen next, a bombing of the poor French? the disintegration of the line? Find out after this ad break.
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Oh look the ad is once again sponsored by the British Empire, still doing nothing.
(https://i.postimg.cc/rsrv53sG/VSF-La-Boche-040125-16.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/XBnHb2wX)
Ad break ends and we're back with the French! The sailors have taken heavy casualties, the Prussians seeing this decide to move along and attempt to bomb the French line behind the barricade.
(https://i.postimg.cc/WpkKYRpg/VSF-La-Boche-040125-17.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JtRPt2kz)
Kaboom! The bombs are dropped... however they miss the French line and hit the barricade instead. Thank God! Not wanting to stand around for another load of bombs the French start to fall back, hoping to make it the olive grove fields behind in order to set up a new defensive line. The sailors retreat into the building, taking shelter and attempting to recompose themselves.
(https://i.postimg.cc/sXRSVZSV/VSF-La-Boche-040125-18.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/cKX6hCXj)
Kablam! By the luck of the Emperor! The scarab managed to stoke its engine and fire it's cannon, bringing down the dastardly Prussian aircraft, killing many of the sailors onboard.
(https://i.postimg.cc/sXRSVZSV/VSF-La-Boche-040125-18.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/cKX6hCXj)
Cheers from the French line are heard as they decide to take up a new defensive position within the town preparing for Prussian infantry on foot to attack. Hopefully the booby traps will come into play now!
(https://i.postimg.cc/rFvpX25T/VSF-La-Boche-040125-19.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/3dFhm6Lf)
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Another Brit sponsored ad break. Oh, look! They crashed there own ship! Sacrebleu!
(https://i.postimg.cc/rpTFsGhY/VSF-La-Boche-040125-20.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/75ByQzrg)
Ad break ends!
The Brits now decide to set one of their aircraft bombers, without infantry support in it, directly into the French line! Huh! There is no need, the real Britons have beat La Boche back already!
(https://i.postimg.cc/cH4xMxGR/VSF-La-Boche-040125-21.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/DWH37KZ0)
Now the Prussians, take a last ditch attempt to interact the British steam bomber, Frenchies to the rescue with the scarab to help defend it.
(https://i.postimg.cc/J7FrZC6X/VSF-La-Boche-040125-22.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Z0rzz2hY)
That is where we called the game. Lieutenant Beau Geste will be a Marshal of the Empire and Prince of Mars in no time!
Thank you Bob for organising the game, painting figures and serving good food.
Thank you Peter for umpiring and inventing the scenario, and Dave and James for playing along.
Good fun all round.
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Sorry haven't been able to put my pics up yet.
As the commander of the first British contingent all I have to say is that if my conduct annoyed the French I must have done something right and acted in the best interests of Her Majesty !
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Well as commander of the British force that secured the ancient stone circle, I would like to congratulate our French allies, in holding off the enemy, and point out if they ever need our help again, they can always contact us through our embassy in Paris, although we might be out for tea lol lol
(https://i.postimg.cc/6qTgszmB/IMG-8319.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/305nmjhq)
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Well as commander of the British force that secured the ancient stone circle, I would like to congratulate our French allies, in holding off the enemy, and point out if they ever need our help again, they can always contact us through our embassy in Paris, although we might be out for tea lol lol
(https://i.postimg.cc/6qTgszmB/IMG-8319.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/305nmjhq)
I am not sure of Monsieur Lieutenant (Captain?) Geste's comments concerning the advisability of making such a request, though I suspect the entertainment of unassisted British crash would mitigate same.
Failed Stoke at low height?
Was there something else going on with the Brit forces I am missing?
Cracking good vicarious thrill I am enjoying!
Doug
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Great looking game! One of my favorite genres!
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I am not sure of Monsieur Lieutenant (Captain?) Geste's comments concerning the advisability of making such a request, though I suspect the entertainment of unassisted British crash would mitigate same.
Failed Stoke at low height?
Was there something else going on with the Brit forces I am missing?
Cracking good vicarious thrill I am enjoying!
Doug
The two British forces, had two different objectives.
The first force, was to come on and support the French, by holding the town.
That didn’t happen as the commander of the first British force, put down in a field far too early and was going to have to walk his troops in.
I guess his Victorian Sat Nav failed ? lol
The second British force (commanded by myself), was tasked with securing the ancient stone circle, as some mysterious “lifting” power had been found below the stones.
This would be very handy to support our modern flying machines.
This task, I’m proud to say, was achieved by my glorious lads :D
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Great looking game! One of my favorite genres!
It’s all new to me (as I seemed to have avoided it for about 40 yrs), but I’m finding it great fun.
I think it’s like most games. If it’s played with the right people, in the right spirit, it works :)
Ps the rules do help lol
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I'm glad everyone had fun. Can't wait to see more.
But now for Wiley Games public service announcement
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I'm glad everyone had fun. Can't wait to see more.
But now for Wiley Games public service announcement
Yeah, I think we're stuck with the acronym. I think I have added Fine or Fantastic at the front to make it fit.
Either that, or French Foreign of Legion...
Doug
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Rightttt…it’s FOL and not FFOL.
Cheers Baron.
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Great looking game - and a set of rules that seems to encourage playing with whatever contraptions you care to knock up. Now who do I know that can produce interesting things out of stuff most folks throw away?
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Great looking game - and a set of rules that seems to encourage playing with whatever contraptions you care to knock up. Now who do I know that can produce interesting things out of stuff most folks throw away?
You have just “pinged up” on has.been’s radar lol lol
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And may I point out said 'RADAR' was made from three squeezy bottles,
some sticky backed plastic and pair of Val's old knickers!.
lol lol lol
I am planning to build up a Barsoom set:-
Figures, Hichcliffe's are available again. :)
Scenery & vehicles I hope to build.
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Are Val’s old knickers still available on eBay then ? lol lol
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If you know where to look. lol
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Yesterday we played our second game using FOL Glorious battles in the Age of Steam rules.
Great fun was had ….. as is the norm with these rules lol
The annual Antwerp arms fair was always popular, as steam powered weapons of mass destruction were demonstrated, along with other minor contraptions.
The stokers were always out early, to get the steam up.
Because as we all know, no steam = no show.
Prof Snapoffsky and his steam laser was the star of the show.
His demonstrations were always well attended and many of the European superpowers had taken note of his latest technology.
Unfortunately after a minor issue at the end of his demonstration, the Steam laser had failed and he was now waiting for his support team to arrive, to transport the laser back to Serbia.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Twpr32zJ/IMG-0436.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/wyYtWzT1)
The yellow marker just shows it as an objective for the game.
So with a potential weapon of mass destruction stuck in a field in Belgium, forces from Britain, France, and Prussia were dispatched to see if they could persuade the prof to come home with them (with his kit of course lol)
This game set forces against each other.
The game lasted for 8 moves.
There were 2 objectives on the table.
The Steam laser gun and its power unit.
Laser gun in the field and power unit in the nearby town.
At the end of each of the 8 moves, whoever’s forces were closed to the objections gained a point.
The side with the most points at the end of the game was the winner.
(https://i.postimg.cc/0N5Yh0Z3/IMG-0432.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/k2ZRb80F)
Second objective, the Steam lasers power unit, in these crates.
I played the role of the British commander - Lt Simon Cloudshovel.
Dastardly forces from France (has.been) and Prussia (James) will I’m sure add their own reports here soon.
I headed my guard unit into the town to find the power supply.
(https://i.postimg.cc/gcT3V2B9/IMG-0480.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Z069Z4Sj)
I supported the guards unit, with my regular Warwickshire regiment.
(https://i.postimg.cc/x8cHww8F/IMG-0481.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ZvzC3Drr)
My naval boys easily got to the prof and started to persuade him to become a British citizen lol.
(https://i.postimg.cc/4xCt0FgB/IMG-0484.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hfrfzshd)
My Walker and armour also supported the naval party.
(https://i.postimg.cc/sXn70jjh/IMG-0483.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/njDXXtQF)
The prof and his kit were secure.
(https://i.postimg.cc/s1CXTqhW/IMG-0489.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/kRwq4jwM)
The naval party is here to help lol
Turning my attention to the town, I was aware of some French cavalry entering the town from the south.
(https://i.postimg.cc/G3HMY2xY/IMG-0486.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/c6GMGdj4)
(https://i.postimg.cc/fTdB2rFR/IMG-0487.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/HVpwjBdq)
Prussian forces were also entering the town, but from the east.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Kcw0520W/IMG-0488.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/5j55xZd5)
My boys were still trying to get into the town from the western side.
(https://i.postimg.cc/P5zKh8dG/IMG-0491.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Xrq9kqZx)
French naval chaps now encountered the Prussians and started having a right go at each other.
(https://i.postimg.cc/mrLjr2rP/IMG-0493.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/K1WBqbBb)
French forces took a pounding from the Prussians and had to fall back, away from the town.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ncqGYQjs/IMG-0496.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PPrDdJMh)
Now my regulars were in the town, and nearing the objective of capturing he player unit, only for pesky Prussians to appear in the town square.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Ls8kpCyf/IMG-0500.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/qNW6cLHM)
Luckily I cut them down with my volley fire.
The battle on the eastern side between the Prussians and French ensued.
(https://i.postimg.cc/wvthttYj/IMG-0501.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/5YVHT2th)
They even ended up in hand to hand combat. I say how very common what !
(https://i.postimg.cc/VvnnR36y/IMG-0504.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/gLcxct84)
So…in conclusion, a resounding victory for my fine British forces.
We had complete control of the Prof and his steam laser, and were able to secure his power supply too.
A great game, played in the right spirt.
Many thanks to Pete for umpiring, and James for being a willing target lol.
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The gallant Chasseur D'Afrique trot down the road to the targeted town. Birds are singing, it is a lovely day.
Life is good, what could go wrong? ;)
(https://i.postimg.cc/d3cq32p6/IMG-20250510-104336.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JDKwdk1H)
To the cavalry's right the sailors offer support.
(https://i.postimg.cc/jdKxrhzd/IMG-20250510-104351.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Th7MVg7Z)
To their left are the line infantry & the intimidating outline of the...Scarab.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ry5VbHRP/IMG-20250510-104358.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/1451VJHG)
The British Guards meanwhile march in perfect unison towards the town.
(https://i.postimg.cc/X78VNy8K/IMG-20250510-111231.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/tYs02J87)
The Warwickshire regiment ... less so. :D
(https://i.postimg.cc/HkvdXDFV/IMG-20250510-111239.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JsXfCgrL)
Their Sailors sneakily prepare to put the Professor, 'In the bag'
7(https://i.postimg.cc/jjWKh3rv/IMG-20250510-111248-PORTRAIT.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/kVdkJcGt)
My manifique troopers come in sight of the Professor's power units.
(https://i.postimg.cc/d0zFNRsF/IMG-20250510-112224.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/TyqBpD5N)
Prussian treachery!!!! :o My peaceful scout (the 'Poacher' Monowheel) is attacked & blown up. :'(
(https://i.postimg.cc/tTWjK1Jx/IMG-20250510-113257.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/HcYR5kQY)
Here we see the guilty heavy booted Germanic horde! >:(
(https://i.postimg.cc/qqGd798B/IMG-20250510-113613.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/5Qjr7K7D)
Lurking in the woods too.
(https://i.postimg.cc/pVQvkngN/IMG-20250510-113622.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/QVMvdV8S)
The Cavalry are almost there! :)
(https://i.postimg.cc/prvHR251/IMG-20250510-113653.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/R6g8TxRc)
Meanwhile the line Infantry 'discourage' the British Guards from entering the town.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Dy2TNwTS/IMG-20250510-114710.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mh6JzRh4)
In retaliation to Prussian brutality (Shooting down the Chasseur D'Afrique) not to mention animal cruelty(all those poor horses :'( :'( :'()
We butcher the butchers. >:D
(https://i.postimg.cc/MKdSJJ6d/IMG-20250510-132808.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dLkXGXTy)
As it turned out it was an out & out British win, but that in no way diminished a very enjoyable game.
The food ( Sausage & Bacon Butties with hash Browns ) brought to mind our recently lost buddy John, who always funded such tuck.
Thanks to Bob (aka Flatpack) for the nice terrain, lovely British & Prussian figures & cooking the food.
Also to the nefarious Prussian, James (aka Vodkafan) always a jovial opponent.
Nice day, fun, pretty game & good buddies. A game played in the right spirit & food too. Can't ask for more.
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Looks like a fun game!
I did think the French had a big advantage from this photo - but clearly not as deadly as it looks!
(https://i.postimg.cc/ry5VbHRP/IMG-20250510-104358.jpg)
Glad you were able to pay a little tribute to your passed friend.
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That's the French, style first, effectiveness second.
Having said that the Scarab did wipe out the entire British Automaton Unit...
all six of them. lol lol lol
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Hello there from 1870 Prussia! Expeditionfuhrer Hermann Von Alvensleben (deceased) here to impart the Prussian view of events. It is really very interesting to see the action photos from the other two sides of the table. You have already seen the layout of the land and the two objectives so I will waste no time explaining those!
(https://i.postimg.cc/LsF6c8BM/IMG-20250510-104813.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/0NG2P1cK/IMG-20250510-104822.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/4NrJcx0h/IMG-20250510-104845.jpg)
The Prussian forces at the edge of the table : two well drilled infantry units, a truppe of elite Jagers (accompanied by myself in the white feldbluse), an armoured car, mechanical walker and across the stream a unit of Luftjager men in rocket packs.
I had high hopes for these last. I intended to send them ahead at great speed to secure the objective away from the town, the Professor and his Doom Ray. They were the first unit on the table to activate but suddenly half the unit exploded on take off!
(https://i.postimg.cc/XYdnk0M1/IMG-20250510-105352.jpg)
The survivors flew on leaving the charred bodies of the comrades behind.
All other units advanced, slowly at first.
(https://i.postimg.cc/YCKH9y46/IMG-20250510-105959.jpg)
On my far left flank, one infantry truppe were attacked by a fast moving French contrivance. They knocked it out with a volley of rifle fire, but then considered it prudent to hide in the woods, halting the advance here.
(https://i.postimg.cc/prjPcNhd/IMG-20250510-113633.jpg)
As the turn ended,with dismay we saw a company of French Chasseurs on the way into the town as if on a parade.
(https://i.postimg.cc/52V2GtmW/IMG-20250510-112944.jpg)
At the start of the second turn disaster struck the Luftjager once again as another trooper's rocket pack exploded . The two survivors landed in sight of the objective
(https://i.postimg.cc/jqD2nmjm/IMG-20250510-112302.jpg)
but were wiped out by machine gun fire from a British steam tank.
(https://i.postimg.cc/0N52kH3t/IMG-20250510-112952.jpg)
They lived long enough to see a section of British Sailors take the objective; from now on allowing the British to collect Victory points every turn.
To dislodge them I sent the Prussian Walker Henning, (the Luftjagers intended support force, armed with two Bismark Lances) but it would take two more turns to get there.
(https://i.postimg.cc/y8Q2RQxp/IMG-20250510-113930.jpg)
In the centre I pushed my units hard at the double to reach the town.
(https://i.postimg.cc/8PwY8KRk/IMG-20250510-113934.jpg)
In the meantime my armoured car Gerta, experienced stoking problems and failed to move, allowing the French cavalry an unmolested ride into the town.
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Nice to see some of my old Franco Prussian collection in action. :)
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Turn 3 one schutzen unit and the jagers reached the outskirts of town but that's all they could do.
(https://i.postimg.cc/JhHYkR9t/IMG-20250510-120920.jpg)
Gerta the armoured car got it's steam up again, advanced forward and gave the French Chasseurs a deserved hosing of good Prussian Maxim bullets. When the smoke from the MG cleared only half the Chasseurs were left, their jollity ended for the day.
(https://i.postimg.cc/zGcPvy29/IMG-20250510-120915.jpg)
The 9th schutzen battalion, ashamed of their earlier timidness, elected to rush out of the woods at the double into open ground.
(https://i.postimg.cc/prjPcNhd/IMG-20250510-113633.jpg)
Prussian Walker Henning reached half way to the Northern objective, stepping over bridges and walls with ease. The operator decided to use one of it's two deadly Bismark Lances, basically an unguided rocket. The British sailors a mile away watched with amusement as the missile sailed harmlessly way over their heads.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ZKfws9mC/IMG-20250510-121753.jpg)
Then the sailors made tea and sat down to watch as two British heavy machines hove into view. The British steam engineering proved reliable but their shooting initially was not, they both missed this turn. The sailors tugged their beards- this would be a battle of metal behemoths right in front of them!
Turn 4 The distance between the mighty war machines reduced- three quarters of a mile, now half a mile... my walker had one Bismark Lance left.
(https://i.postimg.cc/43K4Hhft/IMG-20250510-124419.jpg)
With no choice but to now ignore the sailors and combat the new threat, he aimed squarely at the large British steam tank, released the rocket in a flash of sparks. His missile bounced off the armour plate. A burst of twin machine guns from the British walker riddled the Prussian driver who slumped lifeless. For a minute the walker carried on walking but the cannon of Her Majesty's steam tank scored a direct hit with terrible noise of tortured metal and the Prussian Walker finally halted, wreathed in flames and black smoke.
Despite this complete loss of Prussian hopes for that objective, things looked good in the town. My command figures (including myself) had caught up and attached to the infantry units and were poised to enter the town. my armoured car fired again and swept away the remainder of the French cavalry. But then things started to go wrong.
the 9th Schutzen battalion was out in the open. it started to receive fire from a deadly French sniper who never missed! a short rang out and a man fell.
(https://i.postimg.cc/RFD0bQgg/IMG-20250510-122640.jpg)
Then suddenly to their front a unit of vengeful French matelots appeared and the 9th Schutzen were caught in a murderous crossfire.
(https://i.postimg.cc/SQH6nWmL/IMG-20250510-123340.jpg)
Casualties and shock started to mount.
turn 5 I had intended to use the 18th Schutzen battalion to rush into the town and take the objective in the square but now instead I had to move to the aid of the hapless 9th. The unit moved to the stone wall and shot off a devastating volley which drove off the French sailors with a huge amount of shock and a couple of casualties.
(https://i.postimg.cc/zGrTj8bV/IMG-20250510-123652.jpg)
Meanwhile units of British troops were starting to enter the town from the West. Grenadier Guards were coming through the archway!
(https://i.postimg.cc/GtvH8Tjz/IMG-20250510-124101.jpg)
With myself, Von Alvensleben at their head, my Elite Jagers rushed into the town square and gunned down the Grenadiers, forcing the rest to retreat.
(https://i.postimg.cc/T31fBWWS/IMG-20250510-130519.jpg)
Our victory was to be shortlived. The disciplined Guards rallied and regrouped the same turn. A second British unit of the Warwickshire Regiment appeared and caught us reloading, I was the first to fall, killed instantly by a bullet through my Picklehaube.
The next turn the Guards also returned and between the two British units they wiped out all the Jagers.
(https://i.postimg.cc/vBMjFpNB/IMG-20250510-133443.jpg)
The last turn.
The French sailors reappeared having gone around into the woods and were firing accurately from cover.
(https://i.postimg.cc/6qzxm96t/IMG-20250510-130755.jpg) The 9th, still out in the open, desperately ran to the break in the stone walls, and was pinned there still taking casualties and shock which prevented the armoured car from firing it's Maxim gun (with it's own troops blocking the field of fire.)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Nf030vf2/IMG-20250510-130837.jpg)
A new French threat appeared on the road, a strong unit of Zouaves.
(https://i.postimg.cc/0jXHSr2M/IMG-20250510-133728.jpg)
The 18th schutzen fired and drove them back. They regrouped and kept coming. The Prussians meleed and won and drove them back.
(https://i.postimg.cc/kXDHmNfx/IMG-20250510-134516.jpg)
But the Prussian infantry was also receiving fire from the British arriving into town from behind.
It was the end.
(https://i.postimg.cc/fyy8MZjw/IMG-20250510-134754.jpg)
Many thanks to flatpack and has,been for letting me play in the shed, the beers and bacon butties and not least the high excitement and laughs.
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Nice to see some of my old Franco Prussian collection in action. :)
Yes Ian, they made it to the table and we had an enjoyable game.
Looks like the Prussians I paint, just fall from the sky unfortunately lol
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Looks like a great fun.
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Looks like a great fun.
Well, you have got to take some of the blame for that. lol
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Nice AAR, looks like a fun one.
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Good looking game. Glad you all had a good day out.
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Devotee of small water, can you share which rules you used for your flying hunters? I've a clutch of Scheltrum rocketmen just come into town, on the bounce, and was going to use the description in the random characteristics.
Well, you have got to take some of the blame for that. lol
I've met the Baron, and I think his shoulders will take the burden... ;D
Doug
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We used the flying rules straight from glorious adventures in the age of steam rules.
Hope this helps ?
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Sorry, I meant which specific rules in there did you use for the rocketmen.
There's Rocket Packs on page 43, to which I referred, but nothing about blowing up.
Of course, if pure home brew, I'll hush now.
Doug
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It was the rule on page 43 we used. James was VERY unlucky & threw a lot of ones. :o
I was too harsh on him, he should have thrown on the wound chart for those that 'hit the dirt' :(
It was fun though. :)
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Yes, page 43. Has to be a drawback to all that mobility.
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Thanks to all for clarifying!
I actually thought I was going to hear 'you moron, didn't you carefully read ALL the sections on flying?'
As rough [As in 'challenging on a player trying to use'] and simpler [As streamlined is exactly what one expects with an accessable rule set ] than I was thinking, though. I've been imagining a) anything other than a 'bounce' would require ominous sustain rolls, and b) have land rolls if failed could have either scatter results, or injury.
Doug
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Hmm, ever since I encountered G.A.S.L.I.G.H.T. rules I've been mildly interested in this arena - but I didn't really get along with the rules for some reason. Now that FOL (very guilty on the FFOL front I fear) has a GAAS version, I do believe it is time for exploring options. Perhaps a bigger challenge for me since I'll be hunting about for 15 mm figures - and that boat might already be lost at sea! :o. Never daunted, off to hunt.
And thanks for sharing! Fun looking games.
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Now that FOL (very guilty on the FFOL front I fear)...
You and me, bruddah...
I will point out that Jaye made fun of some of us for begging for the book, by way of 'my rules are simple and adaptable, do it yourself,' but this is so rich and varied , well worth the acquisition!
Not that we haven't started fiddling already...
...
Perhaps a bigger challenge for me since I'll be hunting about for 15 mm figures - and that boat might already be lost at sea! :o. Never daunted, off to hunt.
...
And there's where we can agree to disagree.
A number of VSF lines have become difficult to find, though, like Martian Empires, some have found new homes, but the fact that it's 'fiction' means you can adapt, reimagine a treat.
Aside from plenty of historical 15's, other periods, even fantasy, can be rich fodder, indeed.
I accept we are all purist about something, but I think any group of friends with FPW forces who can't imagine having a battle interrupted by lizard spear-folk should give a try anyway...
Doug
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For basic 'figures' I am awash in a veritable plentitude of figures. For those more specific to VSF, I have a few but the need for more haunts my imagination. And steam powered contraptions are sorely needed. Most likely be adapting some WWI items, a certain French tank in particular. But properly created 15 mm vehicles for VSF, if you know where they are hiding awaiting purchase, please do enlighten me.
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Huge YMMV, indeed.
Re: Martian Empires: There's something on Fighting 15's about ceasing casting, so I don't know about them. Bit of a shock...
[Edit: *facepalm* ScaleCreep still has ME listed, and he's in the US. ]
To be honest, the lads I played with pretty much bashed their own from toys and even paper. One fella , twin brother from a different mother, took the legs from a Loveless walker toy and added pressed paper box . He could paint anything And make it work...
PM me an address, and I will send you a couple of Burger King tarantulas to play with. Will take work and copious imagination, but I think they look good chopped up, inverted, and using four or six legs .
I lost the couple I was further along with, but this might give an idea.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/66/3088-190625192524.jpeg)
Doug