HPS PzC II

[dgk196]

Hello...

Yes, I thought about the size of the game aspect too. Realizing that what is overdone for some is just right for others is always a consideration. For large scenarios, you probably wouldn't want to saddle the players with doing more work just for the sake of doing more work. That is having to set the 'formation' as units deploy in a large game could lead to some very long turns, to execute them that is.

In smaller scenarios it might not be such a hassle. Or for the 'dedicated' player who wants as much detail as they can stand, the use of this in large scenarios is not out of the question, eh? That's why I was thinking it could be something that is 'baked-in' for the player that doesn't want to be bothered with that level of control of the units. Then as an option, say at the start of the game, you could select the ability to deploy formations.

The 'baked-in' aspect could be tied to either the entire side in a game, of specific units as needed. Allowing or dis-allowing this ability might be good in limiting, from a historical perspective, just how much tactical flexibility is available to various units. You could let, or impose' the default formation that the units are deployed into when they change over from the transit (movement) mode. So that setting the tactical deployment is not always needed or allowed according to the limits of the forces involved. Terrain sure could be a factor for such formation deployments. But, maybe if you can't 'properly' deploy your units in a hex, then you have too many units in the hex!? But I believe you are correct. this has to be factored in to determine just how the forces in a hex can be employed as restricted by hex parameters.

As an example... from 'Colossus Reborn' by Mr. David M. Glantz.

"The NKO finally began remedying this situation in October 1942 by issuing orders altering the tactical offensive battle formation and employment of tanks during offensive operations. First, on 8 October, NKO Order No.306 required commanders at all levels of command from rifle companies through rifle divisions to deploy their forces in single-echelon battle formations and create and employ tactical reserves compromising one-ninth of the overall force during offensive operations. In effect, this order required divisions to employ 80 percent of their combat power well forward to facilitate the achievement of tactical penetrations."

This was put into effect for all formations from Divisions on down to Company levels. Prior to this the Russians deployed in a 'blunt wedge' formation, for these units. So in games and scenarios, the Russians should be limited to their deployment types up to and after the Order No.306 is put into effect. This would simulate the 'limited' Russian tactics, for use in the games.

While this might be good for simulating the limitations of the Russians it would not be the same for the Germans. As one of their advantages is the use of tactical formations as needed, which would reflect the flexibility of the units, related to training, leadership and experience. In other words the German forces should be able to assume the various tactical formations, as proposed, to fit the situation as needed. Hopefully such an addition to PzC II would be included, in order to get a more 'historical' aspect in effect in the game!?

Dennis