033. The Castiglione Operation (15M) - WDS Campaign Marengo

Jul 29 - 4 Aug 1796 - Historical - Intended to be played Head to Head - 15 Minute Move Format - IMPORTANT: This large map scenario of the entire operations by the Austrian army to relieve the Mantua garrison which culminated in the Battle of Castiglione uses special rules found in SR_033-034_Quad1_HTH.pdf located in the main game folder. Historical Background: Bonaparte had resumed the siege of Mantua while having to devote large portions of his army to guard his supply lines and put down insurrection. Thus when the Austrians gathered together forces from the Rhine area and other parts of their lands to provide for a new army in Northern Italy the French were caught by surprise. Four columns were formed to attack Bonaparte's forces. One descended on the French 4th Division from the area west of Lake Garda while two others moved on Rivoli along the Adige River and over Mt. Baldy. The last column came from the east from Bassano. The main priority was to resupply the city of Mantua with provisions and to crush the French army between the two columns. The special rules that are used with the scenario put some restrictions on both armies and are meant to provide for a more historical contest. Otherwise the Allies would just move on the French and by sheer numbers defeat them. Even still the operation will tax the French player to the limit of his ability. Excellent scenario for team play (two per side is best).