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THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR GAMING CLUB
Competition - honor - friendship
camaraderie - respect - challenge
Est.
1997
Shiloh is one of the best titles in the Civil War library. It contains numerous early western campaigns including Belmont, Mill Springs, Forts Henry and Donelson, and the Shiloh Campaign. Of these battles, Shiloh is definitely the largest and most well-known of the battles encompassed by this title. But what the game lacks in "big name" battles, it makes up for in high-quality scenarios and alternative battles. There are an exceptionally high number of quality Shiloh alternatives which you can explore - don't just play the historical setup without looking around first.
CONTENT
43 Total Scenarios Recommended
16 Rated "Excellent"
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NOTE: ALL NUMBERS HERE REFLECT THE ACTIVE STRENGTHS OF THE ARMIES. THESE NUMBERS DO NOT INCLUDE PERMANENTLY FIXED UNITS.
​
18 Turns
001 - Belmont Revisited
My Rating: Good
8,478
7,082
1,021
375
15
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
8,203
7,603
0
600
24
Description - (What If) Union General Grant wanted another crack at Belmont and sends McClernand's Division to attack it once again. Confederate General Polk sends 7000 troops from Columbus to defend against Grant's intended target.
Analysis - This variation of the battle more than doubles the number of Federals involved as well as brings on a few thousand more Confederates. This sets up as a head on battle.
40 Turns
010 - Pope Defends Cairo
My Rating: Excellent
17,235
13,981
2,604
650
26
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
15,845
12,654
1,741
1,450
58
Description - (What if) Fort Donelson has fallen. Grant and Buell are moving south to split the Confederate States of America. General A.S. Johnston orders the troops stationed at New Madrid Bend commanded by General Mackall and General Earl Van Dorn's Army of the West to secretly move north and attack the Cairo area. Union General John Pope must meet this challenge or face disaster. Pope's army is camped on both sides of the Ohio River and has only heard vague reports of approaching rebels. (Note: The Carondelet is under repair and has no movement.)
Analysis - An amusing battle setup that sees the Confederates enter the board from multiple directions. There are numerous strategic options for both sides making it a real challenge for either player. The victory conditions are also fair though the objective points are probably a bit undervalued (as usual). A good medium-sized scenario to play.
26 Turns
012 - Rebels at Cairo
My Rating: Good
16,245
14,378
1,067
800
32
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
15,364
14,081
83
1,200
48
Description - (What If) Following the Union victory at Fort Donelson, General U.S. Grant was preparing to move south to assault Corinth. Confederate A.S. Johnston has come to the conclusion that only a daring and bold move can save the South from destruction. He orders Generals Hardee and Polk to secretly move north and if possible take and destroy the Union towns of Mound City and Cairo. If successful, Grant would be forced to move back north and secure his lines of communication. Johnston could then attempt to retake Fort Donelson and secure Nashville from Union attack. Defending this area will be Sherman and Prentiss' Divisions. They have yet to join up with Grant's army.
Analysis - In this scenario the Confederate player needs to move south quickly to cross Cache Creek before Sherman's Division is reinforced by Prentiss from the south. An interesting scenario setup that probably favors the Rebels a little more.
18 Turns
017 - Rear Guard Fight v.1
My Rating: Good
10,929
10,779
0
150
6
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
6,979
6,296
83
600
24
Description - (What If) After retreating from Nashville, the rear guard commanded by Confederate General Hardee attempts to guard the Duck River bridge while under constant fire from advancing Union troops. (This variant includes an exit hex located at 26,49. The Union must drive for this hex and exit off the map). If the Union can reach the exit hex, they may be able to catch up with the remaining portion of the Confederate army and destroy them in detail.)
Analysis - Hardee's Corps is holding a line north of Columbia and the Duck River. They have far more artillery than the Federals but 4,000 fewer men. A decent small battle to play.
21 Turns
024 - FD Day 1 (Hist)
My Rating: Good
14,033
12,821
712
500
20
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
9,595
7,499
996
1,100
44
Description - (Historical) Grant advances to Fort Donelson. Opening shots are exchanged and the Confederate pickets retreat back to the safety of Fort Donelson's prepared works. The battle is about to begin. (In solitare mode, best played as the Union.)
Analysis - This is a nice little battle. It is tougher for the Federals as they need to make smart decisions from beginning to end in order to win here. As the Rebels, all you need to do is to anticipate and react to their moves.
22 Turns
028 - FD Day 2 (Hist)
My Rating: Good
15,570
13,974
1,021
575
23
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
13,067
10,971
996
1,100
44
Description - (Historical) General Grant decides to take action and attacks the Confederate defenses at two different points. First he orders Lauman's brigade to attack the Confederate far right. Next, he orders Morrison's brigade to attack Heiman's center. Both were repulsed. Can you do better?
Analysis - The Federals here have a much better chain of command and organization than the Confederates do. They are so jumbled on the map I could not even coherently label them. The Federals will then be better able to maintain a prolonged battle than the scattered Confederate forces will. But the Federals must attack as they start the battle with a minor defeat and must find a way to gain points to even achieve a draw.
33 Turns
033 - FD Day 4 Breakout (Hist)
My Rating: Good
24,192
22,496
1,021
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
13,266
11,170
996
1,100
44
Description - (Historical): After a late night war council, all three Confederate generals; Pillow, Floyd, and Buckner, decide that their only chance to save the army is to break out and retreat towards Nashville. Unsuspecting of any kind of Confederate attack, General Grant leaves to meet with Flag Officer Foote. The plan is simple. Surprise the enemy at first light and head for Nashville. To do this, the Confederate army must head for the exit hexes and remove their units from the map. (To simulate the total surprise that this attack caused, McClernand's Division has been disrupted. Units must enter an exit hex then click "Remove from Map" located under the "Command" pop down window.)
Analysis - Breakout! The goal is in the title of the scenario. Just a fun battle with some gimmicky aspects to it.
40 Turns
046 - FD Rebels March on FH
My Rating: Good
24,355
22,659
1,021
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
22,616
19,323
1,593
1,700
68
Description - (What If) Union General Halleck has delayed General Grant's march toward Fort Donelson. But he finally gives his belated permission almost at the same moment as the Confederates, who having been reinforced, decide to gamble and march on to Fort Henry. They hope to surprise the unsuspecting Union garrison at Fort Henry.
Analysis - A Meeting Engagement-style scenario where the two forces clash in the heavily wooded area between Forts Henry and Donelson. There are few roads to use and maneuvering will be difficult. Yes, the Rebels have more guns - but will it matter when there are so few roads and fields?
40 Turns
047 - Surprise and Retake FD
My Rating: Excellent
46,822
41,010
2,837
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,045
32,207
3,813
3,025
121
Description - (What if) Union General U.S. Grant has successfully taken Fort Donelson. But due to extremely bad winter weather, his army has been unable to continue its march and has remained at Fort Donelson. Unbeknownst to Grant, the rebel army has managed to gather its strength and march towards the fort. Confederate General Albert S. Johnston has been given permission to try to catch Grant off guard and retake the fort. Johnston's first step is to reorganize his army earlier then he did historically, and place Breckinridge in command of the Reserve Corps. Also, all available forces have been ordered to rapidly march to a point south of Fort Donelson. The Union river fleet has been withdrawn to refit after its ordeal of just two weeks before. The rebel guns have been spiked and cannot be used to help Grant. The Union troops are in camp mode and are using the 400 log huts left by the Confederates. No real defense is in place due to the lack of a perceived threat. Newly arrived Brig. Gen. William T. Sherman is at Fort Henry (a.k.a. Fort Foote) and will soon be on his way to Fort Donelson, following the sounds of the cannon! Can Grant mobilize and man the earthen works before the Confederates complete their surprise? (In Solitaire mode, best played as the Union.) (Abatis around Fort Donelson has been partially removed by Union troops.)
Analysis - A really exciting scenario! If you are going to play at Fort Donelson and do not want to fight the traditional battle than this is for you. You basically are using the traditional Shiloh OOB’s except at Fort Donelson. The Confederates enter from the south and the Federals have little time to prepare for their coming. This is a great setup for MP as well. Both sides have some great options and it will depend on skill, and a bit of luck, which way this battle goes. Play it.
NOTE: You may also consider playing Scenario 048. That variation includes weather variants which reduce visibility and create a more chaotic battle.
15 Turns
049 - Battle in the Pits at FH (EP)
My Rating: Good
14,356
13,212
469
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
10,070
9,224
46
800
32
Description - (What If) This variant of the "Battle in the pits at Fort Henry" scenario brings on the historically uncompleted and captured 280 foot C.S.S. Eastport. (Smith's division on the west bank has the ability to cross the river. The "B" to the right of the available MPs signifies "boats.")
Analysis - A quick and potentially bloody skirmish. The Federals have some serious artillery and gunboat power along the Tennessee River and can try to punch their way through the Confederate lines there. The CSS Eastport will add little to the outcome as it arrives too late to help much.
12 Turns
051 - Fort Henry (Hist)
My Rating: Good
14,356
13,212
469
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
3,433
2,762
146
525
21
Description - (Historical) Historically, Confederate General Tilghman realized his impossible situation and made the decision to save the garrison and retreat. This scenario uses the historical setup just prior to C.S. Brig. Gen.Tilghman's decision to evacuate his forces to Fort Donelson. But this scenario provides no exit hex for retreating units. So the taking of Fort Henry must be accomplished the hard way. (Smith's division on the west bank has the ability to cross the river. The "B" to the right of the available MPs signifies "boats".)
Analysis - Another good option for Fort Henry.
18 Turns
055 - Help from Fort Donelson
My Rating: Good
14,356
13,212
469
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
10,195
9,224
46
925
37
Description - (What If) CS General Tilghman has ordered all available forces from Fort Donelson to come to Fort Henry. Every effort must be made to repel the Union attack. (Smith's division on the west bank has the ability to cross the river. The "B" to the right of the available MPs signifies "boats".)
Analysis - This battle can be fought a number of ways and should be an interesting affair.
16 Turns
057 - Help Arrived at FH
My Rating: Good
14,356
13,212
469
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
10,295
9,224
146
925
37
Description - (What If) Help from Fort Donelson has arrived to defend Fort Henry from Grant's assault. (Smith's division on the west bank has the ability to cross the river. The "B" to the right of the available MPs signifies "boats".)
Analysis - Not much room to maneuver but with just 16 turns that shouldn't matter much.
15 Turns
060 - Turn and Fight
My Rating: Good
14,356
13,212
469
675
27
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
9,895
9,224
146
525
21
Description - (What if) Confederate General Tilghman had ordered his forces to turn and fight Grant's pursuing army in the hopes of catching him off guard. To help with this plan, he has ordered all forces from Fort Donelson to come immediately to his position.
Analysis - This is a straight up, head-on collision between the two forces along a single road. If you like bloody battles without much maneuvering then this is your nirvana.
36 Turns
062 - Battle along the Franklin Turnpike
My Rating: Good
21,373
20,973
0
400
16
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
21,001
18,512
1,139
1,350
54
Description - (What If) Union General Don Carlos Buell has passed through Franklin and is forced to turn his army with it's back to the west. Confederate General Johnston has surprised him just to the east of the Columbia-Franklin turnpike. (Tip: The Union army is slightly larger in total numbers, but the Confederates have more moveable units.)
Analysis - 54 vs. 16. That’s the advantage of CSA Artillery over the Federal Artillery in this scenario. Can the Yankees still win? Maybe. They have excellent defensive ground, better rifles, and the battle lasts just 36 turns.
86 Turns
068 - The Mother of Battles
My Rating: Good
48,115
42,252
2,888
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
46,838
39,041
4,097
3,700
148
Description - (What If) Instead of marching south towards Corinth, Mississippi, Union General U.S. Grant decides to link up with Major General D.C. Buell at Nashville. But Buell is delayed and Grant leaves without him. Confederate General A.S. Johnston leads his army north in the hopes of surprising the Union army. This scenario assumes most of Fort Donelson's garrison was able to escape capture and join up with the main Confederate army.
Analysis - Just a good old fashioned massive meeting engagement battle. The Rebs have advantages with their cavalry and artillery in this one. The Union rifles have a greater range which does give them an advantage in a standup battle. Note that the Federal army has only four supply wagons in this one. That may be a deal breaker for many. Maybe both sides agree to use only four wagons?
86 Turns
070 - A Grand Battle
My Rating: Excellent
69,441
63,225
2,841
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
60,366
49,629
5,262
5,475
219
Description - (What If) Though Fort Donelson has fallen into Union hands, most Confederate troops were able to make good their escape before being surrounded. Confederate General Johnston has decided to take the bold step of invading Union held Kentucky. This daring move is an effort to take the war to the enemy and force them to turn their attention away from the South. A Confederate victory may force the Union to rethink their war aims. Will this be the South's greatest moment in history?
Analysis - This is a meeting engagement scenario with large numbers, fun terrain, and mostly balanced sides. The river will present a challenge to both sides and the large urban area of Frankfort will create an interesting obstruction to the progress of both sides. Both the Army of the Tennessee and the Army of the Mississippi fully arrive by the midday on the first day of battle. The Army of the Ohio and the Army of the West, along with the Fort Donelson troops, arrive on the second day. The only potential issue is that the Confederate reinforcements on day two arrive on the “Union” side of the river and this may bring out the gaminess in some people. A simple house rule for the battle establishing a 10 hex or more safe zone around the entry point is probably needed. Otherwise this massive battle shapes up to be an epic confrontation!
44 Turns
073 - Johnston Attacks Buell
My Rating: Good
23,199
22,424
0
775
31
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
23,509
20,636
898
1,975
79
Description - (What If) Union General U.S. Grant has been defeated at Fort Donelson. As a result, Grant has retired to Cairo to consider his next move. Buell, who was on his way to Nashville, has changed his direction and moved toward Kentucky's capital city of Frankfort. The city must not fall into Confederate hands. If it does, the entire state may rally to the Confederate cause. A.S. Johnston is determined to capitalize on his recent victory and take Frankfort for the Confederate States of America.
Analysis - Overall, this is a fairly messy scenario with some glaring flaws. It slants too heavily to the CSA side to be considered a very fair scenario. But it does have some amusing elements and challenges in it which make it worth a look.
46 Turns
080 - Battle of Jackson
My Rating: Good
48,115
42,252
2,888
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,874
32,852
4,097
2,925
117
Description - (What If) Major General U.S. Grant is ordered to march his army to Pittsburg Landing. Once there, he is to make camp and await Major General Buell's Army of the Ohio. Confederate General A.S. Johnston is determined to strike Grant before this link up can occur. He chooses Jackson, Tennessee as the place to make his move. If successful Johnston will become the hero of the South and Grant will be disgraced. If however, failure should be the result, Tennessee will be lost and the southern cause may become lost with it.
Analysis - A meeting engagement at Jackson. A fun idea but not a lot of room to maneuver on this map. Therefore any large battle will be a bloody affair. The numerous creeks and rivers make this battlefield a complicated and confusing place to do battle.
40 Turns
086 - Grant from the East
My Rating: Excellent
48,115
42,252
2,888
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
47,792
40,270
4,097
3,425
137
Description - (What if) Grant decides that Jackson must be taken to secure his lines of communication. He sends General McClernand to do the job, but soon hears reports of large rebel concentrations and decides to send more troops. By the end of the day, his entire army is sent to take Jackson. Confederate General A.S. Johnston also decides that Jackson must be held. He has already deployed Hardee's Corps the previous day. Upon hearing of Grant's move, he decides to deploy the rest of his army to destroy Grant. But they are spread out and must come from different directions to converge on Jackson.
Analysis - This battle is a glorious piece of chaotic fun! With units arriving from numerous locations, lots of creek and river crossings, a smaller sized map, and a large number of forces this battle is guaranteed to be a hot mess. But in a good way. The sides are evenly matched though the last of the Confederate reinforcements from the north do not arrive until nearly the end of the battle. Still, the two forces are well matched and it should be a very entertaining battle.
26 Turns
101 - On to Logan's Xroads (H)
My Rating: Okay
4,507
3,857
250
400
16
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
5,895
4,864
881
150
6
Description - (Historical) On the night of January 18th, Confederate General Crittenden ordered the advance north along the Mill Springs road. His objective was to surprise Union General Thomas and attack while the Federals were encamped along Logan's Cross Roads. (Note) Visibility and movement is limited due to a rainstorm.
Analysis - This version of Logan's Crossroads uses a larger map and is a bit more even because of it.
70 Turns
116 - Johnston Invades Kentucky
My Rating: Excellent
48,115
42,252
2,888
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,974
32,852
4,097
3,025
121
Description - (What If) After the fall of Fort Donelson, A.S. Johnston moves all available forces east and invades Kentucky. With Buell still in Nashville, Grant moves to intercept Johnston's Confederate army. (This scenario includes two exit hexes located on the northern map edge. The Confederates must drive for this hex and exit off the map. Once the hex is entered, click "Remove Unit from Map" in the command pop down window.)
Analysis - This is a pretty solid scenario with a meeting engagement setup using both the main armies from Shiloh. The two-day battle length allows for enough manuevering and fighting to develop a good scenario strategy. Would make a good multiplayer scenario as well!
70 Turns
117 - Johnston Invades Kentucky v.1
My Rating: Good
48,115
42,252
2,888
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
45,734
37,937
4,097
3,700
148
Description - (What If) This variant of "Johnston Invades Kentucky" brings on additional Confederate troops from the Fort Donelson garrison that have successfully escaped.
Analysis - The addition of more Confederates creates more parity between the sides.
18 Turns
121 - Battle in the Swamps
My Rating: Good
7,787
7,587
0
200
8
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
7,701
6,863
188
650
26
Description - (What If) After the capture of New Madrid, Union forces continued to press the remaining Confederates on Island Number 10 and everywhere else along the bend of the river. Fearing an eventual Union victory, Confederate A.S. Johnston orders General Earl Van Dorn to send all his available forces to the relief of New Madrid. Though too late to save New Madrid, Confederate General Van Dorn is determined to make his presence felt. Perhaps he can draw away troops from Island Number 10. If it can be shown to hold out long enough, Johnston may decide to send additional troops.
Analysis - This is a short but fun little skirmish outside Point Pleasant. A meeting engagement style battle done in miniature.
40 Turns
122 - Battle of New Madrid (H)
My Rating: Good
8,561
7,985
301
275
11
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
5,715
4,799
141
775
31
Description - (Historical) Soon after the war started it was recognized by both sides that the key to the western theater would be control of the rivers. New Madrid bend was chosen by the Confederates to guard the Mississippi's access to the south. Union General John Pope was ordered to move his army into position and capture New Madrid and Island Number 10. To defend this small hamlet on the "mighty" Mississippi, two fortifications were constructed, Fort Bankhead and Fort Thompson. Both forts were armed with heavy artillery and given the difficult task of defending against Pope's superior army. (In Solitaire mode, best played as the Union.)
Analysis - A small battle that probably lasts too long. Neither the Federals or the Confederates have any margin for error with a limited number of men and regiments available. The Confederates have a massive artillery advantage but many of the pieces are emplaced.
40 Turns
124 - Battle of New Madrid v.2
My Rating: Good
26,751
21,290
3,011
2,450
98
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
19,658
14,202
2,406
3,050
122
Description - (What If) Both sides have been drawn to New Madrid. Confederate General Albert S. Johnston has ordered both Polk and Van Dorn to New Madrid and Halleck has ordered Grant to the area also. However, much of Grant's army has been delayed and only McClernand's division along with some unattached units will arrive to take part in the coming battle. (Note: Polk's army is equipped with boats, and "B" is seen next to their MP number. Also, all Confederate infantry and cavalry units on the southeastern shore have boats. They can move across the river at any point. Leaders must be stacked with combat units.)
Analysis - This larger battle looks fairly chaotic. You have a large mass of Confederates boating across the Mississippi River. You have a detached Union division between two Confederate forces, and you have two navies on a collision course. I'm not sure if that equals a ton of fun or a ton of headaches. But it's worth a play to find out!
20 Turns
127 - Battle of Point Pleasant
My Rating: Good
7,787
7,587
0
200
8
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
6,376
5,976
0
400
16
Description - (What If) The Confederates have evacuated New Madrid. Union General Plummer has established a garrison at Point Pleasant. Confederate General Jones has arrived late, but will attempt to push back the Federals.
Analysis - A small skirmish for Point Pleasant. Straightforward smaller scenario.
86 Turns
144 - The Battle of Shiloh (Hist)
My Rating: Good
69,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,874
32,852
4,097
2,925
117
Description - (Historical) After the fall of Forts Henry and Donelson, Confederate General A.S. Johnston was determined to assume the offensive. He calculated that a sudden blow at the enemy, in position under the command of Major General Grant on the west bank of the Tennessee River, would severely damage the invading army and force it out of western Tennessee. Time was running out. If these plans are not implemented soon, Grant's army would be combined with that of Major General D.C. Buell, already on the march from Nashville via Columbia. You must act quickly and decisively to claim victory! (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted. Also, this scenario will not allow players to build breastworks. This restriction is intended to prevent the Union player from gaining an unhistorical advantage during the early turns of the game.) (A/I NOTE: In solitaire mode, this scenario is best played as the Confederate player.)
Analysis - This is a rough battle for the Rebels because of the lopsided numbers and the two-day length of the battle. My recommendation is to play WITHOUT the "Alternate Fixed Unit Release" Optional Rule checked. This will create a much better scenario as far as balance goes from the Rebel perspective. It may make the morning a little tougher for the Yankees but that will soon pass.
86 Turns
145 - The Battle of Shiloh v.1
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
48,009
39,446
5,063
3,500
140
Description - (What If) This variant of the "Battle of Shiloh" assumes that Confederate General Earl Van Dorn had been more willing to obey Johnston's order to head east and join his army for the attack against Grant. Also, the Reserve Corps is deployed in a linear formation. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted-----Note: Best played as Confederate if playing solitaire.)
Analysis - This scenario is a much more evenly matched version of the historical battle. The addition of Van Dorn’s Army of the West on the second day of battle gives the Confederate player a much-needed source of fresh men and supplies. Van Dorn brings with him the whole of Sterling Price’s division including a small cavalry brigade and some artillery pieces. All other arrivals, release times, and numbers mirror the historical Shiloh battle precisely.
40 Turns
155 - Grant is Ready
My Rating: Excellent
48,068
42,252
2,841
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
49,828
41,931
4,097
3,800
152
Description - (What if) This scenario assumes Grant has been alerted to the oncoming danger of Johnston's Confederate army. Grant prepares for a defensive battle and sends urgent messages for Buell's army to quickly march to Pittsburg Landing. What Grant doesn't know is that many of the troops that escaped from Fort Donelson is not far behind Johnston's main group. In this scenario, Buell will be unable to join Grant in time for the battle.
Analysis - A one-day battle with evenly matched sides for the fate of the Tennessee River. Very nice. The goal of the Yankees in this battle should be simply to hold on and inflict as many losses on the enemy as they can defensively. The initial setup for the Confederates is an attack in linear formation as Johnston had intended it to be. Federal divisions are ready to receive the attack. Ready for a brawl?!
86 Turns
158 - Johnston's Plan
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,874
32,852
4,097
2,925
117
Description - (What if) The scenario assumes Johnston maintained his plan in lieu of Beauregard's. Some of the Union releases have been changed to reflect the fact that some skirmish fighting had already begun. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted.)
Analysis - This is a popular “what if” scenario for Shiloh enthusiasts. As seen in the map below the Confederate Army is arrayed in a linear formation rather than stacked in depth as Beauregard designed. With the three Confederate corps running from Owl Creek to the River Road this battle will develop quickly. This scenario is a great setup which allows revisionists to play out the battle as if Johnston had utilized his own plan over Beauregard’s. All arrival times and numbers mirror those of the original Shiloh battle.
86 Turns
159 - Johnston's Plan v.1
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
45,634
37,937
4,094
3,600
144
Description - (What if) This variant of Johnston's Plan brings on Buckner's division and Floyd's division. Both assumed to have escaped from Fort Donelson during its breakout battle of Feb. 15th. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - This scenario adds an additional 6,000 men to Johnston’s Army and evens up the two sides a bit. The two divisions of reinforcements arrive from the west along the Purdy Road so the crossing over Owl Creek must be cleared to allow their safe arrival.
86 Turns
161 - Johnston's Plan II
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,874
32,852
4,097
2,925
117
Description - (What if) This variant of "Johnston's Plan" uses a Confederate set up that puts Confederate Corps "en echelon." (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - This is another high-quality Shiloh alternative featuring a twist on Johnston’s original attack plan where the corps are aligned in multiple waves. The rest of the scenario mirrors the historical Battle of Shiloh. This is probably the best setup I have seen in the alternate Shiloh scenarios. Definitely worth the time to play.
86 Turns
162 - Johnston's Plan II v.1
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
43,598
36,276
4,097
3,225
129
Description - (What if) This variant of "Johnston's Plan" uses a Confederate set up that puts Confederate Corps "en echelon." Also, Buckner's Division from the Fort Donelson breakout will be able to join the Confederate army early next morning. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - The addition of Buckner’s Division is nice bonus. It is not an overpowering addition but should allow the Confederate commander some relief on the second day of battle when the weight of Federal numbers begins to tell.
86 Turns
165 - Johnston's Plan II v.4
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
48,009
39,446
5,063
3,500
140
Description - (What if) This variant of "Johnston's Plan" use a Confederate set up that puts Confederate Corps "en echelon." Also, Confederate General Earl Van Dorn will arrive early on the morning of the 7th. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - The arrival of Earn Van Dorn’s Army, actually just Price’s Division, adds another 8,000+ men to the Confederate Army for the second day and brings a jolt of fresh power to the Confederate force. This scenario is very similar to scenario 162 except that the number of reinforcements are basically doubled.
86 Turns
168 - More Rebels v.2
My Rating: Excellent
67,619
62,100
2,144
3,375
135
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
47,692
40,270
4,097
3,325
133
Description - (What If) This scenario is a variant of the "More Rebels" scenario (variable entry times are used). It supposes that Buckner's Division and Johnson's division successfully escaped from the siege of Fort Donelson and was able to regroup and join the army of General A.S. Johnston and attack Grant's unsuspecting Union army camped in and around Pittsburg Landing. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - What’s better than one division of reinforcements? Two! The additional division of Confederates truly makes the Confederate force one to be reckoned with in the historical Shiloh setup. It's actually Buckner and Heiman, not Johnson. Just FYI.
40 Turns
171 - Place of Piece!
My Rating: Good
48,068
42,252
2,841
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,974
32,852
4,097
3,025
121
Description - (What if) Union forces have been sent to secure Pittsburg Landing, in preparation for the march on Corinth. Union forces on the east side of the river must use the ferry crossing. Confederate General A.S. Johnston is unsure about Union intentions. However, intelligence has alerted him of Grant's army approaching Pittsburg Landing. A decisive blow against Grant could cripple his efforts to attack Corinth. Buell is too far away to help Grant should the two armies meet in battle. Sherman has been sent ahead to secure Pittsburg Landing and to scout the immediate area. He is not to engage the enemy in open battle until the main body of the army has reached Pittsburg Landing.
Analysis - This is a fascinating setup. The Federals are in a perpetual defensive battle here as they are outnumbered and pressed back against the river. Their challenge will be to hold out until help arrives from the east and the north by midday. For the Confederates you must attack straight ahead on a narrow front - its going to be bloody. The Yankees have 15,083 of their total men not arriving until the final turns. As a result they will not be able to join the battle in time.
40 Turns
176 - Sherman's March
My Rating: Good
16,195
14,378
1,067
750
30
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
14,807
12,216
1,841
750
30
Description - (What if) Union Major General U.S. Grant was preparing to continue his successful campaign by attacking Corinth. His plan included stopping at Pittsburg Landing to link up with Major General D.C. Buell's Army of the Ohio. But due to poor road conditions resulting from heavy rains, both armies were slowed to a near crawl. Only Sherman's division and Prentiss' division were able to reach Pittsburg Landing by the 4th of April. Confederate General A.S. Johnston was aware of Grant's strategic plan and made moves to counter them. But he too was hampered by poor roads and could only field Bragg's Corps against this new Union threat. Will Bragg's Corps be enough to inflict a Union defeat? Forrest too may enter into the battle, but who knows when?
Analysis - This is a sweet little medium sized scenario to undertake. The relatively even and smaller forces make it almost a Shiloh in miniature.
80 Turns
178 - Sherman's March v.2
My Rating: Excellent
40,481
35,477
2,329
2,675
107
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,974
32,852
4,097
3,025
121
Description - (What if) This variant of "Sherman's March" shows that road conditions were improving and by late afternoon, both combatants would see additional troops enter the battlefield.
Analysis - I love this scenario. Two good-sized, evenly matched forces coming together slowly across a challenging battlefield. Does it get any better? Both forces gather slowly with half of the armies fighting on day one and the other halves mostly arriving in time for early on day two. There is a lot of maneuvering and gameplay in this scenario for both sides. Enjoy!
70 Turns
180 - Shiloh without Buell
My Rating: Excellent
48,068
42,252
2,841
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,243
32,121
4,097
3,025
121
Description - (What if) A two-day variant! This variation of the Battle of Shiloh assumes Johnston was able to assemble his army on time and launch his attack as planned. In doing so, General D.C. Buell was unable to link his Army of the Ohio with Grant's army. Grant is on his own! But fortunately for the Union, Grant was alerted to a possible Confederate strike and ordered Lew Wallace's division to march toward the army's main body located near Pittsburg Landing. He will arrive much earlier than his historical arrival. Perhaps in time to swing the balance in favor of the Union. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - Uses the historical Shiloh setup. The scenario starts at 10 AM instead of 5 AM. Wallace doesn’t “arrive early” but instead it just seems early since the start time is later than the historical battle. Wallace still arrives at 5:40 PM. Nonetheless it is another enjoyable scenarios to play if you are looking for an alternate take on Shiloh.
27 Turns
181 - Shiloh without Buell v.1
My Rating: Excellent
48,068
42,252
2,841
2,975
119
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
39,243
32,121
4,097
3,025
121
Description - (What if) A single day version of "Shiloh without Buell." This variation of the Battle of Shiloh assumes Johnston was able to assemble his army on time and launch his attack as planned. In doing so, General D.C. Buell was unable to link his Army of the Ohio with Grant's army. Grant is on his own! But fortunately for the Union, Grant was alerted to a possible Confederate strike and ordered Lew Wallace's division to march toward the army's main body located near Pittsburg Landing. He will arrive much earlier than his historical arrival. Perhaps in time to swing the balance in favor of the Union. (To simulate the effects of surprise on the Union front ranks, the front rank will start disrupted)
Analysis - A bloody and short scenario featuring just the morning at Shiloh.
10 Turns
182 - Assault on Sherman
My Rating: Good
6,290
5,840
0
450
18
TOTAL
Infantrymen
Cavalrymen
Artillerymen
Cannons
9,676
9,176
0
500
20
Description - (Historical) As the battle was just beginning, Confederate brigades of Cleburne, Anderson and Russell, sent their full strength against a portion of General Sherman's unsuspecting division.
Analysis - A short scenario but one sure to be filled with action. A good scenario to play when “getting to know your opponent.”
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