King David

 Had a solo game today of King David, an older game that was the precursor of Basic Impetus.

Today was just a trial run to give the rules a go, and spot any mistakes in my understanding of the rules before introducing them to a friend.  The rules are intended for Biblical battles, with army lists covering around 1600BC to about 600BC. 

All models and the buildings came from Campaign Miniatures in Spain, the tents I used for baggage I have had for so long,I no longer remember their origin. 

The armies were around 165 points each, with about 200-250 being standard. 

Initial Set up from the Hittite Side

The initiative rules are interesting and unpredictable. Each side rolls 1D6 , with bonuses for good commanders. The winner activates as many units as their D6 roll, the opponent does the same, then the player who won initiative activates another 1D6 units and so on.  I found it best to mark each unit with a small die once it had been activated so it wouldnt be moved again in the same turn. 

Archery is a single D6 roll, hit on a 4+ at short range, 5 + at medium, and 6+ for long, with penalties for moving. A single hit will destroy a unit unless a saving throw is made, with heavier units having the best throw. 

Melee is a single die roll each, adding a number for troop type and various tactical factors, like heavy troops or chariots in bad going or a flank / rear attack etc, followed by a saving throw for the loser. 

Troops making the save in melee make an about face & a half move away from the enemy who can pursue. It is possible for multiple fights to happen between two units in a single turn if contact is maintained. 

The army breaks when half its strength is lost, with higher values for higher priority units . 

The game ended as an Egyptian victory once the Hittiite commander was shot from behind by a roving Egyptian light chariot. 

Overall, I found the rules very enjoyable and look forward to trying them again,