Wattignies 1793

Wattignies 1793 is a tactical wargame depicting the Battle of Wattignies, fought on 15–16 October 1793 during the French Revolutionary Wars. The sixth volume in the Soldiers of the Republic series, it recreates the French attempt to relieve the fortress of Maubeuge, besieged by the Austrian army under the Prince of Coburg. Players command either Jean-Baptiste Jourdan's Army of the North, supported by Lazare Carnot, or the Coalition forces.

Following the French victory at Hondschoote, Coburg laid siege to Maubeuge. Jourdan assembled approximately 45,000 troops to assault the Austrian defensive positions around Dourlers and Wattignies. After an unsuccessful first day, the French shifted their main effort to the right wing under cover of morning fog, captured Wattignies, and forced the Austrians to lift the siege. Napoleon later described the battle as "the Revolution's finest feat of arms."

Game system

The game uses the Soldiers of the Republic tactical system designed by Matthieu Dangla.

Units represent brigades, regiments, and battalions. The system emphasizes:

• formation activation
• command leadership
• coordinated attacks
• morale and cohesion
• cavalry charges
• artillery support
• terrain and fortified positions

The game is compatible with both the standard and simplified rules of the series.

Included scenarios

15 October 1793

The opening attacks against the Austrian fortified positions.

16 October 1793

The decisive French assault on Wattignies that forced Coburg's withdrawal.

Full Campaign

The complete two-day battle with all historical operational decisions.

Objective

The French player must break the Austrian defensive line and relieve Maubeuge.

The Coalition player must hold the fortified positions and maintain the siege.

Players

2 players

Playing time

Approximately 2–4 hours.

Complexity

Medium (6/9).

Game scale

Period: 15–16 October 1793

Level: Tactical

Scale:

• 1 strength point = 500–1,000 infantry or 300–600 cavalry
• 1 hex = 600 meters
• 1 turn = 90 minutes

Replayability

Historical scenarios covering both days

Complete campaign

Strong attacker-versus-defender asymmetry

Command-focused gameplay

Excellent historical replay value

Components (indicative)

1 59 × 41 cm map

216 die-cut counters and markers

Rulebook

2 player aid cards