Chippewa: Miniature Rules

The War in North America 1790-1815

review by Jim Arnold

By Henry Lubbers. Rivertown Hobbies, P.O. Box 558023, Cincinnati, OH 45255. $7.00 plus $1.00 postage. America's own Napoleonic War is of sufficient interest to me that I once published my own set of rules to cover the period. While I doubt this makes me an expert, it does give me some basis to examine Rivertown Publications' Chippewa. In Mr. Lubbers' words, the rules follow the credo "simple is better" and are intended to be "easy to learn and flexible for use". Physically, the rules are staple bound and unfortunately not well printed. Thirty-nine of the pages cover the rules while the balance of the sixty-seven page booklet provides scenarios. A nice aspect of the rules is that most sections begin with an eyewitness account relevant to the subsequent rules.

The rules offer three scales: 1:5; 1:10; and 1:20 (all using the same mounting scheme) so you can play everything from a company-sized skirmish to a fixed piece battle. Command and control is accomplished using standard orders: advance; charge; hold; and fall back. Movement uses a card system and occurs simultaneously with firing. Most units perform three functions per turn while militia perform only two. Firing is based on a simple chart that cross-references range and type of unit firing, subject to simple modifiers such as skirmish order, light woods, or in column. A D10 roll determines hits.

Morale checks are done once per unit and take into account the basics you would expect such as unit losses and loss of commander. An interesting disruption rule that covers passage through broken terrain impairs a unit's ability to fire and melee. Special rules cover such features as rockets, off board movement, and engineering. A nice section incorporates naval actions on lakes and rivers. A last rule's section provides generals' ratings.

The scenarios describe seven historical skirmishes and battles beginning with St. Clair's Massacre, and one fictional encounter set along the Chesapeake. An order of battle, sketch map, and notes on commanders, special rules, and victory conditions are included.

Wargamers' preferences are as diverse as the day is long, so I will not presume to pass judgement on Chippewa. I will say, however, that Mr. Lubbers has compiled a most interesting little booklet that anyone interested in the period should at least consider. The scenario section alone should appeal to many.

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