The ground is hard to duplicate, so I would suggest that only the center fight with the lights be recreated. This could be done within a time frame: First the African light infantry start on the slopes of the heights, the velites and the oarsmen attack them. The fight should start at skirmish range, until the oarsmen can intervene.
The second part of the fight would be hand to hand. If the Africans win, there is no more battle, since Scipio is not ready to move yet and the Carthaginians win. I would suggest making the Africans a higher morale class then usual, as they fought so well. If the Romans win the fight, then the Africans fall back to the edge of the plateau where they are joined by the Numidian and Bslaric troops. After several turns of skirmishing, the African veteran infantry finally makes its appearance. They are facing the right but not in contact. The following turn Scipio's legions (I Roman, I Ala - no light troops) make their appearance on the Africans lcfl flank. They may not contact the African heavies, but form for battle. The Africans react according to surprise penalties of whatever set of rules that are being used.
Now the players agree to a certain number on a 10 sided die (one through ten). Before each turn, the die is rolled. If that number is rolled, Laelius' force shows up on the Carthaginian left. If not, they will wait until the next roll. This gives the Carthaginian player some leeway to deal with Scipio, gambling he can handle the legions before Laelius can intervene.
The Spanish
The Spanish pose a problem. Both sides will wish to use them, but historically it seems neither side did. If they are used, I would rate them lowest morale grade possible. This represents their reluctance to fight their kinsmen. However, their rnorale failures should only affect other Spanish troops, not the Romans or Africans and Balarics.
Remember, Hasdrubal needs to keep his army intact to reinforce Hannibal, but victory to reverse the Roman influence in Spain is important as well.
Battle of Baecula 208 BC
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