The use of small map based campaigns are a great idea, they negate many set up arguments. The basic idea is that you set up on a map, so that neither side has any real idea were the other is, apart from a known front line. The sides move on the map, and when a combat is likely the umpire lays down the terrain on the tabletop.

Today's game was a good example.

A Hungarian regiment and an Italian Regiment both of three battalions tried to hold off an attacking Soviet force. The axis also had a CR42.

The map battle front was about 14-15 2 ft tiles with 10ft depth. The two actual games fought were on two 10ft by 6ft boards. As it went the battles actually turned out to be next to each other which meant some elements crossed boards.

The Russians had a set of orders to follow the Axis were simply trying to hold their line.

The Axis were holding the line with just over 300 pts artillery, 400pts tanks, and 1000 points infantry against 600 points armour, 1500 infantry and I think 600 artillery.

The Hungarians also had a half cavalry rgt and the Italians a 2/3 Bersaglieri battalion.

Two and a half battalions (1 on table) of Axis units were not engaged as were 4 battalions of Russian infantry. Artillery was mixed between on and off board. The Russian tanks were a mix Stuarts, Matilda's, Valentines and T26s.

Waves of Soviet infantry leading their attack effectively carried the day. Each line of Axis defence being turned over in a reasonable space of time.

Both Hungarian tank companies were destroyed by tank, antitank rifles and the Stuarts. The Valentines were knocked out by the Pz 38Ts. An Italian antitank company far forward was driven back by infantry and mortar fire.