Carthage - An early AAR

After my third attempt, I finally got somewhere with Carthage. I was so happy, I had to write up what happened. I felt proud, because Rome handed me my butt by turn 15 three times in a row. Not now though. This time Carthage is going to the top. Pay no mind to the enthusasim. ::):

Carthage:

Current State:
270BC and all is a peaceful calm before a storm. The eye of that storm is Rome, the scourge of the Mediterranean nations. Her obvious desire to steal sovereign land, and defile its people is already legendary. Merchants from abroad speak of their unwinding lust for our rich cities and the cities of others. Seers envision an underlying strength in this enemy, once an ally, and they predict the coming of the end. Greek emissaries confirm, Roman armies are on the move against several nations, and it’s only a matter of time.

The Council of Elders deliberated and agreed on a plan to first survive the Roman war machine, and then eventually crush it. It was a costly and risky plan, but such risks demand favor of the Gods.

The current state of both the army and fleet is abysmal. Assembling a mass rabble of men and heading straight for the lions throat would at best, add to the beasts hunger. The qualities of the troops are adequate for local militia, but to defeat Rome, Carthage will need her best at the front line. Fleets need to be built. A network of spies and assassins are to be employed. Armies need weapons and capable commanders. In short, Carthage needs time. The distance of our cities from one another is a weakness that needs dealing with and moving Armies across water is uninvited doom begging to happen. Control of the seas at this time, is just not possible against four Roman factions.

The Plan:
Council Elder Hemaud’s public address to the citizens: “A complete restructuring of Empire Carthage is at hand. All will be sacrificed if necessary to succeed. Honor those that shall perish in the coming months, for they do not die in vain - Baal take them, Baal keep them.” We sever the limbs so that the body survives.

No further development, protection or funding will be provided for the cities Lilybaeum, Caralis, and Ballaries. Small contingents of fleets standby to evacuate Governors and their staff. Funds are diverted to produce trade, military and defense projects in the remaining cities of Corduba, Thapsus and Carthage.

Diplomats are sent to all neighbors excluding Numidia. Trade agreements are sought and alliances forged. Trade is our strength as a nation, and the Denarii from it shall propel our cause. General Hasbro takes command of the first army leaving little for garrison in Carthage and Thapsus. Some of the evacuated troops from other cities join it to bolster its green ranks. It marches west to take the Numidian cities of Cirta and Tingi. It must do so quickly so that it can return to Carthage as a seasoned unit ready to defend the capital against Rome, a dreaded assault that is sure to come.

War Declared:
268BC, not two years since the oracles vision, the Julii lay siege to Caralis and the Scipii lay siege to Lilybaeum later that same year. Large Roman Fleets circle these islands. Hasbro’s army recruits mercenaries in Numidia as he approaches the capital city.

General Hasbro at the siege of Cirta: “I favor no ill omens for the Numidians, but I can think of no better sacrifice than a brave people such as they.”

In 267BC Spain rapidly approached, and in a declaration of war laid siege to Corduba. The garrison under command of Governor Momhett breaks out and crushes the small force. Cordubain citizens are unruly and troubled, as Carthage cannot send reinforcements, Governor Momhett has his hands full. Meanwhile Cirta is secured, Caralis and Lilybaeum fall to Rome. An alliance is formed with the Greek Cities who are also besieged by Roman aggression. Rumors arise of Roman soldiers desecrating sacred temples of conquered cities and mass crucifixion of citizens.

Spain makes two more attempts to assault Corduba in 266BC, both of which are repelled. Corduba now recruits round shield cavalry. Governor Momhett recruits several units to bolster garrison as spies report large Gallic army composed of infantry crossing into Baetica.
Leaving a barely adequate garrison, General Hasbro marches west along the coast into Maurtania. Numidian Leader attempts to block passage by securing high ground near road, but quickly retreats south after sighting Hasbro’s forces. After a lengthy march, Tingi, the second and last objective for General Hasbro is almost in sight. Roman Fleets now gather along African coast. One fleet holds a large infantry army.

264BC. In an effort to stop invasion, maneuvers result in a Carthaginian fleets annihilation. Outnumbered 8 to 1, the attempt was futile. Remaining ships in region are sent west, ordered to evade all enemies. Roman fleet disembarks near port and eyes the city of Thapsus. Roman army consists of eight units of Hastati. Thapsus looses hope and begins ritual sacrificing. Carthage sends word with retreating fleets of the impending siege in hopes that Hasbro can make a swift return. General Hasbro just conquers Tingi, leaves small garrison and begins long march back to Carthage. Even though road construction is developing well, it would take at least two years to return. (4turns)

In the top of 263BC, investment in trade is now paying off well. Scipii army of Hastati lay siege to Thapsus. A second Roman reinforcement fleet seen approaching the coast, three army units aboard but unidentified. A Gallic army of heavy and light infantry lay siege to Corduba. Governor Momhett opens the side gates, knowing he must attack. 4 units of RS Cavalry, one Balearic slinger unit, and one skirmisher engage the Gallic army of 4 light and 4 heavy infantry. Initial split charge results in heavy casualties, but the slingers save the day. Chasing the slingers drained the Gauls, and follow-up cavalry charges send them routing. Enemy captain is killed and army disperses.

Letting Rome take Thapsus is not part of the plan. It was anticipated that General Hasbro would have returned by the time that Rome would make landfall near the capital. Carthage coffers were growing steadily now, and enough money was saved to bribe the Roman Hastati for 3160 Denari. A diplomatic move that saved Thapsus. That was Rome’s chance for a decisive maneuver as far as Hasbro thought after he finally arrived. Not using a capable commander to lead the army was more costly then they’ll ever realize. For those within the cities of Carthage and Thapsus knew, had they taken either city, all would be loss.

The New Empire:
258BC and the new borders are in place. Carthage is now a self reliant, easier to defend, and richer nation. Military structures were now in place to recruit Libyan spearmen, Slingers, Heavy Calvary and Elephants. Tingi can now support Corduba, and vice versa. Expansion is now feasible to the south and north, while Hasbro and his mighty Elephants defend the mainland. A new era of hope and prosperity has embraced Carthage, and they stand ready to meet and oppose all Roman conquest. In time, a mighty commander will one day ride into Rome and crush it.

A very very nice, indeed!

Thank you for the great post, Praylak.

Have fun wrecking Rome! ~:cheers:

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Originally Posted by Praylak

Merchants from abroad speak of their unwinding lust for our rich cities and the cities of others.

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Good read, Praylak, you're the Herodot of RTW. :book:

Keep going... Very nice indeed!

:smash: those Romans !

I liked it

yay, congrats! Good luck and may Dido be avenged :book:

What? Does it take that long to go to work/school/university, come home, eat, sleep, talk to wife/kids/roommate/parents/friends before you can play again? Get going! ~;)

Damn, Corduba is really taking the slaps. Got to get a real army up there er something. Friggin Spainards!

PART 2

As the God of the Underworld stood ready to accept Hasbro the Mighty, the great General lay semi-conscious gazing from his bed through a large open balcony archway. The sun was low in the horizon and a gentle breeze gracefully moved the fine tapestries that encircled his room. The angry sea could be heard as large waves battered the coastline of his homeland, as if Antha herself was trying to encourage him to rise once again to war. But age and injury have taken their toll. Hasbro was already an older man when he began the Numidian campaign, and although the people of Carthage thought of him as a great hero it was not enough to convince the Gods that he should continue. Anibus, Son of Hasbro, entered his fathers quarters for a final visit before leaving for the southern regions of Numidia. Anibus would be gone for a long a time, and he knew this was the last time he would see his father again in this life.

With great effort Hasbro sits up as his son sat down next to him.

Hasbro : “Son, …. you are prepared, your men ….are they eager?”
Anibus : “Eager and ready father.”
Hasbro : “It is your time now, you must make Carthage strong, defeat her enemies and stop the perversion that is Rome”
Anibus : “Father, I go to bring Carthage glory, her enemies death, and all things Roman that lay in my path I shall destroy with a fury not seen for ages.”

255BC Governer Momhett is greatly respected by Carthage as he has held the fractious city against both Gaul and Spain with only financial support from the Council for many years. Both Gaul and Spain were relentless in harassing Corduba. The bodies from countless skirmishes and full out siege assaults littered the grounds outside it walls. Some fresh, some decayed for many years. It was a disturbing sight but it did nothing to settle the hordes that reigned down time after time. Then in 254BC the raids and assaults lessened more with each passing month. This gave Momhett much needed peace and he used it to strengthen the garrison and its defenses. Later it was learned that Roman factions were attacking both Gaul and Spain.

254BC, what was originally reported as Scipii reinforcement had now been reorganized into a capable threat and took landfall again near the city of Thapsus. Its ranks included 4 units of Hasati, 2 units of Principe, and 1 unit of Cavalry Auxilla. Another young faction member named Zeuxis Castulo was appointed the task of defending the African coastline. He is not yet a great commander, but his qualities earn him enough respect for the title of Protector of Carthage. Not knowing what to expect, as this would be the first real engagement with Roman forces, the Council sent 4 units of the freshly recruited Poeni heavy Infantry for Zeuxis to defend with. But Zeuxis had no intention of defending a siege, he would attack the moment a Roman set foot on Carthage soil. Along with the 4 Poeni, Zeuxis also brings 2 Slingers, 1 Skirmisher and 2 Long Shield (LS) Cavalry. Before the Scipii are able to lay siege to Thapsus, Zeuxis makes haste and meets the Roman army on the coast. Denarii would not be spent this time, only blood. Carthage anxiously waited for the dawn as Zeuxis stepped forward to make his moment in history and challenge Roman superiority.

After securing trade rights with Macedon the lone ship carrying famous diplomat Ackim Hummid accidentally collides with a Macedon Bireme while evading a Brutii fleet chasing it. The tragic result ends with the ship being sunk, Ackim drowns and Macedon declares war against Carthage. Times like these, one must question the humor of the Gods.

General Anibus, the most able and youngest commander at the time, crosses the Numidian Alps into Caetulia. His army proudly carries the banner of his father, Hasbro the Mighty that consists of 2 Libyan Spearmen, 1 unit of Elephant, 2 slingers, 2 Iberian Infantry, and 2 RS Cavalry. His objective it to take the city of Dimmidi then onto Nepte in effort to conquer the whole southwestern corner of the Mediterranean.

Governer Momhett sends word to Carthage, his health is ailing. Given the circumstances of the cities unruly population and constant attacks from the north, a suitable benefactor has been chosen and should be sent in preparation for the day. Council knows Momhett’s popularity is the significant element in keeping Carthage’s richest city from rebellion. Diplomats meet with both Spain and Gaul to attempt to secure a cease-fire and re-establish trade. Kanni Thabraca is dispatched from Carthage. As he travels towards Corduba, he builds watchtowers along the African coast.

A discussion overheard as Momhett discussed the political situation with an advisor….
Momhett: “I must hold on, Corduba must hold on. We are the foundation, the anchor of the empire.”
Advisor: “But sire, guards at the watchtower report seeing larger armies with better quality soldiers.”

The Battle of Port Thapsus:
253BC. Dawn breaks and General Zeuxis attacks the Scipii. As the Phalanx approaches the Romans waiting on a sand dune, slingers dash fourth and let loose lead shot. Still, they valiantly stand waiting to throw Pila into a phalanx assault. But Zeuxis doesn’t send his Phalanx up the sand dune. Hastati shields preserve but casualties still mount as the constant barrage reduces their numbers. Cavalry Auxilla rush fourth to subdue one slinger and is met with Carthage Cavalry. Before Auxilla can withdraw, skirmishers behind Phalanx cause significant damage and LS Cavalry chase them off the field. Slingers now move into flanking positions, one on each side of Roman formation. Shots that miss the first group, hit the soldiers beside them. Slingers begin to cause real casualties.

In an act of desperation the Romans charge to close range for pila throw. 2nd LS cavalry, already on a flank rushes to rear of Roman position, Slingers too move onto sand dune to rear of Hastati. Romans try to react to this but in confusion becomes a crowded mess of infantry. Phalanx moves in and the previous maneuver has given them time to get close with minimal pila hits. Pricipe and Hastati attempt to engage Phalanx. Romans are skewered like fish as they charge down the dune into a wall of death and slingers from behind, now with a height advantage, hammer them in the back. LS Cavalry stands ready on top of sand dune for the moment of truth. One unit of Pricipe manages to get on the flank of a Phalanx, and LS Cavalry charge to meet it. Before the charge makes contact the Romans drop their shields and run. All Roman soldiers save three Cavalry lay dead or dying in the sand.

Zeuxis was greatly celebrated and honored. He became a great commander and instilled much needed confidence. It would be many years before a Roman faction would attempt to again land an army capable of sieges on the great cities of Thapsus and capital of Carthage. For the first time in decades, Rome knew fear.

250BC General Anibus conquers the city of Dimmidi. Its garrison had no knowledge of his approach and fell without effort. After a short time spent in the city, Anibus set out again this time for Nepte.

Diplomats can’t understand why Spain and Gaul wish to continue hostilities as the Julii advance through their lands. Both Gaul and Spain reply in dismay and see no reason to cease the war even as they loose territory to Rome, a mutual enemy. Capable ambassador Jerifk requests denarii to help in negotiations. Council sends swift reply …

Council of Elders: “after considering your request for 2000 Denarii to aid in negations, the Council has decided that the money would be better spent on pikes to impale them with. Your services are no longer required, return home at once”

Word from abroad that an alliance of Egypt and Pontus has destroyed the Selucids. Surely we are not the only faction gaining power to challenge Rome.

249BC General Anibus reaches Nepte and is surprised to find the city is in the hands of rebels. Spies close in and find several Numidian skirmishers, foot and cavalry. In a surprise course of events, the battle ends before Anibus can secure the city. It takes a second assault before the city is conquered. Losses were significant, but rage drove Anibus to attack again. The Numidian natives put in a stalwart resistance but this time it was decisive.

Funeral rites are held as all celebrate the passing of Hasbro the Mighty. He will now aid us from the afterlife, as he would surely be at Baal’s side. A monumental statue is built in recognition of his deeds.

In 245BC Kanni Thabraca arrives at city of Tingi where he awaits the construction of a small tireme fleet to take him across the strait to Corduba. He will succeed Governor Momhett who is now 58 years old. Here Kanni will have many opportunities to gain influence if Spain and/or Gaul continue hostilities. Still there is great concern for when Momhett does eventually pass away.

240BC there had been relative peace along the borders for several years now. Only Corduba experiences frequent attacks. The opportunity was used to strengthen economics and military structures in several cities.

238BC and General Anibus is expected to return to Carthage within the coming months. There he will honor his father and then refit his army to continue conquest of the Numidians. Lepcis Magna to the east is his next target. This will be as far as Carthage will conquer in Africa for the time. New strategy is being concluded to conquer Spain since foreseen problems with Corduba are relative to the strength of Carthage and the erosion of Rome’s power.

:thumbsup:

nice AAR

Campaign is still going strong. I was worried about Corduba there, but things just recently got allot better. Fighting four factions constantly is total hell.

I hate carthage! They betray me even though they are both my allies, and not even half as powerful as me. Then, as soon as I sack Carthage, the Scipii start an endless string of seiges. The Scipii IGNORE the carthaginians and attack me instead. And to add injury to insult, desert spearmen have an obscene 200 upkeep cost, even though they are terrible.

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Originally Posted by Praylak

Campaign is still going strong. I was worried about Corduba there, but things just recently got allot better. Fighting four factions constantly is total hell.

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Amen to that. I've been fighting six constantly and simultaneously (Julii, Scipii, Brutii, Spainish, Gaul, Numidian.) I finally killed two and think I'll just blockade the hostile Gaul in the Pyrenees, and turn my attention to the three attacking Roman factions one at a time--taking the stronger Brutii first. I do wonder if hitting Rome proper would be wiser though... I imagine it will either be a terrific boon to take Rome and weaken all Roman factions, or result in some sort of apocalypse of super armies attacking me like some nightmare Roman crusade/jihad..

The problem with Cordoba/Spain is that all of my good winning captains get called back to Carthage to become part of the family. It's going to take awhile to get those boys back home. The seas are quite treacherous so most of the trip will be overland.

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Originally Posted by Red Harvest

I do wonder if hitting Rome proper would be wiser though... I imagine it will either be a terrific boon to take Rome and weaken all Roman factions, or result in some sort of apocalypse of super armies attacking me like some nightmare Roman crusade/jihad..

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Lol, gives me chills just thinking about that scenario. I'm not sure myself, but it's the question that will need to be answered. When to invade Rome. Some people go right for Rome day 1, but I failed at that attempt twice. It would be nice to do now as they harrass the hell out of me, but I'm going to wait till I'm a WarGod, and I got like an Army of the Gods. To each his own.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Red Harvest

The problem with Cordoba/Spain is that all of my good winning captains get called back to Carthage to become part of the family. It's going to take awhile to get those boys back home. The seas are quite treacherous so most of the trip will be overland.

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And that is the truth of the situation I face, absolutley.

very nice man, im in my Cartaghian Campaign aswell. First 2 trys where crap so the third time i tryed it i tryed to blitzkrieg sicily and spain and it worked like a charm, War Elephants and Numidian cavalary where the key for me, im playing on hard/very hard.

Right. I've tried playing Carthage 4 times now. 2 on very hard/very hard, and two on medium/very hard and am finding it impossible. Frankly, I don't see how anybody does it. It is simply not possible to take on Rome, Gaul, Numidia at the same time. In two of the games, Rome attacks me within the first four turns. Every time. Gaul comes attacks from Spain at about turn 8 or so, then the Numbians join the party at about turn 12-14.

The only ones who will have anything to do with me are the Greek City States. I find it amazing that the guy had time to take an army into Numidia (5-6 turns to get there?) and come back. By that time, you would have lost both your islands. So, the secret is to blitz? What fun.

Great AAR, i wonder if you play Europa Universalis, Victoria, or Hearts of Iron?

In any event i hope you, and others will continue to write these things up, as they are very intertaining. ~:)

I love reading the AAR's of the above mentioned games, even though i cant play them worth a damn. :dizzy2:

I demand an update! ~:)