Adding the Effects of Current

[Dobbs]

Here are some rules I developed in case you want to add current or set to a scenario (it can be especially interesting if there is land involved).

Current (set): To represent the effect of current, the Current Indicator card is placed on the board and all vessels involved in the engagement feel the effect. At the start of each turn, each vessel places the Current Movement card on the corner or edge of their base furthest downstream, and moves the base in the direction of the Current Indicator’s arrow the distance of the Current’s indicated speed, without changing the ship’s orientation.

The Current cards with the royal blue arrows indicate localized currents and the border arrows define the boundaries. Any portion of a ship’s base within the boundary means the ship feels the effect of the localized current. A ship can only be affected by one current per turn.

Current Cards 1.pdf
Current Cards 2.pdf
Current Cards 3.pdf

[Bligh]

Nice idea Dobbs.
I have copied your set of cards for future use should I essay up river in the future.
Rob.

[Dobbs]

Nice idea Dobbs.
I have copied your set of cards for future use should I essay up river in the future.
Rob.

There can be currents along coastlines too....

[Dobbs]

The Chesapeake and Delaware Bays have significant currents on the ebb and flood, as I suspect the Solent does as well.

[Bligh]

The Chesapeake and Delaware Bays have significant currents on the ebb and flood, as I suspect the Solent does as well.

Oh yes. Double trouble from the Solent Dobbs.

It is sheltered by the Isle of Wight and has a complex tidal pattern, which has benefited Southampton's success as a port, providing a "double high tide" that extends the tidal window during which deep-draught ships can be handled. Portsmouth lies on its shores. Spithead, an area off Gilkicker Point near Gosport, is known as the place where the Royal Navy is traditionally reviewed by the monarch of the day.

Rob.

[Union Jack]

A nice addition to the game.

[Dobbs]

A nice addition to the game.

Thanks Neil! I think currents could make for interesting scenarios like a small, maneuverable ship vs. a larger one in shoal waters. ..

[David Manley]

If you read accounts of small ship operations close inshore the effect and impact of tides and currents is quite stark, as is the benefit of local knowledge, the availability and willingness to help of local pilots etc. So plenty of "chrome" to add to inshore and riverine scenarios.

[DeRuyter]

The Chesapeake and Delaware Bays have significant currents on the ebb and flood, as I suspect the Solent does as well.

Racing small boats on the Delaware in a 2 knt current with 6 knts of wind is a real treat!!

[Dobbs]

I came up with this the other day, as I like my Current/Set rules, but I thought the cards could be improved.

Here's a PDF version if the JPEG doesn't appeal.

Current Disks.pdf

Current Movement Cards.pdf

The idea is that you place these disks on the playing surface wherever a current is having an effect, and the vessel is moved in the direction of the arrow before play each turn. Like gunnery range, the effect of the current can be felt up to a certain distance from the disk. The effective range is determined by the scenario. The closest disk to a vessel takes priority.

[Dobbs]

I revamped these files, as I thought octagons were better than circles (and easier to cut out).

I don't think the cards changed, but I figured I'd post them since it all works together.

Here are the PDF versions.

Current Octagons and Launches.pdf

Set Cards - Current.pdf

[Bligh]

Thanks Dobbs. Thet do look great. I think I will upgrade my cards.
Rob.

[Dobbs]

Cut out and ready for service. The launches in these pictures are prototypes, without full shading unlike the ones posted. This afternoon I added shading to the arrow on the Current octagons. I haven't decided if its an improvement yet. If it wins the opinion test I'll post it.

[Bligh]

In that case I will wait for your modification.
Rob.