Blood, Bilge and Iron Balls

Naval Wargame Rules for the Age of Sail

Alan Abbey

• Publisher: Pen & Sword Military
• Year: 2012
• Print ISBN: 9781848845343
• eBook ISBN: 9781783032532
• Topic: History
• Subtopic: 19th Century History
• Index: History

Blood, Bilge and Iron Balls is a set of wargame rules for naval battles in the age of sail. With them you can recreate the triumphs of Nelson or Hawke or tackle pirates on the Spanish Main. The rules themselves are very simple and easy to learn. Each player can easily command a single ship or several, the rules working equally well for a single frigate chasing down a privateer, or a large-scale fleet action with multiple players on each side. The basic rules have been written with the emphasis on providing a fast-playing and fun game, but optional rules are included which will add a greater level of historical realism and detail. A unique card-driven turn sequence prevents the game becoming too predictable. Also included are a selection of scenarios for re-fighting specific historical battles and simple campaign rules. Although intended for use with model ships, the rule book includes sheets of ship counters which can be used to get started. Just add dice, tape measure and pencil and you're ready to play.

Table of contents

• Dedication
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Table of Contents
• Blood, Bilge & Iron Balls
• The Rules
• Turn Sequence
• Victorious Battles – So Who Won?
• Optional rules
• Scenarios
• Campaign Rules
• Suggestions for Further Reading from Pen and Sword
• Appendix One - The Game Tools
• Appendix Two - The Ship Record Sheets
• Appendix Three - The Nile Scenario Ships
• Index