MARATHON 490BC (PO)

The Persian Empire, under the leadership of King Darius, launched an invasion of Greece by landing 75'000 troops at Marathon, approximately 40km northeast of Athens.

The Persian army, largely consisting of poorly trained conscripts, was opposed by 16'000 elite Greeks, who (after several days of hesitation) swept down upon the Persian beachhead in a stunning surprise attack.

By focusing upon the weak Persian flanks, the Greek onslaught demoralized and routed the ill-prepared Persian army.

Each hex is approximately 1.5km in size, and each turn lasts 20 minutes.

Advancing along the flanks and into the Persian rear, as occurred in the actual battle, will not only garner victory points for the Greeks, but will also lead to Persian losses through dissolution and pestilence effects. In particular, the Greek player should target the Elamite and Babylonian encampments.

For historical comparison, overall Greek fatalities are calculated at 15% of the lost equipment value, with the remainder representing wounded troops. Persian fatalities are calculated at 50% of the lost equipment value, with the remaining 50% representing enslaved prisoners.

Although the Greeks historically achieved surprise, there is a 20% chance that they will not, and that the Persian officers will successfully rally their troops.

This scenario uses custom graphics and an edited equipment database.

Most games will end within 6-8 turns, and the Greeks will usually (but not always) win the battle.