I am currently reading a book about the Battle of Spotsylvania in the ACW. This was the first real use of extensive field fortifications in combination with rifled weaponry and the resulting slaughter was mind numbing to attacker and defender alike. The results of this scenario were no different. The Japanese are forced into relatively direct assaults and are savaged by the opportunity fire and then counterattacked.

The results of the western trail attack which hit directly at Isurava were particulary bloody. By turn 9 the Japanese had not only been thrown out of Isurava but were thrown out of the clearing around Isurava and the Australians had a substantial numerical advantage in the area, ensuring that both Isurava and The Rest House would remain under their control throughout the game.

On the eastern trail the Japanese were having some better results. Although they had not pierced to Abuari they had at least given the Aussies a scare and were causing some losses.

Total casualties ran about 3-1 in favor of the Australians and with the clear ability to hold at least two villages the Japanese could not win the scenario.

I had played the previous Isurava scenario (Day Two, surprisingly enough...) and had similar results. There simply are too many Australians and too short a board to permit the Japanese the ability to maneuver and put the defenders on their heels. Still this was a very fun scenario and I find it difficult to manage the Japanese in these types of battles as their losses are horendous but as long as they have infantry on the board they have a chance to win. I give it a "4".