The Somme usually brings grim images of stalled attacks and brutal losses.
However, Montauban offers a very different first-day story. This scenario highlights planning, artillery, and aggressive infantry tactics actually working together. For Great War players, that makes it a fascinating battle to recreate. This is a summary of the community post found here.
18th Division Breaks Through at Montauban
The Montauban scenario focuses on one of the few clear British successes on July 1, 1916. While much of the British front suffered disaster, the 18th Eastern Division performed with impressive coordination. Under Major General Ivor Maxse, the division used careful preparation and hard-driving tactics to seize its objectives. Meanwhile, French artillery support helped the 53rd and 54th Brigades overrun German front trenches in the first wave. By 10:30am, the 55th Brigade had entered Montauban itself. Then, by 6:00pm, the village and surrounding alleys were fully secured.
On the tabletop, that gives players more than a meat-grinder scenario. Instead, it creates a game about timing, momentum, and exploiting a successful breach. The action also connects directly to Mametz. Although the 7th Division initially suffered under German machine-gun fire, the 18th Division’s advance threatened the village from the flank. As a result, the German garrison became isolated, and Mametz fell later that day.
Summary and Final Thoughts
Overall, this is a strong Great War scenario because it spotlights success without ignoring the cost. It also sets up later fighting around Mametz Wood.
