Gaugamela(scenario)

[rico21]

Rather than pursue Darius after the victory at Issus (333), Alexander turned south to neutralize the Persian fleet. In a two-year campaign he captured Tyre and Gaza and conquered Egypt. In 331, Alexander marched into Mesopotamia, intent on attacking Babylon. Darius had raised another army, strong in cavalry but lacking in good infantry. The two armies met on the plain of Gaugamela. Darius posted cavalry on the right and the left and occupied the center with his Greek mercenaries, guard cavalry, elephants, and chariots. Alexander placed the Thessalian horse on the left, gave Craterus the phalanx in the center, and placed himself in person with the Companions on the right. The Persian line extended well beyond both flanks of the Macedonian formation. To counter, Alexander moved diagonally as he advanced, refusing his left. Darius ordered his mounted troops forward. The Macedonian right managed to hold their attackers just long enough for Alexander to charge with his Companions and heavy infantry straight for Darius. As he had at Issus, Darius turned and fled the field but the battle was not yet over. The Macedonian left was still hard pressed by the Persian cavalry. Alexander wheeled about and charged with the Companions into the Persian cavalry, forcing them back. Soon the entire Persian army was in retreat. Gaugamela is one of the truly decisive battles of history and marked the beginning of Alexander’s great empire. This battle is also considered the classic example of penetration tactics.

[zakblood]

thanks for the share