Aquae Sextiae 102 BC (C&C Ancients)

Historical Background: Following the disaster at Aruasio in 105 BC, Rome elected Marius as Consul to deal with the emergency. He was granted a reprieve as the Teutones and Ambrones decided to invade Spain rather than Italy, and spent the years 104-103 reorganizing the Roman army. Then in 102 BC, the Germanic tribes once again moved toward Rome. They reportedly numbered over 110,000 men, but half that number is a more likely estimate. Marius crossed the Alps with an army of over 40,000 legionnaires and Ligurian auxiliaries and set up camp near the coastal route being followed by the Teutone and Ambrone tribes under their King Teutobodus. Marius allowed the two tribes to pass and then followed them until they came to Aquae Sextiae. He occupied the high ground in view of the enemy, after posting an ambush force under Marcellus. Hostilities began almost immediately. The tribes charged up the hill but the terrain was in the Roman favor and they forced back the barbarians. At this time Marcellus’ ambush force appeared, and charged into the enemy rear. The entire horde broke and fled. Tens of thousands of the barbarians were slain, and many captured, including Teutobodus. Hundreds of the Germanic women committed mass suicide rather than become slaves of Rome.

Teutobodus launches warriors from his center and left at the Romans, both sides take some casualties but the Romans keep their strong position. (Germanic Tribes 0, Romans 0)

Teutobodus' warriors from the right advance on the Romans, while they sally forth and push back the initial Germanic advance. (Germanic Tribes 0, Romans 1)

Teutobodus intervenes personally and creates a gap in the Roman center. Marius counter attacks on the left and puts some Germanic warriors to flight. (Germanic Tribes 1, Romans 2)

A general Roman assault finishes off all of Teutobodus' depleted warriors, leaving the Germanic chieftain isolated. Defeated, the Germanic horde takes flight. (Germanic Tribes 1, Romans 6)