Riftborne After Action Report - Battle of the Keystones - Strategy in MMO Persistent Wargames @rebelmerlin22

RebelMerlin The screenshots start at this timestamp here: 37:03

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
0:58 What is Riftborne
2:50 Fundamental Principles
4:20 FFA Strategy Games
4:55 Lobby and Teams
7:00 Command and Leadership
8:30 Social and Community Gaming
9:45 Wargame Mechanics
10:50 Discord and Communications
14:35 Meme Superiority
15:50 Internal Politics
20:55 Operational Procedures
26:09 Strategy Talk
27:00 The Balance of Power
32:00 No Diplomacy
32:40 Recon and Intel
33:40 Super Aggro Start
40:55 Red's Burnout
48:35 The Nomad Offensives
55:45 Conclusions

updated 3 months ago

Riftborne After Action Report - Battle of the Keystones - Strategy in MMO Persistent Wargames

RebelMerlin 2026-06-01 | The screenshots start at this timestamp here: 37:03

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
0:58 What is Riftborne
2:50 Fundamental Principles
4:20 FFA Strategy Games
4:55 Lobby and Teams
7:00 Command and Leadership
8:30 Social and Community Gaming
9:45 Wargame Mechanics
10:50 Discord and Communications
14:35 Meme Superiority
15:50 Internal Politics
20:55 Operational Procedures
26:09 Strategy Talk
27:00 The Balance of Power
32:00 No Diplomacy
32:40 Recon and Intel
33:40 Super Aggro Start
40:55 Red's Burnout
48:35 The Nomad Offensives
55:45 Conclusions

THE COMEBACK KING - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-05-21 | MrG returns once again with another banger of a FFA match. Yet another clutch comeback no-win scenario.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:35 Opening Movies
3:00 On the back foot
3:55 Siege the Capital
6:55 Where'd Blue Go?
7:20 MrG Counter Offensive
9:40 Purple Returns?
11:30 MrG's Northern Offensive
13:35 The Siege 2
14:20 Murphy's Law
20:00 Endgame

The 4 Diamondback List - Mach Speed Intercept

RebelMerlin 2026-05-20 | 2 back to back games using 4 Diamondbacks against a 4 Emperor list. Very interesting matchup. Live commentay included.

Chapters
0:00 Game 1
20:30 Game 2

ENCIRCLEMENTS JERRY - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-05-19 | In his first debut on the channel, Jerry shows us once again how much chaos can occur in the FFA modes of War of Dots. And aklo demonstrates how much fun it is to watch such chaos unfold.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
2:44 Opening Moves
5:00 Full Attack
6:30 Keep the Momentum
9:00 Consolidate Gains
12:00 Endgame

How To Play Barracudas - Mach Speed Intercept

RebelMerlin 2026-05-18 | In this video, Iwilllose aka Kylian, will show us how to actually play Barracudas. Also, I get the opportunity to talk about missile spam lists in greater detail.

Chapters
0:00 Intro
2:00 Squadron Lists
4:55 Opening Moves
12:00 The Merge
17:00 Dogfight Begins
23:00 Middle Game Calculations
39:55 Endgame Calculations

THE ILLUSION OF ARMOR - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-05-17 | In this replay Smith returns to give us a very exciting and education replay full of action and strategic considerations. Most importantly, the troop count illusion provided by armor units in forests.

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:45 Opening Moves
1:45 Encirlements Baby
4:50 Close Snipe
5:45 Strategic Calculations
7:30 Rapid Manuevers
10:15 Scouting and Intel
12:30 Some Trades
14:00 The Armor Reserve
17:15 Tanks in the Forest
21:00 COUNTER OFFENSIVE
22:40 Endgame

The Missileer List - Feat. Buzzards - Mach Speed Intercept

RebelMerlin 2026-05-14 | In this video I go over missile swarm tactics using my special missile swarm list that includes 2 Buzzards.

Mach Speed Intercept Discord server link here: discord.gg/vTAxY3gDFF

This is a very early build of the game and everything is subject to change.

Steam page: store.steampowered.com/app/3438610/Mach_Speed_Intercept

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
0:20 Deployment
2:00 Opening
5:45 The Merge
8:30 Dogfight
11:00 Endgame

HE ATTACKED WHERE? - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-05-13 | In this replay we see the return of my main man Smith aka pncg. And boy did he make some plays in this one.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:30 Opening Moves
2:40 War of Attrition
3:35 Withdrawal
4:30 New Offensives
5:35 The Gamble
6:40 SNIPE
8:00 NO TIME FOR CAUTION
9:35 On Playstyles
11:10 Endgame

How To Play Missile Swarms - Mach Speed Intercept

RebelMerlin 2026-05-12 | In this video I go over the basics of using a missile swarm list, its strengths and weaknesses, counterplay options and tactics.

Mach Speed Intercept Discord server link here: discord.gg/vTAxY3gDFF

This is a very early build of the game and everything is subject to change.

Steam page: store.steampowered.com/app/3438610/Mach_Speed_Intercept

Chapters
0:00 Intro
2:30 Missile Lists
4:10 Counterplay and Missiles
7:40 Missile Economy
9:40 Manuevers
10:30 Break the Rules
13:40 Endgame Calculations

WILL HE COMMIT THE RESERVES? - Lines of Battle

RebelMerlin 2026-05-11 | We are once again back at with the Napoleonic gaming. In this replay we see some extremely unconventional moves by both players resulting in a confusing battle of lines and artillery.

Chapters
0:00 Red's Army Comp
0:42 Blue's Army Comp
2:25 Map Analysis
5:15 Deployments
8:30 Recon and Scouting
11:45 Maneuvers
15:40 Main Engagement
17:30 What about the Reserves?

RIVER OFFENSIVE GAMEPLAY - War of Dots Edition

RebelMerlin 2026-05-10 | Its just like Nam, trust me. In this War of Dots replay we see some extensive use of naval units by both sides to try and gain a tactical advantage along the river bank. Quality gameplay if i do say so myself.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:53 Opening Moves
2:39 Navy Gameplay
3:50 River Offensive
6:58 Bridge Battle
7:30 Merlin Yapping
12:28 Endgame Calculations

SteamBirds Spiritual Successor: MACH SPEED INTERCEPT - First Look

RebelMerlin 2026-05-08 | In the year 2026, we finally have a game that recreates the feel of the original SteamBirds. Mach Speed Intercept is a simultaneous turn based air combat wargame heavily inspired by SteamBirds and X-Wing The Miniatures Game.

Plan your squadrons manuevers and see them play out in real time against your opponent. Clever use of tactics and weapons as well as predicting your enemy's moves will ultimately decide who comes out on top in this game of high octane combat.

In this video I showcase the very early alpha build which you can currently playtest if you want to by joining the Mach Speed Intercept Discord server. Link here: discord.gg/vTAxY3gDFF

This is a very early build of the game and everything is subject to change.

Steam page: store.steampowered.com/app/3438610/Mach_Speed_Intercept

Link to SteamBirds gameplay: youtu.be/1DlWcVEuHhU

Link to X-Wing TMG video: youtu.be/J0igkDkY_fw

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:10 Planes and Squadrons
6:50 Gameplay Starts
8:15 Core Game Mechanics
17:00 Missile Mechanics
24:15 Dogfight Begins
28:15 Tactics and Strategy
35:30 Conclusions

SteamBirds Bonus Missions - First Time Playthrough (After 16 YEARS)

RebelMerlin 2026-05-07 | Since the previous video got a lot of attention, I decided to go ahead and playthrough the Bonus Mission for SteamBirds, something that I've never done before.

Link to first playthrough: youtu.be/1DlWcVEuHhU

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:29 Mission 1 Foxhunt
5:21 Mission 2 Lead Deficiency
8:14 Mission 3 Their Shoes
10:10 Mission 4 Tracking
15:57 Mission 5 Hairball
19:05 Mission 6 The Final Countdown

A GAME OF THRONES - War of Dots Edition

RebelMerlin 2026-05-06 | Our very own Mr G (A good friend of the show) goes up against the Rank 1 player in War of Dots, Asteron. With wild operations and tactical wizardry both players put on a wild show.

Also, NAVY

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:49 Opening Moves
3:00 Battle for the Island
8:22 Initiative passes
10:45 Center Offensives
12:20 Attrition
13:04 Back to Sci Fi
16:00 NAVY INVASION
17:40 Southern Offensives
18:55 Strategic Discussion
21:30 MORE NAVY
23:00 New Plans
25:00 Breakthrough
27:30 Defensive Masterclass
32:00 Endgame

IN MILITIA WE TRUST - Lines of Battle

RebelMerlin 2026-05-05 | Yet another massive asymmetric match between a well rounded force and an All Militia Army. Careful use of cavalry and timing ultimately turns the tide of this engagement.

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:30 Red Army Comp
1:05 Blue Army Comp
2:15 Map Analysis
3:45 Deployments
5:00 Scouting and Intel
8:00 Battle Begins
10:00 Cavalry Action
13:00 Timing
15:00 Left Flank Attack
17:00 Redeployments
18:40 Endgame
20:40 Final Turns

THE NEW KING OF THE DOTS - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-05-04 | In his first debut on the channel, Champion Asteron shows us how to cycle the dots with style.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:36 Opening Moves
4:00 Tanks baby
6:25 Force Concentration
7:30 Sci Fi Tv Shows
8:45 Southern Moves
9:30 NAVY
13:45 Center Trades
14:45 More Sci Fi
17:30 Back to Attrition
19:59 STARGATE
21:25 Dots are dying
23:40 Endgame

THE GOAT Turn Based Air Combat Tactics Wargame - SteamBirds

RebelMerlin 2026-05-03 | We take a trip down memory lane by replaying through the main campaign of the Legendary 2010 Turn Based Browser Strategy Game: SteamBirds. Although I never quite finished the game, I still had way too much fun playing this one.

It's been a minute since I've played this one ngl folks.

Link to Bonus Mission Playthrough: youtu.be/tl2HeVMxXuc

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:39 Game Lore
2:40 Tutorial and Mechanics
8:30 Fighter Combat
11:38 Turn the Tables
13:30 Bandits Behind
16:20 Gas Attack
22:00 Plane Heist
25:20 Flying Wing
29:30 Heavy Bombers
34:30 SQUADRON Combat
38:40 First Boss Dogfight
41:30 More War Crimes
48:30 Even More War Crimes
56:00 Balloon Warfare
1:01:25 Final BOSS
1:09:15 Conclusions

City Trading Simulator - War of Dots Edition

RebelMerlin 2026-05-01 | In an intense and even match up between shyrons and cowmandude we have exchanges of cities across the frontline for the entire game. Heavy action all around with lots of strategic maneuvering and offensives.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:15 Opening Moves
4:00 Double Offensives
7:20 Strategic decisions
9:50 City Exchange
12:30 Spam the Lights
14:30 Trade Offer
17:30 Offensives Continue
22:30 Lights vs Heavys in Forests
25:00 Conclusions

A Pure SHOCK ASSAULT Army - Lines of Battle

RebelMerlin 2026-04-30 | Just because its a smaller game doesn't mean there's less tactics involved. In this Lines of Battle cast it comes down to the wire. Both armies are designed with opposing strategies in mind making for a very intense and nail biting opening.

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:55 Red Army Comp
2:35 Blue Army Comp
5:29 Map Analysis
7:55 Deployments
10:15 Scouting Phase
13:40 Skirmishing
19:30 THE CHARGE
22:40 INTENSE MELEE
25:20 Chaos
30:00 Regouping
32:40 Final Battle

I Have A Plan: ATTACK! - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-04-29 | Smith returns once again with a 2 game series against his opponent Cowmandude. Short and sweet War of Dots gameplay.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters:
0:00 Game 1
1:00 Blitz Time
3:30 Breakthroughs
6:30 Game 2
7:50 Opening Moves
8:25 Philosophy talk
9:40 Macro Improvements
11:40 Multi Offensives
16:00 Split Fronts
18:00 Endgame Sieges

Over The Hills And Far Away - Lines of Battle

RebelMerlin 2026-04-28 | In this Lines of Battle cast we see a fairly even match up between our 2 players, resulting in an intense micro battle. Clever use of terrain and careful timing ultimately decide the outcome of this Napoleonic line battle.

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:30 Red Army Comp
2:55 Blue Army Comp
5:35 Deployments
6:00 Map Analysis
9:00 Skirmishing Phase
10:00 Scouting the Hill
10:50 Main Battle Begins
14:30 Battle for The Hill
18:15 Battle Continues
21:10 Conclusions

A GAME OF THROWS - War of Dots Edition

RebelMerlin 2026-04-27 | Peak Free For All War of Dots Gameplay. Featuring MrG once again.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#strategy #tactics #gaming

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:25 Opening Moves
2:20 Strategic Talk
5:30 Blue Offensive
6:10 What are we doing?
8:30 Playing for position?
9:05 Amphibious Assault
12:00 HE'S AFK TOO?
14:30 Strategic Calculations
15:55 Never Give Up
19:00 The Showdown
21:00 Throwing the Game
25:00 Don't Believe in No Win Scenarios
30:00 GG

This Star Wars Game is still ALIVE after 30 YEARS

RebelMerlin 2026-04-26 | In this video we play 2 back to back missions of the Death Star Surface Attack and the Trench Run from the 1993 Star Wars Space Combat Flight Simulator: X-Wing using the XWVM mod. Things came right down to the wire in this run.

It's just like Beggar's Canyon back home.

What is XWVM?: youtu.be/xMQDxxXCUUQ

Chapters
0:00 Surface Attack
7:55 Turbolasers
13:35 Intermission
14:25 TRENCH RUN
17:40 Cutscene

A Thinking Mans Game - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-04-24 | In this replay we have two new players going head to head in War of Dots, providing ample opportunity for myself to teach some of the core mechanics of the game and explain basic strategies and tactics that can help you improve your gameplay.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#gaming #strategy #tactics

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:20 Opening Moves
3:00 No Eco Strat
4:50 Merlin's Strategy Tips
7:00 Offensive Continues
9:00 More Strategy Tips
10:15 Southern Offensive
12:45 Sieging the City
14:30 Endgame

The Minimalist Napoleonic Wargame - Lines of Battle

RebelMerlin 2026-04-23 | In this video we go over a massive engagement in a heavily forested area. A massive infantry frontal charge ensues. Although I enjoyed casting this game, there is a bit too much going on all at the same time to keep up. Time will tell if I keep up with this series. Let me know your thoughts below.

#gaming #strategy #tactics

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:00 Red Army Comp
3:04 Blue Army Comp
5:11 Map Analysis
7:05 Deployment
9:10 Early Game
9:40 Scouting
11:30 Battle Begins
14:00 Middle Game
18:00 Lines Breaking
20:00 Is it enough?
23:00 Endgame
25:45 Conclusions

CAN ANYONE STOP THIS MAN? - TOURNAMENT FINALS MATCH

RebelMerlin 2026-04-22 | Here is the finals match from the April 2026 War of Dots Tournament. It was a little bit anti climatic but it was an excellent learning experience for everybody and a lot of fun was well. Eika showcases an admirable defense against the king himself.

Also I give some strategic analysis and off topic stories to past the time. (shrug)

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#gaming #strategy #tactics

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:20 Player Analysis
3:10 Girth's Offensive
5:00 Merlin Storytime
10:50 Back to the game
12:00 Strategic Analysis
16:30 Morale don't matter if you're dead
18:20 Endgame
20:50 Conclusions

The OTHER GAME About Drawing Lines on Maps - Lines of Battle

RebelMerlin 2026-04-21 | In my first ever replay cast of Lines of Battle we get to see a very interesting matchup between a heavy cavalry force vs a balanced infantry/artillery army. Sharpe and Chess also get shoutouts in this commentary. A little but of yapping on general gaming and strategy mixed in the middle. Also my knowledge of Napoloenic units also gets tested in real time.

Link to my second cast of this game: youtu.be/_OFYLs8v2jI

#gaming #strategy #tactics

Chapters
0:00 Intro - Lines of Battle
1:45 Replays, Turns and Mechanics
3:10 Red's Army Composition
6:25 Blue's Army Composition
8:30 Map Analysis
10:20 Determinism vs The Human Factor
12:16 Army Deployments
14:00 Opening Moves and Scouting
18:00 Battle Line Deploys
22:00 CAVALRY CHARGE
24:00 Frontal Assaults Continue
27:00 Decision on the Western Flank
30:00 Final Opportunities
33:10 AAR

I AM STILL IN DISBELIEF! - SEMIFINALS TOURNAMENT MATCH

RebelMerlin 2026-04-20 | This is the second of two semifinal matches from the April 2026 War of Dots 1v1 Tournament. One of the greatest plays I've ever seen gets played out in realtime just as I am commentating making for an extremely funny experience.

Link to the first semifinals match: youtu.be/y5W2Cva1krk?si=tFoe9WCBVP1ojFCa

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#gaming #strategy #tactics

Chapters
0:00 Game 1 Intro
1:30 Opening Moves
2:11 Pro Micro Analysis
7:13 Tournament Level Discussion
8:52 Girth's Tactical Supremacy
9:50 Power Projection Mechanics
10:50 Tournament Prep
12:59 Game 2 Opening
14:50 WoD Tournament Culture
16:55 Analysing Players
19:37 Merlin's Defensive Strategy
21:20 Tactical Analysis
23:05 BIG PLAYS
23:30 HE DID IT!
24:50 Endgame
26:26 Conclusions

DEFENDING THE REBEL CRUISER DEFIANCE in XWVM (Mod for X-Wing 1993)

RebelMerlin 2026-04-19 | In this mission we have to defend the Rebel Cruiser Defiance from an Imperial ambush.

Chapters
0:00 SCRAMBLE!
2:30 2nd TIE Bomber Wave
5:10 Star Destroyer in play
6:07 More TIEs
6:30 INTENSE Dogfight
10:15 Mission Accomplished

NO HOLDS BARRED - SEMIFINALS TOURNAMENT MATCH

RebelMerlin 2026-04-17 | This is one of the two semifinals matches of the April 2026 War of Dots 1v1 Tournament. Our two combatants in this test of strategy, skill and guts didn't hold anything back and went all in.

Link to the second semifinals match: youtu.be/BF4RtTCic-Q

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Game 1 Intro
1:58 Opening Moves
4:30 Utilising Armor
5:50 WoD Playerbase
7:20 Technical Replay Difficulties
8:50 On Reserves and Cycling
12:10 The Southern Gap
13:30 Eco Strats
15:00 Stalemate continues
19:00 Johns Offensive
21:30 Breakthrough
22:30 Encirclements
23:10 Endgame Strategic Calculus
25:32 Game 2
26:30 Eika's Offensive
27:47 Tournament Level Play
29:00 John's Blunder
30:40 Competing Strategies
33:05 Final Game
33:33 Tournament Level Depth
35:20 Map Strategy
36:00 Troop Deployments
38:00 Tactical Decisions
39:38 River Offensive
41:52 Southern Line
42:50 Big Plays
49:50 Good Games

DRADIS CONTACT! - BSG Deadlock Ghost Fleet Offensive - Part 2

RebelMerlin 2026-04-16 | Episode 2 of my BSG Deadlock Ghost Fleet Offensive playthrough. Trying to shake off the rust in this video, we engage the Cylons in our first resource mission in this campaign playthrough.

Chapters
0:00 Housekeeping
0:55 Fleet Strategy
11:00 Mission Prep
13:00 Mission Deployment
14:11 Mission Begins
19:25 Fights On
26:30 AAR
27:30 Battle Cinematic
29:28 Wrap Up

How to ACTUALLY WIN Strategy Games

RebelMerlin 2026-04-15 | In this very detailed discussion on strategy games I touch upon a myriad of topics that all relate with each other. Such topics include, psychology, strategy, politics, society, social structures, some military history and of course, science fiction.

Oh yea and also some War of Dots casting in the background, but I mean like who even watches these?

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

#gaming #strategy #tactics

Chapters
0:00 Detailed Introduction
4:30 Opening Moves
6:33 Navy Eco Boosting discussion
12:00 Risk Strategy
13:45 Fog of war
14:45 Player Psychology
16:35 Game 2 Begins
17:05 Nuance on the Internet
17:50 Dealing with Teams
19:14 Naval Invasion
20:12 Peak War of Dots
22:40 Irrational Behaviour
25:20 The No Win Scenario
27:59 Mental Stamina
32:00 Keep your options open
34:40 Non-aggression pacts
36:25 Coalition Warfare
40:45 Player Psychology 2
43:00 Communication
44:40 Magic The Gathering
45:45 Gaming Communities
48:10 MTG 2
50:00 Playing Older Editions
52:00 On Casting Games
53:25 Back to the game
57:00 Irrational Behaviour 2
59:00 OPPORTUNITY
1:03:10 On Recollections
1:05:30 Historiography
1:07:38 Back to the game 2
1:09:45 The Center Offensive
1:11:30 Blunder
1:12:45 Late Game Armor
1:15:00 Mid-Endgame Strategy
1:16:10 Balance of Power
1:17:40 Irrational Behaviour 3
1:19:15 Thats WoD Baby

SET CONDITION ONE - BSG Deadlock Ghost Fleet Offensive - Part 1

RebelMerlin 2026-04-14 | We start a brand new Ghost Fleet Offensive campaign in this video. I go over the basic strategy I intend to deploy throughout the campaign, play through our first mission and just vibe out in the CIC.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
3:35 BSG Lore
7:30 Strategic stuff
12:30 Fleet Strategy
20:00 Mission Prep
26:00 Mission Deployment
27:40 Mission Begins
36:00 Opening Shots
39:20 Basestar
43:00 Battle Ramps Up
59:00 Mop up
1:04:10 AAR

BD-1 Rebel Fanfare Sound Effect

RebelMerlin 2026-04-14 | From the Jedi Fallen Order video game.

BD 1 sings the Star Wars theme.

RETURN of the BLITZKRIEG MASTER - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-04-13 | In yet another game of wits, strategy and guts, Steve the blitzkrieg master returns to demonstrate just how the generals of old waged lightning warfare.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
0:25 Opening Moves
1:30 Encirclement
2:15 Massive Opportunity
3:05 The Big Siege
4:45 The Fall
6:20 Passive Power Projection
7:23 The Hail Mary

B-Wing STRIKE TACTICS - Imperial Frigate Takedown (XWVM Mod for X-Wing 1993)

RebelMerlin 2026-04-12 | In this mission we take down an Imperial Nebulon-B frigate in a B-Wing. Very quick and fast heavy strike mission showcasing the strengths of the B-Wing starfighter.

Chapters
0:00 TIE Fighters
0:44 Torpedoes Away!
1:22 Dogfights
3:40 Ion Cannon Attack
5:15 GOT EM

The CHINESE are in the Water - Cold Waters

RebelMerlin 2026-04-09 | Tough times in the Taiwanese Straits. recommend skipping after the 37:00 minute marker as it is a little bit anti-climatic.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
2:30 Sonar Contacts
14:00 Plan of Attack
16:00 Decoys Away
16:25 Torpedoes Away
17:49 Dogleg Attack
20:00 Weapon Acquired
21:05 Splash One
22:45 Battle Continues
27:45 Hol up
29:00 The Last Destroyer
30:05 Load the Harpoons
31:20 Masts Up
32:10 Missiles Away
33:25 Torpedes in the water!
37:00 Hiding (skip to last chapter)
40:00 Mistakes were made
48:50 Mission Accomplished

LARGEST NAVAL BATTLE (so far) - War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-04-08 | Smith goes up against a top 5 player and a very interesting amphibious operation gets underway.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
2:20 Taking over the island
3:05 NAVAL BATTLE
5:15 Counter Amphibious Assault
6:25 Strategy talk
8:07 Withdrawal
9:30 Even more navy
14:15 Amphibious Encirclement
15:00 MrG Counter attack
16:00 Missed opportunities
18:15 Blunder
19:35 Endgame

SUBMARINE DOGFIGHT - Cold Waters

RebelMerlin 2026-04-07 | Don't try this at home. 1968 missions are wild.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:14 Sonar Contacts
3:00 Detected
3:30 TORPS AWAY
4:47 Clutch Long Shots
7:00 Torpedoes In The Water!
9:00 Enemy Submarine
12:30 DOGFIGHT
14:35 Hunting the Tender
18:20 Scratch One Tender

His FINEST HOUR - Steels Masterpiece in War of Dots

RebelMerlin 2026-04-06 | Steel finally sends in a very good replay. Lots of tactics and operations to observe in this battle.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:25 Opening Moves
2:10 Southern Breakthrough
3:50 Tactical Considerations
4:49 Armor vs Lights Strategy
7:00 Armor gets deployed
7:40 City Defense
8:40 Encirclement
11:15 Blue Counter Offensive
12:45 More Encirclements
13:40 New Offensive
16:10 The City falls
18:10 Conclusions

A-WING AGGRESSOR Training in XWVM (Mod for X-Wing 1993)

RebelMerlin 2026-04-05 | In this video I play through an X-Wing mission which puts Rebel starfighters in head to head dogfights to test the capabilities of their starfighters and piloting skills. The Rebel Alliances very own Red Flag Exercise.

I also yap a lot about random things as this mission kinda drags on for a bit.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:16 Mission Starts
2:05 TMG Story Begins
5:45 Meta Creep
7:00 TMG Game Design
8:55 2020 and Society
11:50 The Human Factor

NUKES in The Water - Replaying the BASTION GAMBIT - Cold Waters

RebelMerlin 2026-04-02 | My favourite single mission in the game except this time in very shallow waters.

Chapters
0:00 Intro
3:00 Sonar Contacts
4:50 Where is everyone?
8:15 DETECTED
9:00 TORPEDO IN THE WATER
10:00 TORP EVASION
13:15 Sinking Soviets
14:30 Searching for Primary
18:25 Spook the Enemy
19:50 More EVADING
30:45 We get the Kill
34:30 Final Sub
35:20 Skip This We Already Won
39:08 The End

I Can’t Believe This Encirclement Actually Worked

RebelMerlin 2026-04-01 | Once again yet another grand encirclement maneuver by yours truly. I go over some deeper strategic theory that has been developed by the community and showcase how you can adopt these strategies to improve your own gameplay.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:00 Light vs Heavy Debate
2:10 Opening Moves
3:20 Input Lag
4:45 Strategic Blunder
6:30 Defensive Withdrawal
7:15 Northern Offensive
9:40 Armoured Offensive
12:00 Merlin Tips
13:20 Amphibious Flank
14:20 The Encirclement
15:05 Counter Offensive
16:40 Double Manuevers
18:45 Final Offensive

What if we fought the SOVIETS in 1968? - Cold Waters

RebelMerlin 2026-03-31 | Continuing my replay of Cold Water single missions we find ourselves back in 1968 answereing the age old question of what a WW3 Naval scenario would have looked like during the early Cold War?

Chapters
0:00 Intro
2:11 Sonar Contacts
3:20 Plan of Attack
7:15 Maneuvering to Attack
12:55 Our Target
16:05 Torpdoes Away!
16:55 BLUNDER
17:50 Snap Shot!
18:27 WE GOT HIM
19:10 Escorts Close In
20:50 Second Torpedo Salvo
21:20 SECOND HIT
22:15 Mark 37's
24:45 Running Literal Circles

GAMBIT Your CAPITAL to WIN!

RebelMerlin 2026-03-30 | An unorthodox strategy by Schnitzi results in a intense match of Dots.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Introduction
0:25 Opening Moves
1:19 River Offensive
2:00 Capital Blunder
2:50 Armor Breakthrough
4:20 The Counter Play
5:05 Conclusions

Is the P-61 better than the P-38?

RebelMerlin 2026-03-29 | Flank dragged me into a P-61 game and what do you know? I Aced it on my first try.

Chapters
0:00 P-61 Shootdown
0:45 Attacking the Blob
2:00 Ace with the Gunner
2:54 Chilling out
5:43 Duel of the Fates

There be SOVIETS in these COLD WATERS - Sinking the Kirov

RebelMerlin 2026-03-27 | Decided to go back to Cold Waters just for fun. Had a bigger blast than I thought. Such a great game.

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:50 Sonar Contacts
3:39 Verifying Range
5:20 Plan of Attack
7:00 Manuever to Attack
8:45 Torpedoes Away
10:10 Torp Maneuvers
11:05 Enemy Aircraft
12:15 More Torp Maneuvers
13:30 Scratch One Destroyer
15:15 Scratch Two
15:45 Hunting the Kirov
20:25 Scatch One Battlecruiser

The Art of the Duel - Tactical Analysis of a 1v1 Dogfight

RebelMerlin 2026-03-26 | Some 1v1 duels with Perry. Included in this video is the debrief where we go through and analyse each fight and maneuver to learn the art of air to air combat.

Chapters
0:00 Round 1
3:03 Round 2
5:43 Tactical Analysis
6:45 Reversal Mistake
8:45 Play for Position
10:05 Pursuit Curves
12:15 Round 2 Opening
13:07 Rolling Scissors
14:25 Watch Terrain

Imperial STAR DESTROYER Takedown - Feat. B-WING (XWVM Mod for X-Wing 1993)

RebelMerlin 2026-03-25 | Back at it again with the good old B-Wing. We take down yet another ISD in X-Wing 1993 playing with the XWVM Mod. This should be the last and final Star Destroyer take down mission in the game that I've posted on this channel.

First ISD Takedown: youtu.be/aFd2HdvBk4w

Chapters
0:00 First Assault
0:44 Rusty Gameplay
1:25 First Takedown Attempt
4:18 Second Assault
5:40 Second Takedown Attempt
7:10 Fly it like you mean it
9:22 Scratch 1 ISD

ENCIRCLED? AGAIN? I wouldnt worry about it tbh

RebelMerlin 2026-03-24 | Just hanging around, with my boys Encirclement and Counter Encirclement.

If you have a replay you'd like me to cast, dm me on Discord. You can find me on the Official War of Dots Discord server. warofdots.net

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:00 Opening Moves
2:15 Micro Battles
3:20 Don't Abandon ECO
3:45 WELL