Memoir '44

Days of Wonder, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, Edge Entertainment · Board game · 2004
2–4 · best 2 30–45 min Weight 2.3/5
rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're looking for a historical wargame that's easy to learn but still offers plenty of strategic depth, Memoir '44 is an excellent choice. It's perfect for reliving iconic WWII battles without getting bogged down in overly complex rules.

Highlights
  • Accessible wargaming with strategic depth
  • Iconic WWII scenarios beautifully recreated
  • Modular board offers diverse battlefields
  • Command & Colors system is brilliant
  • High replayability with numerous scenarios
Keep in mind
  • Primarily a two-player experience
  • Thematic but not simulationist
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
Access Rules Guide
About the game
Get ready to relive iconic moments from World War II with Memoir '44, a historical wargame that puts you in command of stylized battles, but with a fun twist! Forget the excessive complexity of some wargames; here, designer Richard Borg (the genius behind the Command & Colors system) has created an accessible experience that doesn't sacrifice strategic depth. You'll encounter famous scenarios like D-Day at Omaha Beach, Pegasus Bridge, and Operation Cobra, each recreated with historical detail on the modular board. The game comes with a double-sided board, perfect for simulating both beach landings and countryside combat, plus over 15 scenarios that replicate the terrain, troop placements, and objectives of each army. To lead your troops – infantry, paratroopers, tanks, artillery, and even resistance fighters – you'll use Command and Tactic cards, exploiting the unique abilities of each unit. Victory depends on good planning, clever card play, and, of course, a bit of luck with the dice. Even with simple rules, strategy is key! In addition to the robust board, Memoir '44 impresses with 144 amazingly detailed miniatures, including historically accurate infantry, tanks, and artillery, 36 obstacle pieces, 60 illustrated Command cards, 44 special terrain tiles, and 8 custom wooden dice. Designed for 2 players, it also allows for team play and, with Overlord scenarios, can accommodate up to 8 players on multiple boards for large-scale operations, testing coordination and the chain of command. With game lengths of 30 to 60 minutes, it's perfect for multiple plays, switching sides to experience both perspectives of the conflict. It's the base game of a series with several expansions, so there's plenty of content to explore!
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Memoir '44 English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 OK
4 OK
WHERE TO BUY
Finding best prices...
Game details

Families

Components: Miniatures Country: France Country: Germany Country: USA Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Game: Memoir '44
Publisher Days of Wonder, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, Edge Entertainment, Spielworxx
Designer Richard Borg
Artist Adrien Martinot, Claude Rica, Cyrille Daujean, Don Perrin, Julien Delval, Yannick Hennebo
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players does Memoir '44 support?
The base game is ideal for 2 players, but with Overlord scenarios and additional boards, you can play in teams with up to 8 people, which is great for larger groups!
What is the average game length?
A typical game lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. This makes it perfect for playing multiple times in a row, perhaps switching sides to experience both perspectives of the battle.
Is Memoir '44 a complex game?
No! Richard Borg, the designer, made sure to create a game with simple and accessible rules. The complexity comes from the strategic use of cards and troop positioning, not from memorizing complicated rules.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find a double-sided game board, 144 detailed miniatures (infantry, tanks, artillery), 36 obstacle pieces, 60 Command cards, 44 special terrain tiles, and 8 custom wooden dice. It's a very packed package!
Who is Memoir '44 recommended for?
It's ideal for wargame fans who want a faster, less dense experience, World War II enthusiasts, and players who appreciate a good tactical game with miniatures, but without the complexity of a heavy military simulator.
Are there expansions for Memoir '44?
Yes, the base game is part of a larger series and has several expansions that add new units, scenarios, and theaters of war, greatly expanding replayability and the experience.