If you've always wanted to dive into the world of wargames but never knew where to start, *Napoleon at Waterloo* is your chance! It's a classic that, despite its age, still delivers an engaging and accessible simulation of Napoleon's most famous battle. Perfect for history buffs who want a straightforward strategic experience without the overwhelming complexity of more modern titles.
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Highlights
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Excellent wargame gateway
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Engaging historical simulation
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Simple, accessible rules
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Quick, strategic games
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Classic with historical value
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Keep in mind
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Very basic components
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May feel dated to some
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Strictly two-player focus
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready to relive one of the most iconic clashes in military history with *Napoleon at Waterloo*! This classic wargame transports you to June 18, 1815, where the fate of Europe hung in the balance on the fields of Belgium. You take command of Napoleon's French forces, aiming to crush the Duke of Wellington's Allied armies before the Prussians, led by Blücher, arrive to turn the tide. Or, if you prefer, defend the British line with Wellington, holding your ground until Prussian reinforcements arrive. Will the famous British 'thin red line' manage to withstand the Napoleonic onslaught?
Originally designed as an introductory wargame and distributed free to subscribers of SPI's *Strategy & Tactics* magazine, *Napoleon at Waterloo* is a perfect gateway to the world of wargames. It offers an accessible simulation experience, with straightforward rules that allow players to focus on the tactical strategy of combat. Using a hexagonal grid map, movement points, and a ratio-based combat results table, the game captures the essence of the Battle of Waterloo without overwhelming with excessive complexity. It's a chance to test your strategic skills and see if you can change the course of history!
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Gallery
Box and component photos
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Country: BelgiumCountry: FranceCountry: PrussiaCountry: United KingdomHistory: Napoleonic WarsHistory: Waterloo CampaignMisc: Free WargamesPlayers: Two-Player Only GamesPlayers: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two PlayersPromotional: Board GamesSeries: Napoleon At Waterloo (SPI)
businessPublisherDecision Games (I), Hobby Japan, SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
editDesignerJim Dunnigan
paletteArtistRedmond Aksel Simonsen
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Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,303owners
129wishlist
18want to play
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Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
6 questions
What is the main objective of the game? expand_more
The objective is to recreate the Battle of Waterloo. One player controls Napoleon's French forces, trying to defeat the Allies before the Prussians arrive, while the other commands Wellington's and Blücher's armies, aiming to resist and counter-attack.
How many players can participate, and how long does a game last? expand_more
The game is strictly for two players. A game typically takes 60 to 120 minutes, making it a relatively quick wargame.
Is it a complex game for wargame beginners? expand_more
No! *Napoleon at Waterloo* is known for being an introductory wargame. Its rules are straightforward and serve as an excellent gateway to the genre, without the overwhelming complexity of heavier titles.
What are the main components of the game? expand_more
You'll find a hexagonal grid map representing the battlefield, unit counters for French, British, and Prussian troops, dice for resolving combat, and the game rules. The components are functional, focused on gameplay.
Does the game rely heavily on luck, or is it more strategic? expand_more
It combines tactical strategy with an element of luck in dice rolling for combat. The positioning of your units and the planning of attacks are crucial, but the dice add that touch of unpredictability that makes each battle exciting.
Who is this game best suited for? expand_more
It's perfect for military history enthusiasts, especially of the Napoleonic period, and for anyone looking for an accessible introduction to wargames. If you enjoy two-player strategy and don't mind simpler components, you'll have a great time.
