Cover of the game The Longest Day

The Longest Day

The Avalon Hill Game Co · Board game · 1979
Ludopedia
— Ludopedia
BoardGameGeek
7.3 BoardGameGeek
Players
2–8 · best 3
Play Time
5400 min
Weight
Weight 4.1/5
Year
Year 1979
Minimum age
Minimum age 12+
Buy
— rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BoardGameGeek
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

The Longest Day is for fans of complex, historical wargames. With its operational scale and meticulous detail, the game offers deep immersion in the Normandy Invasion. Be prepared for hours of strategy, planning, and tough decisions. The full campaign is an epic challenge that can last months, perfect for dedicated groups.

Highlights
  • Deep historical immersion
  • Realistic and authentic details
  • Varied and challenging scenarios
Keep in mind
  • High complexity may intimidate beginners
  • Extremely long playtime
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About the game

What you do in a play session

The Longest Day is a massive operational wargame simulating the Normandy Invasion during World War II. With over 2600 counters representing battalion-sized units and corps-level commands, the game offers a detailed and immersive experience. Seven maps cover everything from the landing beaches to strategic areas like Cabourg, Coutances, and Avranches/Argentan. The counters follow German military symbols, representing tanks, infantry, artillery, and even bicycle units! The game includes five scenarios that gradually teach the rules, preparing you for the full campaign, which can take months to complete. Complexity 8 from Avalon Hill, perfect for wargame fans seeking an epic challenge.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–8 players
2 REC
3 REC
4 REC
5 REC
6 OK
7 OK
8 OK

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Country: France Country: Germany Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Region: Normandy (France) War Battlespace: Amphibious Warfare War Battlespace: Land Warfare War Level of Command: Operational
Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
Designer Randall C. Reed
Artist Randall C. Reed, Rodger B. MacGowan

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,197owners
189wishlist
55want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How many players can participate?
From 2 to 8 players, divided into Allied and German teams.
How long does a game last?
The full campaign can take months, but individual scenarios range from 90 to 540 minutes.
Is the game suitable for beginners?
No. The complexity is high, recommended for experienced wargame players.
What are the components?
Includes 7 maps, 2603 counters, and detailed rules for scenarios and campaigns.
What is the complexity level?
Complexity 8 from Avalon Hill, considered one of the most challenging wargames.

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