Versailles 1919

GMT Games · Board game · 2020
1–4 · best 4 Solo 60–120 min Weight 2.9/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy historical games with lots of negotiation and political intrigue, Versailles 1919 is quite the pick! It's a deep dive into post-war tensions.

Highlights
  • Deep historical immersion
  • Card auction mechanic
  • Lots of negotiation
  • Engaging political simulation
Keep in mind
  • Requires English reading
  • Moderate complexity
  • Can be lengthy
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Welcome to the post-World War I conference room! In Versailles 1919, you step into the shoes of one of the four major leaders (Wilson, Lloyd George, Orlando, or Clemenceau) attempting to shape the Treaty of Versailles after the conflict's end. Each leader has their own national agenda and regional aspirations to satisfy, from containing Germany to establishing new nations or pursuing self-determination. The game simulates the tense negotiations and political maneuvering of the era, where every decision matters. Will you use influence auctions to pass issues that benefit your country, balancing the need to demobilize troops with controlling regional unrest? The specter of Bolshevism looms, and Wilson's 14 Points create expectations that might lead to disappointment, especially if the US doesn't join the League of Nations. The game features an interesting card-bidding mechanism to resolve issues, requiring careful management of your influence to maintain domestic support. Regional crises and the aspirations of peoples like the Vietnamese, Syrians, or Jews emerge as challenges. Whoever manages to impose their vision and write more of the treaty will emerge victorious. It's a contest of wills and agendas, reliving the imperfect peace of the real world. Prepare for intense negotiation, strategic planning, and a deep dive into history.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
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2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
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Game details

Families

Cities: Versailles (France) Continents: Europe Country: France Country: Italy Country: United Kingdom Country: USA Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Wargames with Solitaire Rules Series: Great Statesmen (GMT)
Publisher GMT Games
Designer Geoff Engelstein, Mark Herman
Artist Donal Hegarty, Rodger B. MacGowan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime?
A game of Versailles 1919 typically lasts between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the number of players and their familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 1 to 4 players. It offers an interesting solo experience, as well as being great for small groups.
Is it a difficult game to learn?
With a medium weight of 2.90 (out of 5), Versailles 1919 is considered a moderately complex game. It requires attention to rules and strategies but isn't overly complicated for those already familiar with board games.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, the game has considerable language dependency. A good level of English reading comprehension is necessary to fully enjoy it, as much of the card text and information is written.
What type of player is this game recommended for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy historical games, political simulations, and especially for those who like a lot of negotiation and player interaction. If you appreciate games with strong themes and mechanics that reflect the context, you'll like it.
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective is to influence the drafting of the Treaty of Versailles according to your country's agenda, earning more 'treaty points' than your opponents by the end of the game.