BoardGamesBot
Sign in

War of 1812

Columbia Games, Gamma Two Games · Board game · 1973
2 · best 2 90 min Weight 2.1/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Buy
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Buy Ask about Rules
Our Verdict

History and strategy buffs rejoice: War of 1812 is a classic wargame blending simplicity and depth like few others.

Highlights
  • Quick setup (5 minutes)
  • Thrilling fog of war
  • Short playtime for a wargame
  • Gorgeous functional map
Keep in mind
  • May feel basic to veterans
  • Dice randomness frustrates some
RECOMMENDED
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.
About the game
War of 1812 is an elegant wargame recreating the US-UK struggle over the Great Lakes and Canada. With wooden blocks hiding unit strengths (that classic 'fog of war'), you only discover the enemy's true power when battle begins. The map focuses on the Detroit-to-Niagara Falls region, featuring infantry, cavalry, artillery, and navies – everything you need to relive this forgotten conflict. Gameplay is quick (1-2 hours) with a 5-minute setup, perfect for historical wargaming without fuss. Dice resolve battles, but strategy rules: where to attack, how to defend, and when to surprise foes with secret maneuvers. Ever wanted to rewrite history? Now's your shot!
Other Games You'll Like
Quebec 1759 Napoléon: The Waterloo Campaign, 1815 1812: The Invasion of Canada Crusader Rex The Napoleonic Wars (Second Edition) French and Indian War 1757-1759 Mr. Madison's War: The Incredible War of 1812 W1815
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
WHERE TO BUY
Finding best prices...
Game details

Mechanics

Dice Rolling Point to Point Movement Secret Unit Deployment Simulation

Categories

American Indian Wars Napoleonic Wargame

Families

Components: Block Wargames Country: Canada Country: United Kingdom Country: USA History: War of 1812 Players: Two-Player Only Games Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Region: Great Lakes
Publisher Columbia Games, Gamma Two Games
Designer Lance Gutteridge, Tom Dalgliesh
Artist Eric Hotz
Community
1,278 owners
0 wishlist
0 played
1,278 interactions
Frequently Asked Questions
How complex is the game?
BGG weight 2/5 – great for wargame beginners or lighter sessions. Rules are straightforward, but strategy has depth.
Do I need history knowledge?
Nope! The game teaches history naturally. But if you know the period, you'll spot map locations and events.
How many components?
60 wooden blocks (30 per player) for troops/navies, plus the map and some markers.
Is there solo play?
No official solo mode (it's a pure 1v1 duel), though fans created variants.
Worth it if I own other wargames?
If you enjoy quick block games (like Hammer of the Scots), yes! The simplicity is refreshing.
More details on BoardGameGeek and BoardGamePrices