War of 1812 — Prices

Columbia Games, Gamma Two Games · Board game · 1973
100.0 Ludopedia 7.0 BGG 2 · best 2 90 min Weight 2.1/5
Buy · from US$ 11.68
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

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
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

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!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

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

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,280owners
176wishlist
54want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 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.

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