1812: The Invasion of Canada
- Designer Beau Beckett , Jeph Stahl
- Publisher Academy Games, Inc. , ASYNCRON games , Schwerkraft-Verlag
- Illustration Jarek Nocoń , Steve Paschal
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the roles of British or American forces during the War of 1812, coordinating in teams to plan campaigns and control key areas. Using mechanics like Area Movement and Dice Rolling, players move units on a map and resolve battles. Cooperation within teams is vital to capture enemy objectives. The game simulates the historical invasion of Canada with strategic depth and card-driven events.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is designed for 2 to 5 players interested in historical conflict simulations. It fits the category of a medium-complexity strategy game suitable for experienced players and newcomers willing to invest time. With a typical playtime of around 120 minutes, it demands patience and thoughtful planning.
How It Works
The core mechanic is Campaign / Battle Card Driven, where cards dictate actions and events. Players move units via Area Movement across the map and engage in combat resolved by Dice Rolling and Die Icon Resolution. Teams cooperate to plan campaigns and aim to control Objective Areas. The game ends with a truce, and the side controlling the most enemy areas wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Beau Beckett and Jeph Stahl, 1812: The Invasion of Canada was nominated for the Golden Geek Best Wargame Award in 2012. It is part of the Birth-of-America series and combines Team-Based Game and Simulation mechanics, offering an intense cooperative experience distinct from other wargames.
Awards
2012, 2013
- 2013 Origins Awards Best Historical Board Game — Nominated
- 2012 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Historically grounded conflict simulation
- Team-Based Game encourages cooperation
- Mechanics: Area Movement, Campaign / Battle Card Driven
- Nominated for Golden Geek Best Wargame 2012
Contra
- Around 120 minutes playtime requires patience
- Moderate complexity aimed at experienced players
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in 1812 during the British-American War, the game simulates the American invasion of Canada against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars in Europe.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the card-driven mechanics and communicate effectively with your team.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, the game supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, offering an extended strategic experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game suits experienced players interested in historical simulations, but newcomers can learn with patience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its combination of card-driven campaigns and team-based play distinguishes it from traditional wargames.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Campaign / Battle Card Driven and Team-Based Game mechanics defines its gameplay.
Fazit
1812: The Invasion of Canada is recommended for fans of historical wargames who enjoy team cooperation and moderate complexity. It provides a well-executed strategic simulation of the War of 1812.














