1859: High Tide of the Second Empire
- Designer John B. Firer
- Publisher Fog of War Publications, LLC
- Illustration John B. Firer
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In this historical simulation, players command either the Franco-Piedmont forces or the Austrian troops during the 1859 war in Northern Italy. Using a shared deck of operations cards, players make decisions on deployment, combat, and political-military operations. The blend of campaign/battle card-driven mechanics, dice rolling, and point-to-point movement offers deep tactical and strategic gameplay over several hours.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced players and wargame enthusiasts who enjoy long sessions of up to six hours. Designed strictly for two players, it demands familiarity with complex simulations and tactical planning. Patience and prior knowledge increase the gameplay experience.
How It Works
Players share a deck of operations cards to plan moves and perform actions. Dice rolling determines combat outcomes. Movement combines grid and point-to-point systems, emphasizing strategic positioning and area control. Event cards add historical context and variability to the game flow.
What Makes It Special
Designed by John B. Firer, 1859 offers an in-depth simulation of the Second Italian War of Independence. Its combination of campaign/battle card-driven mechanics with dice and point-to-point movement sets it apart. The game belongs to the niche of two-player historical wargames focused on Italian conflicts.
Pro
- Detailed historical simulation of the 1859 war
- Deep tactical choices via cards and dice mechanics
- Intense two-player gameplay with high complexity
- Combination of grid and point-to-point movement for strategic depth
Contra
- Very long playtime up to 360 minutes
- Strictly two-player only
- High complexity requiring prior wargame experience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in 1859 Northern Italy, depicting the conflict between France/Piedmont-Sardinia and Austria. It captures political and military aspects of the post-Napoleonic European era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take your time to learn the card mechanics and plan carefully to navigate the complex gameplay.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The game is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game can last up to 360 minutes, reflecting its extensive and detailed simulation.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and tactical simulations is recommended due to the game's high complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its combination of campaign/battle card-driven mechanics with grid and point-to-point movement offers tactical variety and historical detail.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity, length, and minimum age of 12, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The use of campaign/battle card-driven mechanics alongside dice rolling and point-to-point movement defines the gameplay.
Fazit
1859 is ideal for players seeking a long, tactically demanding wargame simulation. Its complexity and length make it less suitable for casual gamers.
