Frederick the Great: The Campaigns of The Soldier King 1756-1759
- Designer Edward Curran , Frank Davis
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co , SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Rodger B. MacGowan , Redmond Aksel Simonsen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command the armies of Prussia and its allies or the anti-Prussian coalition on a hex-based map of Central Europe. The game features movement points for unit maneuvers and dice-based combat resolved through a ratio combat results table. Seven scenarios represent different campaign years with historical leaders and generic army strengths.
Who Is This Game For?
This is a medium to expert-level game for players aged 12 and up interested in complex historical strategy. The long duration of about 240 minutes demands patience and strategic planning. Prior experience with wargames or complex board games is recommended.
How It Works
Frederick the Great uses a hexagon grid map where units move using movement points. Combat outcomes are determined by dice rolls combined with a ratio/combat results table. Multiple scenarios allow for varied strategic challenges, each representing a year of the war.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Edward Curran and Frank Davis in 1975, this game realistically simulates Seven Years' War campaigns at an operational level. It incorporates classic wargame mechanics like grid movement and ratio combat results tables. Compared to modern games, it focuses on historical accuracy and deep simulation.
Pro
- Historical simulation of Seven Years' War campaigns
- Tactical hex-based movement with movement points
- Use of ratio/combat results table for realistic battles
- Seven scenarios with varied strategic challenges
Contra
- Long playtime of about 240 minutes requires patience
- Complex rules and mechanics can be challenging for beginners
- No solo mode, only for 2-4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the Seven Years' War (1756–1759) in Central Europe, depicting Prussia's military campaigns against a coalition of France, Austria, Russia, and other nations.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the combat and movement mechanics and start with individual scenarios before attempting a full campaign.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, the game is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 240 minutes, making it a lengthy session for strategic play.
What prior experience do I need?
This game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex wargames and strategy games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Frederick the Great emphasizes historical accuracy and classic wargame mechanics like hex grid movement and ratio combat results tables.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is more suitable for experienced players than for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hexagon grid movement, movement points, and ratio/combat results table defines its tactical gameplay.
Fazit
Frederick the Great is best suited for experienced wargamers interested in the Seven Years' War era and with time for a lengthy, strategic experience.
