Lee vs. Grant: The Wilderness Campaign of 1864
- Designer Joseph M. Balkoski
- Publisher Victory Games (I)
- Illustration Rosaria Baldari , Ted Koller
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players control Union or Confederate armies in the decisive 1864 spring campaign in Virginia, known as the Wilderness Campaign. The game uses a hexagon grid and simulates military movements and battles in turns representing five days. Units represent about 2,500 men each. The advanced game adds sea movement, supply, and leader rules. Victory conditions depend on the chosen scenario.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players interested in historical simulations and complex two-player wargames. With a duration of about 120 minutes and a minimum age of 12, it is a medium-weight game requiring strategic thinking and patience. Beginners should have some wargaming background.
How It Works
Played on a hexagon grid, players take turns activating units and moving them strategically. The basic rules focus on movement and unit activation, while advanced rules add naval movement, supply management, and leader command. Each turn simulates five days of military operations during the American Civil War.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Joseph M. Balkoski, the game won two Charles S. Roberts Awards in 1988: Best Pre-World War II Board Game and Best Wargaming Graphics. It is considered the first in the Great Campaigns of the American Civil War series and features a detailed simulation of the Virginia campaign.
Awards
- 1988 Charles S. Roberts Best Pre-World War II Board Game — Winner
- 1988 Charles S. Roberts Best Wargaming Graphics — Winner
Pro
- Detailed historical simulation of the 1864 Wilderness Campaign
- Two-hour gameplay with depth for experienced players
- Winner of two Charles S. Roberts Awards in 1988
- Combination of hexagon grid and simulation for authenticity
Contra
- Designed only for two players
- Requires experience with complex wargames
- 120-minute duration demands patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game focuses on the 1864 Wilderness Campaign, a military operation during the American Civil War in Virginia. The map covers the area between Fredericksburg and Petersburg at a scale of 1:200,000.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Begin with the basic game to learn movement and activation before adding advanced rules.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Lee vs. Grant is designed strictly for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, making it an extended play session.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a medium-weight wargame requiring prior experience with complex simulations.
How does this compare to similar games?
It is considered the first in the Great Campaigns of the American Civil War series with a high level of simulation and unique map art.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The use of hexagon grid combined with detailed campaign simulation stands out.
Fazit
Lee vs. Grant is recommended for fans of historical wargames and two-player strategy games seeking a challenging simulation. It is less suited for casual players or families.
