The Battle of Nations: The Encirclement at Leipzig, 16-19 October 1813
- Designer Edward Curran
- Publisher Kokusai-Tsushin Co., Ltd. (国際通信社) , SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Redmond Aksel Simonsen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You play a historical war simulation of the 1813 Battle of Leipzig. On a hex grid map, you maneuver military units representing historical forces to engage enemies. Combat uses dice rolling combined with a ratio/combat results table to determine outcomes. The goal is to achieve historical objectives over a set number of turns. No prior military knowledge is required, only strategic thinking.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy complex wargames lasting about 150 minutes. It is a two-player game requiring patience for extended tactical duels and interest in Napoleonic history.
How It Works
The game uses a hexagon grid for unit movement and zone of control to influence adjacent units. Battles resolve through dice rolling and a ratio/combat results table that calculates probabilities and outcomes. Players alternate moving units and attacking, aiming to meet battle objectives within fixed turns.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Edward Curran in 1975 as part of SPI's Napoleon At War quadrigame series, it offers a realistic simulation of the Battle of Leipzig with streamlined hex and combat mechanics. It combines historical accuracy with tactical gameplay.
Pro
- Realistic simulation of a historical battle
- Tactical depth with zone of control and combat results table
- Part of the Napoleon At War quadrigame series
- Extended playtime for strategic planning
Contra
- Designed only for two players
- Long playtime (~150 minutes)
- Complexity requires experience and patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates the historic Battle of Leipzig in October 1813, a key event in the Napoleonic Wars, on a hex map representing the actual battlefield terrain.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding core mechanics like hex-based movement and probabilistic combat before exploring advanced strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The Battle of Nations is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 150 minutes, providing an extended session for deep strategy.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players aged 12+, familiar with wargames and tactical thinking.
How does this compare to similar games?
It is part of SPI's Napoleon At War quadrigame and features streamlined hex and combat results table mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than casual family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its combination of hexagon grid, zone of control, and ratio/combat results table creates realistic combat simulation.
Fazit
The Battle of Nations is recommended for two players interested in historical battles and longer strategic gameplay. It demands thoughtful planning and patience for its extended playtime.






















