The Civil War 1861-1865
- Designer Eric Lee Smith
- Publisher Victory Games (I)
- Illustration Ted Koller , The West Point Museum
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You engage in a detailed simulation of the American Civil War, prioritizing theaters and managing Command Points to move armies. The game features a hexagon grid map with scenario and campaign play, using dice for combat results and action determination. Long turns consist of multiple pulses allowing complex decisions about troop movements, leaders, and naval forces. The map covers from the Eastern seaboard to Texas, with an optional extension to New Mexico.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players ready for an expert-level wargame with very long playtime (up to 1200 minutes). Suitable for 1-2 players, it requires strategic thinking and patience for complex rules. It is less suitable for families, recommended for ages 12 and up.
How It Works
The game uses a hexagon grid map with movement points for troop movement. Players roll dice to determine Command Points and number of actions per pulse. Combat is resolved using ratio/combat results tables. The campaign is divided into scenarios with strategic prioritization of theaters (East, West, Trans-Mississippi) influencing resource allocation. Actions include moving troops, promoting leaders, and building naval forces.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Eric Lee Smith, The Civil War 1861-1865 won the 1983 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Pre-Twentieth Century Game. It stands out for its strategic depth and comprehensive land and naval warfare simulation. The game belongs to the category of strategic two-player wargames emphasizing historical accuracy and complex mechanics like Command Points and Pulses.
Awards
- 1983 Charles S. Roberts Best Pre-Twentieth Century Game — Winner
Pro
- Extensive strategic depth with Command Points and Pulses
- Historically detailed simulation of the American Civil War
- Solo mode included for single players
- Winner of the 1983 Charles S. Roberts Award
Contra
- Very long playtime (up to 1200 minutes)
- High complexity, not suited for beginners
- Requires patience and strategic foresight
Setting & Atmosphäre
The theme covers the American Civil War 1861–1865, focusing on land and naval combat. The map depicts the war theater from the Eastern seaboard to Texas, including an optional New Mexico extension.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take your time learning the complex rules and focus early on prioritizing theaters effectively.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, The Civil War 1861-1865 includes a solo mode for one player.
How long does a game really take?
Playtime can last up to 1200 minutes, requiring significant time commitment.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert-level game with complex rules, suitable for players experienced in wargaming.
How does this compare to similar games?
It offers a particularly extensive depiction of land and naval warfare with strategic theater prioritization and pulses.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is less suitable for families; recommended for ages 12 and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Command Points, Pulses, and Ratio/Combat Results Table defines its strategic depth.
Fazit
The Civil War 1861-1865 is a detailed simulation for experienced wargamers with plenty of time. Those who appreciate complex strategic challenges and long play sessions will find it fitting.
