Tricolor: Rules for the Napoleonic Wargame
- Designer Rick Crane
- Publisher Tactical Studies Rules (TSR)
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Experience detailed Napoleonic wargaming rules including musketry fire, artillery, and melee tables. The game uses dice rolling, paper-and-pencil mechanics, and secret unit deployment to simulate historical battles. Players maneuver troops in formations on time and distance scales to outwit their opponent.
Who Is This Game For?
Tricolor is designed for experienced players interested in historical miniatures battles. It is strictly a two-player game with long sessions around 240 minutes. The complex rules require prior wargaming knowledge and patience, making it suitable for enthusiasts aged 12 and up.
How It Works
The core mechanics involve dice rolling, paper-and-pencil record keeping, and secret unit deployment. Players move units in formations following orders and consult tables for fire, melee, and morale results. The game follows a detailed sequence of operations demanding tactical decisions each round.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Rick Crane and published by TSR in 1974, Tricolor is a classic rulebook for Napoleonic miniatures. It belongs to the Two-Player Only Games family and features unique mechanics like Secret Unit Deployment and extensive combat and morale tables. It is a benchmark for 1970s historical wargames.
Pro
- Detailed and historically grounded rules
- Extensive combat mechanic tables
- Deep tactical gameplay for two players
- Classic 1970s wargame
Contra
- Very long playtime around 240 minutes
- High complexity and steep learning curve
- Only for two players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates Napoleonic warfare with miniature armies and historically accurate national characteristics of major European powers in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to thoroughly study the extensive rules and treat initial games as learning sessions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Tricolor is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game can take about 240 minutes, requiring a patient play session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is complex and targets experienced wargamers interested in historical miniatures.
How does this compare to similar games?
Tricolor stands out with its Secret Unit Deployment and extensive morale tables compared to many games of its era.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and long duration, it is less suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Dice Rolling, Paper-and-Pencil, and Secret Unit Deployment defines its tactical depth.
Fazit
Tricolor suits players seeking deep tactical simulation of historical battles and willing to engage in lengthy and complex gameplay. It is less suited for beginners.
