1812: Napoleon's Fateful March
1812: Napoleon's Fateful March at your next game night?
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- Designer Brian Berg Asklev Hansen
- Publisher VUCA Simulations
- Illustration Wouter Schoutteten
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In 1812, you command Napoleon's invasion of Russia at an operational level. Using secret order counters and a card-driven campaign system, players face logistical challenges and the infamous retreat from Moscow. The game features point-to-point movement and emphasizes strategic planning with minimal downtime, creating tense head-to-head gameplay.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced gamers and wargame enthusiasts aged 14 and up who are ready for a long, approximately 7-hour session. It requires familiarity with historical war games due to its high complexity and strategic depth. Beginners may find the rules demanding without prior experience.
How It Works
1812 uses a campaign and battle card-driven system where players secretly place order counters to plan moves. Units move via point-to-point movement on the map, reflecting operational maneuvers. The mechanics integrate logistics and march attrition, offering a rich tactical experience designed specifically for two players alternating turns.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Brian Berg Asklev Hansen, 1812 won the 2024 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Napoleonic Game. It belongs to the Napoleonic Wars family and stands out by combining card-driven campaigns with secret orders and point-to-point movement, providing an intense two-player wargame experience.
Awards
- 2024 Charles S. Roberts Best Napoleonic Game — Winner
Pro
- Detailed simulation of the Napoleonic Wars
- Secret order counters add tension
- Winner of the 2024 Charles S. Roberts Award
- Focused two-player duel gameplay
Contra
- Long playtime of about 7 hours
- High complexity for newcomers
- Only suitable for exactly two players
Setting & atmosphere
Set in 1812 during Napoleon’s invasion of Russia, the game covers the historical context of Napoleonic Europe, the Russian scorched earth retreat, and the march to Moscow.
Tips for beginners
Take time to learn the mechanics and consider playing with experienced players to handle the complexity.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
The game is designed strictly for two players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game takes about 420 minutes, roughly 7 hours including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
It is aimed at experienced gamers and wargame fans familiar with historical war games.
How does this compare to similar games?
1812 combines a card-driven campaign system with secret order counters and point-to-point movement for a realistic Napoleonic war simulation.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to long playtime and complexity, it is better suited for experienced players aged 14+, not for families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of campaign card-driven mechanics with secret order counters defines its strategic depth.
Fazit
1812 delivers a detailed and deep simulation of Napoleon’s Russian campaign for two players. It suits wargame fans seeking long, strategically rich gameplay sessions.
1812: Napoleon's Fateful March at your next game night?
Add 1812: Napoleon's Fateful March to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add 1812: Napoleon's Fateful March to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
