An absolute triumph in game design. This game uses a small set of relatively simple rules to create the best replication of operational level 19th century warfare I’ve ever encountered.

A true gaming masterpiece that has stood the test of time. A nail-biter and one of the first 3-player wargames. This is the main gateway game I use for teaching beginners and just about everyone I’ve exposed it to has greatly enjoyed it. Easily playable in an evening. One of the first “block” wargames and to me the Gamma 2 version is fine as it is. Strongly recommended.

Excellent game, very faithful to Chandler’s “The 100 Days”. Importantly, to me, it can be set up in 15 minutes and played in an evening. Maneuver is very important, but I also find tactics on the battle board can be a little more involved than you might think at first. I’ve only every played the 3rd edition, but I think it is the extra blocks that make the battles better. A lot to think about.

I own the 1977 AH second edition. I really like the relative simplicity of this game and I really don’t know that a more complex version of it would suit me… Relatively simple but with a hell of a lot of variability and different strategies to explore. I found that it plays quite well solitaire. I don’t rate many games a ’10,’ but I think this one deserves it. It’s a classic for a reason!

PreviousNext
napoleon map columbia block wargame
Napoleon orders of battle – Columbia Block System

What is Napoleon?

Three mighty armies, French, British, and Prussian, clash across the rolling fields near Brussels. With the course of the Napoleonic era balanced on a knife’s edge, your command decisions will determine if history records another victory or a staggering defeat.

Napoléon: The Waterloo Campaign, 1815 is a time-tested classic that lets you rewrite history or relive it. Originally designed by Tom Dalgliesh in 1974, this strategic block wargame employs wooden blocks to simulate the fog of war. Each piece hides its identity until it is revealed in battle, keeping every move tense and unpredictable.

Game at a Glance

Players: 2–4
Playing Time: About 2 hours
Period: Waterloo Campaign, 1815
Sides: French vs. Anglo-Allied & Prussian Armies
Complexity: Medium
Designer: Tom Dalgliesh
System: Columbia Block System

7.4

Boardgame Geek Rating
Tag Tag Pre-order now!
Download Download Download the Rules!