Napoleon's Triumph: The Battle of Austerlitz, 2 December 1805

Recreate Austerlitz on a double-size map as outnumbered Napoleon or as the Russian and Austrian allies, in one evening.

Designer: Bowen Simmons
Published by: Histogame
Editions by: Simmons Games

2 December 1805: an outnumbered French army under the newly crowned Napoleon waits for a Russian and Austrian attack at Austerlitz. Napoleon's Triumph (2007) puts that battle on a double-size map and gives each side the same limited tools as their historical commanders. It builds on the same foundations as Bonaparte at Marengo, but with two boards and twice as many pieces, and yet the whole battle fits into a single evening. You are one of two generals, moving units whose strengths remain hidden, trying to bluff and outmanoeuvre your opponent. Around three hours for a two-player wargame at the heavier end.

Austerlitz on a 44 by 34 inch mapTwice as many pieces as Bonaparte at MarengoPlayable in a single evening

Who it's for

You enjoy historical wargames and want a big battle that still finishes in one sitting, with an equal opponent.

Not for you if…

You want something light or have no regular two-player partner. This is a heavy simulation.

Vibe's take

Serious and tense. You move forces you cannot fully see, and every commit can reveal itself as a brilliant trap or a disaster. Expect a long evening focused on the opposing side.