3 Things to Look for in a Good Introductory Block War Game

Pictured: Julius Caesar by Columbia Games (2010)

On several occasions of late the question has been asked, which block war game is the best introduction to the genre? While opinions abound and answers inevitably vary depending upon who you ask, I would argue that there are three important things to look for in a good introductory block game. 

Low Block Count

While veteran gamers may enjoy the challenge presented by a game which spans an entire continent and utilizes a high number of blocks (several hundred in some cases), for the purpose of introducing someone to block war games, remember the old axiom: less is more. 

Fewer blocks (25-30 per player) means fewer decisions and quicker turns, resulting in less time invested overall, and therefore a greater opportunity to appreciate the mechanics and flow of the game itself. Don’t be fooled, however; strategy and tactics are not compromised with less blocks. On the contrary, every decision made is of greater importance as the loss of one battle (and a few blocks) could change the momentum of the entire war. 

Ease of Movement 

Nothing can slow a game down like the movement restrictions caused by terrain on a mapboard. While veterans of block games may appreciate the strategic challenges faced with such terrain effects as rivers, hills, woods, and marshes, the new player may find it all a bit daunting. Great introductory games find ways to introduce movement restrictions without slowing down play or requiring constant trips back to the rules book.  

Point to point games, such as Julius Caesar by Columbia Games, simulate movement restrictions by limiting the maximum number of blocks that can move on a road. In the case of Caesar, a maximum of 4 blocks can travel along a major road (denoted by a solid line), or 2 blocks by minor road (dotted lines). Through this simple game mechanic the need for strategic planning is maintained without forgoing ease of play, which is vital for an introductory game. Similar variants of this can also be found in other Columbia games such as their classic War of 1812, and Shenandoah: Jackson’s Valley Campaign.

An Appealing Theme

Last but not least, a game is supposed to be fun! In historical wargames, find a theme that not only sounds interesting, but that also appeals to you. When introducing someone to block wargames, look for an epic battle, a classic campaign, or a legendary leader to stoke interest in the hobby. Julius Caesar crossing the Rubicon to kick off the Roman Civil War; “Braveheart” William Wallace leading the Scots in their War for Independence from England; this is (literally) the stuff great movies are made of! A compelling theme can help persuade a friend to sit down and give these wooden blocks a shot. 

No doubt there are many other things which help to make a good introductory game great. These three are not meant to be an exhaustive list but rather a simple guidepost for those fans who are looking to introduce others to the wonderful world of block war games.

Photo credit: Brian Williams 

Let 1812 Be Your Introduction to Block Wargaming

The War of 1812 from Columbia Games might just be the perfect introductory block wargame. Based on that somewhat forgotten war between the fledgling United States and England, the game both enlightens and entertains as the military campaign unfolds. Originally released in 1973, 1812 has served as a gateway wargame for forty-five years now. Its secret may be in its simplicity:

• Only 50 blocks total; 25 blue (Americans) vs. 25 red (English).
• An 11x34 board recreating the maps of the era (beautifully drawn by artist Eric Hotz).
• (4) six sided dice.
• An 8 page rule book. 

That’s it. And yet, that’s more than enough. 

Movement in the game is point to point, with specific cities holding certain Victory Point values (Quebec is 5, Montreal 4, Albany 4, etc.). 

As with other Columbia Games, the blocks display their value, both for combat and morale. For combat, most blocks hit on a 1 or a 2 rolled, while carrying a 3 or 4 starting value at the top. Step reduction results from hits received via dice rolls during battle. 

The history of the war is recreated in an (intentionally) limited scope. 1812 isn’t looking to present all of the War; there is no burning down of the White House or Battle of New Orleans. But by narrowing its focus to the Great Lakes and the invasion of Canada, simplicity is maintained without forfeiting historical accuracy.

War of 1812 effectively introduces the block wargame novice to familiar Columbia Games mechanics such as: fog of war (see here), point to point movement, turn order, and step reduction. The quality of the components and the elegance of the system makes you want to get this on the table again and again. 1812 is indeed a great introductory game which still manages to capture the imagination and interest of the veteran wargamer. 

Photo credit: Brian Williams