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