Alt text: The image shows the cover of the "Paths of Glory Deluxe Edition" board game, depicting a silhouette of WWI soldiers against an orange sky and a close-up of a soldier's face. Various battle names from WWI are listed, and the cover indicates the game is a World War I strategic game, designed by Ted S. Raicer, and published by GMT Games LLC in its second printing in 2022.
| | | | | | |

Paths of Glory (1999)

ByMichail

Paths of Glory

Paths of Glory: The First World War, 1914–1918 is a strategy board wargame, designed by Ted Raicer and published by GMT Games in 1999. The game is played on a map of Europe and the Middle East as the game board, and it covers World War I from its outbreak to the 1918 Armistice, or based on the progress of the game, a hypothetical later ending of the war in early 1919, possibly due to exhaustion of Europe. The game provides an unparalleled possibility to experience World War I from its inception to the final days, replaying all major events.

Why is Paths of Glory Popular?

Paths of Glory is popular among wargamers due to its historical accuracy and deep Gameplay Mechanics of Paths of Glory. The game is a fantastic representation of the historical period and works to create a great table atmosphere that only a rich and deep war game like this can provide. It allows players to step into the shoes of the monarchs and marshals who triumphed and bungled from 1914 to 1918. The game has won several awards, including the Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Pre-World War II Boardgame in 2000.

Game Components of Paths of Glory

1 22” x 34” map1 countersheet (280 counters)1 deck of 110 cards2 player aid cards1 rulebook1 playbook

Game Setup of Paths of Glory

Place the map on a flat surface.Each player chooses a side to play: the Central Powers or the Entente.Each player takes the appropriate counters and cards.Place the starting units on the map as indicated in the rulebook.Shuffle the cards and deal them to each player.Determine the first player.

Gameplay Mechanics of Paths of Glory

Paths of Glory is a card-driven game, meaning that players use cards to activate units, conduct operations, and trigger events. The game includes a historical scenario that is used in competitive play. Based on ten years of conference and PBEM play, the scenario was designed to provide a balanced playing experience and provide incentives to pursue historical strategies. The game has a moderate entry barrier but could be really hard to master.

Game Objective of Paths of Glory

The objective of the game is to score victory points (VPs) by controlling key areas and achieving certain objectives.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl