Austerlitz (1993) Board Game

Austerlitz is a board game that was released in 1993 and is set during the Napoleonic Wars. It is a wargame that focuses on the Battle of Austerlitz, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, which took place on December 2,

Game Components of Austerlitz

Maps: Two 22” x 34’’ hexagonal grid Map Sheets with Terrain Key, Elevation Guide, French and Allied Casualties Tracks, and Artillery Ammunition Tracks.

Counters: 560 ½” back-printed cardboard Counters.

Rulebooks: One 8½” x 11” Napoleonic Brigade Series Standard Rules Booklet and one 8½” x 11” AUSTERLITZ Exclusive Rules Booklet.

Charts & Tables: Two 8½” x 11” Napoleonic Brigade Series Standard Charts & Tables Booklets.

How To Setup Austerlitz

Setup involves preparing the map, deploying units according to the scenario instructions, and organizing the necessary tracks and charts. Players must carefully follow the scenario setup to ensure historical accuracy and balance. The game includes detailed scenario instructions and master record sheets to simplify the process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Turns: Divided into five phases: Command Phase, Cavalry Charge Phase, Movement and Close Combat Phase, Fire Combat Phase.

Combat: Includes Morale Checks, Straggler Checks, and Step-Losses. Leaders can be wounded or killed.

Unit Formations: Square, line, column, and road march.

Supply and Logistics: Ammunition supply for small arms and artillery.

Night Operations: Special rules for nighttime combat.

Fog of War: Elements that simulate the uncertainty of war.

Game Objective: Victory is determined by comparing battlefield losses, with the goal of destroying enemy units, wrecking larger formations, and killing or wounding enemy leaders.

Player Experience

Playing **Austerlitz** immerses players in the grand tactical level of Napoleonic warfare, emphasizing command, control, and morale. The game requires strategic planning and execution, making it appealing to those who enjoy complex historical wargames. The detailed rules and components ensure a realistic experience, but the record-keeping can be cumbersome.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Faithfully recreates the Battle of Austerlitz.

Depth and Complexity: Offers a detailed and immersive wargaming experience.

Replayability: Five scenarios provide varied gameplay experiences.

Realistic Mechanics: Incorporates morale, supply, and fog of war for realism.

Cons

Complex Rules: Requires significant time to learn and master.

Record-Keeping: Can be cumbersome due to the need to track unit step-losses and order status.

Time-Consuming: Games can be lengthy, especially the longer scenarios.

Personal Thoughts on Austerlitz

**Austerlitz** is for dedicated wargamers who appreciate historical detail and complex gameplay mechanics. It is ideal for those interested in the Napoleonic era and willing to invest time in learning the rules. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those who enjoy grand tactical simulations.

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