La Bataille de la Moscowa (1975) Board Game

La Bataille de la Moscowa, also known as Moscow 1812, is a historical wargame that simulates the Battle of Borodino, which took place on September 7, 1812 during Napoleon’s invasion of Russia. The game was first released in 1975 by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW Games) and designed by Laurence A. Groves. It is considered a classic in the wargaming genre and is known for its detailed simulation of Napoleonic warfare.

Game Components of La Bataille de la Moscowa

Rulebook: 22 pages, including 16 pages of scenarios

Counters: 1440 units

Maps: Four 28″ x 22″ paper hex grid maps, scaled at 100 meters per hex

Units: Representing various military units at the regimental/battalion level

Leaders: Used to rally units and confer combat bonuses

Artillery and Cavalry: Artillery can break up enemy attacks, cavalry includes lancers, dragoons, and Russian Cossacks.

How To Setup La Bataille de la Moscowa

Setting up the game involves placing the four large maps together to form the battlefield, each representing a different sector of the Battle of Borodino. Players then deploy their units according to the scenario or grand battle setup, with each unit placed in either march order or combat formation. The game includes detailed setup instructions in the rulebook, and each scenario has specific deployment rules to ensure historical accuracy.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Limited Intelligence: Only unit identification and movement allowance are visible on the face-up side of each counter; combat information is revealed when the unit is engaged.

Unit Formations: Units can be in march order or combat formation, affecting their defensive and offensive capabilities.

Leaders: Leaders can rally units and provide combat bonuses.

Artillery: Effective at medium and short range for breaking up enemy attacks.

Cavalry: Different types with unique abilities, such as lancers, dragoons, and Russian Cossacks.

Objective: To simulate the Battle of Borodino accurately, with the objective of achieving historical outcomes or alternate scenarios.

Player Experience

**La Bataille de la Moscowa** is renowned for its complexity and depth, making it a challenging but rewarding experience for dedicated wargamers. The game’s scale and detail allow players to delve deeply into the tactics and strategies of the Battle of Borodino, providing a rich historical simulation. The “limited intelligence” mechanic adds a layer of realism, as players must make decisions with incomplete information, mimicking the uncertainties of real combat.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Detailed simulation of the Battle of Borodino.

Complexity: Appeals to experienced wargamers looking for depth and challenge.

Realistic Mechanics: “Limited intelligence” and unit formation rules enhance realism.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and the ability to play different parts of the battle.

Cons

Time-Consuming: Setup and gameplay can take several hours.

Complex Rules: Not suitable for beginners due to the intricate ruleset.

Space Requirements: Large maps and numerous counters require significant space.

Personal Thoughts on La Bataille de la Moscowa

**La Bataille de la Moscowa** is ideal for serious wargamers and history enthusiasts who appreciate detailed simulations of historical battles. It is not a game for casual players due to its complexity and long playing time. However, for those willing to invest the time and effort, it offers a deeply immersive and educational experience, allowing players to explore the intricacies of one of Napoleon’s most pivotal battles.

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