| | | | | |

Austerlitz: The Battle of Three Emperors, 2 December 1805 (1972) Board Game

ByMichail

Austerlitz: The Battle of Three Emperors, 2 December 1805 is a wargame that simulates the historic Battle of Austerlitz, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors. This battle took place on December 2, 1805, and was a significant victory for Napoleon Bonaparte against the Russian and Austrian forces.

Game Components of Austerlitz: The Battle of Three Emperors, 2 December 1805

  • 22″ x 28″ paper hex grid map scaled at 400 m (440 yd) per hex
  • 100 die-cut counters
  • Map-folded rule sheet
  • Two Terrain Effects charts
  • A small six-sided die

    How To Setup Austerlitz: The Battle of Three Emperors, 2 December 1805

    Setting up the game involves placing the map board, which depicts the terrain around Austerlitz, and deploying the 100 die-cut counters representing the units of the French and Allied armies according to the initial deployment rules. Players must also familiarize themselves with the Terrain Effects charts and the rule sheet. The game comes with a map-folded rule sheet that guides players through the setup process.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay Mechanics:**
    – Alternating turns: Each player moves and fires in sequence.
    – Turn duration: Each turn represents one hour of game time.
    – Unit movement and combat: Units move and engage in combat based on simple, well-balanced rules.

  • Game Objective:**
    – The French player aims to defeat the Allied forces decisively, replicating Napoleon’s victory.
    – The Allied player seeks to prevent this or achieve a better outcome than historically.

    Player Experience

    **Austerlitz** offers a engaging and balanced gameplay experience. Players can expect quick and clean turns, with enough units to minimize the impact of chance but not so many that the game becomes tedious. The game is usually in doubt until the end, offering various outcomes and numerous opportunities for sharp tactical and strategic play.

    Pros

  • Balanced Gameplay:** The game is well-balanced, providing an interesting and challenging experience.
  • Quick Turns:** Turns are quick and clean, avoiding the drudgery of piece-pushing.
  • Strategic Depth:** Offers innumerable opportunities for sharp tactical and strategic play.
  • Historical Accuracy:** The game mechanics tend to follow the original battle, providing a historically accurate experience.

    Cons

  • Predictable Outcome:** With competent players, the French are likely to win, which can make the game somewhat predictable.
  • Mechanics Reliability:** Some reviewers have questioned the reliability of the game mechanics.

    Personal Thoughts on Austerlitz: The Battle of Three Emperors, 2 December 1805

    **Austerlitz** is a game for those interested in historical wargaming and the Napoleonic Wars. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy operational-level strategy and are looking for a game that balances simplicity with depth. While it may favor the French slightly, the game’s historical accuracy and engaging mechanics make it a great choice for historians and wargamers alike.

    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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *