Box cover of "Empires in Arms" board game by Avalon Hill Game Company, featuring a Napoleonic era theme with illustrated portraits of historical figures and a central figure in a military uniform, set against a map background with silhouettes of cavalry at the bottom.
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Empires in Arms (1983)

ByMichail

Empires in Arms

Empires in Arms is a grand strategy board game that was published by the Australian Design Group in 1983 and licensed to the Avalon Hill Game Company in 1985. The game is set in the Napoleonic era of 1805-1815 and focuses on warfare, diplomacy, and economics during that time period.

Why is Empires in Arms Popular?

Empires in Arms is considered a significant game due to its complexity and depth, as well as its focus on diplomacy and economics in addition to warfare. It has been included in several lists of top board games, including Games Magazine’s top 100 games of 1986. The game has also been praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail.

Game Components of Empires in Arms

  • Map: An area movement map with cities, each having defense ratings and manpower/economic ratings.
  • Units: Corps markers with hidden troop numbers, ships, garrison markers, militia, cavalry, elite guards, infantry, artillery, and feudal troops.
  • Specialty Units: Cossacks for Russia, Guerrillas for Spain, and others.
  • Combat Chits: Outflank, probe, cordon, defend, etc.
  • Resource Management: Supply depots, manpower, and economic resources.
  • Diplomatic Tools: Alliances, treaties, and surrender conditions.

    How To Setup Empires in Arms

    Setting up Empires in Arms involves several steps. Players bid victory points to determine which country they will control, with the highest bidder playing the chosen country. Each player then sets up their starting forces and resources according to the country’s unique economic and military power. The game board is populated with the initial dispositions of armies, navies, and other units. Players also establish their diplomatic stance and initial alliances.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    Game Phases

  • Diplomatic Phase: Players negotiate deals and forge alliances.
  • Reinforcement Phase: Players add previously purchased reinforcements.
  • Naval Phase: Players conduct naval moves.
  • Land Phase: Players move and fight with their armies.
  • Economic Phase (every three months): Players collect resources, purchase reinforcements, and earn victory points.

    Game Objective

  • The goal is to achieve international prestige measured by victory points.
  • Success in military campaigns, diplomatic alliances, and economic improvements contribute to victory points.
  • A player can win without declaring war by focusing on diplomacy and economic growth.

    Player Experience

    Empires in Arms offers a deeply immersive and complex gaming experience. Players must navigate intricate rules, manage resources, and make strategic decisions in diplomacy, warfare, and economics. The game is known for its lengthy playtime, often exceeding 200–250 hours for a full game. Despite its complexity, the game rewards strategic thinking and adaptability.

    Pros

  • Deep Strategy: Combines military, economic, and diplomatic strategies.
  • Historical Accuracy: Faithfully represents the Napoleonic era with detailed historical units and scenarios.
  • Replayability: High replay value due to variable starting positions and player interactions.
  • Social Interaction: Encourages negotiation and alliance-building among players.

    Cons

  • Complex Rules: The rulebook is extensive and sometimes unclear, requiring house rules and errata.
  • Lengthy Playtime: Games can last hundreds of hours, which may deter casual players.
  • Steep Learning Curve: Requires significant time and effort to master.

    Personal Thoughts on Empires in Arms

    Empires in Arms is for the dedicated wargamer or strategy enthusiast who relishes complex, long-term gaming experiences. It is ideal for those who enjoy deep strategy, historical settings, and the intricacies of diplomacy and warfare. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and length, it offers a uniquely rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time and effort. If you’re a fan of grand strategy and don’t mind delving into a game that’s as much about politics and economics as it is about warfare, then Empires in Arms is an absolute must-play.

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    • 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