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Marengo: Napoleon in Italy, 14 June 1800 (1975) Board Game

ByMichail

Marengo: Napoleon in Italy, 14 June 1800 is a historical wargame that simulates the Battle of Marengo, a pivotal engagement fought between the French army under Napoleon Bonaparte and the Austrian army in northern Italy on June 14,

  • The game was first released in 1975 and designed by David C. Isby. It is a two-player game that allows players to recreate this important battle from the Napoleonic Wars.

    • Game Components of Marengo: Napoleon in Italy, 14 June 1800

  • 17″ x 22″ paper hex grid map scaled at 800 m (870 yd) per hex
  • 100 die-cut unit counters
  • 20 Random Number counters (to replace a six-sided die)
  • Rulebook containing common and unique rules for the game.

    How To Setup Marengo: Napoleon in Italy, 14 June 1800

    To set up the game, players first lay out the hex grid map, then place the unit counters according to the initial deployment rules. The French player sets up their forces with limited movement capabilities on the first turn, while the Austrian player deploys their units as per the historical battle lines. Each player receives a set of rules and counters specific to their forces. The game is ready to start once all units are placed and players understand their starting conditions.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Turn Structure:** Simple “I Go, You Go” system where one player moves and fires, followed by the other player.
  • Turn Duration:** Each turn represents one hour of game time.
  • Zones of Control:** Absolute zones; units cannot move further if adjacent to enemy units.
  • Movement Restrictions:** French movement is halved on the first turn; French units cannot enter Austrian zones of control initially.
  • Counterattacks:** French can declare counterattacks in the last six turns, doubling their attack values.

    Player Experience

    Playing “Marengo” offers a fast-paced and engaging experience, particularly for those interested in Napoleonic-era battles. The game captures the seesaw nature of the historical battle, where initial Austrian successes are countered by French reinforcements. While some critics have noted historical inaccuracies, the game is praised for its quick playability and simplicity, making it a good introductory game for wargaming.

    Pros

  • Quick Play:** Games are relatively short, lasting about 14 turns.
  • Simple Mechanics:** Easy to learn and play, making it a good introduction to wargaming.
  • Historical Simulation:** Despite some criticisms, it generally captures the essence of the Battle of Marengo.
  • Engaging Gameplay:** The “I Go, You Go” system and counterattack mechanics add excitement and strategy.

    Cons

  • Historical Accuracy:** Some critics feel the game does not fully capture the historical nuances of the battle.
  • Artificial Mechanics:** The effect of cavalry and other units is somewhat artificially simulated.
  • Limited Realism:** The tactical system, while producing realistic general results, lacks detailed realism.

    Personal Thoughts on Marengo: Napoleon in Italy, 14 June 1800

    This game is ideal for those new to wargaming or interested in Napoleonic history. Its simplicity and quick playtime make it an excellent introduction to more complex wargames. While veterans of wargaming might find some mechanics too simplistic or historically inaccurate, “Marengo” remains a fun and educational experience that can spark further interest in historical battles and wargaming in general.

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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

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