Napoleon 1807 (2020) Board Game

Napoleon 1807 is a board game that takes players back to the Napoleonic era, specifically focusing on the year

This was a critical period in history where Napoleon Bonaparte’s French Empire faced off against the Russian Empire and its allies in the War of the Fourth Coalition. The game allows players to step into the shoes of Napoleon himself or the Russian commander as they strategize and fight for victory.

Game Components of Napoleon 1807

1 mounted game board (90 x 60 cm)

1 rulebook

1 scenarios booklet

1 quickstart booklet

3 player aids (orders of battle)

2 player screens

2 sets of 48 cards

6 additional cards for Napoleon 1806

2 sticker sheets (100)

More than 250 wooden pieces

10 combat dice

2 cloth bags[5%.

How To Setup Napoleon 1807

To set up Napoleon 1807, players begin by placing their forces in their respective winter quarters, marked by winter quarters cards on the board. The French forces are positioned around Warsaw, with Napoleon and his core commanders like Le Febvre, Lan, and Murat. The Russians, led by commanders such as Kaminsky, Bennington, and Galitzine, are placed according to the specific scenario being played. Each scenario has its own setup instructions detailed in the scenarios booklet. For example, in the Pultusk scenario, the French and Russian forces are positioned to reflect the historical battle, and victory point markers are set up to determine the outcome of the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Campaign / Battle Card Driven: Players use cards to determine movement and combat outcomes.

Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat and other key events.

Events: Cards can introduce weather, terrain, and other historical events that affect gameplay.

Movement Points: Players manage movement points to maneuver their forces.

Point to Point Movement: Units move between designated points on the board.

Objective:

The objective is to defeat the opposing army by destroying enemy strength points or occupying key victory point locations. The game ends with a victory for the French if the victory point marker is in boxes 1-7, a victory for the Russians if it is in boxes 11-19, and a draw if it ends in boxes with white disks.

Player Experience

Napoleon 1807 offers a deeply strategic and historically accurate experience, allowing players to relive the battles of the Polish campaign, including Pultusk, Eylau, and Friedland. The game is praised for its balance between complexity and simplicity, making it accessible yet challenging. Players must carefully manage their forces, utilize cards effectively, and adapt to the changing conditions of the battlefield. With 13 varied scenarios, the game provides a high replay value and caters to both history enthusiasts and strategy gamers[5%.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game meticulously recreates the historical context of Napoleon’s campaigns.

Deep Strategy: Combines card-driven mechanics with dice rolling and event management.

High Replay Value: 13 scenarios and the ability to link with Napoleon 1806 for extended gameplay.

Engaging Gameplay: Easy to learn but challenging to master.

Cons

Complexity: May be intimidating for new players due to the variety of mechanics.

Playtime: Games can last between 60 to 150 minutes, which may not appeal to those seeking quicker games.

Limited Player Count: Designed for only 2 players, limiting group play options.

Personal Thoughts on Napoleon 1807

Napoleon 1807 is an excellent choice for anyone interested in Napoleonic history and strategic board games. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy wargames and are looking for a challenging yet historically rich experience. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to complex board games, it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to dive into its intricate mechanics. If you’re a fan of Napoleon’s campaigns or enjoy deep strategic gameplay, Napoleon 1807 is definitely worth exploring.

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.