Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo Game – June 18th, 1815 (1976)

Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo – 18 June 1815

Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo – 18 June 1815 is a board wargame simulation of the Battle of Waterloo, which occurred on June 18, 1815, at a minor crossroads south of Brussels, Belgium. The game was originally published by Simulations Publications, Inc. (SPI) in 1976. The game enables players to recreate the decisive encounter between history’s two most renowned commanders, Sir Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington, and Napoleon Bonaparte. The game is significant because it allows players to experience the tactics and strategies used in the Battle of Waterloo, which was a turning point in European history.

Why is Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo – 18 June 1815 Popular?

Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo – 18 June 1815 is popular among wargamers because it is a grand tactical simulation of the Battle of Waterloo, which is considered one of the most significant battles in European history. The game is significant because it allows players to experience the tactics and strategies used in the battle, which was a turning point in European history. The game is also popular because it is a classic wargame that has been enjoyed by players for decades.

Game Components of Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo Game – June 18th, 1815

Rulebook: A comprehensive guide including deployment charts and detailed rules.

Counters: 2000 die-cut counters representing French, Anglo-Allied, and Prussian units, including infantry battalions, cavalry squadrons, artillery batteries, and engineer detachments.

Maps: A large 68″ x 44″ paper hex map in four sections (or 4 soft maps in the 2014 edition), showing natural contours and terrain features.

Dice: One plastic six-sided die (six dice in the 2014 edition).

Storage: Plastic trays for holding counters and counter storage bags in the 2014 edition.

Additional Sheets: Combat Strength Marker Sheets, Player Aid Sheets, Time Display Sheet, Army Display Sheets, and a Prussian Off-Board Approach Sheet in the 2014 edition.

How To Setup Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo Game – June 18th, 1815

Setting up the game involves carefully deploying the units according to the historical setup or one of the alternative scenarios. Players must lay out the large map, organize the counters, and ensure each unit is placed correctly on the board. The rulebook includes detailed deployment charts to facilitate this process. The game allows for different scenarios, including variations in the arrival time of the Prussian forces.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Count: 2 players, with one player controlling the French army and the other controlling the Anglo-Allied and Prussian forces.

Turn Structure: The game turn involves several phases, including command, rally, facing/formation, march, shock, and reciprocal artillery and infantry fire phases.

Combat Resolution: A single dice roll inflicts casualties and disorder, with unit capabilities modified by formations, tactics, and leaders.

Objective: The French aim to defeat the Anglo-Allied forces before the Prussian reinforcements arrive, while the Anglo-Allied player must hold ground until the Prussians arrive to support them.

Player Experience

Playing **Wellington’s Victory** is a deeply immersive and historically rich experience. The game demands strategic thinking, careful use of different arms and tactics, and a keen eye for terrain. Players must manage unit morale, formations, and the timing of deployments to succeed. The game’s complexity and historical detail make it a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is highly regarded for its historical accuracy and detailed simulation of the Battle of Waterloo.

Deep Strategy: It offers a rich and complex gameplay experience, requiring players to use a variety of tactics and formations.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable setups ensure high replayability.

Component Quality: The game components, including the maps and counters, are of high quality.

Cons

Complexity: The game is very complex and demands a significant commitment of time and effort.

Learning Curve: The rules are extensive, making it challenging for new players to learn.

Historical Errors: Some reviewers have noted minor historical errors in the setup.

Length: The game can be very long, lasting several hours.

Personal Thoughts on Wellington’s Victory: Battle of Waterloo Game – June 18th, 1815

**Wellington’s Victory** is a classic for serious wargamers and history enthusiasts. It is not for casual gamers due to its complexity and the significant time required to play. However, for those who are passionate about Napoleonic history and tactical simulations, this game offers an unparalleled experience. It allows players to delve into the intricacies of the Battle of Waterloo and explore the what-ifs of history, making it a timeless and engaging addition to any wargamer’s collection.

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.