Victory in the Pacific
- Players
- 2
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 300 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.4 / 5
- Year
- 1977
About the game
A classic 1977 Avalon Hill strategic wargame, Victory in the Pacific covers the entire Pacific Theater of World War II across 13 sea areas. Two players move ships, land-based air, and marines each turn, then resolve day or night naval battles to determine control of contested waters. As a successor to War at Sea's system, it favors sweeping strategic decisions over granular tactical detail, letting a full campaign play out in a single session. It is a foundational wargame beloved for its elegant, fast-playing naval combat system.
Hobbli's Notes
Victory in the Pacific holds up as a classic introduction to naval wargaming thanks to its streamlined area-control combat system, which keeps the historical sweep of the Pacific War intact without excessive rules overhead. The dynamic where Japan often starts strong before the American carrier fleet turns the tide mirrors the real history nicely. Its age shows in some rougher edges, but it remains a respected entry point into strategic-level WWII naval gaming. Recommended for wargamers who appreciate classic, elegant designs.
What we like
- Elegant, streamlined system captures the sweep of the Pacific War.
- Historically resonant back-and-forth as American forces build strength.
- Relatively fast-playing for a strategic-level WWII wargame.
- Respected classic design with lasting influence on the genre.
Keep in mind
- Dated components and presentation compared to modern wargames.
- Long 300-minute playtime requires serious commitment.
- Two-player only limits group flexibility.
Who it's for
Best for wargaming enthusiasts (12+) who enjoy historical strategic naval combat, specifically for two players.
