The Civil War 1861-1865
- Players
- 1-2
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 1200 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.8 / 5
- Year
- 1983
About the game
The Civil War 1861-1865 is a sprawling strategic simulation of the American Civil War, covering everything from Grant and Lee's major campaigns to Indian raids in the western territories and extensive naval and riverine warfare. Using generic Strength Points, Command Points, and a roster of over 60 historical Leaders who rise and fall in rank, players fight across three theaters, East, West, and Trans-Mississippi, while managing supply, railroads, and fortifications. The unpredictable pulse-based turn structure, driven by dice, keeps each session's pacing and events uncertain. Victory hinges on capturing key cities and states, with the Confederacy racing to seize Washington before time runs out.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's team considers this one of the most ambitious Civil War wargames ever published, balancing enormous scope with genuinely clever mechanisms like the pulse-based turn structure and historical Leader promotions. It's an epic, marathon experience meant for serious historical wargamers rather than casual play. The blend of grand strategy with granular leader management gives it lasting depth for enthusiasts of the genre.
What we like
- Enormous historical scope covering nearly every aspect of the Civil War.
- Innovative pulse-based turn structure adds real unpredictability.
- Rich roster of over 60 historical Leaders with dynamic promotions.
- Deep strategic decisions around theaters, supply, and combined arms.
Keep in mind
- Extremely long playtime, potentially spanning many sessions.
- Very steep learning curve with dense, detailed rules.
- Niche appeal limited to serious historical wargame enthusiasts.
Who it's for
For committed wargamers aged 16+ (1-2 players) with the time and patience for an epic, historically detailed Civil War campaign simulation.
