Empires in Arms
- Players
- 2-7
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 7 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 12000 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 14+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 4.4 / 5
- Year
- 1983
About the game
Empires in Arms is a monumental wargame recreating the diplomacy and warfare of the Napoleonic era from 1805 to 1815. As one of seven major European powers, you negotiate alliances, manage economies, and command armies and fleets across a sweeping campaign map. Scenarios range from a tight four-turn introduction to the full 132-turn Grand Campaign spanning a decade of history. It's a legendary title for wargamers seeking the deepest possible simulation of the period.
Hobbli's Notes
Empires in Arms is a genuine institution among historical wargamers, prized for its intricate blend of diplomacy, economy, and combat. The negotiation phase alone can produce more memorable drama than most full games. This is a serious undertaking best reserved for a dedicated group ready to commit dozens (or hundreds) of hours to the full campaign.
What we like
- Extremely deep historical simulation of the Napoleonic Wars.
- Rich diplomacy and negotiation between players.
- Enormous replayability via multiple scenarios.
- Legendary status among wargame enthusiasts.
Keep in mind
- Full campaign can run 100-150 hours to complete.
- Very steep learning curve for newcomers.
- Requires a large, dedicated group commitment.
Who it's for
For committed wargamers and history buffs aged 14+ willing to invest serious time into a deep, negotiation-heavy campaign with 2-7 players.
