A House Divided: War Between the States 1861-65
- 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.
- 240 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.6 / 5
- Year
- 1981
About the game
A House Divided: War Between the States 1861-65 simulates the American Civil War from the First Battle of Bull Run through to Lee's surrender at Appomattox. Two players lead the Union and Confederacy, making the strategic decisions of army movement and command that determine the war's outcome. The board's cities and locations are linked by rivers, roads, and railroads, providing the paths armies use to advance or retreat. Dice-driven combat and movement bring the sweep of the war to the table across a lengthy, historically detailed campaign.
Hobbli's Notes
As a classic wargame dating to the early 1980s, A House Divided remains a respected entry point into Civil War strategic-level simulation, valued for its relatively approachable rules compared to some of its contemporaries. Its four-hour-plus playtime and dice-driven combat system will feel dated to players used to more modern card-driven wargames, but the historical scope and strategic decision-making it offers still hold up for genre fans. It's best suited to two dedicated players willing to invest a full evening.
What we like
- Historically detailed simulation of the full American Civil War campaign.
- Relatively approachable rules for a strategic-level wargame of its era.
- Strategic decision-making captures the sweep of the war effectively.
- Long-standing classic status means broad community support and resources.
- Two-player format ensures full engagement from both participants.
Keep in mind
- Four-hour-plus playtime is a significant time commitment.
- Dice-driven combat may feel dated next to more modern card-driven wargames.
- Strictly two-player design limits its use for larger groups.
Who it's for
History and wargaming enthusiasts aged 12 and up interested in the American Civil War, for exactly 2 players.
