Napoleon Against Russia

Napoleon Against Russia is an Operational Studies Group wargame on the critical phase of Napoleon’s 1812 campaign, when the Russian army finally offered the decisive battles he had been seeking.

The game covers five engagements from the road to Moscow and the beginning of disaster: Smolensk, Valutino, Shevardino, Borodino, and Maloyaroslavets. From the missed opportunity at Smolensk to the climactic struggle at Borodino and the fateful decision after Maloyaroslavets, the campaign presents Napoleon with chances for victory that grow narrower as distance, attrition, and Russian resistance take their toll.

As part of OSG’s The Library of Napoleonic Battles system, Napoleon Against Russia emphasizes command, maneuver, historical terrain, and the operational tempo of Napoleonic warfare. It is a strong fit for players interested in the 1812 campaign beyond the retreat alone, especially the battles where Napoleon tried to force a decisive result before the campaign turned ruinous.

Contents include: game box, three 34" x 22" maps, one 17" x 22" map, two countersheets with 560 die-cut pieces, two booklets covering the system rules and study folder, 16 player aid cards, 5 resource cards, and two 50-card decks.

Boardgamegeneral Advice

Napoleon against Russia is a compelling choice for players who want to experience the full scale and complexity of Napoleon’s 1812 Russian campaign. True to OSG’s style, it combines operational maneuver, logistics, and historical realism into a deeply immersive wargaming experience. Best suited for experienced players who enjoy large campaigns and want a challenging game that rewards long-term planning and strategic discipline.