TURNING POINT SIMULATIONS #17: The Sadowa Campaign Wargame

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One could make the case that Sadowa in 1866 is the single most significant battle in the entire book, with ripples that had enormous impact over the next century. If the Austrians, instead of the Prussians, had won at Sadowa, it is unlikely World War I would have happened as it did. Take away WWI, and is there a WWII?

Once the war began, history watched fast-moving Prussian formations defeat or outwit stumbling, hesitating Austrian forces. Our Sadowa campaign lets players explore the options open to both sides. Initiative is key and can allow one side the chance to make several partial moves in a row, thus capturing the sweeping moves each side made (or tried to). The Prussian player has further options, like bringing in his superior General HQ (and all the drama of the Prussian court), or choosing 'foraging' tactics which simplify his supply but cost him victory points (for the damage this does to his army).

Can you, as the Prussia player, start the path toward Germany being a world power? Or can you, as the Austrian player, strengthen your fragmented empire and avert the future catastrophe Germany's ambition will bring to Europe?