NOTE: This is my first review, so if it's crap, forgive me...

For as long as I can remember I've been fascinated by war. Not the death and destruction part, or even the fame and glory part. I'm fascinated by the science of war. The step-by-step procedures used in the application of military force. Strategy and Tactics. I believe Napoleon's Triumph is masterful in its ability to portray these aspects of war. This is truly a game of grand strategy and cunning tactics!

Command and Control
Units are typically deployed in a corps, a form of tactical column. Orders are issued mainly to each corps, but can be issued to individual units if the need arises. To simulate the difficulties of commanding large numbers of men in formation each corps may only be issued a single order each turn (hour). Each side is also restricted to a small number of independent orders per turn to simulate the even greater difficulty of commanding units out of formation. A corps may be issued one of three different commands; individual units are restricted to a single command. This disparity in the command structure perfectly simulates the increased tactical flexibility of units in formation. As the battle progresses and formations break down the scarcity of orders helps simulate the loss of force cohesion. Napoleon's Triumph's command and control system is unique and subtle in its ability to portray the complexity of commanding tens of thousands of men.

Logistics
Communication and supplies, two of the most important aspects of war. For the most part communication in Napoleon's Triumph is handled very well by the command system. The only non-command aspect of communication is the "line of communication" that must be maintained if an army is trying to achieve a territorial victory. Supplies in the form of ammunition and the like are not officially mentioned, but I like to think of it as a "line of communication and supply" instead. Supplies in the form of manpower are modeled by the individual unit blocks. Each block has symbols representing unit type and combat effectiveness (strength) printed on them. As units engage in combat they are reduced in strength making them less effective. Elite units are thus more likely to see multiple engagements and are able to last longer in a fight. When units are rendered combat ineffective they are removed from the field, leaving you with less and less little blocks. The abstract nature of the unit strength system is a fabulous way to model the differences in combat effectiveness between elite guard infantry and conscripts, or fresh units and those that have seen heavy combat.

Tactics
Every good general knows the use of proper tactics is the key to victory. Flanking maneuvers, artillery bombardments, and prepared positions are the name of this game. While the combat resolution system seems daunting at first, it becomes intuitive after a few plays. The system's ability to represent tactical maneuvering by battalion-sized forces is flawless. The various locals and approaches are laid out in an incredibly logical fashion. So much so, that after only a few plays you can accurately "guess" as to what penalties an approach will have with little more than a glance. Use of proper forces when maneuvering and attacking takes some time to learn, but it's worth it. Believe me, Napoleon's Triumph rewards the use of shrewd and cunning tactics!

Strategy
The strategic options available to either side are almost limitless. A corps can be assigned almost any combination of units, allowing for greater strategic flexibility. The inclusion of multiple and variable victory conditions opens up the possibility for more strategic options. The inclusion of the two-day scenario allows for even more options. Deciding on a plan of action is a daunting task in Napoleon's Triumph, deciding how to execute that plan even more so. However, this is what makes this game shine. The sheer magnitude of possibilities boggles my mind. Of course, no good plan survives first contact with the enemy, so ability and willingness to modify one's strategy is a must. Napoleon's Triumph is truly and superbly a game of grand strategy!

For anyone as interested in the science of warfare as I am, you can't beat this game. It's beautiful to look at and stunning to watch as the battle unfolds. I really feel like a general deciding the fate of thousands when I play. I can imagine sitting in front of a map (that looks exactly like the board) across from Napoleon. Trying different strategies in preparation for the battle to come...