Victory in Europe

About this board game

Victory in Europe is a strategic game for 2–3 players, with an approximate play time of 180 minutes, covering the Second World War in Europe from 1939 to 1945.

One player commands the Axis powers while the other commands the Allies. Players maneuver armies across an area map of Europe, competing for control of key victory cities and critical resources. Air, naval, and ground units all take part in the conflict, with battles occurring when enemy units meet in the same area.

The early war from 1939 to 1941 is driven by the Axis, but the balance gradually shifts as the Allies grow stronger and usually take the initiative by 1943. Even so, Victory in Europe does not require history to repeat itself. Player decisions can send the war in unexpected directions.

• France may survive 1940.
• Germany may invade Britain.
• Germany may attack Russia in June 1941, earlier, later, or not at all.
• The Soviets may attack Germany first.
• The USA may enter the war in 1942, earlier, or later.

These possibilities are shaped by player choices and by Diplomatic events controlled by game events. Neutral countries also matter: invading nations such as Norway or Belgium has consequences that can affect the wider struggle.

With military operations, shifting alliances, and alternate historical outcomes, the game presents a broad contest for control of wartime Europe. Each match can develop differently as players decide when to attack, where to commit their forces, and how to respond to changing diplomatic circumstances.