Almeida et Bussaco 1810

About this board game

Almeida et Bussaco 1810 is a two-player historical wargame with a playing time of approximately 240 minutes, covering two pivotal battles from Masséna’s 1810 invasion of Portugal.

In June, the French offensive advanced through the northern route toward Ciudad Rodrigo and Almeida. On 24 July, Marshal Ney’s advance guard defeated General Craufurd beneath Almeida’s walls and drove his forces back across the Coâ River before the siege of the place.

The French advance into Portugal was slow and difficult. Wellington prepared a formidable defensive position at Bussaco, where Masséna ordered a frontal assault on 27 September. After bitter fighting, the French abandoned the attempt and spent the following day seeking a way around the position at Sierra de Bussaco.

These linked engagements mark the beginning of the intense contest between Masséna and Wellington. The game is the 30th and 31st battle package in the Jours de Gloire series, offering scenarios, rules, and historical notes for exploring both actions.

• Two battles: Almeida and Bussaco, 1810
• Scale of 297 metres per hex
• Time scale of 75 minutes per game turn
• Strength scale of 200 men per strength point
• A2 map and 216 die-cut counters
• Booklet containing rules, scenarios, and historical notes

Designed for two players, Almeida et Bussaco 1810 provides a focused entry in the Jours de Gloire series and was selected as the supporting game for the 14th Bicentennial Trophy in January 2011.