Aspern-Essling 1809

About this board game

Aspern-Essling 1809 is a two-player historical wargame about the two-day battle fought on May 21 and 22, 1809, with an approximate playing time of 240 minutes. It is the 26th battle in the Jours de Gloire series, covering the French attempt to secure a decisive victory after crossing the Danube.

Napoleon’s army had seized Vienna, but the Danube still separated the Emperor from Archduke Charles and the Austrian army. French troops crossed from the island of Lobau to the left bank, establishing a position grounded on the villages of Aspern and Essling. The Austrians responded with massive assaults, seeking to destroy the newly arrived force before it could be reinforced.

The battle’s outcome depends heavily on the difficult command situation facing the French army. Special rules represent the roles of Lannes and Masséna, while the bridges between Lobau and the left bank of the Danube create a crucial connection for French reinforcements. When several bridges are temporarily broken, the divisions already on the battlefield must resist without the support needed for an easy victory.

• Two-day scenario covering May 21–22, 1809
• Units represented by regiments and brigades
• 330 metres per hex and 90 minutes per turn
• 59 × 40 cm map with 216 double-sided die-cut counters and markers
• Color rulebook with scenarios and player aid

With a listed complexity of 6 out of 9, Aspern-Essling 1809 offers a detailed portrayal of a battle shaped by river crossings, vulnerable bridges, command challenges, and repeated Austrian attacks. The first edition includes French or English rules and charts, while the second edition provides French and English rules and charts.