Lion of Ethiopia

About this board game

Lion of Ethiopia is a two-player simulation of the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1935–36, designed for a playing time of approximately 120 minutes. Originally published in Command magazine, issue #4, the game presents a major conflict from the era immediately preceding World War II.

The war depicted was the largest colonial war ever fought in Africa and the first round of the European portion of what would become World War II. One player commands the Italian side, while the other represents Ethiopia, with victory determined by clearly defined military and territorial objectives.

For Italy, success comes through the occupation of a number of geographical locations or the complete destruction of the Ethiopian army. The Ethiopian player has several possible paths to victory, including seizing both Massawa and Mogadisho, destroying both Italian headquarters, destroying the entire Italian army, or preventing an Italian victory by the end of Turn 22.

• Players: 2
• Playing time: approximately 120 minutes
• Map: 22 × 34 inches
• Components: 12-page rulebook and 164 counters
• Release year: 1990

With its opposing victory conditions, historical setting, and compact component set, Lion of Ethiopia focuses directly on the struggle between invasion and resistance. Its turn limit gives the Ethiopian side a further route to success: survive until Turn 22 without allowing Italy to achieve its objectives.