Boardgames

War Between The States 1861-1865

An operational-level American Civil War simulation combining grand strategy, tactics, production, rail, land, and naval forces.

360
minutes

1 - 2
player(s)

Medium Heavy

War Between The States 1861-1865 board game cover

About this board game

War Between The States 1861-1865 is an operational-level simulation of the American Civil War for 1–2 players, with a listed playing time of 360 minutes.

This substantial 1977 SPI release combines elements of grand strategy and tactics. Players engage with the conflict across land, rail, and naval operations, presenting a broad view of the war from an operational perspective.

The game’s scale is reflected in its extensive physical components. Its large counter mix, map sections, and supporting charts create a detailed framework for representing the American Civil War.

  • 1,200 die-cut counters
  • Three map sections
  • Land, rail, and naval units
  • Charts including Confederate and Union production spirals

Production is represented through dedicated Confederate and Union production spirals, while the combination of unit types covers more than battlefield movement alone. Rail and naval elements sit alongside land forces within the overall simulation.

War Between The States 1861-1865 is identified as one of SPI’s monster games, making it a notably large-scale choice for players interested in an expansive American Civil War experience. Its long playing time and substantial component count support a deep operational treatment of the 1861–1865 conflict.