Rise and Decline of the Third Reich

Publisher: Avalon Hill · Creator: John Prados

Anecdote

A monumental creation by John Prados for Avalon Hill, Rise and Decline of the Third Reich redefined what a strategic wargame could simulate within a single box. The system covers the entire war in Europe from 1939 to 1945 with a level of nuance rarely matched, integrating production, research, diplomacy, and large-scale military operations. Two to six players take command of the major powers and attempt to impose their strategic objectives on the continent. A full game requires dozens of hours and fuelled sessions that became legendary in the specialist press of the 1970s and 1980s. The learning curve is demanding, and the title is aimed at the most experienced wargamers. Prados, a young designer at the time, delivered here a masterwork that left a lasting mark on Avalon Hill and gave rise to an entire school of design. The system is supported by modular rules allowing players to approach the game through specific historical phases. The original components are understated but of solid quality for the period, with substantial scenario booklets and reference tables. Rise and Decline spawned an entire family of strategic wargames, including its direct successor A World at War some three decades later. The title's influence on modern strategic wargaming is immense, and it is regularly cited as one of the genre's historical peaks. The community remained loyal to the system, and several reprints or compilations have appeared over the years. The title received several major awards upon release, including a Charles S. Roberts Award. A French translation appeared and remains sought after by collectors. For strategic wargaming purists, Rise and Decline is one of the absolute classics. The title also helped shape an entire generation of designers and players. It embodies Avalon Hill's editorial expertise at its peak, and remains a reference for anyone seeking to understand the evolution of strategic wargaming.

Popularity & reception

Awards — Charles S. Roberts Award - Best Strategic Game (1974) · Origins Award - Hall of Fame · Games Magazine Hall of Fame · BGG Hall of Fame Wargame

🇩🇪 Germany🇬🇧 United Kingdom🇫🇷 France🚩 Soviet Union🇮🇹 Italy