The best games set during the American Civil War 2026

Players engage in the epic struggle of the American Civil War, focusing on the themes of slavery and states' rights. From the first Battle of Bull Run to Lee's surrender at Appomattox, each player commands either the North or the South, making strategic decisions that influence the war's outcome. The game board represents the United States, featuring key locations connected by transport lines, highlighting pathways to victory or defeat.

On July 21, 1861, the untested armies of the North and South clash in the first battle of the American Civil War. Players can assume the role of either General Beauregard defending Virginia for the Confederacy or Union General Irvin McDowell trying to stop the Southern rebellion and reunite the nation.

The eleventh volume of the Great Campaigns of the American Civil War series, Roads to Gettysburg II: Lee Strikes North, covers some of the most famous campaigns of the Civil War in a single module. It represents the largest collection of content ever produced for this award-winning series, with all included campaigns updated, rebalanced, and enhanced for improved gameplay. The package features new and revamped scenarios, game rules, and includes beautifully redrawn maps and military unit counters.

Atlanta Is Ours is the next title in the award-winning Great Campaigns of the American Civil War series. It features two maps illustrated by Charlie Kibler, along with updated components that maintain a link to the original series while incorporating modern graphics. The game includes 14 base scenarios and 5 advanced scenarios, providing ample opportunities for strategic play and quick transitions between campaigns.

This simulation of the Second Manassas Campaign is the first volume in a new series of strategic Civil War games by Avalon Hill. Players command Union and Confederate military units in turns that represent real-time days, navigating beautifully detailed maps of Central Virginia as it was in the summer of 1862. The game includes multiple scenarios, a straightforward learning curve, and an interactive system that keeps gameplay exciting and competitive.