Triumph and Tragedy: European Balance of Power

Triumph and Tragedy is a geopolitical strategy game for 3 players (also playable by 2) covering the competition for European supremacy during the period 1935–45 between Capitalism (the West), Communism (the Soviet Union) and Fascism (the Axis). It has diplomatic, economic, technological and military components, and can be won by gaining economic hegemony or technological supremacy (A-bomb), or by vanquishing a rival militarily.

The game starts in 1935, with all 3 Great Powers virtually disarmed: Germany has repudiated the Versailles Peace Treaty, initiating an arms race in Europe. With blocks, the nature of military buildups remain unknown to rivals unless/until military conflict breaks out. The game may end peacefully or there may be war. There are game sanctions for attacking neutral minors or declaring war on an opponent, and rewards for remaining peaceful (you get a Peace Dividend chit of value 0–2 for every year you remain at Peace).

Components:

• One full-color die-cut countersheet
• One 22" x 34" mapsheet
• Two sheets of labels
• 208 wooden blocks
• Game Record Sheet
• Rulebook
• Playbook
• 55-card Action Deck
• 55-Card Investment Deck
• Three Player Aid Cards

• Players: 2–3
• Play Time: 240 Minutes

Suitable for ages 12 & up