Quebec 1759

Overview

Quebec 1759 is a two-player block wargame simulating the 1759 British campaign to capture Quebec City during the French and Indian War. It was the first block wargame ever published (1972). Wooden blocks stand on edge facing each player, creating fog of war – you can see your own units but not your opponent’s strength. Players simultaneously write orders and resolve battles using step-loss combat.

Components

Component	Quantity
Game board (Quebec area map)	1
Wooden blocks (British, brown)	Multiple
Wooden blocks (French, blue)	Multiple
Labels (unit stickers)	Multiple

Setup

Place blocks according to the historical scenario setup. British forces begin at staging areas; French forces defend Quebec City and surrounding positions.

Turn Structure

1. Both players secretly write movement orders simultaneously.
2. Reveal orders and execute movement.
3. Resolve battles at contested locations.
4. Check victory conditions.

Actions

Movement

Units move along roads and waterways. Movement is simultaneous and written secretly, creating uncertainty about opponent intentions.

Combat

When forces meet, combat occurs. Block strengths (hidden until combat) determine firepower. Losses reduce block steps (rotate block to show reduced strength). Units can retreat after combat rounds.

Supply

Forces must maintain supply lines. Cut-off units suffer attrition.

Scoring / Victory Conditions

The British win by capturing Quebec City. The French win by preventing British capture through the campaign season. The game covers the historical timeline leading to the Battle of the Plains of Abraham.

Special Rules & Edge Cases

• Fog of war is inherent: block faces are hidden from opponents.
• Siege rules apply for attacking fortified Quebec.
• Naval control of the St. Lawrence River is crucial.
• The game can be played in about an hour, making it accessible for a wargame.

Player Reference

Side	Objective
British	Capture Quebec City
French	Defend Quebec through the campaign
Key Mechanic	Simultaneous secret orders + fog of war (hidden blocks)