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About Strategic Command: American Civil War
Strategic Command: American Civil War moves the series to 19th‑century battlefields in a turn‑based strategy format. Players control either the Union or the Confederacy, managing armies, research, production and diplomatic policy to decide if the United States stays united.
The title features a 66,000‑hex map covering North America, new river and sea combat, expanded reconnaissance options and the chance for European powers to intervene, all built on the enhanced engine used in previous Strategic Command games.
01 / THE GUIDE
Massive Hex Map
The map contains 66,000 hexes at a 15 km/9 mi scale, stretching from Canada and New Mexico to the Caribbean. This is the largest hex‑based map ever offered by the Strategic Command series.
The breadth of the map lets players position forces, ports and fortifications across a continental strategic landscape, requiring long‑range planning for each turn.
- Plan unit movements with the 15 km scale in mind; distant objectives may need several turns.
- Use inland ports shown on the map to shorten travel for river vessels.
02 / THE GUIDE
Army Organization
At the start of 1861 few professional soldiers exist, so players must enlist volunteers and arrange them into Brigades, Divisions and eventually Corps. Research improves weaponry and fighting skills before units can be led by famous generals.
Famous generals such as Lee, Jackson, Grant, McClellan, Beauregard and Sherman can be appointed to lead formations, making the choice of commander a notable factor in battle outcomes.
- Balance recruitment of volunteers with research to keep units effective.
- Consider assigning well‑known generals to key formations for potential impact.
03 / THE GUIDE
River Warfare
The Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers are navigable by new river warships, and inland ports provide opportunities for rapid movement. These waterways also allow amphibious attacks, adding a tactical dimension.
Naval forces are divided into rivercraft, coastal and sea‑going vessels, with both wooden and ironclad construction, giving admirals varied options for river and sea engagements.
- Utilise river ports to reposition forces quickly along navigable rivers.
- Watch for enemy amphibious attacks when operating near river mouths.
04 / THE GUIDE
European Intervention
Diplomatic actions, battlefield success and events such as the Emancipation Proclamation influence whether the United Kingdom, France or Spain may support the Confederacy. Their entry could greatly alter the war’s outcome.
Players can attempt to persuade these European Great Powers through decisions and events, making foreign policy a strategic element alongside military operations.
- Monitor diplomatic events to anticipate possible foreign involvement.
- Leverage battlefield victories to improve European opinion.
05 / THE GUIDE
Campaign Modes
Six campaigns cover the war from the first shot to the final surrender, including an alternate‑history scenario where the UK recognizes the Confederacy. Each campaign follows its own timeline and objectives.
All campaigns provide access to new unit types, technologies and riverine warfare, offering varied strategic challenges across the different historical and hypothetical settings.
- Try the alternate‑history campaign to explore different diplomatic outcomes.
- Experiment with new technologies such as balloons and ironclads in later campaigns.
COMMUNITY
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