Napoleon invades Russia with the largest army Europe has ever seen, composed of troops from France, Poland, Germany, Italy and other allied states. The campaign that follows sees the Russians use scorched earth tactics to deny the enemy supplies, while Napoleon advances deeper and deeper into Russia, searching in vain for a decisive blow that will force emperor Alexander to negotiate.

After his catastrophic losses in Russia, Napoleon withdraws French troops from Spain to shore up his position in Germany. However, Wellington's Anglo-Portuguese army and the Spanish guerrillas are stronger than ever. Wellington advances, planning to liberate Madrid, and force a final showdown with king Joseph's Bonapartist kingdom of Spain.

After defeat in Germany, Napoleon's final defeat seemed only a matter of time. However, when Coalition armies cross the Rhine and invade France, Napoleon, outnumbered four to one, begins one of the most daring and brilliant campaigns in history.