A Line in the Sand (1991) – Board Game Guys

A Line in the Sand

A Line in the Sand is a board game published by TSR in 1991. It was designed by Paul Lidberg and Douglas Niles and depicted the first US-Iraq War. The game was one of the projects originating from TSR West and was published the day the US bombing began thanks to Flint Dille’s ability to convince the president of the company to make things move fast. The game made close to $500,000 for the company. Strategic Simulations published A Line in the Sand, a computer game translation of the board game, in 1992.

Why is A Line in the Sand Popular?

A Line in the Sand is significant as it is a board game that depicts the first US-Iraq War. It was published the day the US bombing began, which made it a timely release. The game made close to $500,000 for the company, which is a testament to its popularity.

Game Components of A Line in the Sand

Gameboard: Large, featuring the Middle East with nations, oil wells, airbases, and abstracted land areas.

Units: Land (infantry, Iraqi National Guard, tanks), sea, and air units.

War Aim Chits: Define player objectives.

Diplomatic Pouch: For sending messages between players.

War Fever and Jihad Markers: Track war intensity and religious fervor.

Counters: Representing various military and political elements.

How To Setup A Line in the Sand

Setting up the game involves placing the gameboard, distributing units according to the scenario, and each player drawing their War Aim chits. The game supports different player counts with varying scenarios, such as a two-player US vs. Iraq scenario or a six-player diplomatic game involving multiple Middle Eastern nations and the US. Each scenario has specific setup instructions to reflect the historical and geopolitical context.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Combat Mechanics: Straightforward, with units able to take multiple hits before being eliminated.

Scenarios:
– Basic: Less than 5 players, focuses on military might.
– Diplomatic: Six players, adds diplomacy and politics, involving nations like the US, Iran, Israel, and various Arab states.

War Fever and Jihad: Mechanisms that influence gameplay, such as restricting US actions or triggering revolutions.

Diplomacy: Players send messages via a diplomatic pouch, adding a layer of strategy and negotiation.

Victory Conditions: Players must meet their specific War Aim objectives, which can include capturing and holding territories, destroying enemy units, or controlling key resources.

Player Experience

Playing A Line in the Sand can be a complex and engaging experience, particularly in the six-player diplomatic scenario. The game combines traditional wargaming elements with diplomatic and political strategies, making it appealing to fans of both genres. The need to manage War Fever and Jihad levels adds a dynamic layer, as these can significantly impact gameplay and alliances. Communication through the diplomatic pouch system introduces an element of intrigue and negotiation.

Pros

Complex and Engaging Scenarios: Especially the six-player diplomatic game, which adds depth and realism.

Historical Context: Provides a unique perspective on the Persian Gulf War and Middle Eastern politics.

Dynamic Mechanics: War Fever and Jihad systems make the game highly interactive and unpredictable.

Strategic Depth: Combines military strategy with diplomatic maneuvers.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players, especially with the many rules and scenarios.

Player Count: Requires a specific number of players for the most engaging scenarios.

Component Quality: Older copies may show wear and tear, affecting gameplay experience.

Learning Curve: Steep, due to the intricate mechanics and diplomatic elements.

Personal Thoughts on A Line in the Sand

A Line in the Sand is ideal for experienced wargamers and those interested in geopolitical simulations. The game’s complexity and depth make it more suited for players who enjoy strategic planning and diplomatic negotiation. It is not a game for casual players or those looking for a quick, simple experience. Instead, it offers a rich and immersive environment that rewards careful planning and strategic thinking.

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