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The African Campaign: Designer Signature Edition (2017) Board Game

ByMichail

The African Campaign: Designer Signature Edition is a wargame that focuses on the North African campaign during World War II. Players take on the roles of either the Axis powers (Germany and Italy) or the Allied forces (Britain and Commonwealth) as they battle for control of the deserts of North Africa.

Game Components of The African Campaign: Designer Signature Edition

  • One and a half mounted maps (17″ x 50.75″ map size)
  • One countersheet of 5/8” unit-counters
  • Two Order of Battle Appearance Cards (11″ x 14″)
  • Two Player Aid Cards (8.5″ x 11″)
  • Rules Booklet
  • Six-sided Die
  • Box and Lid.

    How To Setup The African Campaign: Designer Signature Edition

    Setting up the game involves placing the large mounted maps, which cover the North African theatre, and organizing the various counters, cards, and dice. Players need to understand the initial deployment of forces, supply lines, and key locations such as ports and airfields. The setup is designed to be straightforward, allowing players to quickly start exploring the strategic and tactical aspects of the Desert War.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Mechanics:** Dice Rolling, Events, Hexagon Grid, Ratio / Combat Results Table, Simulation, Zone of Control
  • Objective:** Players aim to recreate the ebb and flow of battles and extensive actions in the desert, managing supply, ports, replacements, Axis fuel, strategic movements, air power, Flak units, and minefields. The game starts with Wavell’s first offensive, Operation Compass, and concludes with the Americans landing in Rommel’s rear in December 1942.

    Player Experience

    The African Campaign offers a fast-paced and engaging experience due to its low counter density, making it accessible to both new and experienced wargamers. The game captures the dynamic nature of the North African Campaign, allowing players to launch major offensives and manage resources in a realistic and challenging environment. With a playtime of three to four hours, it is designed to be completed in a single sitting.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** Faithfully recreates the key elements of the Desert War.
  • Updated Components:** Features larger maps and 5/8” counters for optimal play experience.
  • Optional Rules:** Includes new optional rules and variants to enhance gameplay.
  • Balanced Complexity:** Rated 4 out of 10 in complexity, making it appealing to a wide range of players.
  • Solitaire Suitability:** High solitaire suitability with a rating of 8 out of 10.

    Cons

  • Limited Player Count:** Designed for one or two players, which may limit its appeal for larger groups.
  • Specific Niche:** May appeal more to wargame enthusiasts rather than casual board game players.
  • Weight and Size:** The large maps and numerous components make it a substantial game to store and transport.

    Personal Thoughts on The African Campaign: Designer Signature Edition

    This game is ideal for wargaming enthusiasts and those interested in World War II history, particularly the North African Campaign. It offers a deep and immersive experience that balances complexity and playability, making it enjoyable for both grognards and newcomers. If you are looking for a game that captures the strategic and tactical nuances of historical warfare, The African Campaign: Designer Signature Edition is an excellent choice.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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