A Distant Plain

GMT Games · Board game · 2013
1–4 · best 4 Solo 180–300 min Weight 3.9/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.8 rating BGG
Buy
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy wargames with strategic depth and a political edge, A Distant Plain is a solid choice! It's an immersive experience that puts you at the center of the Afghan conflict, with tough decisions on every card played.

Highlights
  • Accessible and deep COIN system
  • Political and military tension
  • High replayability with scenarios
  • Excellent solo mode
Keep in mind
  • Considerable language dependency
  • Long playtime
  • Complexity for newcomers
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
A Distant Plain plunges you into the heart of the turbulent Afghan conflict, bringing the COIN series into the spotlight of modern warfare. Crafted by two masters of the genre, Volko Ruhnke and Brian Train, this game for 1 to 4 players utilizes an accessible system, similar to other titles in the series like Andean Abyss, but with a brand-new flavor: new factions, abilities, and events that transport you straight to Afghanistan. For the first time in the series, two counter-insurgency (COIN) factions must put their differences aside and work together against a dangerous twin insurgency. It's a delicate dance of politics, culture, and economics mixed with military action, where every card represents a strategic decision that can alter the course of the war. The game adapts familiar mechanics to the Afghan reality without overcomplicating things, making it a great entry point for those who enjoy the COIN series. Prepare to deal with joint coalition-government operations, Pakistan's volatile posture, evolving tactics and technologies, government graft, coalition casualties, returning refugees, and even the Pashtun ethnic terrain. With multiple scenarios and a deck of 72 fresh events, A Distant Plain offers an immersive and challenging experience, perfect for those wanting to dive into the complexities of modern irregular warfare. Flowcharts help manage the three Afghan factions, ensuring that both solo players and groups of up to four can experience this intense struggle.
Rules videos

In English

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Game details

Categories

Families

Components: Multi-Use Cards Country: Afghanistan Country: USA Decades: The 2000's Digital Implementations: VASSAL History: War in Afghanistan Players: Wargames with Solitaire Rules Series: COIN (GMT) War Level of Command: Strategic
Publisher GMT Games
Designer Brian Train, Volko Ruhnke
Artist Chechu Nieto, Rodger B. MacGowan, Xavier Carrascosa
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for A Distant Plain?
Games can be quite long, typically ranging from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the number of players and their familiarity with the rules.
Can A Distant Plain be played solo?
Yes! The game features a robust solo mode where you can control one faction against others controlled by the game, or play with a friend and control two factions against the insurgency.
Is the game too complicated for someone new to COIN games?
A Distant Plain uses the COIN system, which is known for being more accessible than some wargames, but it still has a learning curve. The flowcharts and the nature of strategic decisions might present an initial challenge.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, the game has a considerable language dependency, with text on cards and in the rulebook that is essential for gameplay. A good understanding of English is necessary.
What kind of players will enjoy A Distant Plain the most?
Players who enjoy wargames focusing on modern conflicts, with mechanics like area control, hand management, and strategic decision-making. It's also great for those who appreciate games with a strong thematic and historical component.
How many players can enjoy this game?
The game is designed for 1 to 4 players, offering different experiences depending on the player count. The solo mode is highly praised, and in larger groups, the interaction between the COIN factions and the insurgency is a highlight.