Andean Abyss

GMT Games · Board game · 2012
1–4 · best 4 Solo 360 min Weight 3.8/5
8.5 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Buy
8.5 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy complex wargames with deep history and mind-bending strategic decisions, Andean Abyss is for you! It's a dense game, but highly rewarding for those who dedicate themselves to it.

Highlights
  • Immersive and historical campaign
  • Dual-use card mechanic
  • Excellent solo mode
  • High replayability
Keep in mind
  • Requires time and dedication
  • Steep learning curve
  • Considerable language dependency
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Get ready to dive into the turbulent Colombian scene of the 1990s with Andean Abyss! This isn't a game for those seeking something light and quick; we're talking about an epic campaign that puts you in the middle of a multifaceted conflict. You'll command Marxist guerrillas, police forces, drug cartels, or paramilitary groups, each with its own distinct tactics and objectives. The vibrant map is the stage where 160 wooden pieces will move and vie for control, while event cards bring twists and difficult decisions with every turn. Designer Volko Ruhnke (of Wilderness War and Labyrinth) brings a brilliant mechanic where cards have dual uses: you choose between a historical event or a tactical action, and each choice impacts the game's future. Don't worry about hand management; the focus is entirely on the board and strategic planning. Luck? Well, dice play a part, but victory truly depends on your ability to orchestrate the best campaign. Andean Abyss shines in competitive mode for up to 4 players, with diplomacy and overlapping victory conditions, as well as in solo mode, where you can take on the government and face the insurgent factions. It's a complex wargame, but with accessible rules that immerse you in Colombia's real history, addressing population control, intelligence, foreign aid, and much more. A true lesson in history and strategy!
Rules videos

In English

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Game details

Families

Components: Multi-Use Cards Country: Colombia Decades: The 1990's Digital Implementations: Rally the Troops Digital Implementations: VASSAL Mountains: Andes Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Wargames with Solitaire Rules Series: COIN (GMT) War Level of Command: Strategic
Publisher GMT Games
Designer Volko Ruhnke
Artist Charles Kibler, Chechu Nieto, Mark Simonitch, Rodger B. MacGowan, Xavier Carrascosa
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Andean Abyss?
Prepare for a commitment! A full game of Andean Abyss can take 4 to 6 hours, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 1 to 4 players. It shines at all player counts, with specific modes for solo, 2, 3, or 4 players, each offering a unique experience.
Is Andean Abyss very difficult to learn?
It's considered a medium-heavy weight game (3.8/5 on BGG). The basic rules are accessible, but mastering the strategic nuances and faction interactions takes time and dedication.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, the language dependency is high. The game has a lot of text on event and reference cards, making a good level of English highly recommended, or the use of third-party translations.
Is this a good game for someone new to wargames?
It might be a bit challenging for absolute beginners in wargames. Players with some experience in more complex strategy games might adapt better. The solo mode can be a good starting point for learning.
What sets Andean Abyss apart from other wargames?
The COIN (Counter-Insurgency) system is the main differentiator, featuring dual-use cards that force difficult decisions and a balanced focus on military and political aspects. Additionally, the theme and historical depth are strong points.
Are there any expansions or more recent versions?
Andean Abyss is the first volume in GMT Games' COIN series. There are other volumes in the series (Cuba Libre, A Distant Plain, Fire in the Lake) that use similar mechanics in different conflicts. A second edition of the base game was released with some updates and a Government bot.