Angola

Multi-Man Publishing, Ragnar Brothers · Board game · 1988

9.3 Ludopedia 8.0 BGG 2–4 · best 4 480 min Weight 3.2/5

Buy · from US$ 63.79

9.3 rating Ludopedia

8.0 rating BGG

Buy · from US$ 63.79

Our Verdict

FOR GENRE FANS

If you enjoy wargames that make you think and anticipate every move, Angola is a feast! It's a tense and strategic game that rewards planning, perfect for those not afraid of a challenge.

Highlights

Secret activation system
Tension and anticipation
Strategic depth
Game balance

Keep in mind

Long game duration
Rule complexity
Requires card translation

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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to dive into the complex and tense Angolan Civil War with Angola, a strategic wargame that puts you in command of Soviet and US-backed factions vying for control of the country between 1975 and 1976. Forget frantic action; here, intelligence and foresight are your greatest weapons. The map is divided into areas, and you'll manage military units, including special armaments like tanks and artillery. The key differentiator lies in the unit activation system: you and your opponent secretly decide the order in which your troops will act each round. This creates a suspenseful atmosphere worthy of a poker duel, where every move is calculated to anticipate the adversary's plays. The game is known for its balance and a victory point system that rewards good play, allowing even those who suffer setbacks to turn the tables with a well-timed counteroffensive. If you enjoy wargames with depth, a touch of simulation, and mechanics that challenge your strategic mind, Angola is an experience worth checking out. The MMP edition features updated graphics for this cult classic, making it more accessible for those seeking a weighty challenge.

Gallery

Box and component photos

11 photos · from the community

01 / 11

Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

In English

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players

2 OK

3 OK

4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher Multi-Man Publishing, Ragnar Brothers

Designer Phil Kendall

Artist Lee Brimmicombe-Wood

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,277owners

375wishlist

93want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions

How long does a game of Angola take?

Prepare for a commitment! A full game of Angola can take around 480 minutes (8 hours), making it ideal for those seeking deep immersion in a single day or willing to split it over multiple sessions.

How many players can participate?

Angola is a game for 2 to 4 players, but it shines best with teams, especially in 4-player games where limited communication adds an extra layer of challenge.

Is the game very complicated to learn?

With a BGG weight of 3.18/5, Angola is considered a moderately to highly complex game. It rewards experienced wargamers, especially those who enjoy simulation and strategic planning.

Do I need to know history to play?

Knowing the context of the Angolan Civil War can enrich the experience, but it's not strictly necessary to play. The rules and theme are well integrated, allowing you to learn as you play.

What are the main components?

The game includes two decks of cards (110 total), a 32-page full-color rulebook, two player aid cards, a large map (22"x34"), three counter sheets, and four six-sided dice.

Is it worth it for those who aren't fans of traditional wargames?

If you're looking for a deeper gaming experience with a lot of strategic tension and a unique activation system that simulates combat uncertainty, Angola might surprise you. However, the long duration and complexity might be a factor for more casual players.

Does the game require translation?

Yes, the game has moderate language dependency. It's recommended to have the cards translated or use a translated spreadsheet to easily access information during play.