DAK: The Campaign in North Africa, 1940-1942

The Gamers · Board game · 1997
— Ludopedia 8.1 BGG 2 · best 2, 2+ 360 min Weight 4.1/5
Buy
— rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

DAK is the definitive choice for those seeking a deep, realistic simulation of the North African campaign. It is a dense game, focused on logistics and operational strategy, ideal for intense duels between players who are not intimidated by complex rulebooks. The experience is rewarding due to its historical precision, but it demands a significant time commitment.

Highlights
  • Extremely detailed historical simulation
  • Robust and proven OCS system
  • Grand campaign scale
  • Excellent for strategic duels
Keep in mind
  • Requires significant playtime
  • Complex rules for newcomers
  • Steep learning curve
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

If you are a wargame enthusiast who wants to feel the real weight of logistics in the desert, DAK: The Campaign in North Africa is an absolute classic you need to check out. As the fifth entry in the acclaimed Operational Combat Series (OCS), this game scales things up, covering the entire North African campaign from Operation Compass to the decisive moments at El Alamein. Do not expect a casual afternoon game; this is a heavy-hitter.

What makes DAK special is its focus on the regimental level and the depth of its rules. It does not just settle for moving tanks; it demands that you manage supplies, understand the quirks of Commonwealth brigades, and deal with the difficulties of unforgiving terrain. It is a dense simulator, made for those who enjoy studying maps, tables, and understanding how logistics dictate the pace of victory or defeat in a theater of war as vast as the African desert.

Beyond historical accuracy, the game keeps the OCS series DNA, being extremely demanding of the player. It includes scenarios covering everything from initial battles to the most intense clashes, offering a complete experience for those looking for a high-level tactical challenge. The system is robust and, for veterans, it is considered one of the most specialized titles in the series. And, of course, there is always that internal community humor regarding the Italian rules, which add extra charm to this titan of wargaming. If you have six hours or more to dedicate to an intense match and want to test your command skills against another player, prepare your table, because DAK does not forgive amateur mistakes.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Country: Libya Decades: The 1940's History: World War II (Africa) Players: Two-Player Only Games Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Series: OCS - Operational Combat Series (MMP & The Gamers)
Publisher The Gamers
Designer Dean Essig
Artist David Pentland

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

581owners
78wishlist
18want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How long does a game of DAK take?
Prepare for a marathon. The game is long and complex, easily requiring 6 hours or more for full scenarios.
Can I play DAK solo?
Although it is a wargame, it was designed specifically for two players. Solo play is possible for learning the rules, but the real fun is in the duel.
Is this game suitable for wargaming beginners?
Definitely not. DAK is one of the most complex titles in the OCS series and requires prior familiarity with simulation systems.
What makes the OCS system different?
The Operational Combat Series focuses heavily on logistics, supply lines, and the real 'cost' of moving units, making it very realistic.
Which battles does the game cover?
It covers the entire period from 1940 to 1942, from Operation Compass to the siege and the battles of El Alamein.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games