# DAK: The Campaign in North Africa, 1940-1942 ## General Info - **Year Published**: 1997 - **BGG Rating**: 8.1 - **BGG Rank**: #6906 - **Players**: 2 (Best with: 2, 2+) - **Duration**: 360 min - **Weight**: 4.08 / 5 - **Designers**: Dean Essig - **Artists**: David Pentland - **Publishers**: The Gamers - **Categories**: Wargame, World War II - **Mechanics**: Hexagon Grid, Simulation ## Verdict 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.Extremely detailed historical simulationRobust and proven OCS systemGrand campaign scaleExcellent for strategic duelsRequires significant playtimeComplex rules for newcomersSteep learning curveFOR GENRE FANS ## Description 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. ## FAQ ### 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.