El Alamein

Arclight Games, Kamikaze Games · Board game · 2010
2–5 · best 3 60 min Weight 2.9/5
rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're into WWII, enjoy deck optimization, and don't mind a unique anime art style, El Alamein could be a great pick!

Highlights
  • Engaging deck-building
  • Interesting historical theme
  • Unique and eye-catching art
  • Good replayability
Keep in mind
  • Art style may not suit everyone
  • Moderate language dependency
  • Sequel, but standalone
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Hey folks! Ready to relive a piece of World War II with a… let's say, peculiar twist? El Alamein throws you right into the African campaign, where you take command of one of the Axis generals, trying to push through the desert sands. It's a deck-building game, so you start with a basic deck and then power it up with new cards to make your army stronger and smarter. The goal is clear: conquer enemy territory, starting with the key city of El Alamein and then aiming for Alexandria. Each card you add to your deck represents new troops, tactics, or supplies, and managing your hand is crucial to avoid fumbling at the critical moment. The game also features an open drafting system, where you can peek at what others are taking and maybe snag a card that would give you an advantage.

One thing that grabs your attention (and sparks debate!) is the art style. If you played its predecessor, Barba*Rossa, you know what to expect: El Alamein also features illustrations of anime girls in… suggestive poses. But don't worry, for those who prefer a more historical vibe, there's an edition available with real photographs. Despite being a sequel, it works perfectly as a standalone game, so don't fret if you haven't played the other one. It's a game that blends the tension of a wargame with the addictive deck-building mechanic, all wrapped in a very distinct artistic style. If you're into World War II, enjoy optimizing your deck, and don't mind a visual approach that breaks the mold, El Alamein might be a great pick. The complexity is moderate, ideal for those who already have some board game experience and want something that offers a bit of a challenge.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 BEST
4 BEST
5 REC
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Game details

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Theme: Anime / Manga
Publisher Arclight Games, Kamikaze Games
Designer Atsuo Yoshizawa
Artist F.S, Kotomi Tobashi, MamoWilliams, Maruto!, Poyoyon Rock, Takeshi Nogami
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the complexity of El Alamein?
El Alamein has a medium weight, around 2.85/5 on BGG. It's accessible for those who have played some deck-building games, but offers enough depth for more experienced players.
Does the game take a long time to play?
The estimated playtime is 60 minutes, which is great for a game with this theme and mechanics. Perfect for a game session without dragging on too long.
Can I play El Alamein solo?
El Alamein is designed for 2 to 5 players. There is no official solo mode; the focus is on player competition.
Do I need to know the previous game (Barba*Rossa) to play?
No! El Alamein is a sequel, but it works perfectly as a standalone game. You can jump right in without having played the predecessor.
What about the 'anime girls' artwork?
The game uses an art style inspired by Japanese manga and anime, featuring female characters in poses that might be considered suggestive (ecchi). There is an alternative edition with historical photos for those who prefer it.
Is there a lot of language dependency?
Yes, the language dependency is considered moderate. It's recommended to have translated cards or use a reference sheet to facilitate gameplay.