Forbidden Desert
Gamewright, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, AURUM, Inc. · Board game · 2013
2–5 · best 4
45 min
Weight 2.0/5
7.9
rating
Ludopedia
7.1
rating
BGG
7.9
rating
Ludopedia
7.1
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you love cooperative strategy with a side of high-stakes adventure, Forbidden Desert will have you on the edge of your seat as you battle the elements and a shifting board. Its dynamic sandstorm mechanics make every play feel fresh and tense.
Highlights
- Dynamic board changes keep it fresh
- Engaging cooperative strategy
- Unique player roles add depth
- High tension and thematic immersion
Keep in mind
- Can feel punishingly difficult
- Alpha player potential exists
RECOMMENDED
Gear up for a high-stakes race against the elements as you and your team hunt for a legendary flying machine buried beneath an ancient desert city — but brace yourself: the desert is actively trying to bury you. In Forbidden Desert, survival isn’t just about finding parts — it’s about managing shifting terrain, scorching heat, and sudden sandstorms that reshape the board mid-game. Each player has a unique role (pilot, engineer, meteorologist, etc.), and you’ll need to combine action points, hand management, and smart coordination to move, gather resources, and stabilize the map before it collapses. Unlike its predecessor Forbidden Island, this sequel introduces dynamic event boards and grid deformation, making every session feel fresh and tense. Think of it as cooperative strategy with a side of controlled chaos: you’re not just saving the day, you’re doing it while the ground literally shifts under your feet.
GALLERY
11 photos · from the community
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
In English
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Forbidden Desert Teaser
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Game overview at Nürnberg 2013
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The Broken Meeple - How To Play - Forbidden Desert
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Forbidden Desert Tutorial - Games In 5: Episode 003
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Forbidden Desert - How to Play
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Forbidden Desert Strategy Primer
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Learn how to play Forbidden Desert better and faster | Making learning the game easier
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Sweethearts or Rivals: Overview of Forbidden Desert
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Advanced Concepts: Forbidden Desert - All Tile Types
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Advanced Concepts: Forbidden Desert - Character Cards
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Advanced Concepts: Forbidden Desert - Gear Cards
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Dad's Gaming Addiction - Forbidden Desert (Episode 9)
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Gamewright, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, AURUM, Inc., Cocktail Games, Competo / Marektoy, Devir
Designer
Matt Leacock
Artist
C. B. Canga, Tyler Edlin
How many players work best?
2–5 players — but with 2, you’ll need tight coordination (almost like playing solo co-op). 3–4 is the sweet spot for balanced teamwork and communication.
Is this too hard for beginners?
A bit. The shifting-map mechanics and action-point planning take one play to click, but the rulebook and tutorial scenarios make the entry smooth once you get going.
Can you play solo?
Not natively — it’s pure co-op. But there are fan-made solo variants for 2 players, and the Sovranti app offers a solid solo mode for practicing strategies.
Does the playtime really vary?
About 45 minutes is accurate — though with new players debating moves (and sandstorm panic!), expect 55–70 minutes. Fast, decisive groups can wrap in ~40.
How is this different from Forbidden Island?
The board deforms and shifts (not just sinks!), winds push pieces around, and events are more chaotic. Plus: flying machine parts, distinct roles, and way more dynamic tension.
Are the components sturdy?
Absolutely — classic edition comes in a metal tin, with thick cards and durable terrain tiles. Heavy? Yes. Worth it? Definitely — and it stacks nicely on your shelf.
