Lawrence of Arabia: The Arab Revolt 1917-18

Decision Games (I) · Board game · 2019
— Ludopedia 6.6 BGG 1 · best 1 Solo 60–90 min Weight 2.3/5
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— rating Ludopedia
6.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

A focused and historical solitaire wargame that shines through its agility. Perfect for those seeking a desert guerrilla experience without the overwhelming complexity of larger map games. The card management and the need to secure resources in Cairo create a constant, welcome tension.

Highlights
  • Highly immersive historical simulation
  • Efficient solo game system
  • Fast and dynamic gameplay
  • Compact and functional components
Keep in mind
  • Card-driven luck factor
  • Low complexity for veterans
  • Strictly a single-player experience
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you have ever wanted to understand how the legendary T. E. Lawrence orchestrated the revolt against the Ottoman Empire, 'Lawrence of Arabia: The Arab Revolt 1917-18' is your chance to experience it firsthand. This solitaire wargame from Decision Games' Raider series puts you in command of Arab and British forces, while the game system itself controls the Ottoman troops. Forget massive rulebooks: here, the focus is on agility and historical immersion.

The map covers the Hejaz and Palestine, and each game session is guided by a deck of campaign cards. You will have to decide when to strike towns, how to set up ambushes, and, of course, when to travel to Cairo to plead for extra resources—because, let’s be honest, desert logistics are no joke. The game includes special units that add flavor, such as armored cars, aircraft, and Lawrence’s elite bodyguard, making every turn a tense and strategic experience.

The point-to-point movement mechanic works perfectly with the guerrilla theme, allowing you to execute quick strikes and retreat before the enemy can react. It is a game that balances historical simulation with fast-paced gameplay, ideal for those who want a wargame experience that doesn't take all day but still demands thoughtful decisions. If you enjoy solitaire games that tell a real, challenging story, this title is a perfect fit. It is compact, straightforward, and above all, an interactive history lesson that fits right on your table.

Best player count

BGG community vote

Solo · 1 player
1 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

History: Arab Revolt Series: Mini Series (Decision Games) Series: Raider (Decision Games)
Publisher Decision Games (I)
Designer Joseph Miranda
Artist Eric R. Harvey, Joe Youst, Nadir Elfarra

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

265owners
44wishlist
8want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Is the game hard to learn?
Not at all! With a weight of 2.33, it is quite accessible, especially if you have some experience with lighter wargames.
Can I play this with friends?
No, this is an exclusively solo game designed for you to face the game system on your own.
How long does a session last?
Generally between 60 to 90 minutes, which is perfect for a quick session during the week.
What's in the box?
The game is compact: it includes an 11x17 inch map, 40 die-cut counters, 18 campaign cards, and the rulebook.
Do I need to be a history expert?
Not at all. The game introduces the theme very naturally, though knowing a bit about the Arab Revolt adds to the immersion.
Does luck ruin the experience?
Since it is card-driven, there is randomness, but it simulates the unpredictability of guerrilla warfare quite well.

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