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North Africa '41

GMT Games · Board game · 2023
41.0 Ludopedia 8.3 BGG 1–2 · best 2 Solo 180–720 min Weight 3.6/5
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41.0 rating Ludopedia
8.3 rating BGG
Buy
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Historical wargame fans will love it: North Africa '41 is a deep dive into the Western Desert campaign, with rich strategy and meaningful details.

Highlights
  • Impressive historical detail
  • Engaging combat system
  • Challenging supply management
  • Beautiful functional map
Keep in mind
  • Complex for beginners
  • Games can be long
  • Requires translation for non-English speakers
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

North Africa '41 drops you right into the sands of the Western Desert during WWII, where you'll command either Axis or Allied forces in the struggle for control of Africa. The game recreates the 1941 campaign, from Rommel's first offensive to Operation Crusader, with a level of detail that'll make any military history buff drool. Each hex represents 8 miles, and each turn equals half a month, split into impulses of a few days. You'll manage supplies, troop quality, tanks, artillery, and even the dreaded German 88mm gun. The Move-Fight-Supply system, tested in other games of the series, ensures smooth gameplay despite all the strategic depth. And don't worry, there are even rules for the famous Desert Rats!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

In English

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–2 players
1 REC
2 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Dice Rolling Grid Movement Hexagon Grid Ratio / Combat Results Table Simulation Zone of Control

Categories

Wargame World War II

Families

Country: Egypt Country: Germany Country: Italy Country: Libya Country: Malta Country: United Kingdom History: World War II (Africa) Players: Two-Player Only Games Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Series: ZOC Bond System
Publisher GMT Games
Designer Mark Simonitch
Artist Antonis Karidis, Mark Simonitch

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,690owners
246wishlist
40want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How long does a game take?
Depends on the scenario: from 3h for shorter ones up to 12h for the full campaign. Worth every minute though!
Do I need to be a wargame expert to play?
Not necessarily, but some hex-and-counter experience helps. The rulebook is clear, but complexity is medium/high.
Can it be played solo?
It's designed for 2 players, but with some adaptations (and a bit of creativity), sure!
Does it need translation?
Yes, some cards and tables are in English. The community often shares homemade translations.
How does it compare to other WWII wargames?
The focus on the African theater and unique supply/combat system make this one stand out.

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