# The Dark Sands: War in North Africa, 1940-42

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2018
- **BGG Rating**: 7.4
- **BGG Rank**: #6989
- **Players**: 1-2 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 90-1500 min
- **Weight**: 2.93 / 5
- **Designers**: Ted Raicer
- **Artists**: Charles Kibler, Mark Simonitch, Rodger B. MacGowan
- **Publishers**: GMT Games
- **Categories**: Wargame, World War II
- **Mechanics**: Chit-Pull System, Dice Rolling, Grid Movement, Hexagon Grid, Simulation

## Verdict
The Dark Sands is the perfect choice for those wanting to dive deep into WWII strategy in North Africa. It balances the chit-pull system with tactical movement beautifully, creating an immersive and challenging historical experience. It is a game that rewards careful planning and constant adaptation to the desert terrain.Tense and exciting chit-pull systemFaithful and deep historical simulationExcellent strategic command scaleHighly engaging gameplay flowRequires dedication to learn rulesPlaytime can be quite longStrictly a two-player experienceHIGHLY RECOMMENDED

## Description
If you enjoy a solid, classic wargame and want to feel the weight of command in the desert, The Dark Sands: War in North Africa, 1940-42 is a must-play. Designed by Ted S. Raicer, it brings the acclaimed system from The Dark Valley to the scorching heat of North Africa. The game covers everything from Operation Compass, the British army's greatest success, to the climactic battle at El Alamein two years later. It is an experience that puts you in charge of the British 8th Army or Rommel’s Afrika Korps, demanding sharp strategic planning.

What makes this title special is how it translates the complexity of the African campaign to the tabletop. You will deal with the 'chit-pull' system, which adds just the right amount of uncertainty and tension—after all, war never follows the script perfectly. The hexagonal grid movement and dice-based combat resolution provide that classic simulation wargame feel, but with a flow that keeps the pace engaging. This isn't a 'play and forget' game; it’s about understanding the terrain, managing supplies, and knowing the right time to advance or retreat under the relentless sun.

For those already familiar with the Dark Valley series, the transition is natural, but the game shines on its own by capturing the essence of desert mobile warfare. The weight of 2.92/5 indicates it isn't a light Euro, but it also won't tie your brain in knots with obscure rules. It is the ideal balance for those seeking a serious historical simulation that still fits into an intense afternoon of gaming. If you want to understand why the African campaign is so studied by military historians, this is your simulator. Ready your tanks, manage your logistics, and good luck in the desert!

## FAQ
### Does the game work well for solo play?
While the system is designed for a duel, it is perfectly playable in solo mode, making it an excellent way to study historical scenarios.

### How long does a typical game last?
Expect to spend anywhere from 90 minutes to several hours, depending on the chosen scenario and player familiarity with the rules.

### Do I need to know the Dark Valley series to play?
It's not mandatory, but if you've played it before, you'll pick up the activation mechanics much faster.

### What is the complexity level of the rules?
With a weight of 2.92/5, it's an accessible wargame for those with some experience, but it might be a step up for absolute beginners.

### Does the dice luck ruin the strategy?
On the contrary, the dice and chit-pull simulate the 'fog of war,' forcing you to have contingency plans, which adds to the realism.

## Price Comparison
### Best International Offers
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 55.70 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=6917383&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
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