A Distant Plain
- Designer Volko Ruhnke , Brian Train
- Publisher GMT Games
- Illustration Xavier Carrascosa , Rodger B. MacGowan , Chechu Nieto
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In A Distant Plain, players experience the complex power struggles of the Afghan conflict through Area Majority, Dice Rolling, and Variable Player Powers. You coordinate campaigns between coalition and government against insurgencies in a scenario-driven game with evolving events and strategic choices. The game blends political, cultural, and military aspects for an immersive experience.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is designed for experienced gamers and wargame enthusiasts aged 12 and up, offering a long playtime of about 300 minutes. It supports solo play and up to four players. Due to its complexity and length, it requires patience and prior experience with strategy games.
How It Works
A Distant Plain uses Area Majority and Area Movement to simulate control over Afghan regions. Variable Player Powers let players command unique factions. Dice Rolling introduces uncertainty in conflicts, while Variable Phase Order affects turn sequence. The COIN system integrates multiple facets of irregular warfare seamlessly.
What Makes It Special
Part of the COIN series by Volko Ruhnke and Brian Train, A Distant Plain was nominated for the 2013 Golden Geek Best Wargame. It adapts mechanics from Andean Abyss to depict the Afghan conflict with new factions, events, and objectives, creating a unique modern warfare simulation.
Awards
2013
Pro
- Realistic integration of political, cultural, and military elements
- Variable Player Powers for distinct factions
- Includes solo mode
- Nominated for Golden Geek Best Wargame 2013
Contra
- Very long playtime (~300 minutes)
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- Requires patience and strategic thinking
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game focuses on the 2000s war in Afghanistan, involving the USA, coalition forces, and local factions, highlighting political and military challenges of the era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn each faction’s abilities and start with solo play to understand game flow.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, A Distant Plain includes a solo mode for single-player experience.
How long does a game really take?
A full game takes about 300 minutes, so plan for an extended session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game suits experienced players familiar with complex strategy and wargames.
How does this compare to similar games?
It adapts the COIN system with new factions and events tailored to the Afghan conflict.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Area Majority, Variable Player Powers, and Variable Phase Order creates deep strategy and unpredictability.
Fazit
Recommended for players seeking a deep strategic simulation and comfortable with complex wargames and long play sessions.
