Shifting Sands: The Campaign for North Africa 1940-1943
- Designer Michael Rinella
- Publisher Multi-Man Publishing
- Illustration Dean Essig , Ken Smith
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Shifting Sands, you command military operations during the North Africa campaign from 1940 to 1943. The game covers historic events from the Italian incursions to the Torch invasion, including the Abyssinian Campaign. Players move units point-to-point on the map, manage a hand of cards, and roll dice to resolve battles and events influenced by global war developments.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players interested in complex historical wargames. With a playtime of about 300 minutes, it suits long gaming sessions and requires patience and familiarity with campaign-style games. A solo mode is included, ideal for players who enjoy in-depth simulations alone.
How It Works
Shifting Sands uses a Campaign / Battle Card Driven system where players play event cards to influence the campaign's progress. Movement occurs point-to-point as you strategically position troops. Hand management is crucial to efficiently use resources, and dice rolling determines combat and event outcomes.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Rinella, Shifting Sands was nominated for the 2006 Charles S. Roberts Best World War II Boardgame award. It belongs to the ‘Decades: The 1940's’ series and focuses exclusively on the North African theater, distinguishing it from other wargames. The mix of card-driven gameplay and point-to-point movement adds tactical depth.
Awards
2007
- 2006 Charles S. Roberts Best World War II Boardgame — Nominated
Pro
- Detailed simulation of the North Africa campaign
- Combines Campaign Card Driven and point-to-point movement
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Nominated for Charles S. Roberts Award 2006
Contra
- Very long playtime of about 300 minutes
- High complexity and learning curve
- Not suited for families or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game depicts World War II in North Africa between 1940 and 1943, including Italian and Allied operations in desert environments. It simulates historic battles and strategic challenges in this region.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with scenarios to learn the card mechanics before attempting the full campaign.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Shifting Sands includes a solo mode for one player.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 300 minutes, roughly five hours including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and long campaign games is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Shifting Sands combines Campaign Card Driven mechanics with point-to-point movement and focuses specifically on the North African theater.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is not recommended for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Campaign / Battle Card Driven and Hand Management mechanics adds tactical depth.
Fazit
Shifting Sands is highly recommended for wargame enthusiasts interested in the North Africa campaign who can commit to long play sessions. It is less suitable for casual players or families.
