The longest board game in the world, renowned for its epic playtime, is The Campaign for North Africa.
The Unrivaled King of Playtime
The Campaign for North Africa stands as an infamous titan in the world of board gaming, largely due to its staggering estimated playing time. Published in 1978, this highly complex military simulation is not for the faint of heart, demanding an unparalleled commitment from its players.
Designed by Richard Berg, this game delves into the intricacies of World War II's North African theater, offering an incredibly detailed and granular experience. Every aspect of desert warfare, from supply lines and logistics to fuel consumption and troop morale, is meticulously modeled.
Key Characteristics of The Campaign for North Africa
The game's legendary status is built upon several factors that contribute to its extraordinary length:
- Massive Scale: Players manage entire armies, supply chains, and strategic movements across a vast map.
- Intricate Rules: The rulebook itself is extensive, covering myriad scenarios and detailed mechanics.
- Detailed Logistics: Players must track fuel, water, and food down to individual units, simulating the real challenges of desert campaigns. For instance, the infamous "water rule" requires Italian forces to transport water for their pasta.
- Multi-day Sessions: A single game can span weeks or even months of real-world time, with sessions often paused and resumed over extended periods.
This combination of factors culminates in an experience that can last for an astonishing duration, making it a unique and formidable entry in board gaming history.
Game Overview
To give a clearer picture of this colossal game, here's a summary of its core details:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game Title | The Campaign for North Africa |
| Designer(s) | Richard Berg |
| Publication | 1978 |
| Genre(s) | Military simulation, Wargame |
| Players | 2–10 |
| Playing Time | Up to 1,500 hours |
| Theme | World War II's North African Campaign (1940-1943) |
| Complexity | Extremely High |
| Source | The Campaign for North Africa - Wikipedia |
Its notorious length and intricate design have cemented The Campaign for North Africa's reputation as arguably the most demanding and longest board game ever conceived. While few have truly completed a full game, its existence continues to fascinate and challenge the most dedicated wargamers.
