In the realm of board games, there exists a title that surpasses the endurance of even the most intense rounds of Monopoly. Campaign for North Africa, a war simulation game dating back to the late 1970s, has resurfaced online, captivating audiences with its extraordinary gameplay duration. It is estimated that completing just one round of this game demands over 1,500 hours, equivalent to nearly two months of non-stop playing.
Meticulously designed to depict the World War II North African campaign in intricate detail, Campaign for North Africa goes to great lengths, including rules that accommodate the Italian army’s logistical necessity of carrying extra water for cooking pasta. With gameplay requiring up to 10 players, each assuming distinct roles overseeing logistics, supplies, and combat strategies, the game offers a complex and immersive experience.
While many board games are known for their elaborate rules and extended playtimes, Campaign for North Africa has garnered a reputation as an unconquerable challenge, often joked about as a game “you’ll never finish.” Despite its cult following over the years, it remains uncertain if anyone has successfully completed the game.
Reports from players suggest that the game’s setup time alone rivals the length of play in most other board games. Some gaming experts even claim that the actual playtime may exceed the advertised 1,500 hours, estimating a minimum requirement of 1,800 hours, factoring in rest periods between turns.
Graham Scutt, the managing director of tabletop game retailer Loaded Dice, notes the exceptional nature of Campaign for North Africa, pointing out that while games like Dungeons and Dragons and Warhammer 40,000 may span hours or weeks, few are prepared for the marathon gameplay this particular title demands. Despite many enthusiasts starting the game with the goal of completion, it is widely believed that no one has reached the final stages of Campaign for North Africa.