Through the Desert

Published 1998

Each player attempts to score the most points by snaking caravan routes through the desert, trying to reach oases and blocking off sections of the desert. Many people feel that it is reminiscent of Go. Publisher's Description From the award-winning game designer Reiner Knizia comes a game of strategy, patience, and cool plastic camels! The desert is still treacherous, mysterious, and without mercy. But for those willing to risk the dangers of the shifting, sun-baked sands, the desert holds riches beyond compare. In Through the Desert, two to five players each control a tribe of nomads vying for control of the desert. By establishing caravans and taking over oases, the players gain points as their tribes increase in power. Strategy is essential in deciding how and where to build your tribe's caravans. There are multiple ways to gain points and several ways to win. Should you try to build the longest caravan? Or should you dominate the desert's oases? Don't forget to keep an eye on your opponents' caravans, or you may find your own tribe cut off from valuable water holes. Through the Desert is part of the so called Knizia tile-laying trilogy.

Mechanics

Area Enclosure Chaining Connections Enclosure Hexagon Grid Hidden Victory Points Network and Route Building Route/Network Building

Categories

Abstract Strategy Animals Arabian

Designers

Reiner Knizia

Publishers

Delta Vision Publishing Edge Entertainment Fantasy Flight Games Galakta Hobby Japan KOSMOS Lautapelit.fi PS-Games Silver Stars Publishing Wargames Club Publishing
Through the Desert

Game Info

Players
2-5 Players
Time
45 min
Weight
Light-Medium — 2.16/5
Year
1998
BGG Rating
7.18
BGG Rank
#545
Min Age
10+

Frequently Asked Questions

Through the Desert supports 2 to 5 players. The community rates it best at 3 players.
A typical game of Through the Desert takes about 45 minutes.
Through the Desert has a complexity rating of 2.16/5.00 on BoardGameGeek, placing it in the 'Medium Light' category. It offers a good balance of depth and accessibility.
The recommended minimum age for Through the Desert is 10+. Younger children may enjoy it with guidance from experienced players.
Through the Desert has a rating of 7.18/10 on BoardGameGeek, based on 16,206 ratings. It is ranked #545 overall.
Through the Desert was designed by Reiner Knizia. It was published in 1998.