Each player tries to score the most points by snaking caravan routes through the desert, attempting to reach oases and blocking off sections of the desert. Many find it similar to Go.

From award-winning game designer Reiner Knizia comes a game of strategy, patience, and cool plastic camels! The desert is still treacherous, mysterious, and unforgiving. But for those willing to risk the dangers of the shifting, sun-baked sands, the desert holds unparalleled riches.

In Through the Desert, two to five players control their own tribe of nomads, competing for control of the desert. By establishing caravans and taking over oases, players score points as their tribes grow in power. Strategy is crucial in determining how and where to build your tribe's caravans. There are multiple ways to score points and multiple ways to win. Will you try to build the longest caravan? Or will you dominate the desert's oases? Don't forget to keep an eye on your opponents' caravans, or you might find your own tribe cut off from valuable watering holes.

Through the Desert is part of the so-called Knizia tile-laying trilogy.

Awards & Honors

2007 As d'Or - Jeu de l'Année Nominee
2006 Nederlandse Spellenprijs Nominee
1998 Spiel des Jahres Recommended
1998 Meeples' Choice Award

ID: 503

Release Year: 1998

Min. Players: 2

Max. Players: 5

Play Time (minutes): 45

Average Rating: 7.14993

Complexity: Medium

Mechanics: Chaining, Connections, Enclosure, Hex Grid, Hidden Victory Points, and Network and Route Building

Designers: Reiner Knizia

Publishers: KOSMOS, Allplay, Delta Vision Publishing, Edge Entertainment, Fantasy Flight Games, Galakta, Hobby Japan, Lautapelit.fi, PS-Games, Silver Stars Publishing, Wargames Club Publishing, and Z-Man Games