Andean Abyss^*

Andean Abyss is a demanding strategy game about the struggle for Colombia in the 1990s. Made for one to four players who enjoy long, complex sessions.

What is it?

Colombia teeters on the brink, with Marxist guerrillas, brutal drug lords and right-wing death squads fighting the state. You lead one of four factions, each with its own goals and tools. Volko Ruhnke, who also designed Labyrinth, launched GMT Games' COIN series with this title.

What's in the box

• 160 wooden pieces and a colorful board.
• 72 event cards, most with two possible effects.
• A system that controls any factions without a player.

How it plays

There are no hands of cards. You can see the current card and the next one:

1. The first eligible faction picks an event or an operation.
2. The second faction acts next, with options set by that choice.
3. Anyone who acted often has to hold back on the following card.

Dice play only a small part. Your planning matters most.

Who is it for?

This game is for experienced groups aged 12 and up, ideally four players. Solo, you play the government against the FARC, the AUC and the cartels. Allow up to six hours. If you like the system, Cuba Libre, A Distant Plain and Fire in the Lake continue the series.

Conclusion

Andean Abyss rewards patience with real depth and tense diplomacy. It's the wrong pick for a casual game night.