Malta Besieged: 1940-1942

About this board game

Malta Besieged: 1940-1942 is a solitaire World War II game for one player, designed for a playing time of about 75 minutes. You take the role of the Commonwealth Commander in the Mediterranean theatre, directing Malta’s defense against relentless Axis attacks.

Built on the States of Siege game engine, the game places vital importance on supply. Safely shepherd vulnerable convoys and their valuable cargoes to Malta, then decide when to trade precious Supply for additional Actions. These choices create tense convoy battles as the campaign unfolds.

Malta’s survival depends on more than ships and supplies. Spitfires can control the skies, Hurricanes can provide Air Support, Gibraltar can block U-Boat advances, and ULTRA can become a crucial asset—though Axis counterintelligence remains a threat. The island’s morale must also be maintained under constant pressure.

The struggle in North Africa is equally important. Raid Axis supply lines to weaken Rommel’s Situation, rely on a fortified Tobruk to delay the Afrika Korps, and hope Montgomery’s 8th Army can make a final advance from El Alamein to capture Tripoli. Operation Herkules remains an ever-present danger, while British Fleet escorts and Admiral Cunningham may influence the fight.

• Manage Malta’s limited Supply and morale.
• Protect individually named convoys and coordinate air and naval support.
• Respond to theatre-wide events through card play.
• Balance the defense of Malta with the campaign in North Africa.

Events including the Fall of France, O’Connor’s desert offensive, the raid on Taranto, the Air Assault on Crete, the evacuation from Greece, the loss of Ark Royal, and the Torch landings can significantly affect the war. With a complexity rating of 4 out of 9 and solitaire suitability of 9 out of 9, Malta Besieged offers a focused test of leadership, judgment, fortitude, and luck. The game was released in 2011 and is currently out of print.