Abstract In 2012, Beglinger et al . (2012a , b, and c) published a series of papers in which they systematically made analogous comparisons between the West African and Brazilian South Atlantic salt basins in order to identify new exploration opportunities. They believed that although every basin in the world is unique, they can still be classified according to their structural genesis and evolutionary history. This classification was based on breaking basins down into their tectonostratigraphic basin cycles or megasequences. By defining their characteristics with respect to the development of source, reservoir, and seal rocks, a data set of potential analogs can be compiled. This data set allowed for the identification of key combinations of elements and processes that resulted in an effective exploitable petroleum system, and assist in the evaluation of exploration opportunities in un- and under-explored basins ( Beglinger et al ., 2012a , b , and c ). Several tools can be used in such an analysis: the trajectory plot, tectonostratigraphies, the petroleum system flow diagram, events charts, creaming curves, field size distribution diagrams ( Beglinger et al ., 2012a , b , and c ), and areal field distribution maps. In this paper, the most recent exploration results in the Gabon Coastal basin will be reviewed in light of the framework that was established for the basin by Beglinger et al . (2012a , b ).

Abstract In West Africa, the presalt is an established play since the 1950s. Even so, only recently has the expectations for a potential extension of the Brazilian Santos/ Campos basins proven presalt carbonate play boosted spectacular interest in the Kwanza basin (south Angola). The “Sag carbonate Play” has gained most of the attention and promises to be the real “sweet spot” of future presalt exploration, at least in Angola. Moreover, new technologies and ideas allow us to reexamine the great complexity of the presalt play on the historically explored trend (onshore and in conventional waters) along the whole West African margin.