Attack Sub

The Avalon Hill Game Co · Board game · 1991

— Ludopedia 6.7 BGG 2 · best 2 30 min Weight 2.2/5

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— rating Ludopedia

6.7 rating BGG

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Our Verdict

FOR GENRE FANS

Attack Sub is a treat for anyone looking for a quick and tense wargame focused on submarine combat. The card mechanic drives the action, creating a cat-and-mouse dynamic where information is power. It's a game that pulls you into immersion, making you feel the pressure of every sonar 'ping'. Ideal for strategic duels where every decision is crucial.

Highlights

Constant cat-and-mouse tension
Engaging card-driven mechanics
Detailed naval simulation
Quick and replayable games
Well-explored Cold War theme

Keep in mind

Two-player only
Initial learning curve
Card luck dependency

Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Prepare to dive into the depths of naval combat with Attack Sub, a light, card-based wargame that puts you in command of submarines and surface ships. Released in 1991, this two-player title captures the tension and cat-and-mouse game of modern submarine warfare, with a special focus on Cold War confrontations between US/NATO and Soviet/Warsaw Pact forces, and even some Falklands War scenarios. If you enjoy the vibe of games like Up Front, you'll feel right at home here!

Gallery

Box and component photos

11 photos · from the community

01 / 11

Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

In English

AS - intro BGG Watch on YouTube

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players

2 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co

Designer Courtney F. Allen

Artist George I. Parrish, Jr.

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,106owners

134wishlist

37want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions

How many players can play Attack Sub?

Attack Sub is an exclusive two-player game, making it perfect for intense and strategic duels.

What is the average game length?

Games are relatively quick, usually taking between 30 to 60 minutes. It's easy to play several in a row!

What is the complexity level of the game?

It has a BGG weight of 2.24/5, classifying it as a low-to-medium complexity game. It's accessible but offers strategic depth.

What comes in the box?

You'll find various ship cards (submarines and surface vessels), counters for contact status and damage, and a deck of action cards that drive the gameplay.

Is the game based on real historical events?

Yes, it simulates Cold War confrontations (US/NATO vs. USSR/Warsaw Pact) and includes Falklands War scenarios, using real vessel models.

Who is Attack Sub recommended for?

It's highly recommended for fans of light wargames, strategic card games, and naval/Cold War enthusiasts looking for a tactical challenge for two players.