Bombshell

Waddingtons · Board game · 1981
— Ludopedia 5.7 BGG 2–4 · best 4 30 min Weight 1.0/5
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— rating Ludopedia
5.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Fans of lighthearted, suspenseful kids’ games will love Bombshell.

Highlights
  • Simple and fun
  • Quick to play
  • Requires focus
Keep in mind
  • It’s rare
  • Quirky backstory
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Bombshell is one of those childhood games that look simple but reveal curious nuances when you actually play. Picture four bomb‑disposal soldiers, each a thick cardboard cut‑out with goofy names like "Major Disaster," standing around a red plastic bomb split into two halves with a hidden spring inside. The goal? Defuse the bomb before the tension builds to the point where it explodes and injures the soldier whose turn it is! Each player, on their turn, flips the top of the bomb shell click by click, and the pressure ramps up. If the bomb blows, the soldier gets "wounded"—indicated by plastic bandages that clip onto the character. The game continues until only one soldier is left unscathed, and that player wins. Bombshell has a quirky backstory: shortly after its release, a real bomb‑disposal guy was blown up by an IRA bomb, leading the game to be pulled from shelves. Despite that, the game remains a rare find and a fun addition for those who enjoy simple tension mechanics. It offers a quick 30‑minute experience, perfect for kids just starting to explore board games. If you like lighthearted fun with a touch of humor and suspense, Bombshell could be your next hidden gem.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Publisher Waddingtons
Designer (Uncredited)

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

17owners
6wishlist
2want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How long does a Bombshell game last?
On average, a session takes about 30 minutes, ideal for kids with short attention spans.
How many players can play?
It works best with 2 to 4 players, letting everyone join the bomb‑tension.
What’s the complexity level?
Very low! The rules are simple and the flip‑top mechanic is intuitive, great for beginners.
What are the main components?
Cardboard soldiers, a red plastic bomb shell with a spring, and plastic bandages to mark injuries.
Who’s the target audience?
Kids and families looking for quick fun with a dash of humor.
Is the game still available?
It’s rare, but you can find it at second‑hand game stores or collector sites.

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