Car Wars

Steve Jackson Games, Fanpro, Hobby Japan · Board game · 1981
2–8 · best 4 45 min Weight 3.1/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Buy
8.0 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love unbridled action with souped-up cars and machine guns, Car Wars is your game! Brace yourself for vehicular chaos where customization and luck rule.

Highlights
  • Frenetic vehicular combat
  • High car customization
  • Dynamic modular board
  • RPG touch
Keep in mind
  • Rules can be complex
  • Luck-dependent
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Get ready to hit the gas in Car Wars, a classic that throws you onto futuristic freeways where might (and firepower) makes right! Here, just having a cool car isn't enough; you need cannons at the ready and reinforced armor. You'll choose your ride, customizing every detail: engine power, suspension robustness, weapon types, and even the visual style. Then, it's time to show who rules the road, whether you aim to return home a hero or end up as smoking scrap. The adrenaline is guaranteed with every dice roll, every calculated maneuver on a modular board that changes each game. If you survive, your driver gains experience and cash to further upgrade your machine. Advanced rules open up a world of possibilities for you to create your dream car, tuned-up truck, or radical motorcycle. Car Wars is a feast for those who enjoy vehicular combat simulation with a touch of RPG, where every decision counts and survival is the greatest victory. It's a game that demands strategy, a bit of luck, and a strong desire to see opponents turn to smoke. Prepare for a duel of metal and fire where only the boldest emerge alive!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 BEST
7 OK
8 OK
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Families

Admin: Better Description Needed! Digital Implementations: VASSAL Game: Car Wars Players: Games with expansions that add solo play Players: Games with expansions that change player count Series: Pocket Box (Steve Jackson Games) Theme: Traffic / Driving War Level of Command: Tactical
Publisher Steve Jackson Games, Fanpro, Hobby Japan, Siroz Productions
Designer Chad Irby, Steve Jackson (I)
Artist David R. Deitrick, Denis Loubet, George "Speed" Webber, John Dismukes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Car Wars?
A game of Car Wars typically lasts around 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on player experience and the chosen scenario.
How many players can participate in Car Wars?
The game is designed for 2 to 8 players, making it great for larger groups or intense duels.
Is Car Wars a difficult game to learn?
Car Wars has a medium weight (3.08/5 on BGG), indicating that the rules might require some attention, especially the advanced customization and combat rules. However, with a bit of dedication, the learning curve is rewarding.
What are the main components of Car Wars?
Expect to find a modular board, car miniatures (usually), dice, cards, and tokens to represent weapons, armor, and other vehicle components.
Who would you recommend Car Wars to?
We recommend Car Wars to fans of vehicular combat games, science fiction, and those who enjoy customizing their vehicles and diving into intense action scenarios. It's especially good for those who like an RPG touch.
Are there expansions for Car Wars?
Yes, Car Wars has a long history with numerous expansions and supplements that add more cars, weapons, scenarios, and even rules to make the game even more complex and fun.