Car Wars Expansion Set #2

Steve Jackson Games · Board game · 1983
2.0 Ludopedia 6.5 BGG 2–8 90 min Weight 3.3/5
Buy
2.0 rating Ludopedia
6.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love car combat, this expansion is your next step.

Highlights
  • More pieces, no extra complexity
  • Turns made easy
  • Perfect for Car Wars fans
Keep in mind
  • No new rules
  • Not a replacement for the base game
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Car Wars Expansion Set #2 arrives in 1983 for those who already own the Pocket Box and want more adrenaline on the track. The expansion doesn’t add new rules, but duplicates the Car Wars, Sunday Drivers, and Truck Stop sheets, ensuring you have everything you need to set up epic battles without running out of pieces. The highlight is the "turning key," a play‑aid that simplifies turning maneuvers – perfect for focusing on strategy rather than step counting. The set preserves the science‑fiction and war vibe of the series, with vehicles that can be armed in creative ways and face intense combat. Although it’s a supplement, it functions as a classic upgrade, offering more play options without complicating the core mechanics. If you already own the Pocket Box, this add‑on expands your repertoire without a steep learning curve, keeping the fun and challenge Car Wars promises.

The set is ideal for 2‑to‑8 players, with a playtime of about 90 minutes – great for a strategy and speed night. The expansion keeps the same rule density, so there’s no need to learn anything new; just assemble the counters and use the "turning key." Component quality is good, but note that the expansion adds no new rules, just more game material. If you love futuristic automotive battles, Car Wars Expansion Set #2 is a piece of your board that deserves the table.

In short, the expansion offers more pieces, keeps the original gameplay, and brings a useful accessory for those who want to speed up the game. It’s not a major innovation leap, but a solid upgrade for Car Wars fans.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–8 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
6 OK
7 OK
8 OK

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Game: Car Wars
Publisher Steve Jackson Games
Designer Keith E. Carter, Steve Jackson (I)
Artist (Uncredited)

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

263owners
4wishlist
3want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How long does it take to set up and play?
The set takes about 90 minutes of playtime, with setup almost instant since no new rules are added.
Do I need the base Car Wars game to use this expansion?
Yes, you need the original Pocket Box, as the expansion only duplicates counters and adds the turning key.
How many players does it support?
It supports 2 to 8 players, keeping the same player range as the base game.
What is the game’s complexity?
The complexity remains the same as the original Car Wars; no new mechanics are introduced.
Are the components of good quality?
Yes, the counters and turning key are of good quality, though the expansion does not include high‑tech pieces.
Who is the ideal audience for this expansion?
Car Wars fans who already own the Pocket Box and want more combat options and easier maneuvers.