Heat: Pedal to the Metal

Days of Wonder, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, CoolPlay · Board game · 2022
1–6 · best 6 Solo 30–60 min Weight 2.2/5
8.8 rating Ludopedia
8.0 rating BGG
How to Play Buy · from US$ 55.67
8.8 rating Ludopedia
8.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're looking for a racing game that perfectly blends speed with strategic card management, Heat: Pedal to the Metal will have you gripping the wheel. It's a fantastic experience for anyone who loves the thrill of the race combined with clever hand management.

Highlights
  • Thrilling hand management racing experience
  • Strategic balance of speed and control
  • Engaging car customization and upgrades
  • Flexible single race or championship play
Keep in mind
  • Can feel punishing with poor heat management
  • Initial learning curve for optimal play
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
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About the game
Get ready to hit the gas in Heat: Pedal to the Metal, a game that puts you in the cockpit of thrilling races, where managing your hand of cards is the key to victory. Accelerating too much can overheat your engine, so a delicate balance between speed and control is essential. You'll need strategy to choose the right cards, which represent your car's gears and maneuvers, and manage the heat generated to avoid losing momentum. Customizing your race car with upgrades is crucial for mastering curves and keeping the engine at optimal temperature, ensuring you're always in the lead. But don't think it's just about stomping on the accelerator; your driving skills will be tested at every turn. Heat offers the flexibility to play a single race for a quick dose of adrenaline, or dive headfirst into the 'Championship System,' a full season that can be played in a single night. The coolest part is that you can customize your car before each stage, adapting to changing weather and track conditions, adding extra spice to your pursuit of the podium. And for those who enjoy playing solo, the 'Legends Module' offers a challenging solo mode, or you can add automated drivers to spice up multiplayer games. It's your chance to feel the thrill of the tracks without leaving the table!
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In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Heat: Pedal to the Metal English · PDF
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Game details

Categories

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Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Game: Heat – Pedal to the Metal Misc: Watch It Played How To Videos Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Sports: Auto Racing Sports: Formula 1
Publisher Days of Wonder, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, CoolPlay, Galápagos Jogos, Gémklub, GoKids 玩樂小子
Designer Asger Aleksandrov Granerud, Daniel Skjold Pedersen
Artist Vincent Dutrait
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Heat: Pedal to the Metal?
A single race typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules. The Championship mode can extend a bit longer, but it remains quite dynamic.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 1 to 6 players. The solo mode with the Legends Module is excellent, and adding automated drivers in multiplayer games ensures fun even with fewer people.
What is the complexity level of Heat: Pedal to the Metal?
With a BGG weight of 2.2019/5, it's considered a light-medium weight game. The rules are easy to learn, but there's plenty of strategic depth to master, making it accessible for newcomers and engaging for veterans.
What comes in the game box?
You'll find car miniatures, double-sided track boards, speed and heat cards, upgrade cards, stress markers, and other components that ensure an immersive racing experience.
Is this a good game for someone new to the hobby?
Absolutely! The hand management mechanic is intuitive, and the racing theme is universally appealing. It offers a great gateway into more strategic games without being overwhelming.
Is there any significant language dependency?
Not much. The game has minimal text on cards, and what little there is, is easily memorized or represented by icons. The core rules, once learned, are quite visual.