Nuclear War

(Self-Published), Flying Buffalo, Inc. (FBI) · Board game · 1965
7.2 Ludopedia 6.2 BGG 2–6 · best 6 60 min Weight 1.5/5
Buy · from US$ 42.72
7.2 rating Ludopedia
6.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

If you enjoy a wargame with razor-sharp dark humor and don't mind a bit of chaos and backstabbing, Nuclear War is for you! It's the kind of game that makes you laugh while the world burns.

Highlights
  • Dark and satirical humor
  • Direct player interaction
  • Fast-paced and chaotic
  • Unique and provocative theme
Keep in mind
  • High language dependency
  • Luck can decide the game
  • May be offensive to some
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Brace yourself for a nuclear apocalypse with a dose of dark humor! In Nuclear War, each player takes on the role of a world superpower in a mad dash for global domination, or perhaps total annihilation. The game kicks off with a tense Cold War phase, where you'll use Secret and Propaganda cards to bluff, negotiate, and maybe even sabotage your rivals. But don't be fooled, peace is just a brief pause to reload the missiles!

The real war begins when the first missile is launched. If it's not intercepted mid-flight, the target suffers population damage measured by luck (and a spin of the wheel!). The goal is to survive while trying to eliminate others, either with nuclear bombs or more cunning strategies. The game can end with a peace treaty (if anyone has any sense) or when only one player is left with the planet (or what's left of it) to call their own.

Nuclear War is a fast-paced and chaotic card game, packed with interaction and dark humor that might shock some but entertain many. It's perfect for those who enjoy games with a satirical political edge and aren't afraid to push the red button. The game has a high language dependency, so be prepared to translate cards or play with English-speaking friends. Remember, in the end, everyone loses... or wins, depending on your apocalyptic perspective!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 REC
5 BEST
6 BEST

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Containers: Tin/Metal Box Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Sovranti Series: Nuclear War (FBI) Theme: Nuclear Option
Publisher (Self-Published), Flying Buffalo, Inc. (FBI)
Designer Douglas Malewicki
Artist Brian McCrary, Douglas Malewicki, Gary Freeman, Steven S. Crompton

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

4,589owners
323wishlist
74want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective is to be the last player with remaining population or to dominate the world through nuclear attacks and political/propaganda strategies.
How many players can participate?
Nuclear War is designed for 2 to 6 players.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
The rules are relatively simple and quick to learn, contributing to the game's fast pace.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, the game has a high language dependency, as most cards have text that needs to be understood to play.
What are the 'Booster Packs' mentioned?
These are expansions released in the 90s that added more cards to the base game, increasing variety and possibilities.
Is this a serious game about nuclear war?
Not at all! Nuclear War is a satire with a lot of dark humor. The goal is to laugh at the madness of nuclear war, not to simulate a conflict realistically.
How long does a game typically last?
A game of Nuclear War usually lasts around 60 minutes, making it quite dynamic.

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