Nuke: The Last Game on Earth

New Earth Games · Board game · 1984
2–4 120 min
rating Ludopedia
5.6 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
5.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Gamers who love a grim twist on war will dig this!

Highlights
  • Strategic area movement adds depth
  • Set collection unlocks powerful attack combos
  • Nuclear option shifts the win condition
Keep in mind
  • Not for those looking for a quick win
  • Requires careful territory management
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Nuke: The Last Game on Earth is a 1984 classic that puts players in command of world powers in a war blending conventional tactics with the looming threat of nuclear annihilation. Instead of simple piece movement, the game uses *Area Movement*, where each unit slides between connected territories, creating a strategic network that can be exploited or blocked. *Set Collection* comes into play as players gather weapon cards, allowing them to build attack combos ranging from bombardments to air invasions. The main goal is to seize territories and control global resources, but the real twist is deciding whether to launch nukes. Each missile launch destroys the targeted territory, reducing its victory value and triggering a *Nuclear Winter* effect that can halt future moves, making the game a true test of strategy and risk management. For those who enjoy war games with a dark twist, Nuke offers easy-to-learn basic rules and an advanced variant that introduces EMP effects and a “Doomsday” time limit. The end result? A *Mutual Assured Destruction* (MAD) scenario where, in the end, no one truly wins. If you love tactical challenges, nuclear tension, and decisions that reshape the world, this game delivers a memorable experience that will make you rethink the value of victory in wartime.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
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Game details

Categories

Families

Theme: Nuclear Option
Publisher New Earth Games
Designer Christopher D. Cordry, Stephen T. Weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
2 to 4 players.
What is the typical playtime?
About 120 minutes.
What is the game's complexity level?
Medium, with easy-to-learn basics and advanced options.
What are the main components?
Territory board, army pieces, weapon cards, and territory tokens.
Does the game have rule variations?
Yes, advanced rules add EMP effects and a “Doomsday” time limit.
Is this game suitable for beginners?
Yes, the basics are simple, though strategy can be deep.