Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
If you love fast, tactical duels, Pocket Sub will hook you from the first game.
Highlights
- Deep strategy in minutes
- Compact, pocket‑sized components
- High replay value
Keep in mind
- Minimal learning curve
- Minefield can get crowded
Rules manual not indexed yet
Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.
About the game
What you do in a play session
Pocket Sub is a compact abstract‑strategy game set in the Cold War submarine arena, designed to finish in 10‑15 minutes and small enough to slip into a pocket. Each player commands three tiny subs on a gridded board that represents a nautical battlefield. On your turn you may move any one of your submarines to a new square and, simultaneously, drop a mine on every space the sub passed through or where it started. Mines stay on the board, gradually turning the field into a hazardous maze. The win condition is straightforward: the player who still has at least one submarine afloat when the game ends claims victory. This forces participants to think ahead, plot safe routes, and sometimes sacrifice a sub to block an opponent’s path. The blend of Grid Movement, Area Movement and Tile Placement creates a fluid flow where each decision reshapes both your position and the minefield. Despite the strategic depth, the rules are light – you simply move a sub any number of squares within the grid as long as you don’t cross a mine. The game accommodates 2‑4 players, making it great for head‑to‑head duels or quick group rounds. With a weight of 1.25 the learning curve is almost nonexistent, yet the tactical richness keeps seasoned gamers hooked. Pocket Sub also carries the Kickstarter pedigree, ensuring solid components and careful production. In short, it’s a fast, tense, pocket‑sized battle of wits, perfect for anyone who loves strategic board games without the bulk.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
REC
3
BEST
4
REC
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
Loading playlist...
Where to Buy
Prices monitored daily
Finding best prices...
Prices unavailable at this time.
Price history — last 6 months (lowest new offer)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.
Alert enabled!
Join the BoardGamesBot deals group
Get the best board game deals every day — without message spam.
Join the WhatsApp groupGame details
Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Alley Cat Games, Geek Fever Games
Designer
Darrin Horbal
Artist
Paweł Niziołek, Piotr Forkasiewicz, Sabrina Miramon, Sebastian Koziner
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
525owners
50wishlist
1want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can play?
2 to 4 players.
How long does a game take?
About 10 to 15 minutes.
What is the game's complexity?
Weight 1.25/5, very easy to learn.
What components are included?
Gridded board, 12 submarines, mine tokens, and rulebook.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, recommended for ages 8+, though the strategy can also appeal to adults.
Can more than 4 people play?
The game is designed for up to 4 players; larger groups can play in teams or rotate turns.
Are there expansions or variants?
No official expansions yet, but fans have created house rules.
Other Games You'll Like
Based on mechanics and theme