Pocket Sub

Alley Cat Games, Geek Fever Games · Board game · 2018
— Ludopedia 5.6 BGG 2–4 · best 3 10–15 min Weight 1.3/5
Buy · from US$ 14.79
— rating Ludopedia
5.6 rating BGG
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
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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.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Theme: Submarines
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

7 questions
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.

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