Car Wars (1981) – Board Game Guys

Car Wars

Car Wars is a vehicle combat simulation game developed by Steve Jackson Games and was first published in 1980. The game is set in an alternate history version of the mid-21st century, after a nuclear war. Players control armed vehicles in a post-apocalyptic world where the right of way goes to those with the biggest guns. The game has a proprietary system and was designed by Chad Irby and Steve Jackson.

Why is Car Wars Popular?

Car Wars is significant because it was one of the first games to combine miniature wargaming with role-playing elements. The game has a dedicated fan base and has inspired several video games and other tabletop games.

Game Components of Car Wars

Vehicle counters or miniatures: Represent the cars on the game map.

Maps: Include arena maps with various obstacles and terrain features.

Tokens: Used for tracking damage, speed, and other game elements.

Dice: Standard dice for determining outcomes of weapon fire, damage, and vehicle control.

Rulebook: Contains detailed rules and scenarios.

Vehicle cards: Detail accessories, upgrades, weapons, and crew for each vehicle.

Crew cards: Outline crew points, abilities, and damage values.

Turning key: Aids in maneuvering vehicles on the map.

How To Setup Car Wars

To set up Car Wars, players first choose their vehicles, which can be pregenerated or custom-built within a specified budget. Each vehicle has attributes such as chassis, body, wheels, engine, armor, and weapons. Players set their starting speed and handling status, and mark these on a record sheet. Vehicles are then placed on the starting positions on the map. The game includes various maps, including arena maps with concrete walls, low walls, and pedestrian bunkers. Players can also create their own custom maps.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous Action: Players take actions simultaneously, with each turn representing one second of real time.

Phases: Initially divided into ten phases, later editions reduced this to five or three phases.

Movement and Maneuvers: Vehicles move based on their speed, with more complex maneuvers increasing the risk of skidding or crashing.

Combat: Players fire weapons based on line-of-sight, with outcomes determined by dice rolls and modified by various factors such as distance, speed, and cover.

Objective: The goal is to destroy opponent vehicles or complete specific scenarios like arena combat or gauntlets to win virtual cash for upgrades.

Player Experience

Car Wars offers a fast-paced and frenetic experience, blending high-speed racing with intense combat. Players must balance speed with control, as higher speeds make maneuvers more dangerous. The game’s complexity, especially in the first edition, is mitigated by the use of tables, keys, and dice to resolve actions. The game’s setting in a dystopian future adds to its immersive and thrilling nature.

Pros

High Replayability: Multiple scenarios and the ability to create custom vehicles and maps.

Strategic Depth: Complex mechanics for movement and combat require strategic thinking.

Thematic Engagement: A post-apocalyptic setting and inspirations from movies like Mad Max enhance the game’s atmosphere.

Community: Historically supported by tournaments and fan clubs, adding a social aspect to the game.

Cons

Complexity: Early editions were known for their complexity, which can be daunting for new players.

Time Commitment: Games can take several hours due to the detailed resolution of each action.

Rule Overload: Numerous expansions and rules can be overwhelming to keep track of.

Personal Thoughts on Car Wars

Car Wars is ideal for fans of vehicle combat and post-apocalyptic settings. It appeals to players who enjoy strategic gameplay and are willing to invest time in learning and mastering the game’s mechanics. The game’s complexity makes it more suited for experienced board game players, but the latest editions have streamlined the rules to make it more accessible. For those who enjoy a mix of combat, strategy, and high-speed action, Car Wars is a classic that continues to deliver an exciting gaming experience.

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