Highway 2000

Highway 2000 is a board game of automobile conflict that takes place in the 21st century. It was published by Threshold Games in 1981. Players create their cars and fill out Vehicle Control Sheets, then pick a scenario (all of which take place on near-future highways) and try to complete the objectives.

Why is Highway 2000 Popular?

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Game Components of Highway 2000

Boards: 4 boards, each 9×10″ with an additional inch on each side.

Vehicle Control Sheets: For players to customize their vehicles.

Counters: Including 2-square counters for 18-wheelers and buses, and 1-square counters for other vehicles.

Dice: d6 and d10 for resolving combat and armor penetration.

Scenarios: 4 different scenarios, including Death Race and Duels.

How To Setup Highway 2000

To set up Highway 2000, players first select a scenario, which determines the specific rules and objectives. Each player creates their vehicle using the Vehicle Control Sheets, specifying details such as body type, maximum speed, acceleration, and armor class. The game boards are laid out, and players determine their starting positions and speeds, which can be randomized. The setup also includes preparing the Vehicle Control Sheets with the chosen vehicle’s stats and any additional equipment or upgrades.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement: Pre-plotted movement phases where players can move straight, left, or right, with no diagonal movement allowed.

Combat: Combat phases where players can engage in vehicle-to-vehicle combat using turrets and fixed weapons. Combat can occur before or after movement in a phase.

Armor Penetration: d10 rolls to penetrate armor, with penetrating hits causing fixed damage.

Encounters: New NPC vehicles can enter the road in certain scenarios, introducing additional challenges.

Objective: The primary objective varies by scenario, but common goals include surviving combat, completing laps in Death Race scenarios, or eliminating other vehicles to earn points.

Player Experience

Playing Highway 2000 immerses players in a fast-paced, strategic environment where vehicle customization and tactical movement are crucial. The game requires players to balance acceleration, deceleration, and combat, all while navigating the road and avoiding collisions. The randomized elements and different scenarios add a layer of unpredictability, keeping the game engaging and challenging.

Pros

Customization: Players can customize their vehicles extensively, adding a personal touch to the game.

Variety in Scenarios: Multiple scenarios offer different gameplay experiences, from Death Races to Duels.

Strategic Depth: The game combines movement planning, combat tactics, and vehicle management, offering a rich strategic experience.

Cons

Limited Movement Options: No off-road or expanded movement rules, which some reviewers found lacking.

No Campaign Mode: There is no provision for increased driver or gunner skills or a campaign mode, which might limit long-term replayability.

Complex Rules: The game has detailed rules, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Highway 2000

Highway 2000 is ideal for fans of vehicle combat games and those who enjoy strategic planning and tactical gameplay. While it may not offer the complexity and depth some modern games provide, it retains a nostalgic charm and can be a fun addition to a collection of classic board games. However, it might not be the best fit for players looking for a more straightforward racing experience or those who prefer games with simpler rules.

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