Car Wars (Steve Jackson Games)

Mapping the Mechanics: Car Wars plunges you into a thrilling vehicular brawl! Each round follows a set sequence: First, Check Speed: adjust for tire damage. Next, Take Control: grab crucial Control & Ace tokens. Then, Manage Fires: spend Control to extinguish flames and avoid damage. Now, Movement: adjust speed, then drive, rolling for hazards and executing maneuvers. After movement, unleash attacks in Combat, considering sightlines & cover. Finally, End Round: discard tokens, pass the first player. This sequence keeps the action flowing, with each phase building towards a chaotic, explosive showdown!

Logbook: Car Wars was an instant hit in our house! I love the thrill of rolling dice and customizing my car, but watching my 17-year-old, Elijah, get just as into it? That was something special. We spent tons of time building our cars, debating every weapon and armor choice. He went for a heavily armored tank, while I opted for a lightning-fast speed racer. When the first round started, the table erupted in chaos! I could see Elijah’s mind calculating as his carefully planned maneuver almost ended in a spin-out. He was rolling the dice, totally invested. When he landed a perfect shot, setting my car on fire? It was the ultimate “gotcha” moment and created endless laughter. We both quickly learned the importance of Control Tokens – one wrong move and we were both paying the price. The tension was incredible, with both of us constantly calculating sightlines and weighing the risks. It was a blast watching him strategize and adapt. He loved the customization and the unpredictable nature of the game. The base game has plenty of options, but once we added in the many expansions, every game continued to feel fresh and exciting. My favorite expansion is Sonic Strike, and Elijah’s is Offensive Ordnance. It’s not just a game; it’s a shared experience, a rollercoaster of laughs, close calls, and epic moments. If you’re looking for a game that will bring generations together and deliver adrenaline-fueled fun, Car Wars is a must-play. Elijah and I can’t wait for our next demolition derby.

A big thank you Steve Jackson Games for the opportunity to review Car Wars!

Until next time,
Lana








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