The Best Tabletop Board Games about War (2024 Guide)
Engaging in board games that revolve around war offers families a blend of strategy, excitement, and bonding time.
Here’s a closer look at some of the best war board games perfect for your next family game night.
1. Risk
A classic game that has captured the hearts of many, Risk takes players on a journey of global domination. Players take turns plotting out their attacks, defending their territories, and forming secret alliances.
The strategy game requires players to think multiple moves ahead, making every game unpredictable and intense. The blend of luck with the roll of the combat dice and the depth of strategy is what keeps players returning to the battlefield of Risk.
2. Small World of Warcraft Board Game
Merging the renowned game mechanics of Small World with the rich lore of World of Warcraft, this unique game offers players an engaging experience. Players select from different factions and compete for control of territories.
Each faction has its unique abilities and strengths. The game features not only tactical battles but also the essence of the WoW universe, with its well-known characters and storylines, ensuring fans of both games find it intriguing.
3. Ares Games This War of Mine
Unlike many other war games, This War of Mine doesn’t focus on soldiers, but on the civilians caught amidst the conflict. It’s a sobering look at the challenges faced by ordinary people in war-torn cities.
Players take on roles of these civilians, making difficult decisions to ensure their group’s survival. From scavenging for food to facing moral dilemmas, this game provides an emotional and thought-provoking experience.
4. Hasbro Gaming Avalon Hill Axis & Allies 1942
Set in the times of World War II, this game lets players dive into the major events and decisions of the war. Players represent the key powers of the world war era, planning out their military moves, forming strategic alliances, and simulating historic battles.
The game offers a detailed look into the complexities of war, bringing history alive on the game board.
5. HeroQuest
More than just a war board game, HeroQuest takes players on a thrilling adventure filled with dungeons, mythical creatures, and quests. Players play as heroes, each with their unique abilities, and navigate through challenges set by the opposing player controlling the monsters and the dungeon itself.
Every game offers a new story, a new quest, and new challenges, making it a classic that never gets old.
6. 7 Wonders Duel Board Game
While 7 Wonders Duel may not be a traditional war game, it’s filled with strategic confrontations. Designed as a two-player game, participants aim to build a prosperous civilization through drafting cards and collecting resources.
The game balances peaceful development with military confrontations, making each play a tense and engaging experience.
7. War of The Ring
Capturing the essence of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth, War of The Ring takes players into the grand struggle of the ring war. The game sets the Free Peoples against the forces of Shadow in an epic battle for control.
With familiar places like Mount Doom and well-loved characters, this strategy war game is a treat for both fans of board games and Tolkien’s universe.
8. Combined Arms The World War II Campaign Board Game
Providing an in-depth look into World War II, Combined Arms offers players the opportunity to rewrite history.
From commanding troops to strategizing key moves, this game provides a realistic world war experience. Players can relive some of the most pivotal battles, making it both educational and entertaining.
9. Rebellion Unplugged Sniper Elite: The Board Game
A tense and thrilling board game, Sniper Elite immerses players in a cat-and-mouse showdown.
Players either become snipers or guards, each aiming to outmaneuver the other. The game hinges on tactical decisions, stealth, and a keen sense of anticipation. Every move counts, making it a nail-biting experience from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
These war board games offer varying levels of strategy, excitement, and narrative depth. Perfect for families who enjoy a dose of strategy mixed with storytelling.
Dive into any of these for an unforgettable game night experience.
Read More: Top 5 RPG Board Games to Start Playing with your Family
Frequently Asked Questions
Diving into the world of war board games? Here’s a handy FAQ section answering some of the most commonly asked questions.
What is the most popular war board game?
While many war board games are loved worldwide, classics like Risk have consistently remained top favourites for game enthusiasts over the years.
Which war board game offers an immersive experience on World War themes?
For a deep dive into World War scenarios, Hasbro Gaming Avalon Hill Axis & Allies 1942 and Combined Arms The World War II Campaign Board Game are both excellent choices that provide rich historical contexts.
Are war board games suitable for children?
Absolutely! Games like Small World of Warcraft Board Game and HeroQuest are both engaging and family-friendly. However, always check the recommended age on the game box.
How do I choose the best war board game for beginners?
For those new to the genre, Risk is a great starting point due to its straightforward rules. 7 Wonders Duel Board Game, although not a traditional war game, is also easy to pick up and offers a blend of strategy and confrontation.
Can I play war board games with just two players?
Certainly! 7 Wonders Duel Board Game is specifically designed for a two-player experience, making it perfect for a more intimate gaming session.
Which war board games focus on strategic depth and decision-making?
War of The Ring and Rebellion Unplugged Sniper Elite: The Board Game both require keen strategic thinking and decision-making, offering players a more intense gameplay experience.
Are there war board games based on real historical events or literature?
Yes, Hasbro Gaming Avalon Hill Axis & Allies 1942 is based on World War II events, while War of The Ring brings to life the epic tale from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth saga.
Which war board game offers a unique twist on traditional warfare?
Ares Games This War of Mine provides a different perspective by focusing on civilians in a war-torn city, offering a more emotional and reflective gameplay experience.