Best 8 War Board Games to Try in 2024

Looking for the best board games about war? We've tried and tested the top 8 for you and your friends!
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Risk coverAxis & Allies cover

Ready for battle? We’ve got you covered! We know picking the right war board game can be tough, so we focused on strategy, fun, and replayability. We’ve tested them with friends, seeing which games spark the most excitement and challenge tactical minds. Each game on our list brings something special to the table, from historical battles to fantasy conflicts. So, grab your dice and rally the troops, because here are the 8 best war board games that will have you plotting your next move, laughing with friends, and maybe even flipping the table in victory or defeat.

On this list:

8 Risk

Risk cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2-6
  • Play Time: 120 minutes

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Risk is a classic in the war board game world. With its straightforward rules, it’s perfect for newbies. Plus, it gets your heart pounding when your last few troops are holding the fort!

7 Axis & Allies

Axis & Allies cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 180 minutes

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Axis & Allies takes you back to World War II. The game’s deep strategy elements make you feel like a real general. If you love history, this is a must-play!

6 Memoir ’44

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 30-60 minutes

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Memoir ’44 has simple mechanics, making it great for new players. The World War II theme is engaging, and every game feels like a history lesson and a tactical challenge rolled into one.

5 Game of Thrones: The Board Game

Game of Thrones: The Board Game cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 3-6
  • Play Time: 180-240 minutes

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Game of Thrones fans rejoice! This game lets you command houses and fight for the Iron Throne. The alliances and betrayals make it super exciting. Winter has come, and it’s in the form of a board game!

4 Twilight Struggle

Twilight Struggle cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 180 minutes

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Set in the Cold War era, Twilight Struggle is a nail-biting two-player game. The mechanics are elegant and it’s highly strategic, making each game feel unique. It’s like playing chess with a touch of history.

3 War of the Ring

War of the Ring cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 180 minutes

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For fans of Tolkien, War of the Ring is a dream come true. The epic battles from Middle-earth get their spotlight here, with strategic choices that make each game memorable. It’s like living through the Lord of the Rings saga!

2 BattleLore

BattleLore cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 90 minutes

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BattleLore mixes fantasy and medieval war themes. It has detailed miniatures and easy-to-learn rules, making it great for beginners too. The game’s tactical depth keeps you coming back for more.

1 Scythe

Scythe cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-7
  • Play Time: 90-115 minutes

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Scythe takes the crown as the best war board game. Its alternate history theme combined with stunning artwork creates an immersive experience. The game balances combat, strategy, and resource management beautifully. Whether you are a new player or a veteran, Scythe offers something for everyone.

Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.