Best 9 War Board Games of 2024 Reviewed

War board games let you plot, strategize, and battle. We've picked the best ones for thrilling game nights.
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The 9 Best War-Themed Board Games You Can’t Miss

On this list:

9 Risk

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  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 120 min

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Risk is a classic game of global domination. We love how it combines strategy and luck. Battles can get intense, and alliances form only to be broken. It’s great for anyone looking to experience a mix of diplomacy and war without too many complicated rules.

8 Twilight Struggle

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

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Twilight Struggle takes you through the Cold War, from post-WWII to the early ’90s. The game is steeped in history, and it’s as educational as it is fun. The card-driven mechanics and tension make each playthrough unique and thrilling.

7 Memoir ’44

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

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Memoir ’44 is a fantastic game that brings World War II battles to your table. The scenarios and miniatures add an immersive touch. It’s a great way to experience historical battles without going through lengthy rulebooks.

6 Axis & Allies

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

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Axis & Allies is a robust game that immerses you in World War II planning and strategy. The balance of depth and playability is impressive. It’s a marathon but well worth the time investment for war game enthusiasts.

5 War of the Ring

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

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If you love Lord of the Rings and war themes, this one’s for you. War of the Ring perfectly captures the epic battles of Middle-Earth. The blend of narrative and strategy keeps us coming back for more.

4 1775: Rebellion

1775: Rebellion cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 60-120 min

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1775: Rebellion takes you into the American Revolutionary War. It’s easy to learn and offers deep tactical play. It’s perfect for players looking for a historically rich game that doesn’t require a history degree.

3 Scythe

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

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Scythe is set in an alternate history 1920s. It mixes strategy, war, and economic gameplay beautifully. The artwork and miniatures are stunning, and each faction feels unique. It’s a war game with a twist of resource management.

2 Star Wars: Rebellion

Star Wars: Rebellion cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 180-240 min

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For Star Wars fans, Rebellion is the ultimate war board game. It captures the epic struggle between the Empire and the Rebellion. The gameplay is rich and immersive, with plenty of strategic depth. Plus, who doesn’t want to command fleets of Star Destroyers?

1 Root

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  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 60-90 min

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Root is the best war-themed game on this list. What makes Root stand out is its asymmetric gameplay. Each faction feels like its own unique game. The woodland creatures battling for control is both adorable and strategic. It’s complex but immensely rewarding.

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.