War Chest
- Designer Trevor Benjamin , David Thompson (I)
- Publisher Alderac Entertainment Group , Abraxas , CrowD Games , Ghenos Games , Gigamic
- Illustration Brigette Indelicato
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You draft an arsenal of units at the start and manage the units waiting in your bag as well as those on the board. Each round you draw three unit coins from your bag and use them in turn to perform actions on a hexagonal board, aiming to place control markers on key points. The game mixes tactical grid movement with hand- and bag-management decisions.
Who Is This Game For?
For players who enjoy abstract strategy and wargames: War Chest suits experienced players and enthusiasts (age 14+) and is designed for 2–4 players. With roughly 30 minutes per game it fits into short, focused sessions but rewards learning unit interactions.
How It Works
Players assemble their armies via drafting or delayed-purchase into a personal bag (Deck/Bag/Pool Building) and draw coins each round (Bag-Building). Drawn coins represent units and enable actions such as movement on the hex grid (Hexagon Grid / Grid Movement) and contesting areas for control (Area Majority / Influence). Hand management matters because available actions depend on the units you draw and the order you play them.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Trevor Benjamin and David Thompson, War Chest stands out by pairing bag-building with tactical hex-grid combat. It received nominations in 2018 for the Cardboard Republic Striker Laurel and Golden Geek Best 2-Player Board Game. The mix of drafting, bag mechanics and area control differentiates it from pure chess-like wargames.
Awards
2018
- 2018 Cardboard Republic Striker Laurel — Nominated
Pro
- Short playing time (~30 minutes) allows for quick rematches
- Blend of bag-building, drafting and hex movement provides tactical depth
- Clear area-control objectives via placement of control markers
- Available digitally on platforms listed in the game's families (Board Game Arena, Tabletopia, Yucata)
Contra
- Best for players familiar with abstract tactics
- Takes time to learn unit abilities and interactions
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is presented as an abstract/medieval-themed wargame where military units contest control points on a hexagonal battlefield. The publisher description focuses on unit combat and control rather than a specific historical narrative.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding unit actions and the timing of playing drawn coins; play a few short games to internalize interactions before longer competitive matches.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. War Chest is listed for 2–4 players; a solo mode is not indicated.
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 30 minutes; allow extra time for setup and first-time explanations.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with abstract strategy or tactical wargames is helpful; the game targets players comfortable with such mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
War Chest combines bag-building and drafting with hex-grid movement and area-majority goals, rather than being solely a maneuver-focused wargame.
Is this suitable for families?
Because of the recommended age of 14+ and tactical complexity, it is more suitable for families with older or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The bag-building (Deck/Bag/Pool Building) combined with drafting and hex-based grid movement defines the game's core appeal.
Fazit
War Chest is a tight, tactical wargame for players who like quick yet strategic duels and bag-building decisions. Recommended if you prefer concise, tactical matches with strategic variety.
