Robotanks (1992)

About this game

Robotanks is a strategy boardgame of cyber-arena combat. Players operate a team of four tanks, each controlled by a stack of command cards that form the tank's repeating program. Cards order tanks to move, turn, fire weapons, or use special equipment, creating a variety of strategies. Will you use a simple frontal assault with cannons and mortar? A careful advance, using targeting programs to give more autonomy? A confusing diversion with viruses and scanners? Your tanks will keep doing the same thing until you reprogram them, so choose wisely.... The original game included mounted maps and plastic tanks. When FMG issued a limited revised edition, they went to cut-out standup card tanks and paper maps in a "no frills" white box. Cards and gameplay are the same between the two versions.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 4.
• Rules load. At 2.0/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.