Sonar
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 30 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 8+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 1.9 / 5
- Year
- 2017
About the game
Sonar puts two teams of submarine captains against each other in a tense game of underwater cat-and-mouse, racing to deal two points of damage before the other side does. Each team's Captain calls out movements while their Radio Operator tracks the enemy's path, using energy to fire torpedoes, activate sonar, or go silent. Managing your limited energy reserve while trying to deduce the opposing sub's hidden location creates constant push-and-pull tension. It plays fast, supports one or two players per side, and rewards sharp deduction and nerve.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's editors like this as a leaner, faster take on the Captain Sonar formula - same tense hide-and-seek submarine duel, but scaled down for quicker sessions. It's a great pick when you want that deduction-and-bluffing thrill without a full real-time team production.
What we like
- Fast 30-minute playtime with high tension.
- Clever deduction system built around limited, meaningful information.
- Works well as either a 1v1 or 2v2 team game.
- Simple rules hide real strategic depth in energy management.
Keep in mind
- Downtime can be notable while waiting for the other team's turn (downtime grade C).
- Best experienced with a full four players; feels different solo captain/operator.
Who it's for
Best for teens and adults aged 8+ who enjoy tense, deduction-based team games in pairs or small groups of 2-4.
