BoardGame Verdict
89

A racing game where players control cars in intense races using simple and intuitive hand management mechanics. Players must push their cars to the limit while managing heat and avoiding spinning out to cross the finish line first.

89

The Verdict

based on 33 reviews

Positive 0%
Mixed 0%
Engaging and intuitive hand management system that creates meaningful decisions.
Successfully captures the feeling of a tense and exciting race.
Modular design allows for scalable complexity with expansions like weather and a championship system.
Strong catch-up mechanisms keep the race tight and players engaged until the end.
High-quality components and excellent production value.
The large size of the game boards takes up a significant amount of table space.
The element of luck from card draws can sometimes undermine strategic planning.
Catch-up mechanics, while keeping the game close, can sometimes feel artificial and diminish the impact of skillful play.
The base game might feel too simplistic for some experienced players without the included modules.
100
The Dice Tower, Z Garcia, Ellie Clayhorn, Chris Yee, Mike DelisioVideo

The reviewers enthusiastically praised "Heat: Pedal to the Metal," highlighting its authentic racing feel, quick gameplay, and strong sense of player agency, making it a highly engaging and dynamic experience.

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100
Meeple Mountain, Mark IradianArticle

It ranks among the best racing board games I’ve played, even in its basic form. With its advanced modules, it takes the pole position with ease, and I don’t see any other racing game coming close to it.

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100
Roll To Review, David NorrisArticle

All the waiting for Heat: Pedal to the Metal has been worth it. It’s been one of my most-played games of 2023, a constant request at game nights, and a testament to why Days of Wonder remains a powerhouse in the industry.

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95
Board Game Rundown, AndrewVideo

The reviewer found 'Heat: Pedal to the Metal' to be a phenomenal and engaging racing game, highly recommending it as a 'winner' and a go-to choice for game nights, even stating it's a better game than Flamme Rouge.

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95
Shut Up & Sit Down, TomVideo

The reviewer enthusiastically praises 'Heat: Pedal to the Metal' as a 'flatly brilliant' and 'snappy, kinetic racing game' that he is absolutely in love with, calling it his favorite racing game and a strong recommendation from the channel.

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95
3 Minute Board Games, J Carmichael and S RodgersVideo

The reviewer highly praises 'Heat: Pedal to the Metal' as an excellent racing game that effectively combines card management with exciting risk mitigation, creating a truly outstanding experience.

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95
GeekDadArticle

For these many reasons, I am pleased to give Heat: Pedal to the Metal the GeekDad Approved seal. Whether playing with a family, a game group, of even by yourself. I highly recommend this game.

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95
GamingTrendArticle

Heat is like if someone tossed all my favorite elements from push-your-luck and deck management into a blender. The end result isn't for everyone, but if you're willing to accept a lack of control, it's a great ride.

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90
The Broken Meeple, The Broken MeepleVideo

The reviewer highly recommends 'Heat: Pedal to the Metal,' calling it a great racing game that shines with its modular content. They note its strong hand and heat management mechanics deliver an engaging experience, making it an essential title for fans of the genre despite a few minor criticisms.

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90
Punchboard, AdamArticle

Heat is certainly the only car racing game I have, and it’s a game that’s going to stay in my collection for a long time. It’s such a simple concept, but so well executed.

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90
Board Game HangoverVideo

The reviewer praises "Heat: Pedal to the Metal" as a highly enjoyable and replayable racing game that provides exciting gameplay and is considered a must-play for everyone, even if it's not a personal 'must-buy' for their own collection.

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90
ActualolArticle

Ranked third in Actualol's best board games of 2023.

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