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.
The Verdict
based on 33 reviews
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lists to explore
View all lists & features
Top 25Best 2 player-only board games
Find out which games to play with your loved ones, siblings, friends, kids or parents.
Top 25The 25 best card games
Their components fits nicely in the palm of hands yet the possibilities are endless.
RankedJamey Stegmaier board games, ranked
From Wingspan to Scythe — see how Jamey Stegmaier's games stack up.
Top 25Best Cooperative board games
Win together or lose together — co-op games worth rallying your table around.









