Drug Wars

Drug Wars – Classic Turn-Based Strategy Game

Drug Wars is a classic turn-based strategy game first released in 1984 by John E. Dell. Inspired by the text-based BASIC game Star Trader, it puts you in the shoes of a dealer trying to survive, outsmart rivals, and pay back the loan shark before time runs out. The objective? Earn as much profit as possible in 30 days while navigating dangers like rival dealers, muggings, and police crackdowns. Over the decades, Drug Wars has become a cult favorite, inspiring countless remakes including Dope Wars, Dragon Trader, and other spinoffs on PC, mobile, and even graphing calculators.

Gameplay Overview

Set in New York City, Drug Wars lets players travel across Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, and other districts to buy low and sell high. Each trip takes one in-game day, with a total of 30 days to amass wealth.

Main Mechanics

• Starting Point: Begin with $2,000, 100 trenchcoat pockets, and no weapons.
• Buy and Sell: Trade drugs like Cocaine, Heroin, Acid, Weed, Speed, and Ludes.
• Loan Shark: Borrow cash to invest but beware of high interest rates.
• Police Encounters: Face Officer Hardass and his deputies — choose to fight, run, or risk arrest.
• Random Events: Muggings, lucky finds, sudden price spikes, or drops keep the game unpredictable.
• Weapons and Upgrades: Occasionally buy guns or extra pocket space while traveling.

Winning and Scoring

After 30 days, your score is calculated based on cash: total money in millions ×2 = score out of 100. For example, $25 million gives you 50/100, while $50 million secures a perfect 100/100 score.

Legacy of Drug Wars

Drug Wars’ simplicity and addictiveness inspired multiple adaptations:

• Dope Wars (Windows/Android/iOS): A popular modernized version downloaded millions of times.
• Drug Wars – Underworld & Dragon Trader: Variations with fantasy and RPG elements.
• Calculator Ports: TI-82, TI-83, and TI-83+ versions with added RPG mechanics.
• Other Games: Influenced titles like Drug Lord, PimpWars, and even mini-games inside GTA: Chinatown Wars.
• MMORPG-Style Adaptations: Zynga transformed the concept into a cartel-building social game in 2009.

FAQ

What is Drug Wars?

Drug Wars is a 1984 turn-based strategy game where players buy and sell drugs in New York City while avoiding police, paying off loans, and maximizing profit.

How do you win Drug Wars?

You have 30 in-game days to earn as much money as possible. The higher your final cash, the higher your score, with $50 million being a perfect win.

Who is Officer Hardass?

Officer Hardass is the in-game police antagonist who, along with deputies, can arrest or kill you unless you run, fight, or outlast him.

What platforms has Drug Wars appeared on?

Originally on DOS PCs, later versions appeared on Windows, Linux, Palm OS, mobile (Android/iOS), calculators (TI-82/83), and even smartwatches.

What games were inspired by Drug Wars?

Notable spin-offs include Dope Wars, Drug Lord, Dragon Trader, PimpWars, and Zynga’s cartel MMORPG.