Cold War Naval Battles was originally published as Modern Naval Battles, a series of three boxed card games for two to six players based on (then) present day sea power with an emphasis on action. It was introduced in the late 1980s by 3W, Inc. of Cambria, California.

The rights to the game's design have long since reverted back to designer Dan Verssen, and Rodger B. MacGowan has always retained the rights to the graphic design. Meanwhile, Alan Emrich, who did the development work and co-designed the series, continued to receive email from its many fans asking if copies could still be obtained (even though it was long out of print).

Cold War Naval Battles is a novel card game for two to six players, based on present day sea power. The games is played in "rounds," with players taking turns to maneuver the ships in their fleets, attack opponent’s ships, and defend their own fleet against enemy attack. At the end of each round, players receive points for each enemy vessel they have sunk. The game can end when a player achieves a specific point total, or when all opposing fleets are sunk.