Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series
Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series at your next game night?
Add Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Doug Kaufman , Alfred Leonardi
- Publisher Flying Buffalo, Inc. (FBI) , Gameshop , Greysea Games , Grow Jogos e Brinquedos , Nova Game Designs
- Illustration Joe DeMarco , Jerry Redding
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Ace of Aces, two players engage in a WWI air combat duel using separate books showing cockpit views. Each simultaneously selects maneuvers such as barrel rolls, exchanging page numbers to reveal outcomes. The goal is to outmaneuver and shoot down the opponent’s plane. Advanced rules include fuel management and a campaign mode for extended play.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is designed for two players aged 10 and up who enjoy tactical simulations and historical themes. With a quick 20-minute playtime, it suits players looking for accessible yet strategic duels without complex setups or extensive prior experience.
How It Works
Ace of Aces combines paper-and-pencil mechanics with simultaneous action selection: both players secretly choose a maneuver, share page numbers, then reference the resulting pages to see the effects. This method simulates dynamic dogfights through picture books without using miniatures or cards.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Alfred Leonardi, Ace of Aces won the 1980 Charles S. Roberts Gamers Choice Award and was inducted into the Origins Awards Product Hall of Fame in 1993. It stands out as a pioneering two-player wargame using an innovative book-based mechanic.
Awards
- 1993 Origins Awards Product Hall of Fame Inductee — Nominated
- 1980 Charles S. Roberts Gamers Choice Award — Winner
Pro
- Innovative book mechanic for air combat simulation
- Short playtime of about 20 minutes
- Winner of 1980 Charles S. Roberts Award
- Ideal for two-player competitive duels
Contra
- Only playable with two players
- Limited complexity for veteran wargamers
- Historical theme requires player interest
Setting & atmosphere
Set in World War I, the game simulates aerial dogfights between pilots from nations like France, Germany, and the UK, using realistic cockpit perspectives.
Tips for beginners
Focus on understanding maneuver choices and correctly exchanging page numbers to grasp the game’s flow.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Ace of Aces is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 20 minutes, enabling quick duels.
What prior experience do I need?
It is a light to medium complexity game suitable for newcomers.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ace of Aces uses a unique book-based mechanic for simultaneous maneuver selection and results.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10, it can be played by families with older children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of paper-and-pencil with simultaneous action selection defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Ace of Aces is recommended for fans of historical air combat simulations seeking fast, tactical gameplay. Its accessible rules make it suitable for newcomers interested in unique paper-based games.
Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series at your next game night?
Add Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
