Air Force
- Designer S. Craig Taylor
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co , Battleline , Hobby Japan , Wargames Research Centre Ltd.
- Illustration Joe DeMarco
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Air Force, you control one or more aircraft on a modular hex grid board. All movements are pre-plotted and then executed simultaneously, requiring careful planning. Hits are determined by facing, range, and firepower using dice on a combat results table. You track speed, altitude, damage, and ammo on log sheets. Scenarios provide different victory conditions including air-to-ground combat.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at enthusiasts and wargame fans who appreciate detailed air combat simulations. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it suits players with patience for tactical depth and planning. Prior experience with complex board games is recommended. A solo mode is included, appealing also to single players.
How It Works
Air Force features mechanics like Action Queue where players plan actions in advance and execute simultaneously. Movement happens on a modular hexagon grid using Movement Points. Dice Rolling resolves combat outcomes on a CRT. Each aircraft's status is tracked on a log sheet recording speed, damage, and other key data, offering detailed unit management.
What Makes It Special
Designed by S. Craig Taylor, Air Force is an early example of tactical air combat simulation with complex log management. It relies on classic mechanics such as simultaneous action resolution and dice-based combat. The game is part of the 'Occupation: Aviator' family and offers flexible gameplay via its modular hex board.
Pro
- Simultaneous action planning (Action Queue) adds strategic depth
- Detailed damage and movement management using log sheets
- Modular hex grid allows variable battlefield setups
- Includes solo play mode for single players
Contra
- Relatively high complexity for beginners
- About 60 minutes playtime requires patience
- Limited to 1-2 players, no larger groups
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates air combat over Europe during World War II, focusing on maneuvers and engagements between various aircraft types of that era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Plan your moves carefully and keep detailed records on the log sheets to maintain control over your aircraft.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Air Force includes a solo mode for single players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, allowing time for detailed tactical planning.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is a mid-weight wargame requiring familiarity with tactical simulations and complex rules.
How does this compare to similar games?
Air Force stands out by combining simultaneous action execution on a modular hex grid with in-depth log sheet management.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age limit of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The use of Action Queue with simultaneous moves on a modular hex board is a key mechanic.
Fazit
Air Force is recommended for fans of historical air combat games seeking tactical depth and solo play. Casual players might find the complexity and planning requirements challenging.
