B-17: Queen of the Skies
- Designer Glen Frank , Bruce Shelley
- Publisher On Target Games , The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Joe DeMarco , Dale Sheaffer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You pilot a B-17F Flying Fortress on bombing missions over Europe between 1942 and 1943. The game uses area movement, dice rolls, and charts to simulate enemy fighter encounters, damage, weather, and flak. The player aims to reach the target, drop bombs, and return safely. While primarily solitaire, a second player can optionally control German fighters for a more interactive experience.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets war game enthusiasts and strategy players aged 12 and up who appreciate historical air combat simulations. With low complexity and about 60 minutes playtime, it suits both newcomers and experienced players looking for a concise WWII aviation experience.
How It Works
Gameplay revolves around area movement through zones, with dice rolling and combat results tables determining enemy fighter appearances, hits, and damage locations. Events like weather and flak add variability. The scenario and campaign mechanics provide strategic depth despite simple rules. Players manage bomber formation and mission progression through charts and dice.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Glen Frank and Bruce Shelley, B-17: Queen of the Skies is a classic low-complexity WWII aviation wargame from 1981. It combines area movement and dice-driven combat results tables to simulate historical bombing missions. Unlike more complex wargames, it offers an accessible solo mode with optional two-player interaction, fitting into the campaign game family.
Pro
- Low complexity with historical depth
- Solo play with optional two-player mode
- Realistic simulation using area movement and combat results tables
- Short playtime around 60 minutes
Contra
- Limited to 1-2 players
- Classic, less modern graphic design
- No expansions or updated versions available
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set during World War II, focusing on US Eighth Air Force bombing missions over Europe from November 1942 to May 1943, including realistic conditions over land and sea.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the dice and chart mechanics to make informed tactical decisions during missions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, B-17: Queen of the Skies is primarily designed for solo play but can be played with two players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, even after the initial learning phase.
What prior experience do I need?
The game has low complexity, suitable for players new to wargames as well as veterans.
How does this compare to similar games?
B-17 combines simple area movement and combat results tables with a strong focus on historical air combat simulation.
Is this suitable for families?
With a recommended age of 12+ and its wargame nature, it is better suited for enthusiasts than for younger children or casual family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of dice rolling, combat results tables, and area movement creates a realistic and tactical flight combat experience.
Fazit
B-17 is recommended for players seeking a historically grounded air combat simulation with manageable complexity. Its strong solo mode and concise playtime make it a solid choice for war game fans and aviation enthusiasts.
