Dogfight: 1917
Dogfight: 1917 at your next game night?
Add Dogfight: 1917 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 Sol Kong
- Publisher Korea Boardgames , Arcane Wonders , Board Zeppelin , Old Dawg
- Illustration Stephane Arson , Julien Lepelletier
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
You pilot a fighter over the Western Front in short, tactical skirmishes focused on positioning and timely decisions. The publisher notes you play maneuver cards to move and can only perform basic attacks when positioned behind an enemy, creating authentic dogfight tension. Unique pilot abilities and dice-driven elements add variability. Variants allow one-on-one duels or up to four-player engagements.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at players 10+ who like short, tactical games; the 30-minute playtime is a brief, game-night length. Designer Sol Kong targets fans of aviation and wargames who appreciate grid/hex movement. Some familiarity with hand management and grid movement helps but rules are relatively approachable.
How It Works
Core play uses maneuver cards (Hand Management) to execute limited movement on a hex/grid board (Hexagon Grid, Grid Movement). Basic attacks are free but only work from an opponent's rear, emphasizing positioning. The design also uses Dice Rolling for resolution and Variable Player Powers for different pilot kits. Player Elimination is part of the mechanics; optional rules scale play to up to four players.
What Makes It Special
Sol Kong compresses aerial WWI tactics into a 30-minute card-driven duel with emphasis on facing and flank attacks. The mix of Hand Management, hex/grid movement and Dice Rolling brings wargame concepts into a compact card-game format.
Pro
- Short playtime (~30 minutes) — quick matches
- Blend of hand management and hex/grid movement
- Emphasis on positioning and facing for attacks
- Variable player powers create asymmetric pilots
Contra
- Player elimination can impact multiplayer sessions
- May be too abstract/brief for hardcore wargamers
Setting & atmosphere
The theme is aerial combat over the Western Front during World War I, focusing on one-on-one dogfights and scalable variant skirmishes, as indicated by the categories.
Tips for beginners
Learn the maneuver cards and facing rules first; positioning is central to success.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No. The game is designed for 2–4 players; a solo mode is not indicated.
How long does a game really take?
Listed duration is about 30 minutes; with setup and explanation it remains a short play.
What prior experience do I need?
Some familiarity with grid/hex movement and hand management helps, but the rules are relatively accessible.
How does this compare to similar games?
Dogfight: 1917 pairs hand management with hex/grid movement and dice resolution, focusing on facing-based combat.
Is this suitable for families?
Rated 10+; as a short tactical game it can suit families who enjoy thematic light wargames.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Hand Management with Hexagon Grid/Grid Movement and facing-based attack rules stands out.
Fazit
Solid pick for players seeking a quick, tactical WWI dogfight experience. If you prefer long, highly detailed wargames, note the game's concise scope and duel-focused design.
Dogfight: 1917 at your next game night?
Add Dogfight: 1917 to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Dogfight: 1917 to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
