Luftwaffe: The Game of Aerial Combat Over Germany 1943-45
- Designer Lou Zocchi
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Charles Harbaugh
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command groups of aircraft on a hexagon grid representing Central Europe. Using secret unit deployment and dice rolling, you simulate strategic air raids over Germany from 1943 to 1945. Turns last about 20 minutes, with a full game around 120 minutes. Tactical positioning and planning are key as each unit represents aircraft groups.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 12 and up interested in historical wargames. It is a midweight game for two players with a longer playtime and no solo mode. Familiarity with hex-based movement and dice mechanics is beneficial.
How It Works
Luftwaffe uses a hexagon grid and grid movement to represent air units. Combat outcomes are decided by dice rolling, while secret unit deployment adds surprise. The game progresses in timed turns simulating three-month campaign intervals over nearly three years.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Lou Zocchi, this title simulates the WWII air war over Germany with classic wargame mechanics like hex grids and secret deployment. Although it won no awards, it stands out as an early Avalon Hill release with a detailed timeline from 1943 to 1945.
Pro
- Historically detailed air war simulation for 1943-45
- Combines hexagon grid with secret unit deployment
- Tactical depth through dice combat and positioning
- Campaign structure with fixed time intervals
Contra
- Only suitable for two players
- No solo mode available
- Relatively long playtime of around 120 minutes
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the strategic air war over Germany and neighboring countries from 1943 to 1945. The map includes Germany, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Poland, the Netherlands, and Hungary during WWII.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand hex and dice mechanics before engaging in longer sessions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Luftwaffe is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 120 minutes, with turns roughly 20 minutes each.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is midweight and requires experience with hex grids and dice rolling.
How does this compare to similar games?
Luftwaffe uniquely focuses on the air war over Germany from 1943 to 1945 with a detailed campaign timeline.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players aged 12 and up, not as a family game.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its combination of hexagon grid, secret unit deployment, and dice rolling realistically simulates tactical air combat.
Fazit
Luftwaffe is recommended for fans of historical air combat simulations seeking an intense two-player experience. Those preferring shorter or simpler games might look elsewhere.
