Tac Air
Tac Air at your next game night?
Add Tac Air 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 Gary C. Morgan
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Charles Kibler , George I. Parrish, Jr.
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 command NATO or Warsaw Pact forces in realistic Central European combat scenarios, ranging from small skirmishes to large battles on a hex grid. The game includes detailed air operations like air-to-air combat, close air support, and electronic warfare. Coordinating air and ground units creates intense tactical decisions.
Who Is This Game For?
Tac Air is aimed at experienced wargamers and enthusiasts of modern military simulations aged 12 and up. The approximately 120-minute playtime requires strategic thinking and patience. Prior experience with hex-and-counter wargames is helpful. It is less suitable for casual players or families.
How It Works
Using a hexagon grid, you move units such as tanks, helicopters, and aircraft. You plan air and ground missions, coordinate close-air support, and conduct electronic warfare. Thirteen scenarios vary in size and challenge, from small engagements to full-scale battles. Each unit has specific capabilities requiring strategic planning.
What Makes It Special
Gary C. Morgan’s Tac Air won the 1988 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Post-World War II Board Game. It stands out with its detailed simulation of modern air combat and ground tactics, focusing on electronic warfare. It belongs to the 'Theme: Helicopters' family, offering realistic scenarios and complex mechanics unique among wargames.
Awards
- 1988 Charles S. Roberts Best Post-World War II Board Game — Winner
- 1988 Charles S. Roberts Best Wargaming Graphics — Nominated
Pro
- Detailed simulation of modern air and ground tactics
- Thirteen diverse scenarios from small skirmishes to large battles
- Realistic air operations and electronic warfare integration
- Winner of the 1988 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Post-World War II Board Game
Contra
- For 2 to 4 players only
- Approximate 120-minute playtime requires patience
- High complexity, not for casual players
Setting & atmosphere
The game simulates Cold War military combat in Central Europe, focusing on the NATO US VII Corps defending the Hof Gap against Warsaw Pact forces. It features realistic 1980s equipment and units.
Tips for beginners
Take time to learn the complex mechanics and hex movement before tackling larger scenarios.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Tac Air is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay lasts about 120 minutes, depending on the scenario and player experience.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with tactical wargames and hex grid mechanics is helpful due to the game's complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
Tac Air offers particularly detailed modern air and ground combat simulation with a focus on electronic warfare.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, Tac Air is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The hexagon grid allows precise tactical movements and integrates air and ground units.
Fazit
Tac Air is highly recommended for wargame enthusiasts interested in modern air and ground tactics but less suitable for casual players due to complexity and length.
Tac Air at your next game night?
Add Tac Air to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Tac Air to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
