Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series (1980) Board Game

Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series is a unique tabletop game that simulates aerial combat during World War I. First released in 1980 by Flying Buffalo, Inc. (FBI), this game quickly gained popularity among aviation enthusiasts and wargamers due to its innovative gameplay mechanics.

Game Components of Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series

Two books: One for the German pilot and one for the Allied pilot, each containing cockpit views and maneuver options.

No board: The game is played solely using the books.

No dice or markers: The game mechanics rely on the combination of maneuvers chosen by the players.

Rulebook: Included for basic, standard, and advanced rules.

Slipcase: For storage, including an extra drawer for dice and chips in the newer editions.

How To Setup Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series

To set up the game, each player selects their respective book. There is no need for a board or any additional setup beyond having the two books ready. Players simply need to agree on the rules level they wish to play with (Basic, Standard, or Advanced) and begin their dogfight.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Maneuver Selection: Players choose a maneuver from the options listed at the bottom of their current page.

Page Navigation: Players tell each other the page number corresponding to their chosen maneuver and navigate to that page in their book.

Combat Resolution: The new page shows the result of the maneuvers, including whether a player is in firing position and if any damage is taken.

Objective: The goal is to maneuver your plane to get your opponent in firing position and shoot them down, accumulating 12 points of damage to win the game.

Player Experience

Playing Ace of Aces is a compact, simple, yet engaging experience. The game is highly portable and can be played anywhere, making it ideal for travel or quick matches. The basic game is straightforward, while the standard and advanced rules add complexity with elements like altitude, ammo, and random damage. This versatility ensures high replay value as players can choose their level of complexity.

Pros

Portable: No need for a board or additional components.

Simple to Learn: Basic game rules are easy to understand.

High Replay Value: Multiple levels of rules and varied outcomes.

Historical Immersion: Provides a unique perspective on WWI aerial combat.

Compact Storage: Books and slipcase make for easy storage.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players, though multiple sets can be combined.

Price: Some find the current retail price point high.

Previous Edition Issues: Earlier reprints had errors and hardback issues that made gameplay less smooth.

Personal Thoughts on Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series

Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series is ideal for fans of historical aviation, particularly those interested in World War I. It also appeals to enthusiasts of tactical and strategic games who enjoy a simple yet deep gameplay experience. The game’s unique mechanic of using books to simulate dogfights makes it stand out, and its portability makes it a great addition to any game collection. However, the price may deter some potential buyers, especially those who recall earlier, more affordable versions.

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