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Air & Armor (1986) Board Game

ByMichail

Air & Armor is a board game released in 1986, designed by Stephen Crane, Richard A. Johnson, and Kevin Wilkins. It falls under the category of modern warfare and is a wargame that simulates strategic military operations. The game features a hexagon grid for movement and involves action points, dice rolling, and simulation elements.

Game Components of Air & Armor

  • Maps:** Two 22″ x 34″ maps.
  • Counters:** Five countersheets with 9/16″ playing pieces.
  • Rules Booklets:** Basic Game Rules and Advanced Game Rules.
  • Player Charts & Tables:** Two booklets.
  • TO&E Displays:** Five displays.
  • Dice:** Two 10-sided dice.

    How To Setup Air & Armor

    Setting up **Air & Armor** involves preparing the maps, distributing the unit counters, and organizing the player charts and tables. Players must align the maps to depict the battle area around Wurzburg, Germany. Each player sets up their unit counters according to the scenario’s specific Order of Battle. The game includes detailed setup instructions in the rules booklets to ensure accurate deployment of forces.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Time Scale:** 1 turn equals 2 hours.
  • Map Scale:** 1 mile per hex.
  • Unit Scale:** Companies and battalions.
  • Players:** 2-7 players.
  • Solitaire Suitability:** Medium.
  • Gameplay:** Simulates reconnaissance, combined arms operations, air, helicopter, and artillery strikes, chemical and electronic warfare, and engineering.
  • Objective:** The Soviet player aims to break through the NATO defenses, while the NATO player must hold or repel the Soviet advance.
  • Mechanics:**
    – Asymmetric rules for different command and control techniques.
    – Hidden intelligence and fog of war mechanics.
    – Deception, surprise, and ambush opportunities.
    – Counter battery fire and ripple effects.

    Player Experience

    **Air & Armor** offers a deeply immersive and complex wargaming experience. Players must manage multiple facets of modern warfare, from artillery strikes to helicopter support and electronic warfare. The game’s use of hidden intelligence and fog of war adds a layer of realism, making each turn unpredictable and challenging. With scenarios ranging from basic armor operations to advanced games including air and engineering operations, players can tailor their experience to their level of expertise.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** Based on detailed research from Warsaw Pact archives.
  • Complexity:** Offers a challenging and realistic simulation of modern warfare.
  • Replayability:** Multiple scenarios and variable setup ensure high replay value.
  • Interactive Gameplay:** Asymmetric rules and hidden intelligence keep players engaged.
  • Components:** High-quality maps, counters, and rule booklets.

    Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve:** The game requires significant time to learn and master.
  • Lengthy Playtime:** Games can last from 3 to 8 hours depending on the scenario.
  • Rules Complexity:** The rules, although detailed, can be overwhelming for new players.

    Personal Thoughts on Air & Armor

    **Air & Armor** is ideal for experienced wargamers who appreciate detailed simulations of modern warfare. The game’s complexity and historical accuracy make it a gem for those interested in the hypothetical clash between Soviet and NATO forces in the 1980s. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its steep learning curve and lengthy playtime. For those willing to invest the time, **Air & Armor** offers a rich and engaging gaming experience that replicates the intricacies of modern military operations.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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