Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster (1985) Board Game

Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster is a board game released in 1985, designed by J.B. Deneen. It falls under the categories of Aviation / Flight, Wargame, and World War I simulation. The game allows 2 players to engage in a dogfight simulation set during the First World War.

Game Components of Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster

Player Books: A pair of small books, one for the Allied player and one for the German player, each representing a World War I fighter.

Maneuver Pages: Each book contains pages with illustrations showing the view from the cockpit and a series of maneuvers with corresponding page numbers.

Optional Hex Board: For visualizing aircraft positions.

Rules Sheet: Includes rules for basic, intermediate, and advanced gameplay.

How To Setup Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster

Setting up the game is straightforward. Each player selects their respective book and agrees on the starting page. The rules sheet provides instructions for different levels of gameplay, but the basic setup involves simply opening the books and beginning the combat sequence.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Maneuver Selection: Players choose maneuvers, announce the corresponding page numbers, and turn to those pages to update their positions.

Combat Resolution: Players aim to maneuver their opponent into their gun sights to shoot them down.

Customization: Intermediate and advanced rules add factors like altitude differences, ammunition supply, wind speed, and jammed guns.

Objective: The goal is to shoot down the opponent’s aircraft or, in this case, the reconnaissance balloon.

Player Experience

Playing **Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster** is a fast-paced and immersive experience. The game can be played anywhere, as no table is required, making it highly portable. The unique flipbook mechanism hides the game’s mechanics, providing a sense of realism and involvement in World War I aerial combat.

Pros

Portable: Can be played anywhere.

Easy to Learn: Basic version can be taught in a couple of minutes.

Realistic Feel: Provides a strong sense of involvement in aerial combat.

Customizable: Offers intermediate and advanced rules for added complexity.

Awards and Recognition: Part of a series that won the Charles S. Roberts Award and was inducted into the Product Hall of Fame.

Cons

Cost: Historically noted for being relatively expensive.

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players.

Repetitive Mechanics: Some players may find the maneuver selection repetitive over time.

Personal Thoughts on Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster

**Ace of Aces: Balloon Buster** is ideal for fans of historical aviation and those interested in unique gameplay mechanics. It’s a great choice for gamers looking for a quick, portable game that still offers depth and strategy. While it may appeal more to enthusiasts of World War I history and aerial combat, its simplicity and portability make it accessible to a wide range of players.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.