Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition (1986) Board Game

Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition is a unique board game that was released in 1986 by Chessex. Designed by Alfred Leonardi, this game falls under the categories of Aviation/Flight, Book, Wargame, and World War I simulation. The game is set during World War I and requires two players to engage in a thrilling aerial combat.

Game Components of Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition

Game Books: Each player has a book, one for the Germans and one for the Allies, featuring cockpit views and enemy plane perspectives.

Maneuver Lists: Each page includes a list of maneuvers that players can select.

Optional Rules and Components: Standard and Advanced rules, which include elements like altitude, ammo, and damage tracking.

How To Setup Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition

To set up the game, each player chooses their respective book (German or Allied). The game does not require a board or complex setup; players simply open their books and begin selecting maneuvers. The game is designed to be compact, simple, and portable.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Maneuver Selection: Players choose maneuvers from the lists on their book pages.

Cockpit Views: The combination of maneuvers leads players to new pages, showing different views and distances of the enemy plane.

Combat Resolution: Players aim to position their enemy in front of them to shoot. A certain number of successful shots will down the enemy plane.

Optional Complexity: Standard and Advanced rules add randomness, altitude and ammo management, and damage tracking.

Player Experience

Playing **Ace of Aces** is a unique and engaging experience. The game’s simplicity and portability make it accessible and enjoyable, especially for those interested in historical air combat. The basic game is easy to learn and play, while the optional rules add depth and complexity for more experienced players.

Pros

Portable and Compact: Easy to carry and play anywhere.

High Replay Value: Numerous combinations of maneuvers ensure varied gameplay.

Historical Theme: Immersive WWI air combat experience.

Simple yet Deep: Basic game is straightforward, while advanced rules add complexity.

Cons

Cost: The Deluxe Edition has a relatively high price point, especially compared to previous versions.

Learning Curve for Advanced Rules: While the basic game is simple, the advanced rules can add complexity that may deter casual players.

Book Format: Flipping through the books can be cumbersome, especially if they are hardback.

Personal Thoughts on Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition

**Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition** is ideal for fans of historical war games, particularly those interested in aviation and World War I. It’s also a great choice for anyone looking for a unique, portable, and engaging game that can be played in various settings. Despite the higher price point, the game’s replay value and the nostalgia it brings for some players make it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts.

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