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

Rule Book

Pad of Log Sheets

Pad of Sheets with Maneuver Diagrams

Two Transparent Plastic Wheels (Rotary Tables)

How To Setup Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series

Each player selects a pilot and chooses their aircraft.

Set up the rotary tables and place the maneuver diagrams sheet in between them.

Follow the instructions in the rule book to determine starting positions and conditions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Ace of Aces, players take turns maneuvering their aircraft by selecting maneuvers from the diagram sheet and using the rotary tables to determine the outcome. The objective is to outmaneuver your opponent and score hits on their aircraft.

Player Experience

Pros:

Easy to learn and play

Unique gameplay mechanics

Engaging strategic decision-making

Immersive World War I theme

Cons:

Limited replayability

Some may find the gameplay repetitive

Requires good spatial awareness

Personal Thoughts on Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series

Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Series is a classic game that offers a fun and challenging experience for players looking to engage in aerial combat simulation. The build quality of the game components is decent, and the artwork adds to the thematic immersion.

The game falls under the aviation/flight and wargame categories, making it a niche choice for those interested in historical simulations. Pricing and availability of the game may vary, but it can be found in both new and used conditions.

For fans of aviation history and tactical combat games, Ace of Aces is definitely worth your time. However, casual gamers may find it too complex or repetitive. Overall, it’s a game that appeals to a specific audience, so consider your preferences before making a purchase.

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