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Aces High (1980) Board Game

ByMichail

Aces High is a board game released in 1980 by 3W (World Wide Wargames). It is a simulation wargame that focuses on aerial combat during World War I, allowing players to experience the thrill of being a fighter pilot in this historical setting. Designed by Jim Hind and featuring artwork by Roy Grinnell and Rodger B. MacGowan, Aces High has gained a following among fans of aviation and wargaming.

Game Components of Aces High

  • Rulebook:** Detailed rules for combat and flight maneuvers
  • Maps:** Hex grids representing aerial battlegrounds
  • Cards:** Aircraft performance cards, maneuver cards
  • Counters:** Aircraft tokens, damage markers
  • Charts and Tables:** For resolving combat and determining aircraft performance

    How To Setup Aces High

    To set up the game, players first select their aircraft and place the corresponding tokens on the hex map. Each player receives a set of cards that outline their aircraft’s performance and available maneuvers. The map is set up according to the scenario being played, and any additional elements like weather or terrain are noted. Players then determine the starting positions and altitudes of their aircraft.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective:** Destroy enemy aircraft or complete mission objectives.
  • Turn Structure:** Players take turns playing cards to move and maneuver their aircraft.
  • Combat Resolution:** Combat is resolved using card interactions and dice rolls.
  • Maneuverability:** Aircraft performance and maneuverability are crucial, with cards allowing for various tactics like diving, climbing, and banking.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Aces High** immerses players in the intense world of aerial combat, requiring strategic thinking and quick decision-making. The game demands a balance between managing your aircraft’s performance and exploiting the weaknesses of your opponents. The card mechanics add an element of unpredictability, making each combat encounter unique.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** Faithfully recreates the experience of World War I and II aerial combat.
  • Strategic Depth:** Requires careful planning and tactical execution.
  • Replayability:** Multiple scenarios and aircraft options ensure varied gameplay.
  • Immersive Experience:** Players feel like they are in the cockpit, making critical decisions.

    Cons

  • Complex Rules:** The game can be daunting for new players due to its detailed ruleset.
  • Time-Consuming:** Setting up and playing a scenario can take several hours.
  • Outdated Components:** Older editions may have less polished components compared to modern games.

    Personal Thoughts on Aces High

    **Aces High** is ideal for fans of historical wargames and aerial combat simulations. It is particularly suited for experienced board game players who enjoy complex, strategic gameplay. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, it offers a deeply engaging experience for those who appreciate the nuances of historical air combat.

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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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