Airline (1985) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Airline is a classic board game released in 1985 by Mulgara Products. It is a strategic game that simulates the aviation industry, allowing players to compete against each other to build successful airlines and dominate the skies. The game has been a favorite among board game enthusiasts for decades, thanks to its engaging gameplay and challenging mechanics.

Game Components of Airline

Game board

Player tokens and airplanes

Passenger cards

Destination cards

Money and resource tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Airline

To set up the game, each player chooses an airplane token and places it at the starting location on the board. Each player receives a set amount of money and resource tokens. The passenger and destination cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The game board, which represents a map of the country, is placed in the middle of the playing area.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics: Resource Management, Route Building, Economic

Objective: Players compete to transport passengers across the country, managing resources and trying to accumulate the most money by completing passenger trips efficiently.

Gameplay: Players roll dice to determine how many spaces they can move their airplane. They must manage fuel, maintenance, and other resources while trying to pick up and drop off passengers at various destinations.

Player Experience

In “Airline,” players experience a mix of strategy and luck as they navigate the challenges of running an airline. The game requires players to balance resource management with strategic planning to maximize their earnings. The competitive nature of the game keeps players engaged, as they try to outmaneuver each other to secure the most lucrative routes and passengers.

Pros

Engaging Gameplay: Combines skill and chance, making it fun for players of various ages.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to manage resources and plan routes carefully.

Multiplayer: Supports up to six players, making it a great option for family or group gatherings.

Cons

Luck Element: The roll of the dice can significantly affect gameplay, which may not appeal to players who prefer purely strategic games.

Simple Mechanics: Some players may find the gameplay mechanics too simplistic compared to more complex strategy games.

Personal Thoughts on Airline

“Airline” is a classic game that is perfect for families or casual game nights. It is easy to learn but offers enough depth to keep players engaged. While it may not be the best fit for hardcore strategy enthusiasts, it is an excellent introduction to economic and resource management games for younger players or those new to board games.

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.