Airlines: United States Set 2 (1998) Board Game

Airlines: United States Set 2 is a board game released in 1998 by Avalanche Press Ltd. It falls under the categories of Aviation/Flight, Card Game, Economic, Industry/Manufacturing, and Territory Building. The game is designed for 2-4 players, with a runtime of approximately 45 minutes and an age recommendation of 10 and older. Players take on the role of airline executives, competing to build the most successful airline network across the United States.

Game Components of Airlines: United States Set 2

Game Board: Represents the United States with various airports and routes.

Player Boards: For each player to manage their airline’s operations.

Route Cards: Used to establish and manage flight routes.

Airplane Tokens: Representing the aircraft in the players’ fleets.

Financial Tokens: For tracking revenue and expenses.

Event Cards: Introducing challenges and opportunities.

Gates and Hubs: Used for placing and managing airport infrastructure.

How To Setup Airlines: United States Set 2

To set up the game, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a player board and places it within reach. The route cards, airplane tokens, financial tokens, and event cards are shuffled and distributed according to the game’s initial setup rules. Players then place their gates and hubs on the board to establish their initial airport presence.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics:

Route Building: Players draw cards to establish and manage flight routes.

Resource Management: Managing financial tokens to operate the airline.

Area Control: Placing gates and hubs to control airport infrastructure.

Game Objective: The goal is to build and manage a successful airline by establishing profitable routes, managing resources efficiently, and controlling key airport infrastructure.

Player Experience

Players experience a mix of strategic planning and resource management as they navigate the challenges of running an airline. The game is played in rounds, each representing one month of operations, where players take turns drawing cards, placing gates and hubs, and managing their airline’s finances. This creates a dynamic environment where players must balance short-term needs with long-term strategies.

Pros

Engaging Strategy: Combines route building and resource management for a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Replayability: The game offers high replayability due to the random draw of route cards and event cards.

Economic Depth: Provides a detailed economic simulation of managing an airline.

Cons

Complex Setup: The initial setup can be time-consuming and complex.

Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the rules and mechanics overwhelming at first.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can take several hours to complete, depending on the number of players.

Personal Thoughts on Airlines: United States Set 2

Airlines: United States Set 2 is ideal for fans of economic and strategy games, particularly those who enjoy managing complex systems and planning long-term strategies. It is best suited for experienced board game players due to its complexity and the time required to play. However, for those who enjoy a deep and engaging strategy game, this can be a highly rewarding experience.

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.