Flying Circus: Tactical Aerial Combat, 1915-1918 (1972) Board Game

Flying Circus: Tactical Aerial Combat, 1915-1918 is a board game released in 1972 that allows players to engage in tactical aerial combat during World War I. Designed by Jim Dunnigan and featuring artwork by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.), the game aims to recreate the intensity and strategy of aerial battles from that era.

Game Components of Flying Circus: Tactical Aerial Combat, 1915-1918

200 counters: Representing various aircraft.

Large paper hex grid map: For battles over the Western Front.

Aircraft sheets: To track speed, altitude, diving and climbing ability, ammunition supply, and damage suffered.

Scenario lists: Including possible aircraft for each nation (Germany, Britain, France).

How To Setup Flying Circus: Tactical Aerial Combat, 1915-1918

To set up the game, players first choose a scenario, which defines the aircraft available for each side. Each player receives the corresponding aircraft counters and sheets. The hex grid map is laid out, and players position their aircraft according to the scenario’s starting conditions. The game includes detailed instructions for setting up each scenario, ensuring that the initial conditions are accurately replicated.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Tactical Aerial Combat: Players engage in dogfights, using the aircraft’s unique capabilities.

Speed, Altitude, and Maneuverability: Each aircraft has different performance attributes.

Ammunition and Damage Tracking: Players manage their aircraft’s resources and damage.

Objective: The primary goal is to destroy enemy aircraft or complete specific mission objectives like reconnaissance.

Player Experience

**Flying Circus** offers a dynamic and challenging experience, especially for fans of historical aerial combat. The game is designed for 2-6 players, with each side controlling either Allied or German aircraft. Scenarios can range from quick half-hour engagements to more complex battles, providing a variety of gameplay experiences.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Simulates real-world World War I aerial combat.

Multiple Scenarios: Offers a wide range of possible engagements.

Simple yet Realistic Mechanics: Easy to learn but challenging to master.

Replayability: Different scenarios and aircraft combinations ensure varied gameplay.

Cons

Limited Aircraft per Side: Only three planes can be deployed per side in most scenarios.

Some Faulty Scenarios: Certain scenarios have been noted to have flaws, such as automatic victories.

Out of Print: Originally released in 1972, the game may be hard to find.

Personal Thoughts on Flying Circus: Tactical Aerial Combat, 1915-1918

This game is ideal for wargaming enthusiasts and those interested in historical aviation. Despite its age, **Flying Circus** remains a delightful tactical air war game, offering a unique blend of simplicity and realism. However, due to its vintage status and the presence of some flawed scenarios, it may not appeal to all modern gamers. For collectors and historical wargame fans, though, it is a gem worth uncovering.

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