Tac Air (1987) – Board Game Guys

Tac Air

Tac Air is a board wargame published by Avalon Hill in 1987, originally based on a wargame developed for the US Navy during the Cold War. The game was created to simulate air-land battles in Germany in the 1980s. The development of Tac Air began with a wargame called FEBA (Forward Edge of Battle Area), which was developed by Major Mark Thibodeau, Captain Matt Cathay, and Captain Wayne Close, and later sold to Avalon Hill. The game was retitled Tac Air, revised, and adapted for commercial release by former USAF pilot Gary C. “Mo” Morgan, with rules development by S. Craig Taylor, cartography and graphics by Charles Kibler, and box art by George Parrish.

Why is Tac Air Popular?

Tac Air is a popular and significant board game because it simulates air-land battles in a historically plausible setting, providing players with an immersive and realistic experience. The game has received positive reviews and awards, such as the Charles S. Roberts Award for “Best Post–World War Two or Modern Game of 1988”. Additionally, the game has a strong historical background, with a 16-page historical background written by expert military game designers and defense analysts.

Game Components of Tac Air

Map: A two-piece 22″ x 32″ mounted map, scaled at 1 nautical mile (1852 m/2025 yd) per hex. Some scenarios use only half of the map board.

Counters: More than 500 die-cut counters.

Rulebooks: Basic rulebook and Advanced rulebook.

Game Aids: Various game aids and charts.

Dice: Two six-sided dice[5,.

How To Setup Tac Air

Setting up **Tac Air** involves laying out the map board, which depicts the area between Bamberg and Bayreuth in southern Germany. Players then sort and place the numerous counters representing ground forces, aircraft, and other units according to the scenario being played. The game includes a basic rulebook for simpler scenarios and an advanced rulebook for more complex ones. Players must also familiarize themselves with the various game aids and charts provided to manage air mission planning, air defense, and airspace control.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Players aim to blunt the enemy’s invasion by combining ground forces and tactical air support.

Air Phase: Each turn includes an Air Phase with 10 identical Air Rounds, where air units move, engage in combat, and evade air defenses.

Ground Phase: A standard ground combat phase where ground units and helicopters move and fight once per turn.

Electronic Warfare: Special rules for electronic warfare and joint air attack tactics.

Scenarios: Twelve scenarios, with five using Basic rules and seven using Advanced and Optional Advanced rules.

Player Experience

Playing **Tac Air** is an immersive experience that delves deep into the intricacies of air-land battles. The game was originally designed as a military training aid, which is evident in its detailed mechanics and realistic simulations. Players must carefully plan air missions, manage air defenses, and coordinate ground units to achieve their objectives. The game’s complexity and depth make it engaging for serious wargamers and those interested in military strategy.

Pros

Realistic Simulation: Offers a detailed and realistic simulation of air-land battles.

Complex Gameplay: Engaging and challenging gameplay with multiple layers of strategy.

Historical Significance: Provides insight into Cold War military doctrine and tactics.

Awards and Recognition: Won the Charles S. Roberts Award for “Best Post–World War Two or Modern Game of 1988”.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the extensive rules and mechanics.

Realism Issues: Some reviewers have noted minor realism issues that can be tweaked for better accuracy.

Personal Thoughts on Tac Air

**Tac Air** is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in military history and strategy. The game’s depth and complexity make it a rewarding experience, but it may not be the best fit for casual gamers. It serves as a great tool for understanding the intricacies of air-land battles during the Cold War era and is a testament to the innovative game design of the 1980s. If you’re looking for a game that will challenge your strategic thinking and provide a rich historical context, **Tac Air** is certainly worth exploring.

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