Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition

Chessex, Emithill Ltd., Gallimard · Board game · 1986
— Ludopedia 7.1 BGG 2 · best 2 20 min Weight 1.8/5
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— rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition is a timeless classic for anyone seeking immersive and direct aerial combat, without the usual paraphernalia of wargames. It's perfect for quick duels between two friends who enjoy aviation and history, or for those who want a simulation experience that fits in a backpack. The simplicity of the books hides surprising tactical depth, making every decision crucial for your survival in the skies. If you've ever dreamed of being an aviation ace, this game is your chance!

Highlights
  • Intense aerial dogfights
  • Innovative book format
  • Unique visual immersion
  • Simple to learn
  • Tactical depth
Keep in mind
  • Two players only
  • Initial learning curve
  • Can be repetitive
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready for a trip back in time with Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition, a revised and enhanced version of the classic aerial combat game that puts you directly in the cockpit of a World War I fighter! Forget complex boards and miniatures; here, the magic happens through two game books, one for each pilot. Each page is a photograph that simulates the view from your cockpit, whether you're commanding an agile Sopwith Camel or a fearsome Fokker Dr.I. It's pure visual immersion, no 3D glasses needed!

This Deluxe edition comes in a bookcase-style box, more robust than previous versions, and features the rules printed in a separate rulebook – goodbye to cramped text on game pages! The cool thing is that you can choose the complexity that suits you best: there's an introductory level for beginners, a standard one for those who've got the hang of it, and an advanced one for more experienced aces. And if you enjoy a longer narrative, there are even rules for a Campaign mode, where your victories and defeats truly matter.

To aid your strategy, the game includes card stock play aids with aircraft silhouettes. These give you an idea of the capabilities of each plane and the legendary pilots who flew them. It's a duel of wits and anticipation, where every move counts. Who will be the ace of the skies?

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Misc: No Table Needed Occupation: Aviator Players: Two-Player Only Games Series: Ace of Aces (Nova Game Designs) Series: Ace of Aces WWI (Nova Game Designs) Series: Picture Book Games (Nova Game Designs)
Publisher Chessex, Emithill Ltd., Gallimard, Nova Game Designs, SoftBank Corp.
Designer Alfred Leonardi
Artist Christian Broutin

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

696owners
116wishlist
44want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can play Ace of Aces: Handy Rotary Deluxe Edition?
This game is exclusively for two players, perfect for adrenaline-fueled one-on-one duels!
What is the average game duration?
A game is quite quick, lasting between 20 and 20 minutes. Ideal for multiple rounds or when you have limited time.
Is it a complex game to learn?
The game offers three complexity levels (Introductory, Standard, and Advanced), so you can start slow and gradually improve your skills. The rules are clear and separate from the game itself.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find two game books with cockpit photographs, a separate rulebook, and card stock play aids with aircraft silhouettes. Everything is compact and functional!
Do I need a table to play?
No! One of the great advantages is that it doesn't require a table, making it super portable. You can play anywhere, as long as you have a surface for the books.
Who is this game recommended for?
It's highly recommended for fans of wargames, aerial combat simulations, World War I enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a strategic and portable duel game.

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