Carrier Battle: Philippine Sea

Compass Games · Board game · 2023
9.8 Ludopedia 8.6 BGG 1 · best 1 Solo 30–300 min Weight 4.0/5
Buy · from US$ 15.10
9.8 rating Ludopedia
8.6 rating BGG

What do you want to do now

Ask questions about the game

Ask anything about Carrier Battle: Philippine Sea: rules, setup, components, complexity, price, or whether it fits your group.

New conversation 0/1200
Example questions
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy solo wargames focused on WWII naval and air simulation, get ready for an immersive and challenging experience!

Highlights
  • Deep naval and air simulation
  • Excellent solo experience
  • Varied and replayable scenarios
  • Tension and unpredictability
Keep in mind
  • Requires dedication and time
  • Moderate language dependency
  • Complexity for beginners
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
Access Rules Guide

About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to relive one of history's greatest naval clashes! In Carrier Battle: Philippine Sea, you take command of the American forces in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, June 1944. The objective is clear: find and neutralize the Japanese carrier fleet before they destroy yours. This isn't a two-player game, but rather an intense and tension-filled solo simulation where every decision matters.

You'll need to maneuver your task forces wisely and organize efficient air searches. The game mechanics are ingenious, simulating Japanese movement and attacks in such a way that you'll only discover the imminent threat when the radar blips and you need to scramble your fighters to intercept. It's a game that puts you in the commander's shoes, feeling the pressure and uncertainty of combat.

The game offers nine scenarios for you to explore. Start with four learning scenarios that guide you through the rules step-by-step using slices of the real battle. Then, dive into the five full-scale, fully replayable scenarios. These include daily challenges, a two-day campaign covering the entire battle, and even hypothetical scenarios exploring alternate historical paths, such as different US plans or a Japan that never suffered defeat at Midway. Featuring a detailed hexagonal map, hundreds of counters, and turns divided into phases, the game offers a deep and immersive experience. It's a robust simulation, based on the classic Carrier, but completely standalone and focused on the solitary experience.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

7 videos

Rules manual

Official PDF file

Rules manual — Carrier Battle: Philippine Sea Portuguese · PDF
Download Manual

Best player count

BGG community vote

Solo · 1 player
1 BEST

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Country: Japan Country: Philippines Country: USA Digital Implementations: VASSAL History: World War II (Pacific) Islands: Marianas (USA) Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Solitaire Only Games Players: Solitaire Only Wargames Players: Wargames with Solitaire Rules Region: Pacific Ocean War Battlespace: Naval warfare War Level of Command: Operational
Publisher Compass Games
Designer Jon Southard
Artist Bruce Yearian

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

947owners
304wishlist
43want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play?
This game is exclusively for 1 player (solo).
How long does a game take?
A game can vary significantly, from 30 minutes for short scenarios to 5 hours (300 minutes) for longer campaigns.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
The complexity is considered medium-high (BGG weight 3.96/5). It includes learning scenarios to ease players into the rules, but the strategic depth requires dedication.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, there is a moderate language dependency. Components like cards and the rulebook are in English, so having a translated reference sheet or familiarity with the language is recommended.
What comes in the box?
The game includes a detailed hexagonal map, over 500 counters representing ships, aircraft, and other elements, as well as rulebooks, charts, and tables.
Is this a new game or based on a previous one?
It is based on the game Carrier: The Southwest Pacific Campaign, but it is a new, standalone title focused on the solo experience.
Who is this game recommended for?
It's ideal for solo wargame enthusiasts, fans of WWII naval and air simulations, and players looking for deep and immersive strategic challenges.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

7 games