Fire in the Sky: The Great Pacific War 1941-1945

Banana Games, Game Journal, Multi-Man Publishing · Board game · 1999
100.0 Ludopedia 7.5 BGG 1–2 · best 2 Solo 60–300 min Weight 3.2/5
Buy · from US$ 40.45
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

If you're a fan of wargames that capture the essence of a conflict in a leaner package, Fire in the Sky is quite the catch! It does a great job simulating the challenges of the Pacific in WWII.

Highlights
  • Deep strategic simulation
  • Clever and concise design
  • Unique war perspective
  • Quality components
Keep in mind
  • Can be complex for beginners
  • Moderate language dependency
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to dive headfirst into the turbulent Pacific Theater of World War II with Fire in the Sky! This wargame, originally in Japanese and now accessible to Western players, is a compact gem that captures the essence of the conflict. Designer Tetsuya Nakamura did a fantastic job balancing the vastness of the Pacific with the speed of aircraft versus the slowness of ships and troops. Logistics and transport are as crucial as naval and air battles, and the game puts you right into that strategic dilemma. With a clever map that blends hexes and areas, 180 well-crafted counters, and rules covering all the key points of the war, you'll feel the challenges faced by the commanders of the era. The beauty of this game lies in its apparent simplicity: despite simulating an immense conflict, it can be played in about 5 hours. It's one of those cases where 'great things come in small packages,' proving that brilliant design doesn't need hundreds of components. The Japanese perspective on the war is also a highlight, offering a unique glimpse. If you enjoy wargames with a touch of simulation and aren't afraid of a good strategic challenge, Fire in the Sky is a sure bet. It challenges you to think like a general, balancing resources and anticipating enemy moves on a board that's a show in itself.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

5 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–2 players
1 REC
2 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Country: Australia Country: China Country: Japan Country: United Kingdom Country: USA Decades: The 1940's History: World War II (Pacific) Players: Two-Player Only Games Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Region: Pacific Ocean Series: International Games (MMP)
Publisher Banana Games, Game Journal, Multi-Man Publishing, PHALANX
Designer Tetsuya Nakamura
Artist Bartek Jędrzejewski, Nicolás Eskubi

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,817owners
570wishlist
134want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How long does it take to play a game of Fire in the Sky?
A game can take 5 hours or less, which is quite fast for a wargame with this theme and depth.
How many players can participate?
This game is designed for two players, offering an intense strategic duel.
Is the game too complicated for someone new to wargames?
It has moderate complexity (BGG weight 3.17). It's not the simplest, but the simulation is well-done and can be a great entry point for those with some experience.
Do I need to know Japanese to play?
The original game is in Japanese, but this Western release usually comes with translated rules and components or requires a translated reference sheet. Check the specific version you are acquiring.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find a map combining hexes and areas, about 180 detailed 1-inch counters, and the essential rules to simulate the Great Pacific War.
Who is this game most recommended for?
It's ideal for wargame fans, especially those interested in World War II and the Pacific Theater, who appreciate strategic simulations with a touch of logistics and a reasonable playtime.

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