First in Flight

Artana, Happy Meeple Games, Maldito Games · Board game · 2023
1–4 · best 3 Solo 45–75 min Weight 2.3/5
8.6 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
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8.6 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

An electrifying aerial race for those who love building and testing their limits!

Highlights
  • Very fun push-your-luck mechanic
  • Satisfying deck-building progression
  • Immersive historical theme
  • Great learning curve
Keep in mind
  • Can be punishing for beginners
  • Moderate language dependency
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About the game
Fasten your seatbelts and grab your goggles, because the sky is the limit in First in Flight! In this game, you aren't just watching history unfold; you are one of the great pioneers of aviation. Imagine stepping into the shoes of the Wright brothers or Samuel Langley, desperately trying to turn wooden and fabric prototypes into machines that actually take flight. The goal is simple: win the race to the first successful flight, but the path there is full of turbulence.

The brilliant part is how your aircraft is represented. Instead of a static piece, your 'flyer' is a deck of cards that you constantly build and refine. As you progress, you add new technologies, improve pilot skills, and recruit allies to your cause. But watch out: not everything that glitters is gold. Your deck might hide unknown design flaws that could turn a glorious flight into a total disaster.

The flying mechanic is a nerve-wracking challenge reminiscent of Blackjack. You have to decide how far you want to push to break records and gain experience without your prototype disintegrating mid-air. It is the classic 'push your luck' element: do you want to go further? Great, but the risk of a crash is very real! Between flights, you head back to the workshop to use a Rondel system, refining your equipment and adjusting your strategy. With dozens of combinations of skills and technologies, every game offers a unique playstyle. It is a delicious mix of resource management, deck building, and that adrenaline rush of wondering if your engine will hold up for one more minute of ascent. If you enjoy racing games with a strategic layer of construction and a touch of risk, First in Flight will definitely make you want to take off!
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Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
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Game details

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Mechanism: Artificial Player Misc: Mensa Select Occupation: Aviator
Publisher Artana, Happy Meeple Games, Maldito Games, One Moment Games, Schwerkraft-Verlag
Designer Ben Rosset, Matthew O'Malley
Artist Amelia Sales, Tomasz Bogusz
Community
3,204 owners
0 wishlist
0 played
3,204 interactions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a game last?
Typically between 45 and 75 minutes, depending on the player count.
Is it too complex for a casual game night?
It has a moderate weight (2.3/5). It's easy to pick up but offers enough depth for strategic thinkers.
Can I play solo?
Yes! The game includes mechanisms for solo play or using artificial players.
Do I need to be fluent in English?
There is moderate language dependency. You can play, but translated cards or a reference sheet helps immensely.
Who is this game for?
For fans of deck-building games and anyone who loves the adrenaline of pushing their luck!