Western Front Ace: The Great War in the Air, 1916-1918

Compass Games · Board game · 2023
1 · best 1 Solo 120–180 min Weight 2.8/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
8.6 rating BGG
100.0 rating Ludopedia
8.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for the military history enthusiast seeking a deep and detailed solo experience.

Highlights
  • Extremely rich technical simulation
  • Rewarding aircraft progression
  • Strong historical immersion
  • Engaging solo campaign
Keep in mind
  • Steep learning curve
  • Heavy language dependence
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Ever wondered what it was like to be one of the first flying aces of the Great War? Western Front Ace is a tactical simulator tailor-made for those who love solo gaming and want to feel the tension of the European skies between 1916 and 1918. Here, you don't command an army, but rather the trajectory of a single pilot, navigating the Western and Italian fronts in an immersive experience of survival and glory.

The game blends the precision of a wargame with RPG elements. You choose one of seven available nations and begin managing every detail of your operation: from aircraft maintenance and weapon system selection to ammunition management and crew training. Progression is a highlight; as the war advances and you survive missions, you can upgrade to more modern and lethal aircraft, striving to stay competitive as military technology evolves rapidly.

Missions are organized into turns representing 3 to 4-day blocks, forcing you to plan your flights carefully. Every decision impacts your pilot's life and the mission's success. The area movement system and card-driven campaign create a dynamic flow where the risk of being shot down is constant. This is the kind of game for players who enjoy diving deep into rulebooks, appreciating military history, and feeling the satisfaction of seeing their pilot become a legend of the skies. Prepare for long, intense sessions where strategy and dice rolls decide whether you return to base or become just another piece of wreckage on the battlefield.
Rules videos

In English

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Game details

Families

Players: Solitaire Only Wargames
Publisher Compass Games
Designer Gregory M. Smith, Ian B. Cooper
Artist Ian Wedge
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play with other people?
No, this is an exclusively solo game. It was designed as a single-player command experience.
Is the game too complex?
Yes, it has a significant weight. It's recommended for those who enjoy detailed rules and tactical simulations.
How long does a session last?
Sessions are long, ranging from 2 to 3 hours, depending on the mission's complexity.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, there is high language dependence. You'll need fluency or a translation to understand the cards and manual.
What happens if my pilot dies?
Since there are RPG elements, losing your pilot is a real risk and impacts your campaign progression.
Which nations are available?
The game offers seven different nations to choose from, each with its own peculiarities.