2008 · Wargame

Down in Flames: Aces High

Players each command a leader and wingman fighter and resolve dogfights using an action–reaction card system where specific cards cancel others. Cards represent maneuvers, attacks and reactions; players play and counter plays to gain firing positions, deal bursts of damage, and change relative positioning. Aircraft are defined by stats such as performance (hand size), horsepower (draw rate), bursts (fires per round), damage (attack strength) and airframe (hit points). A positional system (Advantaged, Tailing, Disadvantaged, Tailed) and a simple altitude mechanic affect draw/discard and combat bonuses. Optional bomber units and campaign sheets support historical scenarios. Components include full-color action and aircraft cards, counters and campaign sheets with a rulebook.

groupPlayers

2–6 best 2

schedulePlaying time

45 min

psychologyComplexity

2.1 / 5