Duel in the Dark

Simulates World War II nighttime air raids between British bombers and German defenders. One player plots bomber routes and manages escorts and decoys, while the other deploys fighter squadrons, searchlights, flak and civil-defense resources to intercept and destroy the raid. Plays as a sequence of nights (each ~30–45 minutes) with modular scenarios and variable weather: moon phase, clouds, fog and thunderclouds affect detection and movement. Hidden plotting, fuel management and tactical maneuvering drive the interaction, with optional advanced rules for more detailed air-combat resolution.

Players: 1–2 best 2
Playing time: 45 min
Age: 10+
Complexity: 2.5 / 5

6.5 on LudoyaWorld War IIAviation / FlightHexagon GridSimulationSecret Unit Deployment

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About the game

Design: Friedemann de Pedro
Art: Friedemann de Pedro

Expansions

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Duel in the Dark: Baby Blitz2008

Duel in the Dark: Railroad Flak2007

Duel in the Dark: Early Nights2008

Duel in the Dark: Acoustic Mirror2007

Duel in the Dark: Quad Flak2007

Duel in the Dark: Ju88 Night Fighter2007

Duel in the Dark: 3-5 Player Variant2007

Duel in the Dark: British 3.7in QF Anti-Aircraft Gun2007

Duel in the Dark: The Walls Have Ears2007

Duel in the Dark: Skilled Gun Crew2007

Duel in the Dark: British Searchlight2007

Duel in the Dark: The Complete Edition – Expansion2007

Duel in the Dark: Tactical Cards2009

Duel in the Dark: V1-Bunker2008

Duel in the Dark: Window / Wilde Sau2007

On Ludoya's tables

Full stats in Ludoya

1
Plays logged: 1
Players: 2
In collections

6.5/10

from 1 Ludoya review

Tom6.5
After playing the game, I'll disagree with those who call Duel in the Dark a hybrid game. It's a unique entry into the deduction game category, yet firmly fits into the bombing theme the game provides. Both the British and German players are playing with completely different styles, yet the game only really emulates a war game via its theme. Folks who do not enjoy even light war games may have a good time here, as players attempt to outfox one another in a game that is more about maneuvering than it is about fighting. And I like it, see my review for more details...

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