Table Air Combat Thoughts

I've played enough TAC scenarios to have a good handle on the game and how it works, so I thought I'd jot down some good points and not so good points about the system. On the whole, the Table Air Combat system is a very neat and elegant representation of air warfare in WW2 and does reflect what I know about the subject.

The game leads you toward real life tactics and, with the focus on fighter elements and bomber formations, it does feel right. It is easy to pick up and play, very inexpensive and looks really good too, with high quality components and a pretty extensive range of aircraft. The downsides are minor and reflect the scope of the system rather than being inherent faults.

If you are looking for a paper version of CY6 or Bag the Hun you will be disappointed, as this isn't a detailed set of aerial warfare rules or a highly sophisticated air combat representation. The initiative rules are a bit clunky and there are no rules for pilot skill or progression, not that you couldn't make them up.

I am impressed by the Table Air Combat concept and have really enjoyed the games that I have played thus far. There's plenty of re-play potential and no shortage of possible scenarios to develop, so I'm looking forward to more aircraft being made available and to trying out the various combinations possible with the aircraft already available.