Richthofen’s War: The Air War 1916-1918

About this board game

Richthofen’s War: The Air War 1916-1918 is a World War I air-combat game for 1-6 players, with a playing time of about 60 minutes. Each player takes complete control of one airplane and attempts to outmaneuver an opponent while pursuing victory on the way to becoming an ace.

Players can choose from seven different scenarios, including the solo-recommended Balloon Busting scenario, or create their own situations using the information in the Instructions and Briefing Manual. The game recreates aerial encounters involving aircraft that fought over France during World War I, including the aircraft associated with Baron von Richthofen and Captain Roy Brown.

Every aircraft has its own combination of operational ceiling, rate of climb, diving speed, firepower, and armament. With more than 32 aircraft types available, Richthofen’s War offers over 1,200 possible combinations of opposing aircraft, giving players many matchups to explore.

• Seven scenarios, plus the option to create custom situations
• More than 32 aircraft types to choose from
• Over 1,200 possible opposing-aircraft combinations
• 192 counters, including 7 blank counters
• Basic, Tournament, and Optional Games

The Basic Instructions are designed to let players begin quickly, while the Tournament and Optional Games provide additional ways to play after learning the fundamentals. The game can be played by almost anyone at the Basic Game level, and little time is required to advance.

Released in 1972, Richthofen’s War focuses on direct aerial maneuvering and the distinct capabilities of individual aircraft. It was expanded by Richthofen’s War Maneuver Cards.