The Fast Carriers: Air-Sea Operations, 1941-77 (1975)

About this game

Fast Carriers is SPI's simulation of WWII carrier warfare and it's impact on combat tactics in the pacific. Simple sea/island maps with large hexes are used to position task forces and flight sorties. A place mat for each active carrier is used to track carrier operations. All individual combat planes and ships are represented with search planes abstracted. Tactical air to ship combat is played out on a tactical hex based all sea map with individual plane altitude, angle of attack, and multiple waves of aircraft represented. 800 counters

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 3.4/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.