by radsailor
After receiving TSOH more than a year ago in a trade, I have finally gotten around to playing. This review will be brief and refer to Whistling Death as well.The components of TSOH are visually o.k. although the maps are somewhat lame. However, more importantly, the content of the components is outstanding as is the case with W.D. The rulebook is clearly written and easily digestible. Many of the concepts are the same as W.D. The game is introduced in small pieces after which an applicable training scenario is played.
The rationale behind flight rules is explained which makes it much easier to understand. Also, the flight rules are condensed very nicely into a Player Aid. Other groups of rules are also nicely summarized on player aids.
The aircraft data cards are great and meaty. The playbook contains loads of scenarios, many of which are air to ground attacks and other solo friendly scenarios.
There is extremely low counter density which I like.Lots of tension and tough decisions every step of the way.
There is nothing bad to say about TSOH. O.K. lots of errata, but I downloaded the six page errata from BGG so problem solved.
I could not digest Downtown: Airwar over Hanoi or Barbarossa: Kiev to Rostow, but these two heavy weight air conflict games are within my ability to learn, play and enjoy.