Ground of Aces

Ground of Aces is a detailed base-building and management simulation game that plunges players into the command of a remote military air base during the height of World War II. Developed by Blindflug Studios AG, the game blends the strategic depth of base construction with the vital, human element of crew management, all presented in a distinctive, Franco-Belgian bande dessinée (comic book) art style.

Base Construction and Logistics

The core gameplay loop centers on free-form base building. Players begin with a fledgling outpost and must transform the surrounding land into a fully operational Royal Air Force (RAF) station. This involves planning and placing every structure, from barracks and mess halls to workbenches, hangars, and the all-important runways. The type and size of the runway dictates which iconic WWII aircraft—like the Hurricane or Spitfire—can be hosted and maintained.

Early-game progression requires a focus on gathering raw resources like wood, sand, and clay to build initial structures and craft more advanced materials. As the base expands and missions become successful, players can transition to relying on HQ supply lines, allowing them to focus on operational efficiency.

Crew and Morale Management

Beyond physical infrastructure, the most crucial element is the air base crew. Every person, from the pilots and mechanics to the laborers, possesses their own personality and needs. Players must meticulously manage the crew's well-being, energy, confidence, and morale, as these factors directly impact their ability to perform duties and succeed in missions. Setting the daily schedule—Sleep, Leisure, and Work—is vital to maintaining a happy, productive, and combat-ready team.

Air Combat and Missions

The base exists to support the air war. Headquarters regularly radios in new missions, ranging from escort duties to bombing runs. Players must select the most suitable aircraft and pilot, considering the plane's stats and the crew's current condition. Successful missions earn Victory Points and boost base morale, while failures can result in lower morale and the potential loss of valuable aircraft and crew members. The base itself is also vulnerable to enemy air raids, requiring the construction of defenses like anti-aircraft artillery (AAA) to survive.

Ultimately, Ground of Aces offers a rich strategic experience, forcing players to balance the technical demands of a military base with the essential human element of leading a team through one of history's greatest conflicts.