Flying Colors
- Players
- 1-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 240 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.0 / 5
- Year
- 2003
About the game
Flying Colors recreates Age of Sail naval combat, from small skirmishes to massive multi-ship fleet battles. A streamlined initiative and command system lets players maneuver fleets realistically without the pre-plotted movement common in other naval wargames. Individually named ships and commanders are rated for size, gunnery, boarding ability, and leadership, adding rich tactical texture. Historical scenarios range from single-map engagements to sprawling three-map battles, and the system supports solitaire play as well.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's editorial team considers Flying Colors one of the more accessible entry points into tactical naval wargaming. The command-and-initiative system genuinely captures the chaos of Age of Sail combat without bogging players down in fiddly plotting. It's a serious time investment, but for wargamers it's a rewarding one.
What we like
- Streamlined command system avoids clunky pre-plotted movement.
- Scales from small skirmishes to huge multi-map fleet battles.
- Individually named ships and commanders add tactical and thematic depth.
- Supports solitaire play in addition to two to four players.
Keep in mind
- Long playtime requires a serious time commitment.
- Steep learning curve for players new to naval wargames.
- Niche historical theme limits broader appeal.
Who it's for
Best suited to wargame enthusiasts and history buffs age 12+ who enjoy tactical naval simulation, playable solo or with up to four players.
