Finished up “The Hardest Days” scenario. Lots of fun.

Like many solitaire games, RAF is process oriented. The turn sequence mechanics are the crux of the game, with player decisions taking far less time than in a typical multi-player game.

The obvious reasons are the low counter density, and the player’s active involvement with counter movement is limited to the RAF. Another reason is that many of the mechanics are card driven, without the usual wristage.

The lessons learned during this play through were to take full advantage of the ability of adjacent sectors to patrol in those sectors most threatened, that at least once a day you just have to take a beating, and use everything you can on the last raid of the day.

Squadrons in adjacent sectors can augment patrols. This is a far better use of these assets than waiting for a favorable warning situation which allows the employment of adjacent squadrons in the target sector,.

With followup raids and limited time advances, the RAF will have at least one turn when most of its assets are either landing or rearming. Sending up a single squadron to contest a raid is suicide, so it is best to just sit back, get bombed, and wait until your grounded aircraft become operational.

By the 1800 turn (last of the day), the Luftwaffe has few assets remaining. This can be especially true for fighters. That last raid may comprise only a couple of escorts. If the RAF commander places all of his available assets on patrol, the chances are that he can achieve air superiority for that interception and really do some damage to the bombers. This tactic is so effective that there is actually a rule limiting the number of patrolling squadrons for the 1800 turn.

My game ended in a draw. I might just try the campaign scenario which adds several layers of chrome. Why not?