Starting your aviation journey with Blood Red Skies is simple. You will need the core box set, which includes 12 plane models, a rulebook, dice, tokens, aircraft cards, and more - all the components needed to play. Additionally, you will want to pick up a few extra plane packs to diversify and strengthen your squadron.

The rules of Blood Red Skies focus on the "Advantage" system, which captures the feel of the daring manoeuvres and critical split-second decisions of aerial combat. Models in an advantaged position can perform a wider range of actions and are harder to shoot down, while disadvantaged aircraft risk being outmanoeuvred and shot down.

The game also uses a dynamic turn system - the player with initiative (determined by the game situation) moves one of their planes, then the opponent does the same, making for a game that is reactive and filled with tension.

Assembling a squadron in Blood Red Skies is a blend of strategy and personal preference. Each player typically controls a squadron of 7-10 aircraft, including a mixture of fighters and bombers, each with its own flight and combat characteristics. You'll also select Ace Pilots, each of which brings unique abilities to your squadron.