Unlike other naval games set in the Age of Sail, Flying Colors provides a simpler, quick-playing system allowing the recreation of battles including dozens of ships on a side. Focusing on the behavior of each fleet as a whole, rather than dealing with the minutia of shipboard operations accomplishes this. The proper retention of command and control of the fleet once engaged was paramount, as was the issuing of proper orders prior to the battle.

The command system in Flying Colors simulates these factors in a simple, elegant manner by depending upon leaders to keep their commands in order. This system allows the abandoning of the pre-plotted, simultaneous movement systems used in other Age of Sail games. This change allows two players to manage many, many more ships in a fleet in a much shorter period of time. Players can now play large fleet actions, including dozens of ships on a side, in only a few hours.

BATTLES:
• Cape St. Vincent: Where Nelson, as a Commodore, grabbed the initiative and turned the rear of the British line to cut off a retreating Spanish fleet. These actions earned Nelson two prizes and a reputation.
• The Nile: Where Nelson led a sneak attack against an anchored French fleet. Here he traded an arm and eye for the French flagship, and sent a young Napoleon reeling back to France.
• Copenhagen: Where Nelson refused to withdraw and turned defeat into victory. Legend says that upon seeing the signal to withdraw, he placed his telescope to his empty eye and claimed not to see it!
• Trafalgar: Where Nelson traded his life for British naval supremacy. This battle includes over 60 ships!
• Virginia Capes: Where the British lost the American Revolution.
• The Glorious First of June: Where Admiral Richard "Black Dick" Howe returned to victory.

COMPONENTS:
• Three maps
• Four thick counter sheets: The countermix includes 300 individually named ships, each rated for size, number of guns, boarding ability and damage. Nearly three-dozen individual commanders are also included and rated for their abilities to issue and maintain command in battle.
• 16 Page Rule and Scenario Book
• Player Aid Cards
• One 10 sided die

Complexity: Low

Solitaire Suitability: High