Objective of the Game
Eclipse − New Dawn for the Galaxy is an epic strategy board game where you control an interstellar civilization expanding its influence across the galaxy. The main objective is to have the most victory points at the end of the game, earned through exploration, colonization, research, combat, and technological advancement.
Setup
- Each player selects a faction (either a human or alien civilization) and receives the corresponding player board.
- Place the central hex tile (galaxy center) in the middle of the table.
- Build the galaxy grid around the center according to the rules for the number of players.
- Each player receives their starting ships, a set of action discs, resource cubes, influence markers, and the standard starting set of technologies.
- Determine the starting player and set up the game board according to the rulebook with observation and technology development tracks.
Gameplay
The game is played over eight rounds, each consisting of several phases:
- Actions: Players take turns performing an action or passing. Possible actions include:
- Explore: Discovering new areas and potentially colonizing them.
- Build: Constructing new ships or space stations using gathered resources.
- Research: Acquiring new technologies to enhance faction efficiencies and combat strength.
- Move: Shifting ships to traverse systems or engage enemy units.
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Influence: Placing or removing influence markers on the board to gain or relinquish control over systems.
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Combat Phase: Triggered when a player's ships challenge another's in a system. Combat is dice-based, with technologies and ship design playing a crucial role.
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Upkeep Phase: Players harvest resources based on controlled systems and invest these into developing their civilization, adjusting their economic track, which influences action potential in the next round.
Strategic Depth
- Technological Advancement: Diversified technologies allow specialization (e.g., stronger weapons, better defense, or more efficient economy).
- Resource Management: Efficient management of resources (gold, material, and science) is key to success.
- Player Interaction: Both diplomacy and direct conflict can be advantageous.
- Turn Order: Due to the turn-based structure, optimal timing can significantly impact gameplay.
End and Scoring
The game ends after eight rounds. Players tally victory points from: - Constructions and technologies - Controlled sectors - Conquests and gained achievements - Special abilities of the chosen faction The player with the most victory points wins.
Eclipse − New Dawn for the Galaxy offers deep strategic gameplay through exploring the galaxy, optimizing resources, and engaging with other players. Its modular galaxy and variety of technologies contribute to high replayability, challenging players to constantly adapt and refine their strategies.
