Eclipse: New Dawn for the Galaxy
- Designer Touko Tahkokallio
- Publisher Lautapelit.fi , Asterion Press , Korea Boardgames , Rebel Sp. z o.o. , Ystari Games
- Illustration Ossi Hiekkala , Sampo Sikiö
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command an interstellar civilization competing through exploration, research and warfare. According to the unsere Datenbank description, you explore new star systems, research technologies and build ships to wage war while diplomatic tensions rise among major species. The game mixes space exploration and combat on a modular hex board and offers multiple paths to victory based on your faction's strengths.
Who Is This Game For?
Eclipse is aimed at experienced gamers and strategy fans; minimum age 14 and a listed playtime of 180 minutes makes it an evening-length, in-depth experience. You should be comfortable with longer sessions and learning a moderately complex rule set. It's less suited to casual family groups looking for quick games.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Modular Board, Hexagon Grid and Dice Rolling: the board is assembled modularly, movement and positioning happen on a hex grid, and combat resolution involves dice. Map Addition and Grid Movement describe how new systems enter play and how ships traverse the map. You balance exploration, tech development and territorial conflict to pursue victory.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Touko Tahkokallio and first released in 2011, Eclipse blends Civilization-style development with Wargame combat in a space setting. It received multiple 2011 recognitions, including wins and finalists for 'Jocul Anului în România' and a Charles S. Roberts Award nomination. The modular hex map plus strategic depth distinguishes it from simpler area-control titles.
Awards
- 2011 Charles S. Roberts Best Science-Fiction or Fantasy Board Wargame — Nominated
- 2011 Jocul Anului în România Advanced — Winner
- 2011 Jocul Anului în România — Winner
- 2011 Jogo do Ano — Nominated
Pro
- Rich blend of exploration, research and combat (Space Exploration, Wargame, Fighting).
- Modular hex board increases variability between plays (Modular Board, Map Addition).
- Deep strategic options for experienced players (Strategy/Civilization elements).
- Multiple 2011 award recognitions signal early critical attention.
Contra
- Long playtime (180 minutes) demands a time commitment.
- Higher complexity and learning curve than casual games.
- Scale and scope may feel heavy at lower player counts.
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a galaxy where old alliances are breaking and major species vie for dominance, the theme centers on interstellar exploration, diplomacy and military expansion after a long period of uneasy peace.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Allocate a full session for the first play and learn the basic interplay of exploration and research before diving into advanced tactics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. The listed player count is 2–6; a solo mode is not indicated in the provided data.
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is 180 minutes; allow extra time for setup and the first learning games.
What prior experience do I need?
Prior experience with medium- to heavy-weight strategy games is helpful; Eclipse targets seasoned players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Eclipse combines Civilization-style development with wargame combat on a modular hex map, making it more complex and layered than basic area-control titles.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 14 and significant complexity, it's generally not a family pick for younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The modular hexagon grid combined with Map Addition and Dice Rolling shapes a dynamic mix of exploration and tactical combat.
Fazit
Eclipse is a solid pick for players seeking a deep, evening-length sci‑fi strategy. If you prefer short sessions or minimal setup, consider lighter alternatives.
