Fifth Frontier War
- Designer John Astell , Frank Chadwick , Marc W. Miller
- Publisher Game Designers' Workshop (GDW Games) , Hobby Japan , IED Co., Ltd. (International Editorial Design）
- Illustration Paul Richard "Rich" Banner , Naoyuki Kato
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Set in the Traveller RPG universe, players engage in a hex-based tactical campaign where moves are pre-planned and executed simultaneously. Combat is resolved using dice rolls and combat results tables, simulating interstellar warfare at the scale of parsecs and weeks. Strategic unit movement on a hex grid and action queues are key to success.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players interested in detailed sci-fi wargames. With a playtime around 360 minutes, it requires patience and prior knowledge of complex simulations and hex movement mechanics.
How It Works
Fifth Frontier War uses Action Queue mechanics where players pre-plan their moves, which are then resolved simultaneously on a hexagon grid. Dice rolling and ratio-based combat results tables determine battle outcomes, adding strategic depth and requiring foresight.
What Makes It Special
Designed by John Astell, Frank Chadwick, and Marc W. Miller, Fifth Frontier War was nominated for the 1981 Charles S. Roberts Best Science-Fiction Board Game award. It is part of the Traveller Universe family and notable for blending complex simulation with tactical gameplay.
Awards
- 1981 Charles S. Roberts Best Science-Fiction Board Game — Nominated
Pro
- Detailed simulation of interstellar warfare
- Combination of Action Queue and Hexagon Grid for tactical depth
- 1981 Charles S. Roberts Award nominee
- Part of the Traveller Universe family
Contra
- Very long playtime (~360 minutes)
- High complexity demands prior experience
- Not suitable for families or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the Traveller universe, focusing on interstellar conflicts in the Spinward Marches sector, featuring alien creatures and large-scale military operations.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time learning the rules and carefully plan your moves to fully leverage the tactical possibilities.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Fifth Frontier War is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not support a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts around 360 minutes, depending on the number of players and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is complex and aimed at experienced players familiar with wargames and simulations.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines Action Queue with hex movement and detailed combat tables within the Traveller universe.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is less suitable for families and casual gamers.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Queue and ratio-based combat results tables adds strategic depth and realism.
Fazit
Recommended for players seeking long, strategic sci-fi wargames with heavy simulation. Less suitable for beginners or short gaming sessions.
