Godsfire
Godsfire at your next game night?
Add Godsfire to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Lynn Willis
- Publisher Metagaming , Task Force Games
- Illustration R. Vance Buck , Allen D. Eldridge , Robert E. Manns , Ben Ostrander , Kenneth Rahman , Rick Sternbach
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Godsfire, players manage interstellar empires through politics, production, and warfare. The game features three-dimensional movement via multi-level hex grids, allowing complex spatial strategies. With up to 15 players, negotiation and diplomacy play key roles as you expand your influence across multiple maps. The gameplay blends economic management with tactical combat and political maneuvering.
Who Is This Game For?
Godsfire targets experienced strategy and wargame players who enjoy deep 4X mechanics and long sessions of about 300 minutes. It demands patience and prior familiarity with complex rules. Casual players may find the complexity and length challenging. Social interaction and negotiation skills enhance the experience.
How It Works
The core mechanics include dice rolling, grid movement on hex maps, and movement points to control unit actions. Multiple map levels simulate three-dimensional space movement. Players negotiate, build economies, and deploy military forces to expand their empires. The inclusion of up to 15 players makes diplomacy and alliance-building crucial.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Lynn Willis, Godsfire introduced a novel 3D hex movement system later seen in Holy War. Originally published by Metagaming in 1976 and reissued by Task Force Games in 1985, it supports an unusually high player count for its genre and era, combining 4X gameplay with economic and political depth.
Pro
- Innovative three-dimensional hex movement
- Supports up to 15 players
- Combines economy, politics, and warfare
- Deep 4X strategic gameplay
Contra
- Very long playtime (~300 minutes)
- High complexity for casual gamers
- Requires patience and prior experience
Setting & atmosphere
Set in a science-fiction universe, Godsfire lets players develop planetary empires, managing economics, politics, and warfare across interstellar space represented by layered hex maps.
Tips for beginners
Take time to learn the 4X mechanics and 3D map movement before playing with many players.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Godsfire is designed for 2 to 15 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 300 minutes, including setup and explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy and 4X games is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Godsfire’s 3D hex movement, later used in Holy War, and its large player capacity set it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and lengthy playtime, it’s less suitable for families with younger players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of 4X gameplay with three-dimensional hex movement and negotiation stands out.
Fazit
Godsfire is a demanding space strategy game ideal for seasoned players who appreciate long, intricate sessions with heavy interaction. Beginners may find it overwhelming.
Godsfire at your next game night?
Add Godsfire to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Godsfire to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
