Imperium: Empires in Conflict – Worlds in the Balance
- Designer Marc W. Miller
- Publisher Conflict Games , Game Designers' Workshop (GDW Games) , Äventyrsspel , Fanpro , Fantasy Productions, Inc.
- Illustration Alan M. Clark , Stephen Fabian , Naoyuki Kato , Radley Masinelli
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players command either Earth (Terra) or the alien Ziru Sirka Empire in an asymmetric space conflict set in the 22nd century. The game features starships and ground forces moving across a hex grid. Combat is resolved via dice rolls and a ratio-based combat results table. Different weapon types, like short-range beams and long-range missiles, influence tactics.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced players who enjoy complex wargames with long playtimes. It is an expert-level game with an estimated duration of 300 minutes and requires familiarity with military strategy games and asymmetrical rules.
How It Works
Players move fleets and ground units across a hex grid by 'jumping' from star to star. Conflicts are resolved using dice rolls combined with a ratio combat results table. The game includes events that affect gameplay. The asymmetrical forces and economies of the two sides demand strategic planning and adaptation throughout the game.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Marc W. Miller, a key figure in sci-fi wargames, Imperium is part of the Traveller universe. It stands out due to its strongly asymmetric factions and the mix of hex grid and point-to-point movement. Though it has no formal awards, it remains a classic for two-player sci-fi wargames.
Pro
- Asymmetric factions with unique economies and combat systems
- Detailed simulation of space and ground forces
- Complex strategic decisions on a hex grid
- Part of the well-known Traveller sci-fi setting
Contra
- Very long playtime (~300 minutes)
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- Strictly a two-player game
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the 22nd century Milky Way galaxy, the game depicts conflict between Earth and a vast alien empire within the Traveller RPG universe.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the asymmetric rules and combat tables before playing.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The game is designed exclusively for two players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 300 minutes, plus setup time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and asymmetric conflicts is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Imperium features strongly asymmetric sides and combines hex grid with point-to-point movement, setting it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it's not suitable for family play with younger players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of hex grid movement, ratio combat results table, and asymmetric factions defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Imperium is a demanding strategy game for two players who appreciate long, tactical space battles. Its complexity and duration require patience and prior experience. It's recommended for fans of asymmetric sci-fi wargames.
