The Company War
The Company War at your next game night?
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- Designer Bill Fawcett , James D. Griffin
- Publisher Mayfair Games
- Illustration David B. Bromley , Gerald O'Malley , Janny Wurts
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
Players command starships moving between jump points on a map of explored space, resolving conflicts either strategically or through optional tactical hex-and-counter combat. Victory depends on delivering supplies or destroying enemies. The mix of strategic point-to-point movement and tactical battles offers layered decision-making.
Who Is This Game For?
This game suits experienced players who enjoy complex sci-fi wargames. Designed for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up, it takes about 180 minutes. Prior experience with tactical or strategic wargames is recommended to handle the optional combat system effectively.
How It Works
The core mechanic is Point to Point Movement, where ships travel between fixed jump points on the map. Conflicts can be resolved at a strategic level or via an optional tactical hex-based combat system. Players aim to transport supplies and eliminate enemy units to score victory points.
What Makes It Special
Based on C. J. Cherryh's Hugo-winning novel Downbelow Station, The Company War combines wargame mechanics with a narrative sci-fi setting. The blend of strategic and tactical combat, designed by Bill Fawcett and James D. Griffin in 1983, distinguishes it in its genre.
Pro
- Strategic depth through Point to Point Movement
- Optional tactical hex-based combat
- Science fiction setting based on a novel
- Supports 2–4 players with extended playtime
Contra
- High complexity and long duration (~180 minutes)
- No solo mode available
- Requires prior wargame experience
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in the explored space of C. J. Cherryh's 1982 novel Downbelow Station, featuring star systems connected by jump points.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on strategic movement and learn the map before engaging the tactical combat rules.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, The Company War is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 180 minutes; plan enough time for complex moves and battles.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and tactical board games helps to fully enjoy the game.
How does this compare to similar games?
The Company War combines strategic point-to-point movement with optional tactical hex combat in a novel-based sci-fi setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is more suitable for experienced players than for families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Point to Point Movement and optional tactical hex combat is central to the experience.
Fazit
Recommended for fans of complex sci-fi wargames with long playtimes and strategic-tactical depth. Players with patience and wargame experience will find a rewarding challenge.
The Company War at your next game night?
Add The Company War to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add The Company War to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
