The Sword and the Stars
- Designer Eric Lee Smith
- Publisher SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration John W. Pierard , Redmond Aksel Simonsen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players control interstellar empires on a map depicting about a quarter of a spiral galaxy. Each round represents 20 years, during which players conduct conquests, raids, trade, and diplomacy. Stargates allow attacks on any star system without range limits. The game spans campaigns up to 1000 years, with a Galactic Security Council enabling political scheming and voting among players.
Who Is This Game For?
This expert-level game is aimed at experienced players who enjoy long, strategic games with complex mechanics. With a duration of around 240 minutes and a solo mode included, it suits both groups and solo players interested in grand sci-fi war games.
How It Works
Players spend Action Points to manage expansion, defense, and diplomacy. The Voting mechanic in the Galactic Security Council lets players influence galactic politics collectively. The game abstracts technology and economics while simulating large-scale campaigns, with cards and a star system map offering diverse strategic choices.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Eric Lee Smith, The Sword and the Stars (1981) merges complex strategy with sci-fi themes. It builds on the system of Empires of the Middle Ages and features unique Voting mechanics within the Galactic Security Council. Its Stargate system enables unrestricted interstellar operations.
Pro
- Large detailed galaxy map with 42 star systems
- Integrated political mechanics via Galactic Security Council
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Strategic depth through Action Points and Voting
Contra
- Very long playtime around 240 minutes
- High complexity, not suited for beginners
- Recommended age 12+, but better for experienced players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a future where interstellar empires vie for dominance over a quarter of a spiral galaxy, it blends economics, politics, and warfare within a science fiction universe.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the mechanics and plan long-term strategies to handle the complex gameplay.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, The Sword and the Stars includes a solo mode and supports 1 to 5 players.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay lasts about 240 minutes, making it an extended session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is complex and designed for experienced strategy players.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines Empires of the Middle Ages' system with sci-fi themes and unique voting mechanics in the Galactic Security Council.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Points for actions and Voting in the Galactic Security Council stands out.
Fazit
The Sword and the Stars is a deep strategy game for experienced players who enjoy epic science fiction and long campaigns. Recommended if you seek extensive strategic challenges.
