Triplanetary
Triplanetary at your next game night?
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- Designer John Harshman , Marc W. Miller
- Publisher Game Designers' Workshop (GDW Games) , Steve Jackson Games
- Illustration Paul Richard "Rich" Banner , Ben Williams
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 Triplanetary, players command spaceships in the inner Solar System of the 21st century, moving them on a hexagon grid using vector mechanics. Scenarios include racing, piracy, and invasions. Players plot courses with a grease pencil on the map and must manage limited fuel efficiently, using planetary gravity to alter trajectories. The game simulates realistic space travel and combat conditions.
Who Is This Game For?
Triplanetary is aimed at players aged 12 and up interested in sci-fi and tactical wargames. It is a medium complexity game with a playtime of about 45 minutes. Prior experience with strategic and simulation games helps, as the gameplay involves planning and precise movement. It supports 2 to 3 players.
How It Works
The game employs dice rolling, grid movement, and a hexagon grid. Players plan ship courses before each turn using vector-based movement drawn on the map. Fuel limits acceleration to one unit per turn, and planetary gravity affects trajectories. This combination creates a strategic simulation of space travel requiring careful planning.
What Makes It Special
Designed by John Harshman and Marc W. Miller in 1973, Triplanetary is an early example of a space wargame with realistic movement simulation. It belongs to the Traveller Universe series and uses a hexagon grid for movement. While it has no awards, it influenced later sci-fi games and was reissued in 2018 by Steve Jackson Games.
Pro
- Realistic simulation of space travel using vector mechanics
- Use of hexagon grid and grid movement for tactical depth
- Short playtime of about 45 minutes
- Part of the well-known Traveller Universe series
Contra
- Limited to 2-3 players
- Complex mechanics may be challenging for beginners
- No solo mode available
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in the inner Solar System of the 21st century, focusing on planets like Mars and Earth. The map extends out to Jupiter, reflecting a realistic space environment within the Traveller Universe.
Tips for beginners
Take time to understand vector movements and plan your moves carefully to use fuel efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Triplanetary is designed for 2 to 3 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, which is moderate for a wargame.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with tactical board games and an understanding of grid movement and simulations is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Triplanetary stands out for its early use of vector-based movement and realistic spaceflight simulation in the Traveller Universe.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of vector movement, hexagon grid, and simulation mechanics makes Triplanetary unique among space wargames.
Fazit
Triplanetary is a classic sci-fi wargame focusing on space travel simulation and tactical planning. It's recommended for fans of space strategy games who appreciate complex mechanics and realistic movement.
Triplanetary at your next game night?
Add Triplanetary to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Triplanetary to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
