Double Star (1979) – Board Game Guys

Double Star

“Double Star” is a two-player board game designed by Marc Miller and published by Game Designers’ Workshop in 1979. The game simulates interplanetary warfare in a double-star solar system, operating under the belief that warfare between two star systems is possible but expensive and difficult.

Why is Double Star Popular?

“Double Star” is considered a solid science-fiction game that includes all major strategic considerations expected in interstellar warfare. Although it may not be as well-known as other board games, it holds together well and provides a unique and engaging experience for players interested in space warfare and strategy.

Game Components of Double Star

Game board featuring two stars and their respective orbiting planets

Spaceship units

Defense units

Power plants

Asteroids

Task force formation markers (cone, wedge, cylinder, globe)

Movement and combat rulebook

Resource allocation tokens

How To Setup Double Star

To set up Double Star, players first place the game board, which depicts the binary star system with each star having a planet orbiting it. Each player chooses their side, either the Chinese or Arab colony, and sets up their initial spaceships, defense units, and power plants according to the starting conditions outlined in the rulebook. Players then allocate their initial resources for training or combat. The setup phase ensures both players have a balanced start, ready to engage in interplanetary warfare.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Simple alternating “I Go, You Go” system.

Movement: Units use movement points to move one hex or change direction by 60 degrees per point.

Combat: Spaceships form task forces in tactical formations (cone, wedge, cylinder, globe), each with its own advantages. Players can also use asteroids as kinetic bombs.

Resource Management: Players purchase ships, defense units, and power plants, and allocate resources for training or combat.

Objective: The ultimate goal is to eliminate the opposing colony or make it unsustainable through strategic warfare.

Player Experience

Double Star offers a complex yet engaging experience, requiring strategic planning and resource management. Players must carefully plan their offensives and defenses, taking into account the orbital movements of the stars and planets. The game is praised for its unique setup and the variety it offers within the bounds of the conflict it depicts.

Pros

Unique Setting: The game is set in a binary star system, adding a unique twist to traditional space warfare games.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and resource allocation.

Tactical Formations: The ability to form different task force formations adds a layer of complexity and strategy to combat.

Replay Value: Different strategies and outcomes make the game replayable.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be moderately complex, which may deter casual players.

Limited Scenarios: Some reviewers noted a shortage of development time, resulting in a limited number of scenarios.

Learning Curve: Initial spaceship-to-spaceship combats can be slow until players become familiar with the formation system.

Personal Thoughts on Double Star

Double Star is ideal for fans of science fiction and strategy games who enjoy complex, thought-provoking gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the nuances of resource management and tactical formations. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its moderate complexity, it offers a rich and engaging experience for those willing to invest the time to master its mechanics.

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