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Darkover (1979)

ByMichail

Darkover: The Ages of Chaos

Darkover, subtitled “The Ages of Chaos,” is a board game published by Eon Products in 1979, based on the Darkover novels by Marion Zimmer Bradley. The game is designed for 2-4 players and was created by Bill Eberle, Jack Kittredge, and Peter Olotka, who also founded Eon Products. The game is set in the world of Darkover, a series of science fiction-fantasy novels and short stories by Marion Zimmer Bradley.

Game Overview

The game is popular and significant due to its unique blend of strategy and party game elements, as well as its connection to the popular Darkover series. The game has received positive reviews, with John Olsen giving it an overall rating of 9 out of 10 in White Dwarf #18. It has also been included in Games’ “Top 100 Games of 1982”.

Game Components of Darkover

  • 8-page rulebook
  • 10″ x 18″ board divided into regions with towers and castles
  • Four 3-piece matrix screens
  • Four sets of 15 clan tokens numbered 1 to 10 (odd numbers are duplicated)
  • 24 Power discs (eight each of three designs: keeper, starstone, or sword)
  • 36 Peril chips
  • One Monitor
  • One Crown
  • Various geographical areas and tokens (such as swords, fire, fire-watch, snow storm, kite, Ghost wind, Chieri)
  • 26 psychic spells (valued 0 to 3)
  • 24 Plot cards.

    How To Setup Darkover

    To set up the game, players start by writing a dare and placing it in a cup. Tokens are randomly placed on the board. One player is selected as the Monitor, and another as the Crown holder. Each player sets up their 3-piece matrix screen and prepares their clan tokens and Power discs.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Power Collection:** Each turn begins with players filling their Power disc allotment to three, then drawing either two peril chips or two clan tokens.
  • Region Control:** Players conquer regions and gain control of towers using clan tokens and other powers.
  • Combat Resolution:** Combat is resolved through Rock-Paper-Scissors, with the possibility of entering a chanting duel if both players choose “Rock”.
  • Psychic Powers:** Players use psychic spells and other powers to strategize.
  • Game Objective:** The goal is to take control of the central Elhalyn Tower with four clan tokens for an entire turn.

    Player Experience

    **Darkover** blends strategic gameplay with party game elements, making it a unique and engaging experience. Players need to balance their strategic placement of counters with the unpredictable nature of psychic powers and chanting duels. The game requires self-control, as players displaying negative emotions can be penalized. Reviews highlight its excellence, recommending it for those who enjoy unusual games and strategic insight.

    Pros

  • Unique Blend of Mechanics:** Combines strategy and party game elements.
  • High Replayability:** Random placement of tokens and varied player interactions ensure different experiences each game.
  • Social Interaction:** Chanting duels and emotional penalties add a fun, interactive layer.
  • physical Quality:** Impressive game components and board quality.

    Cons

  • Complex Rules:** The game may have a steep learning curve due to its unique mechanics.
  • Emotional Penalty:** Some players may find the emotional penalty system stressful or off-putting.
  • Limited Availability:** As a vintage game, it can be hard to find and may be expensive.

    Personal Thoughts on Darkover

    **Darkover** is perfect for players who enjoy a mix of strategy and social interaction. It’s ideal for those familiar with the Darkover novels or who appreciate unusual and engaging game mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a straightforward strategy game or those who prefer less interactive, emotional involvement. Overall, it’s a great addition for anyone looking to add some unique flair to their game collection.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl