Cosmic Encounter Duel (2020) Board Game

Cosmic Encounter Duel is a two-player adaptation of the popular board game Cosmic Encounter, originally released in in 2020. The game was designed by Frank Brooks, Bill Eberle, Peter Olotka, and Greg Olotka, and published by Fantasy Flight Games in 2020. Known for its strategic depth and player interaction, the original Cosmic Encounter has been a favorite among board gamers for years.

Game Components of Cosmic Encounter Duel

Colorful ships

Alien cards with unique abilities

Envoy cards (aliens from the original game granting powers)

Plan cards (indicating clout)

Tactics markers

Reinforcement cards

Destiny decks (with planets, random events, and refresh effects)

Resource mechanisms tied to planet icons

How To Setup Cosmic Encounter Duel

To set up the game, players each choose an alien species with unique abilities. The game board is prepared with the Destiny decks, which determine the planets to be contested and the events that will occur. Each player starts with a set of ships and cards. The objective is to control at least five planets to become a Certified Civilization.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Head-to-Head Combat: Players engage in duels to control planets.

Alien Abilities: Unique powers from each alien species.

Envoy Powers: Additional abilities from befriended aliens.

Plan Cards and Tactics Markers: Mechanisms for resolving combat.

Destiny Decks: Random events and planet challenges.

Resource Management: Planets provide resources based on their icons.

Game Objective

Control at least five planets to become a Certified Civilization.

Player Experience

Playing Cosmic Encounter Duel can be a clunky and convoluted experience. The game tries to replicate the volatility and unpredictability of the original Cosmic Encounter but fails to capture the essence of the multiplayer dynamics. The gameplay involves complex steps, including selecting ships, revealing Plan cards, and using Tactics markers, which can feel overly mechanical and lacking in the strategic depth and social interaction of the original game.

Pros

Unique Alien Abilities: Each alien species has distinct powers.

Unpredictable Outcomes: Random events and Destiny decks add unpredictability.

Fast-Paced: Games are relatively short, lasting 30-45 minutes.

Cons

Complex and Clunky Mechanics: The resolution process for duels is multi-part and confusing.

Lacks Multiplayer Dynamics: Misses the alliances, negotiations, and metagaming elements of the original.

Over-Processed Rules: Too many ingredients and components make the game feel convoluted.

Artificial Experience: Fails to capture the humanity and soul of Cosmic Encounter.

Personal Thoughts on Cosmic Encounter Duel

Cosmic Encounter Duel is not for fans of the original Cosmic Encounter who cherish the multiplayer experience and strategic depth. It is more suited for those looking for a quick, head-to-head sci-fi strategy game, although it may still disappoint due to its clunky mechanics. The game’s design attempts to simulate the original but ends up feeling like an artificial and less engaging version. If you’re new to the series, you might find some enjoyment in the fast-paced battles, but veterans of Cosmic Encounter will likely find it lacking.

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