A worn book cover with the title "Dark Nebula" in red uppercase letters at the top, featuring a dark silhouette of a spaceship against a starry space background with a ghostly nebula, and the initials "GDW" in red at the bottom.
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Dark Nebula (1980)

ByMichail

Dark Nebula

Dark Nebula is a two-player science fiction board wargame published by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW) in 1980. It is the seventh Traveller board game published by GDW and was part of a series produced by GDW called “Series 120” — games with 120 pieces that were designed to be learned and played in 120 minutes. The game is set in a future with interstellar travel and powerful weaponry, and eight astrographic maps provide the playing area. The names of the opposing forces, the Solomani Confederation and the Aslan Hierate, are taken from GDW’s Traveller science fiction role-playing game.

Why is Dark Nebula Popular?

Dark Nebula is considered a classic board game and is well-regarded by players and critics alike. It is known for its fast-paced gameplay, strategic depth, and well-balanced mechanics. The game is also significant for its connection to the Traveller science fiction universe, which has a dedicated fan base.

Game Components of Dark Nebula

8 small map-boards representing sectors of about six or so star systems. 120 playing pieces. Rulebook.

Game Setup of Dark Nebula

The boards are placed randomly at the start of the game by both players. Each player chooses a side, either the Solomani Confederation or the Aslan Hierate. The playing pieces are then set up according to the rules.

Gameplay Mechanics of Dark Nebula

Dark Nebula is a strategic game about space combat which is based on the previously published Imperium board game. Players take turns moving their pieces and engaging in combat with the opposing player’s pieces. The game features a variety of different ship types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must balance offense and defense, as well as resource management, in order to achieve victory.

Game Objective of Dark Nebula

The objective of the game is to destroy the opposing player’s fleet and capture their home planet.

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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