Double Star (1979) Board Game

Double Star is a science fiction wargame released in 1979 by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW Games). It is designed for two players and has a playing time of 120-600 minutes. The game features grid movement, dice rolling, events, and points mechanics, and is set in a futuristic, space-themed universe.

Game Components of Double Star

Game board featuring a binary star system

Spaceship units

Defense units

Power plants

Asteroids

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

Movement and combat rules

How To Setup Double Star

Setting up Double Star involves placing the game board, which depicts the binary star system with the two stars and their respective planets. Each player sets up their spaceships, defense units, and power plants according to the initial setup rules. The game also requires forming task forces and allocating resources for training or combat.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay System: Simple alternating “I Go, You Go” turns.

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

Combat: Players form task forces into tactical formations (cone, wedge, cylinder, globe), each with its advantages. Asteroids can be flung as kinetic bombs.

Strategy: Players must purchase ships, defense units, and power plants, and allocate limited resources for training or combat.

Objective: Win the war by defeating the opposing colony, taking into account the complex orbital movements of the binary star system.

Player Experience

Double Star is a moderately complex game that offers a rich strategic experience. Players must carefully plan their offensives, considering the time it takes to move ships between the star systems. The game is praised for its simplicity in rules yet depth in gameplay, with reviews highlighting its entertaining and strategic value.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and resource management.

Unique Setting: Set in a binary star system with complex orbital mechanics.

Tactical Formations: Allows players to form various task force formations, adding variety to combat.

Asteroid Kinetic Bombs: Adds an interesting and destructive element to the game.

Cons

Limited Scenarios: Some reviewers felt the game could benefit from more scenarios.

Movement System: Described as trivial by some, which might detract from the overall impact.

Time-Consuming: Games can take a considerable amount of time to play.

Personal Thoughts on Double Star

Double Star is ideal for fans of science fiction and strategic board games. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy complex, thought-provoking gameplay and are willing to invest time in understanding and mastering the game mechanics. While it may not be as polished as some modern games, its unique setting and gameplay elements make it a standout in the science fiction board game genre.

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