Eclipse (1999) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Eclipse is an abstract strategy board game that was released in in 1999. It is designed by Gerardo Iula and Mirko Marchesi, with artwork by Gigamic and Great American Trading Company. The game falls under the category of combinatorial components, featuring wooden pieces and boards. Eclipse is part of the Classic series by Gigamic, known for its two-player only games.

Game Components of Eclipse

Game Board: Modular, consisting of hex tiles that form the galaxy.

Player Boards: Each player has a board for managing resources and actions.

Resource Tokens: Money, Materials, and Science.

Population Cubes: Used to establish influence in sectors.

Ship Miniatures: Customizable ships with various technologies.

Technology Cards: For researching and upgrading.

Hex Tiles: Representing star systems and other galactic areas.

Expansion Packs: Including “Rise of the Ancients,” “Ship Pack One,” and “Shadow of the Rift”.

How To Setup Eclipse

To set up Eclipse, begin by placing the central galaxy tile and each player’s home star tile on the table. Each player selects a civilization and sets up their player board. Resource tokens and population cubes are distributed according to the starting conditions. The hex tile stack is prepared, and the technology cards are shuffled and placed within reach. Players choose their starting actions, and the game is ready to begin[4>.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Explore: Players draw and place hex tiles to expand the galaxy.

Expand: Establish influence over new systems by placing population cubes.

Exploit: Manage resources to build ships, research technologies, and take other actions.

Exterminate: Engage in combat with other players or ancient remnants.

Actions: Players can build, research, influence, move, or upgrade each turn.

Resource Management: Money, Materials, and Science are crucial for actions and upkeep.

Customizable Ships: Upgrade ships with various technologies.

Combat: Resolved using six-sided dice with modifications from ship upgrades.

Player Experience

Eclipse offers a rich and immersive experience, allowing players to lead their interstellar civilization through a series of strategic decisions. The game is known for its high replayability, thanks to the modular board and diverse civilizations, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Players must balance resource management, technological advancements, and military expansion to vie for dominance in the galaxy.

Pros

High Replayability: Modular board and multiple playable civilizations.

Deep Strategy: Combines resource management, technological research, and military strategy.

Customizable Ships: Players can design and upgrade their ships with various technologies.

Multiple Paths to Victory: Players can win through non-combat strategies or aggressive expansion.

Excellent Resource System: Simple yet effective resource management mechanics.

Cons

Luck Factor: Combat and exploration involve random elements that can significantly impact gameplay.

Complex Setup: Initial setup can be time-consuming and complex.

Long Playtime: Games typically last 2-3 hours.

Steep Learning Curve: The rulebook, while clear, can be daunting for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Eclipse

Eclipse is ideal for fans of deep strategy and 4X games who enjoy complex gameplay with high replayability. It is suited for players who appreciate resource management, technological advancement, and customizable ship designs. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking quick, light gameplay, Eclipse offers a satisfying and challenging experience for serious board game enthusiasts. However, it is important to note that the mentioned 1999 “Eclipse” game seems to be a different title, and the information provided here pertains to the 2011 game “Eclipse: New Dawn for the Galaxy.”

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.