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Parsec: Age of Colonies (2016) Board Game

ByMichail

Brief History and Background Information for Parsec: Age of Colonies

Parsec: Age of Colonies is a board game released in 2016, designed by Giangiacomo Borghese and Ranieri Panchetti. It falls under the categories of Economic, Science Fiction, Space Exploration, Territory Building, and Wargame. The game is set in a distant future where players take on the roles of powerful corporations competing to colonize new planets and expand their influence in the galaxy.

Game Components of Parsec: Age of Colonies

  • Hexagon grid modular board
  • Campaign and battle card decks
  • Dice for rolling
  • Player tokens representing corporations
  • Resource tokens

How To Setup Parsec: Age of Colonies

  • Set up the modular board by placing hexagon tiles to create different planets.
  • Shuffle and deal campaign and battle card decks to each player.
  • Place player tokens on designated starting spaces.
  • Distribute resource tokens to players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns expanding their influence on planets by deploying units, playing cards, and rolling dice to resolve conflicts. The objective is to control the most territories and accumulate the most resources by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

  • Engaging theme of space exploration and colonization
  • Strategic gameplay with multiple paths to victory
  • Variable player powers add replayability

Cons:

  • Lengthy playtime, especially with more players
  • Some luck involved with dice rolling
  • Steep learning curve for new players

Personal Thoughts on Parsec: Age of Colonies

Parsec: Age of Colonies offers a deep and immersive experience for players who enjoy strategic wargames set in a sci-fi universe. The game’s build quality is solid, with detailed artwork and thematic components. However, the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity and lengthy playtime.

In terms of pricing and availability, Parsec: Age of Colonies can be found online at various retailers, both new and used. For fans of space exploration and territory building games, Parsec: Age of Colonies is worth the investment. However, those looking for a more casual gaming experience may want to consider other alternatives. Overall, Parsec: Age of Colonies is a game that caters to a specific audience and provides a rewarding challenge for those willing to dive into its deep gameplay mechanics.

Game Components of Parsec: Age of Colonies

  • 46 colored pawns** for each player
  • 2 dice**
  • 4 event counters**
  • 6 table modules**
  • 35 Event cards**
  • 60 Resource cards**
  • 4 Faction cards**

    How To Setup Parsec: Age of Colonies

    Setting up the game involves arranging the table modules to form the game board, distributing the necessary cards and components to each player, and determining the starting positions. The game can be played with one, two, or three playsets, depending on the number of players. For example, to play with 4 players, you need two playsets, and for 6 players, you need all three sets.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Resource Management:** Players must manage resources effectively.
  • Space Combat:** Combat is resolved using dice rolls and cards.
  • Trading:** Players can trade with each other.
  • Game Objective:**
    – Destroy all enemy fleets.
    – Control the galaxy’s economic system.
    – Colonize the most planets.

    Player Experience

    Parsec: Age of Colonies offers a dynamic gameplay experience with high replay value. Players must find the right balance between attacking, defending, and managing resources. The game’s simplistic interface makes it easy to learn but hard to master, as every move impacts the overall strategy and power dynamics.

    Pros

  • Dynamic Gameplay:** Provides a unique experience each time.
  • High Replay Value:** Numerous possible moves and strategies.
  • Easy to Learn:** Simple interface despite complex gameplay.
  • Flexible Player Count:** Can be played with 2-6 players.

    Cons

  • Expensive:** Requires multiple playsets for more players, increasing the overall cost.
  • Complex Setup:** Setting up the game with multiple playsets can be cumbersome.
  • Lack of Stretch Goals:** During the Kickstarter campaign, the absence of stretch goals was noted as a drawback.

    Personal Thoughts on Parsec: Age of Colonies

    Parsec: Age of Colonies is ideal for fans of sci-fi and 4x games who are looking for a challenging yet engaging experience. It is particularly appealing to those who enjoy strategic gameplay and are willing to invest time in mastering the game’s mechanics. While it may be more expensive due to the need for multiple playsets for larger player counts, the game’s depth and replay value make it a worthwhile investment for serious board game enthusiasts.

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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

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