Shooting Stars: A Tactical Game of Fighter Combat in Space (1980)

Shooting Stars

Shooting Stars is a board game published by Yaquinto Publications in 1980. It is a tactical game of fighter combat in space where players use the familiar Yaquinto shields to adjust their ship’s speed and direction. The game is significant because it was one of the first board games to use hidden movement as an optional rule.

Game Components of Shooting Stars: A Tactical Game of Fighter Combat in Space

Game board featuring a hexagon grid

Space fighter miniatures or counters

Scenario cards (e.g., U.S.-Soviet Space War, Asteroid Pirates)

Rulebook

Action point tokens

Vector-based movement components

How To Setup Shooting Stars: A Tactical Game of Fighter Combat in Space

Setup involves laying out the game board, which features a hexagon grid representing space. Players choose their space fighters and place them on the board according to the scenario being played. Each player receives a set of action point tokens and any specific mission objectives or rules for the chosen scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The primary goal is to engage and destroy enemy space fighters while protecting your own.

Action Points: Players use action points to maneuver, attack, and defend their fighters.

Hexagon Grid: Movement and combat are resolved on a hexagon grid, providing a tactical layout for battles.

Simultaneous Action Selection: Players select their actions simultaneously, adding a layer of strategy and unpredictability.

Player Experience

The game offers a unique blend of tactical combat and strategic planning. Players must carefully manage their action points to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s themes range from futuristic space wars to encounters with asteroid pirates, providing a variety of scenarios to keep gameplay interesting.

Pros

Tactical Depth: The game’s use of action points and a hexagon grid provides a robust tactical system.

Variety of Scenarios: Multiple scenarios offer different challenges and play experiences.

Simple yet Effective Mechanics: The system is relatively simple to learn but offers depth in gameplay.

Cons

Component Quality: Some reviews have criticized the game for its component quality, particularly considering the price at the time of release.

Mixed Reception: Reviews have been mixed, with some critics finding the game lacking in certain aspects, such as rules and overall polish.

Harsh Initial Reviews: Notable critics like Eric Goldberg initially found the game to be an “insult to the intelligence of any purchaser,” though he later softened his stance.

Personal Thoughts on Shooting Stars: A Tactical Game of Fighter Combat in Space

**Shooting Stars** is best suited for fans of tactical wargames and science fiction enthusiasts who enjoy space-themed combat. Despite mixed reviews and some criticisms about component quality, the game offers a unique and engaging experience for those who enjoy strategic space battles. It may appeal more to nostalgic players who remember it from the 1980s or to collectors of vintage board games.

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