Star Explorer (1982) – Board Game Guys

Star Explorer

“Star Explorer” is a science fiction-themed board game published by Fantasy Games Unlimited in 1982. Designed by Dr. Leonard Kanterman (M.D.) and Douglas Bonforte, the game was initially released in 1977 as a supplement for Kanterman’s 1976 science fiction role-playing game, “Starships & Spacemen”. The game has gained popularity over the years and is now available for purchase online.

Why is Star Explorer Popular?

“Star Explorer” is a popular game for several reasons:
– It is set in a science fiction universe, which appeals to fans of the genre.
– The game combines exploration and encounter elements, making it engaging and exciting for players.
– It has a strong connection to the “Starships & Spacemen” role-playing game, which adds to its appeal for fans of that game.

Game Components of Star Explorer

16” x 20” game board

Sheet of paper counters representing crew teams, ships, hazards, and planets

Ship logsheet, command logsheet, and planetary logsheet (to be photocopied)

20-page rulebook

Two six-sided dice, a ten-sided die, and a twenty-sided die

How To Setup Star Explorer

To set up the game, each player receives a randomly allocated planet and a random mission to begin. Players then use a pool of points to design their starship and allocate crew members. This setup phase is crucial as it determines the initial capabilities and objectives of each player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Movement and Actions: Players can move their ships, perform planetary actions, or engage in combat with hostile aliens.

Planetary Actions: When a ship arrives at a new planet, the type of planet is randomly determined. Players send crew teams to encounter various challenges, resolved by die rolls with modifiers.

Combat and Encounters: Encounters are resolved through die rolls, with victory points and team losses determined accordingly.

Victory Points: Points are earned from successful encounters and missions.

Game Objective

The objective is to accumulate the most victory points within twenty turns.

Player Experience

**Star Explorer** offers a dynamic experience of space exploration and strategic decision-making. Players must balance resource allocation, crew management, and risk-taking to succeed. The game is praised for its smooth and swift gameplay, although it is heavily reliant on dice rolls and table consultations.

Pros

Well-constructed and balanced: The game is designed to prevent any single strategy from dominating.

Immensely playable: Smooth and swift gameplay that rarely gets bogged down.

Good for solitaire play: While it can be enjoyed with multiple players, it is particularly suited for solo play.

Cons

Dice-heavy mechanics: All encounters are resolved by consulting tables and rolling dice, which may not appeal to everyone.

Lackluster artwork: The game’s artwork is described as “rather unimaginative” and “leaves much to be desired.”

Overpriced at release: Criticized for being grossly overpriced at the time of its release.

Personal Thoughts on Star Explorer

**Star Explorer** is ideal for fans of science fiction and space exploration games, particularly those who enjoy strategic planning and dice-based mechanics. While it has its flaws, such as the reliance on dice rolls and subpar artwork, the game’s balanced design and smooth gameplay make it an engaging experience. It is especially recommended for solo players looking for a challenging and immersive game.

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