Box cover of "Star Trek II Starship Combat Simulator" featuring illustrations of various Star Trek spacecraft engaged in battle, with white energy beams radiating from a central explosion, and text indicating it is a game for 2 or more players, ages 12 and up, with the FASA logo in the corner.
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Star Trek: Starship Tactical Combat Simulator (1983)

ByMichail

Star Trek II: Starship Combat Simulator

Star Trek II: Starship Combat Simulator is a board game published by FASA in 1984. It is a starship combat simulation that includes the Basic, Advanced, and Expert Starship Tactics games, as well as a role-playing system called “Command & Control”. The game is set in the Star Trek universe and allows players to command starships and engage in tactical space combat.

Why is Star Trek II: Starship Combat Simulator Popular?

The game became a favorite in some gaming groups, and it is considered an easy-to-learn combat game. It is also significant because it is one of the earliest Star Trek board games and was published during a time when the franchise was experiencing a resurgence in popularity.

Game Components of Star Trek: Starship Tactical Combat Simulator

  • Game Board: A large map of hexagonal grids representing space.
  • Counters: Cardboard chits or die-cast miniatures of Star Trek ships.
  • Ten-sided Dice: Used for resolving combat and other game mechanics.
  • Ship Recognition Manuals: Detailing ship stats, weaponry, defenses, and engine power.
  • Construction Manual: For creating and customizing ships.
  • Record Sheets: For tracking ship status and energy allocation.
  • Master Control Panels: For players to manage their ship’s systems.

    How To Setup Star Trek: Starship Tactical Combat Simulator

    To set up the game, players start by preparing the game board with the hexagonal grid. Each player selects their ship, represented by a counter or miniature, and places it on the board. Players then receive record sheets and Master Control Panels to manage their ship’s systems and energy allocation. The game includes various manuals and counters that need to be organized and distributed among the players. Once all components are in place, players can begin the game by allocating energy to their ship’s systems and preparing for combat.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Energy Allocation: Players allocate energy to different ship systems such as engines, shields, and weapons.
  • Dice Rolls: Ten-sided dice are used to determine the outcomes of actions and combat.
  • Ship Combat: Players engage in tactical combat, using the hexagonal grid to move and position their ships.
  • Multiple Players: Each player can take on the role of a different crew member, managing different aspects of the ship.
  • Scalability: The game can simulate battles between single ships or larger fleets.
  • Game Objective: The objective is to defeat the opposing ship or fleet by managing resources and executing strategic combat maneuvers.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Star Trek: Starship Tactical Combat Simulator** offers a highly immersive experience, especially for fans of the Star Trek universe. The game allows multiple players to participate by taking on different roles within the crew, enhancing teamwork and strategy. The use of detailed miniatures and the hexagonal grid adds a tactile and visually engaging element to the game. However, the game’s complexity and the need for detailed setup can be daunting for new players.

    Pros

  • Immersive Star Trek Experience: The game stays true to the Star Trek universe, making it a delight for fans.
  • Deep Strategy: Offers enough depth to keep strategy-minded players engaged.
  • Multiplayer Interaction: Allows multiple players to participate as different crew members.
  • Scalability: Can handle single ship duels or larger fleet battles.
  • Detailed Miniatures: The die-cast miniatures are highly detailed and appealing to collectors.

    Cons

  • Complex Setup: The game requires a significant amount of time to set up and prepare.
  • Limited Tactical Options: Compared to other games like **Star Fleet Battles**, it has fewer tactical options such as tractors, transporters, and shuttle operations.
  • Difficulty in Assembling Miniatures: The miniatures, made from tin/lead, were challenging to assemble and glue together.

    Personal Thoughts on Star Trek: Starship Tactical Combat Simulator

    **Star Trek: Starship Tactical Combat Simulator** is ideal for fans of the Star Trek universe who enjoy strategic gameplay and tactical combat. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate the detail and depth that come with managing a starship’s systems and resources. While it may not be as complex as some modern games, its classic appeal and faithfulness to the Star Trek canon make it a cherished game for many. However, it may not be the best fit for players looking for quick, simple gameplay or those who prefer games with more varied tactical options.

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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