Twilight Imperium: Pax Magnifica, Adicere Gloriosum!

May 25th, 2009 Zen Posted in Board Games |

Addiction is glorious. It would seem that a group of strange associates from the Maclab have become infatuated with my newest board game. It got me thinking yesterday: what is it about this game that attracts the nerdy?

The game’s mechanics are elegant, but slow. A single game takes upwards of 6 hours, which is enough to turn most new players off. The action on the game board happens at a snail’s pace. The abilities afforded to each race keep the game in balance, but often can stunt the most awesome moments - when in the hands of certain players.

Yet, somehow, the game remains entertaining for the entire 6+ hours of gameplay, and will linger in your brain for months afterwards. I have made a small list of important points that make this game so great.

• It’s set in space. With spaceships.
• Each player has 116 little plastic ships to muck around with.
• The board is modular, allowing for a different tactical play style each game.
• Each player will have one thing they are the best at: Warfare, Economics, Politics, Technology, Diplomacy and so on.
• Player interactions are fluid - trade agreements break, objectives may cause war and a joint strike might be required.
• Player skill with negotiation matters. One might employ reason, threats, lies and bribery to achieve objectives.

I’m sure I could go on, but I’ll keep this post concise. If you’re a fan of space and explosions, I’d definitely pick up a copy of Twilight Imperium. I know several more people who are thinking about it. I think this will become a regular game within the Maclab.