Tabletop Spotlight: Twlight Imperium
The game that launched an empire is back – Twilight Imperium Fourth Edition is in stores now! Come check it out on the Tabletop Spotlight.
Twilight Imperium Fourth Edition is out now and waiting for you at your FLGS! Our friends at Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy brought over a copy for us to check out on this Tabletop Spotlight:
If you were lucky enough to grab a copy at GenCon 50 this past year like we do, then you already know that this is an excellent version of the game. Now, we’ve covered this game pretty heavy when this summer. We talked about some of the changes and discussed some of the rules (and where you could check them out already). So we won’t get into all those details again. But, if you’ve never heard of or played Twilight Imperium, we’re going to go over what this game is and why it’s such a cool deal.
Twilight Imperium is a game for 3-6 players (although you could play with more if you had an extra set). I’ve even played a two player game – but it’s better with more players. You take the role of a leader of one of space faring civilizations in the galaxy. The object is simple: Be the first civilization to obtain 10 VPs – or crush everyone under you boot-heel! It’s actually a lot more complicated that it sounds because of the many paths to victory…that and everyone is trying to do the same. Everyone of the 17 unique factions has a different play style and provide their own challenge.
From military power, to political intrigue, to dominating the trade empire, and even over powering others with advanced technology – there are lots of ways to play this game. But what you can’t do is ignore the rest of the Galaxy. This is game that is as much a social game as a board game. You’re going to have to form alliances and makes some enemies if you want to get ahead in Twilight Imperium.
The game board is made up of procedurally placed hex-tiles. Each tile represents vast sections of space – and many contain planets which you can take for resources and expansion. But be warned, not all planets are easy conquests – some are quite dangerous. On top of that, different sectors of space might be just as deadly with different challenges to overcome. Exploration is key if you want to expand your empire.
Each round players will have the chance to select one of eight different roles from the pool – these roles grant strategic benefits throughout the round and also determine the order of play. If you want to be successful, you’re going to have to stay fluid with your strategy and adapt as things can change quickly based on what order the players end up from round-to-round. Oh and don’t forget each player also has their policy and secret objectives they are trying to complete as well.
Twilight Imperium was one of the early successes for Fantasy Flight Games and it’s been a staple for many gaming groups. Fourth Edition has made the game play cleaner and faster than previous editions and yet it still the same exciting and engaging game at it’s core it’s always been. A lot of folks will joke about the length of this game – which can be many hours depending on your group. But the fans of this game will tell you it’s worth it, every time. So pick up your copy and set aside a day with your friends to really play Twilight Imperium!
Twilight Imperium Fourth Edition $149.95
For two decades, Twilight Imperium has thrilled gamers with its grand storytelling and tactical strategy. Now players can explore the next step in the Twilight Imperium Legacy with Twilight Imperium Fourth Edition, an epic game of galactic conquest for three to six players.
Each player takes command of one of seventeen unique civilizations to compete for interstellar supremacy through warfare, trade, uncertain allegiances, and political dominance. Every faction offers a completely different play experience, from the wormhole-hopping Ghosts of Creuss to the Emiratates of Hacan, the masters of trade. All of these races have many paths to victory, but only one will sit upon the throne of Mecatol Rex as the new masters of the galaxy.
…You’re going to want to plan a lunch/dinner break when you play this one. But it’s totally worth it!
