Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy is an epic science-fiction strategy board game that puts players in the roles of leaders of galactic civilizations competing for dominance in space. It is a redesigned and enhanced edition of the original Eclipse, combining exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination—the well-known 4X gameplay concept.
Players control distinct spacefaring civilizations, each with unique abilities. The goal is to explore the galaxy, colonize planets, research technologies, build starships, and fight for control over sectors. The game is set in a futuristic universe filled with ancient beings (Ancients), mysterious technologies, and unpredictable conflicts.
The game unfolds over multiple phases repeated across 8 rounds. Players choose from various actions such as exploring new sectors, upgrading ships, building structures, moving fleets, influencing sectors, and researching technologies. Each action requires the use of influence discs, which limits the number of actions a player can take.
When ships from different players (or neutral forces) meet in the same sector, combat is triggered. Battles are resolved based on ship initiative, with dice rolls determined by the weapons equipped on each ship. Combat is tactical and rewards careful planning.
At the end of each round, players pay maintenance costs for their civilization, generate resources (materials and science) based on controlled planets, and prepare for the next round.
What’s new in
Second Dawn for the Galaxy?
This edition is a refined and upgraded version of the original Eclipse (first released in 2011), and includes:
- Updated graphic design while preserving the iconic visual language of the original
- A full set of miniature ships from the Ship Pack 1 expansion
- New miniatures for Ancients, GCDS, orbital stations, and more
- Custom plastic inserts for efficient component organization
- Special combat dice
- Carefully rebalanced gameplay mechanics
If you're looking for a game that combines a rich space theme, deep strategic gameplay, and epic battles,
Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy is an excellent choice for long, immersive game nights. 🚀
