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Forbidden Stars box image

Forbidden Stars

Forbidden Stars is a 2-4 player strategy game set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Players take control of different factions and compete to conquer planets, build armies, and complete objectives.

7.98 / 10
BGG Rating
14+
age
2015
published year
2 - 4
player count
2 - 4
Recommended player count
120 - 180 mins
play time

How Complex is Forbidden Stars?

3.84 / 5

Forbidden Stars has a moderate to high complexity level, with a steep learning curve and many rules to master, but offers a rewarding and engaging gameplay experience.

How much Luck is involved in the gameplay of Forbidden Stars?

2.5 / 5

Forbidden Stars has some luck elements, such as drawing cards and rolling dice for combat, but strategic decisions and planning have a greater impact on the outcome of the game.

How much Player Interaction does Forbidden Stars offer?

4.5 / 5

Forbidden Stars has a high level of player interaction, as players compete for control of planets, engage in combat, and block each other's objectives. Diplomacy and negotiation can also play a role.

How much Replayability does Forbidden Stars offer?

4 / 5

Forbidden Stars offers high replayability due to the variable setup, asymmetric factions, and multiple paths to victory. The game also has a modular board and different objectives for each game.

Why you should play Forbidden Stars

Engaging Gameplay

Forbidden Stars is a highly strategic game that requires players to carefully plan their moves and make tactical decisions in order to outmaneuver their opponents.

Unique Setting

Set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, Forbidden Stars offers a unique and immersive gaming experience that is sure to appeal to fans of the franchise.

Beautiful Components

The game features high-quality components, including detailed miniatures and beautifully illustrated cards and game boards.

Replayability

With multiple factions to choose from and a variety of different strategies to employ, Forbidden Stars offers a high level of replayability that will keep players coming back for more.

Challenging AI

The game also includes an AI opponent that can be used for solo play, providing a challenging and engaging experience even when playing alone.

Epic Battles

Forbidden Stars features epic battles between massive armies, making it a great choice for players who enjoy games with a strong emphasis on combat.

Strategic Depth

With a wide range of different units, upgrades, and abilities to choose from, Forbidden Stars offers a high level of strategic depth that will keep players engaged and thinking throughout the game.

Why you should avoid Forbidden Stars

Lengthy Playtime

Forbidden Stars can take several hours to play, which may not be ideal for players who prefer shorter games or have limited time available for gaming.

Complex Rules

The game has a steep learning curve and can be overwhelming for new players, which may make it less accessible for casual gamers.

High Price Point

Forbidden Stars is a relatively expensive game, which may make it less appealing for players who are on a budget or looking for a more affordable gaming experience.

Limited Player Count

The game is designed for 2-4 players, which may make it less suitable for larger gaming groups or families.

Heavy Emphasis on Combat

While some players may enjoy the game's focus on combat, others may find it too aggressive or confrontational for their tastes.

Where to find the Rules of Forbidden Stars

You can find the community-driven rules summary, player aid, etc., in the Forbidden Stars files section on the BoardGameGeek website. You need an account on BGG to download files.

Beginner Strategies for Forbidden Stars

These strategies are for players who have either not played or played one or two games of Forbidden Stars.

Understand the game mechanics

Before you start playing, make sure you understand the basic game mechanics, such as how to move your units, how to produce resources, and how to attack your opponents.

Focus on objectives

The game is won by completing objectives, so make sure you focus on completing them as quickly as possible. Each objective completed will give you victory points, which are necessary to win the game.

Plan your moves

Take your time to plan your moves carefully. Think about the consequences of each move and how it will affect your overall strategy.

Build a balanced army

Make sure you have a balanced army that can handle different types of threats. You will need ground troops to capture planets, space ships to defend your territory, and special units to complete objectives.

Use your leaders wisely

Your leaders have special abilities that can give you an advantage in the game. Use them wisely and strategically to gain an edge over your opponents.

Control the warp gates

The warp gates are crucial to the game, as they allow you to move your units quickly across the board. Try to control as many warp gates as possible to gain an advantage over your opponents.

Be aggressive

Don't be afraid to attack your opponents and take control of their planets. However, make sure you have a solid plan and enough resources to back up your attacks.

Keep an eye on your opponents

Pay attention to what your opponents are doing and try to anticipate their moves. This will help you to stay one step ahead and gain an advantage in the game.

Remember, Forbidden Stars is a complex game that requires careful planning and strategic thinking. With these tips, you should be able to get started and enjoy the game.

Advanced Strategies for Forbidden Stars

Adapt to your opponents

As you play the game more, you will start to recognize the play styles of your opponents. Use this knowledge to your advantage and adapt your strategy accordingly.

Use the initiative track

The initiative track can be a powerful tool in the game, as it allows you to choose the order in which players take their turns. Use this to your advantage by taking the initiative when it benefits you the most.

Focus on controlling key planets

As you play the game more, you will start to recognize which planets are the most valuable. Focus on controlling these planets and defending them at all costs.

Use your leaders' abilities strategically

Your leaders have powerful abilities that can give you an edge in the game. Use them strategically to gain an advantage over your opponents.

Be flexible with your strategy

Don't be afraid to change your strategy if it's not working. Be flexible and adapt to the changing circumstances of the game.

Use the warp storms to your advantage

The warp storms can be a double-edged sword, but if used correctly, they can give you a significant advantage. Use them to block your opponents' movements or to surprise them with a sudden attack.

Keep track of your opponents' objectives

As you play the game more, you will start to recognize which objectives your opponents are likely to pursue. Keep track of their progress and try to block them from completing their objectives.

Don't neglect ground troops

While space combat is important, ground troops are also crucial to the game. Make sure you have enough ground troops to capture and defend planets.

Remember, Forbidden Stars is a complex and strategic game that requires careful planning and adaptation. With these advanced strategies, you should be able to take your game to the next level.

Mechanics

Modular Board
Variable Player Powers
Hand Management
Area Movement
Dice Rolling
Area Majority / Influence
Deck, Bag, and Pool Building
Order Counters
Card Play Conflict Resolution

Categories

Science Fiction
Wargame
Bluffing
Fighting
Miniatures