The object of a battle is to be the first faction (player) to capture a set number of victory points. The number of victory points needed to win will depend on the selected scenario’s victory conditions.
Victory points are gained for each enemy unit entirely eliminated. When the last ship of an opposition unit is eliminated, its unit marker is taken from the battlefield and placed on a player’s victory stand in the player’s play area with the victory point side face up. In some scenarios, occupying a certain space feature hex or completing other scenario objectives may gain additional victory points. See the “Scenario Objectives” rules section.
Victory is achieved, and the game ends immediately, as soon as a faction gains the required number of victory points.
Playing with more than two players
For a battle with three players on each side, one player – the person in the centre – is considered the Fleet Commander and the other players are the Fleet Commander’s wing officers. The Fleet Commander is in control and has the final say as to which command and combat cards to play, but conversation and suggestions from the two wing officers is encouraged and a wise Fleet Commander will solicit any and all advice to create the best battle plan. During a scenario, the Fleet Commander will control (move and battle) ordered units in the centre sector. When a left wing command card is played, the left wing officer will control the ordered units, and when a right wing command card is played, the right wing officer will control the ordered units.
Each player is in command of one sector of the star-field game mat, and together they will need to strive to achieve victory!
For a battle with two players on each side, one player is the Fleet Commander, and the other player controls both wings.