90

Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy(Second Dawn)

(2020)

Lautapelit.fi

A 4X strategy game where players control vast interstellar civilizations, exploring new star systems, researching technologies, building fleets, and competing for galactic dominance. This second edition features optimized gameplay and upgraded components from the original Eclipse: New Dawn for the Galaxy.

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The Verdict

based on 17 reviews

Positive 0%
A condensed and accessible 4X experience with a manageable playtime.
High-quality production with excellent miniatures and useful GameTrayz inserts.
Deep ship customization and a varied technology tree.
Engaging and clever action selection system.
Scales well across different player counts, from two to six players.
The high price point is a significant consideration for many.
While shorter than similar games, it can still have a lengthy playtime where players can be eliminated from contention early.
A degree of randomness in exploration and combat can lead to unbalanced situations.
The rulebook's setup instructions could be clearer.
95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
The Cardboard Herald, Jack from The Cardboard HeraldVideo

This video offers a comprehensive review and retrospective of 'Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy'. The creator delves into their appreciation for the game, presenting a video essay style discussion of its merits.

95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Geeks Under GraceArticle

Geeks Under Grace highly praises "Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy" for expertly blending economic gameplay with space combat and exploration, creating a faster, more playable experience. They deem it the definitive edition and one of the best physical big box board games ever.

95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Shut Up & Sit Down, QuinnsVideo

Quinns enthusiastically endorses "Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy" as an exceptionally worthwhile game, even surpassing his previous favorite wargame despite its considerable size, cost, and potentially dry elements.

95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Fuzzy Llama Reviews, Fuzzy Llama ReviewsArticle

The reviewer highly praises Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy, noting its distinct feel despite its size, deep ship customization, and vast strategic options. They particularly appreciate the innovative action economy that forces players to balance ambition with available resources.

95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
MeepleTown, MeepleTownVideo

This video offers a rapid review of Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy, a highly regarded physical 4X space board game known for streamlining the genre into a more accessible and quicker experience, offering strategic depth and excellent production values.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
The Board Meeting, Bumbling Through DungeonsVideo

Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy is an engaging, streamlined space epic, often favored over more complex alternatives. While early defeat can dampen replay desire, the game itself is brilliantly designed.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Bumbling Through DungeonsArticle

Bumbling Through Dungeons finds 'Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy' to be a compelling and accessible alternative to other grand space epics like Twilight Imperium, offering similar excitement with a more streamlined gameplay experience that has made it a preferred choice for their gaming group.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
EverythingBoardGames.com, Jazz PaladinArticle

Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy offers an overall outstanding and addictive experience with top-notch production quality, successfully bringing a fresh, more Euro-ish focus to the 4X genre, making it a valuable addition to any collection despite minor component alignment and slider issues.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Punchboard, AdamArticle

Eclipse is a brilliantly designed, highly interactive 4X space game with engaging customisation. However, its dice-driven combat and potential for early setbacks can lead to frustrating, unrecoverable experiences, making the reviewer conflicted about playing again.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Rahdo Runs Through, SheaVideo

The reviewer praises 'Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy' as a great game that skillfully blends resource management and combat, encouraging early player interaction and offering varied experiences based on player count.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
3 Minute Board GamesVideo

The review provides a quick overview of Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy, praising its streamlined 4X gameplay and effective influence system. While noting a minor critique regarding the tech tray, it ultimately declares the game a "gold medal" experience.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Board of itVideo

This video from 'Board of it' delivers a comprehensive review of 'Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy', highlighting its successful blend of 4X strategy with Eurogame mechanics. The reviewer considers it one of the best board game experiences available, praising its design and gameplay.

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