Let me start by saying, “I love this game.” It is easily in my top 10. I love games that have a hint of luck to introduce variability, but also rely heavily on strategy. Tiles for the “map” introduce a level of variability in each scenario too. This game introduces a small amount of randomness because it’s using dice, but the dice placement and abilities make decisions important — a key to me liking any game. Cards also allow strategic decisions and additional ways to break the rules.
In Quantum, players command a fleet of ships represented by dice. The value on the die determines the type of ship; the lower the number, the slower and tougher the ship is, while the higher the number the faster and weaker the ship is. In addition to the speed and strength of the ships, each has a special ability. Because there are only 6 ship types, it’s easy to keep the abilities straight and plan. If there were more, it may be too difficult — less and it may be too simple or dull. Ships in orbit around planets may be able to build (place) quantum cubes.
The goal is to be the first to place all of your quantum cubes. Players can place cubes by building them on planets they orbit with dice values that add up to the number on the planet. The second way is through domination (but honestly, it’s uncommon in my experience — might just be play style).
Game designer, Eric Zimmerman, has crafted a wonderful game… I only wish he had more gems like this one.
Here’s what boardgamegeek website has to say:
In Quantum, each player is a fleet commander from one of the four factions of humanity, struggling to conquer a sector of space. Every die is a starship, with the value of the die determining the movement of the ship, but also its combat power – with low numbers more powerful. So a [ 6 ] is a quick but fragile Scout and a [ 1 ] is a slow but mighty Battlestation.
Each type of ship also has a special power that can be used once per turn: Destroyers can warp space to swap places with other dice and Flagships can transport other ships. These powers can be used in combination for devastating effects. You’re not stuck with your starting ships, however: using Quantum technology, you can spend actions to transform (re-roll) your ships. Randomness plays a role in the game, but only when you want: Quantum is very much a strategy game.
You win by constructing Quantum Cubes – massive planetary energy extractors. Each time you build a new one, you can expand your fleet, earn a new permanent ability, or take a one-time special move. The board itself is made out of modular tiles, and you can play on one of the 30 layouts that come with the game or design your own. The ship powers, player abilities, and board designs combine to create a limitless set of possibilities for how to play and strategies for how to win.
With elegant mechanics, an infinity of scenarios, and easy-to-learn rules that lead to deep gameplay, Quantum is a one-of-a-kind game of space combat, strategy and colonization that will satisfy both hard-core and casual players.
This is a search link on amazon.