Cepheida: The Exploration Game

[Jubal]

A main thread for the Exploration Game!

If you'd like a copy of the testing rules, please request them here! They still need work in places but I'm happy to send out alpha copies.

The Cepheida Exploration Game is a map-based exploration game, somewhere between a boardgame, skirmish game, and role-playing game in genre. You command one or two characters from a ship that has landed on a planet, and you start with a blank squared map from which you can explore and draw out your discoveries as you go. The game is designed for 1-4 players, though more can be included especially if some players play their crew as a team.

The game is high on generating what's going on: you can randomise the features of the planet you explore, each tile you explore can be a range of random map features, there are charts for generating the creatures that you find, and an array of possible objectives for each game. Combat and die rolls are simple: much of your success will depend on how well you can react to the world you find around you (and sometimes everyone gets unlucky - but that, too, can be a good story to recount later!).

There are several factions available with different playstyles: a Homeworlder ship will focus on terraforming and making planets safe for new S'ruba settlements of little green folks, a Lexihad ship will be seeking plausible relics and proof of the Divine Lexios' presence, the hulking mantis-like Verwynn knights will be seeking recognition of their ultimate enlightened rule, the eclectic cyborg Tangalak will be looking to do science and not have anyone bother them, the Hanstellartic League will be trying to make commercial contacts, and the Free League will be trying to ensure that those in power don't have too easy a time of things. And who knows what a ship of random adventurers might want?

Check out the Cepheida main thread for more information on the wider setting, and you can also have a look at the Captain's Log for up to the minute (or at least month: time is a bit odd in interstellar space) updates on what I'm working on.

Testing threads & Notes

Original Design Notes Thread
Test 1 (April 2024)
Test 2 (August 2024)

[Spritelady]

I would very much like a copy - I love the sort of games that generate the setting as you go!