Twilight Imperium (4th Edition) in 32 minutes

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of how to play Twilight Imperium (4th Edition) in a streamlined format. Whether you're new to the game or looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and mechanics to get your game started smoothly.

Step 1: Game Setup

• Gather all players and choose factions.
• Set up the galaxy tiles according to the scenario or your own design.
• Place the home systems of each faction on the board.
• Shuffle the objective cards and place them face down.
• Each player selects a secret objective before revealing public objectives.

Step 2: Activating a System

• Choose a system to activate by spending a command token.
• Move ships into the system if applicable.
• Resolve any system effects as necessary.

Step 3: Production Phase

• During your production phase, build units at your space docks.
• Important: If you build infantry in a multi-planet system, they must be placed on the planet connected to the space dock.

Step 4: Movement Restrictions

• Understand the movement restrictions for your ships.
• For example, ships can only move through systems they control unless they are using a special ability or card.

Step 5: Combat Basics

• Combat can occur during both space and invasion phases.
• Roll dice based on the units you have in combat and compare results to determine the outcome.

Step 6: Space Combat

• Initiate space combat when your ships encounter enemy ships.
• Roll one die per ship and apply any modifiers from technology or cards.
• Compare results to the enemy’s defense.

Step 7: Invasion Combat

• If you land on a planet with enemy units, initiate invasion combat.
• Use ground forces to attack and roll dice to resolve combat.

Step 8: Strategic Actions and Cards

• Utilize strategic action cards during your turn for various benefits.
• Pay attention to the timing of when to play these cards for maximum effect.

Step 9: Leadership Phase

• This phase allows players to refresh command tokens and prepare for future turns.
• Distribute command tokens based on your faction's abilities.

Step 10: Diplomacy and Politics

• Engage with other players using diplomacy to form alliances or trade agreements.
• Use political strategy cards to influence the game state.

Step 11: Construction Phase

• Build additional structures like space docks or PDS units.
• Note: You can build on already activated systems by discarding the strategy token used.

Step 12: Trade Phase

• Trade resources or promissory notes with other players to enhance your strategy.
• Ensure mutual benefit to maintain good relations.

Step 13: Technology and Imperial Phases

• Research new technologies to improve your capabilities.
• Score victory points during the imperial phase based on public objectives.

Step 14: Status Phase

• Check your objectives and score points.
• Prepare for the next round by updating your strategy.

Step 15: Agenda Phase

• Vote on galactic laws and agendas that can change game mechanics.
• Use promissory notes to influence votes.

Conclusion

Twilight Imperium (4th Edition) is a complex but rewarding game that involves strategy, negotiation, and tactical combat. By following these steps, you can streamline your gameplay experience and enjoy the rich universe of Twilight Imperium. Gather your friends, choose your factions, and dive into the galaxy! Happy gaming!