# Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy – Gamemat

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2020
- **BGG Rating**: 8.9
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2-9 (Best with: 5)
- **Duration**: 120-240 min
- **Weight**: 1.00 / 5
- **Designers**: Touko Tahkokallio
- **Artists**: (Uncredited)
- **Publishers**: Lautapelit.fi, Pegasus Spiele
- **Categories**: Expansion for Base-game, Space Exploration
- **Mechanics**: Hexagon Grid

## Verdict
If you love Eclipse and want more convenience, this playmat is your new best friend.Double‑sided designOptimized 5‑player layoutDurable neoprene materialIncluded carrying bagDoes not replace the original boardDoes not contain extra piecesDoes not cover all expansionsHIGHLY RECOMMENDED

## Description
The "Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy – Gamemat" playmat is a must‑have accessory for anyone who’s lived the Eclipse universe. Made from high‑quality neoprene, the mat measures 3 ft by 3 ft (about 91 cm × 91 cm) and comes with two distinct sides. The first side offers the standard layout that comes with the base game and works for 2 to 9 players, keeping the same aesthetic and hexagonal layout as the original board. The second side is designed for those who enjoy balanced 5‑player games; the placement of action areas, influence zones, and resource collection spots are reorganized to avoid the typical imbalances of games with more or fewer players. This way, 5‑player groups can enjoy the same mat without having to set up a new layout each session.

Beyond organizing the play area, the neoprene material protects the board from dust, scratches, and liquid spills, extending the game’s lifespan. The mat is easy to clean—just wipe it with a damp cloth and let it dry. It also comes with a handy carrying bag, so you can take the mat to cafés, meet‑ups, or trips without worrying about creases.

For those who already own the "Second Dawn" expansion, the playmat works as a complement that improves the gameplay experience without changing the rules. If you don’t have the base game yet, just buy the expansion and the playmat will be compatible. The product does not replace the original board or bring extra pieces; it simply offers an optimized play surface and the convenience of a portable accessory. The double‑sided design also makes it easy to switch layouts between sessions, allowing groups of different sizes to play without needing multiple boards. The neoprene is tear‑ and heat‑resistant, ensuring durability even in long sessions. The playmat also helps organize cards and tokens, but remember the rules and cards still need to be in Portuguese or translated; the product does not include translations.

## FAQ
### How many players can use the playmat?
The playmat has two sides: one for 2 to 9 players and another optimized for balanced 5‑player games.

### How long does it take to set up the playmat?
Just a few minutes; lay the neoprene on the play area and attach the carrying bag.

### Does the playmat replace the original board?
No, it complements the board by providing specific play areas for different player counts.

### Does the playmat come with extra pieces?
No, it does not include additional pieces; only the mat and the carrying bag.

### Who is this playmat recommended for?
Ideal for Eclipse fans who want convenience and organization, especially for 5‑player games.

### Are there any usage limitations for the playmat?
It does not cover all expansions or rule adaptations of other variants; it focuses on Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy.