Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
Tactical space combat fans and Star Trek (unofficial) lovers will dig this: it's Star Fleet Battles without the paperwork.
Highlights
- Streamlined but deep rules
- Dynamic, tactical space combat
- High-quality visual production
- Flexible, intuitive power system
Keep in mind
- Not a casual game — still complex
- Requires translation for non-English speakers
- Best with 2 players (but supports up to 8)
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Federation Commander: Klingon Border is the turbocharged version of classic Star Fleet Battles, with streamlined rules and top-notch production. Here, you command starships in tactical battles full of maneuvers, shots, and explosions, all set in the Star Fleet universe (which draws inspiration from Star Trek but has its own identity). The game uses a dynamic action point system where you distribute energy between shields, engines, and weapons mid-battle — no bureaucracy. Turns are resolved in quick impulses (just 8 per turn, compared to 32 in the original), and damage is calculated with a single dice roll, keeping the pace fast. The mounted boards and colorful control cards make everything more intuitive, and there are optional rules for playing without hexes, using miniatures instead. It's not an introductory game — there's still tactical depth — but it's way more accessible than its predecessor. If you enjoy tactical space combat with a touch of simulation, you'll have a blast.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
In English
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Tutorial #1 - Introduction
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Tutorial #2 - Sequence of Play
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Inside Klingon Border
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Tutorial #5 - Shields
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Tutorial #3 - Movement (part 1)
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Tutorial #4 - Movement (part 2)
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Tutorial #6 - Firing Arcs
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Why Retailers Should Buy Federation Commander Products v2.1
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Why Retailers Should Buy Federation Commander Products
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
3
REC
4
REC
5
REC
6
OK
7
OK
8
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Where to Buy
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Amarillo Design Bureau, Inc.
Designer
Stephen V. Cole
Artist
Mark Evans (I)
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,133owners
295wishlist
81want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How long does a game take?
Around 60 minutes on average, but it varies depending on the scenario and players' experience.
Is it language-dependent?
Yes, the game is in English with lots of card and chart text. A translation guide helps non-English speakers.
Is it good for wargame beginners?
It's more accessible than Star Fleet Battles, but still complex. Best for players with some tactical game experience.
What's the best player count?
Works best with 2 (head-to-head), but can be played in teams with up to 8 players.
Do I need miniatures?
No, the game comes with cardboard counters, but has optional rules for miniatures if you prefer.
Are there expansions?
Yes, it's a series with multiple base sets and expansions, including other races and ships.
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