Homeworlds

Looney Labs, (Web published) · Board game · 2001
2–6 · best 2 15–60 min Weight 3.4/5
5.4 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy
5.4 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy a sharp strategic duel with a touch of bluffing and deduction, Homeworlds is for you! It's a fast-paced game that makes you think about every move.

Highlights
  • Deep and quick strategy
  • Tension and social deduction
  • Unique and modular components
  • High replayability guaranteed
Keep in mind
  • Player elimination is possible
  • Requires attention to detail
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Prepare for galactic warfare in Homeworlds, an abstract strategy game that puts you in command of a spacefaring civilization embroiled in conflict. The core twist is the struggle between good and evil, where you must decipher who is on your side and who wants to see you vaporized. It's a game of pure strategy, with elements of psychology and diplomacy, where the goal is to annihilate the opponent's homeworld before their fleet reaches yours. Originally, Homeworlds used a larger set of pieces (the famous Looney pyramids), but more recent editions focus on the two-player Binary Homeworlds version, which is designer Andy Looney's favorite. This version uses 36 pyramids in four colors (red for attack, yellow for movement, green for growth, and blue for transformation), turning the game into a sort of miniature 4X (explore, expand, exploit, exterminate) experience. The beauty of the game lies in its simple rules but deep decisions. Every move counts, and anticipating your opponent's actions is crucial. With a modular board and the potential for player elimination, each game is unique and full of tension. It's the kind of game that makes you think hard but plays quickly, perfect for those who enjoy intellectual challenges and a good strategic duel.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
5 OK
6 OK
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Game details

Families

Category: Combinatorial Components: 3-Dimensional (3D) Components: Looney Pyramid Games Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Abstract Play Digital Implementations: Ai Ai Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: Super Duper Games Players: Two-Player Only Games Versions & Editions: Two-Player Versions of More-Player Games
Publisher Looney Labs, (Web published)
Designer John Cooper
Artist Andrew Looney, Eileen Tjan
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can participate?
Homeworlds is designed for 2 to 6 players, but the most common and recommended version (Binary Homeworlds) is for 2 players.
How long does a game take?
A game of Homeworlds is quite fast, usually between 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of players and their speed.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
The basic rules are relatively simple, but the strategic depth is immense. It's a game that rewards study and practice.
What are the pyramids?
The pyramids are the main components of the game, representing your ships and structures. Each color has a specific function (attack, movement, growth, transformation).
Is there a possibility of being eliminated from the game?
Yes, Homeworlds features player elimination mechanics. If your homeworld is destroyed, you are out of the game.
Is this a game for those who enjoy direct conflict?
Absolutely! The main objective is the destruction of the opponent, so combat and military strategy are central.