Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict is a science fiction strategy board game of conquest and expansion published by Phoenix Enterprises in 1983. Up to six different alien races compete to colonize star systems, build fleets, and defend their territory in an uninhabited sector of the galaxy. The game features hex-and-counter mechanics with a resource-point system, where each race has different environmental requirements affecting the resource values of the star systems they control.
Components
Hexagonal game board (galactic sector with star systems)
Counters (space stations, spaceships, space marines per player)
Resource tracking sheets
Technology cards or tracks
Combat resolution tables
Dice
Rules booklet
Setup
Place the galactic sector board in the center.
Each player selects one of six alien races, each with unique environmental requirements.
Place starting units at designated home star systems.
Set initial resource levels based on home system values.
Determine first player.
Turn Structure
Each turn consists of:
Resource collection: Gather resource points from controlled star systems (values modified by racial environmental requirements).
Construction: Build space stations, spaceships, and space marine units using resource points.
Technology development: Invest resources in technological advancement.
Movement: Move fleets between star systems.
Combat: Resolve battles when fleets meet enemy forces.
Colonization: Establish control over newly reached star systems.
Actions
Resource Management
Star systems generate resource points based on their characteristics.
Each alien race has different environmental preferences, making certain systems more or less valuable depending on which race controls them.
Resources are spent on construction, technology, and fleet maintenance.
Fleet Construction
Build spaceships (combat vessels), space stations (defensive/production), and space marines (ground forces).
Construction costs vary by unit type and technology level.
Technology
Players can invest resources in technological advancement.
Higher technology provides better ships, weapons, and resource extraction.
Combat
Space combat occurs when rival fleets occupy the same system.
Combat is resolved using the combat resolution tables and dice.
Space marines are used for ground operations to capture space stations.
Diplomacy
Players may negotiate alliances, trade agreements, or non-aggression pacts (informal, not binding).
Scoring / Victory Conditions
Victory is achieved by dominating the galactic sector through controlling the most star systems, having the strongest military, and/or eliminating rival empires. Specific victory conditions may vary by scenario.
Special Rules & Edge Cases
Racial differences: Each of the six alien races has unique environmental requirements, affecting which star systems are most valuable for each player. This creates asymmetric gameplay.
Resource point system: Resource generation depends on both system characteristics and racial compatibility.
Long play time: Games typically last 3-6 hours, requiring strategic commitment.
Diplomacy: Multiplayer games allow informal negotiation and alliance-building.