Galactic Empires (game)

Galactic Empires was a computer moderated.^[1] open-ended, space-based, science fiction play-by-mail wargame of medium complexity published by Pierce Enterprises and later by Wy'East Games. The game launched in 1979 and was "well established" by 1984.^[2] By 1986, some of the empires were "massive".^[3] Turns had no time limit, enabling overseas players as well.^[3] The game designer was Dan Pierce, who attempted to improve on Starweb.^[3] By 1985, the publisher had moved the game system from a "TRS 80-1 to a Tandy 1200 HD" for speed and expansion purposes.^[4] Dan eventually lost interest in the game, so his brother David took over for many year. In the Mid-90's Mark Wardell, Wy'East Games, took over first under a licensing agreement and later purchasing the game outright.

Gameplay shared similarities with Starweb.^[2] Four empires types were available: "Empire Builder, Star Merchant, Xenophobe, [and] Pirate".^[3] Players choose between four character types.^[2] Available elements include "ships, ground based military equipment, economic components, etc.", providing gameplay options for players.^[2]

Dave Weidner reviewed the game in a 1986 issue of Flagship. He gave it a generally positive review, stating that "In all, Galactic Empires is a game that is simple enough for a novice, while still challenging enough for the most advanced player, at a reasonable cost".^[5]