Getting Started -- Jovian Chronicles Tabletop Wargaming

Stormrider Assault Exo-Armor Valiant Strike Carrier The Jovian Chronicles is a complete science fiction universe inspired by classic SF stories and giant robot animations. These books will take you beyond the confines of planet Earth to discover a solar system on the brink of war. Along the way, you will interact with a rich cast of characters, visit exotic locales and possibly alter the destiny of the Jovian Confederation, if not the human race!

Basic Premise: exploration/conflict in the solar system; "2001 meets Top Gun"
Genre:science fiction space warfare with ships, fighters and mecha
Primary Locales: space warfare
Realism Level: High
Miniature Scale: 1/500 (most exos stand approx. 35mm tall), 1/5000 (most ships are approx. 60mm long)
Game Scale: 1 cm = 500 meters
Minimum Army Size: Flight (three to five vehicles)

Back Story: In 1977, Dr. O'Neill was among the first to propose giant space stations that could house thousands of people. By the 21st century, the dream was reality and Mankind spread into the solar system, establishing colonies and outposts on most of the celestial bodies from Mercury to Jupiter. In the 2090s, the governments of Earth lost any remaining authority they might have had over the space colonies, forcing them to become autonomous. In 2184, the Central Earth Government and Administration took control of much of the Earth. Immediately, animosity appeared between CEGA and the powerful Jovian Confederation, frictions that degenerated in outright cold war and the occasional skirmish by 2210. A new, troubled age has just begun for the Solar System...

Highlights

Uses DP9's Silhouette system; learn once, play all DP9 games!

Fast to play: streamlined game mechanics that use only a few 6-sided dice;

Fully compatible with the Roleplaying Game;

Well-supported: numerous sourcebooks, but none of which are required to play;

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Jovian Chronicles Lightning Strike Game Products

rulebook cover Lightning Strike 2nd edition Rulebook (DP9-322)

This is a game of tactical fleet combat set in the universe of the Jovian Chronicles, simulating the numerous space battles fought between the solar powers in the early 23rd century. This book includes basic rules and counters allowing players to take the side of either the Jovian Confederation, the Venusian forces or the Central Earth Government and Administration (CEGA). Other than miniatures, six-sided dice, paper and pencils, this book contains all that you need to play!

Lightning Strike Demo Game (DP9-300)

Interested in the game, but not willing to plunge headlong into it? Test the water first by getting the Demo Game! This introductory version contains all the basic rules you need to play.

Jovian Chronicles Miniatures (Gallery)

Though the game can be played with simple counters or markers, it really shines when detailed pewter miniatures are used. Check out the Gallery to see painted examples of the various models available. Never assembled or painted miniatures? Get information on Assembly, Painting, and Decorating.

Follow-up Game Products

Once you've started the game, you will want additional information to further your gameplay experience. Check out the following sourcebooks:

Lightning Strike Companion (DP9-324)

As hostilities between the major nations continue, all factions mobilize their main fleets. The conflict has spilled over into heavily-traveled trade lanes, unwillingly drawing merchants and neutral nations into the fighting. The Companion is a supplement for the game, completing the space-based rules set with provisions for giant colony cylinders, magnetic sails, escort units and and even nuclear weaponry! The book also includes extensive fleet lists for the unaligned factions, plus a Solar System-wide campaign system.