Shooting Stars: A Tactical Game of Fighter Combat in Space (1980)

Overview

"A tactical game of fighter combat in space" beginning in the "near future". Scenarios range from the first U.S.-Soviet Space War, to Asteroid Pirates (the title of a later Yaquinto game), to Alien Invaders. Inertial, vector-based movement provides some realism (there are even some three-dimensional optional rules). Detailed energy management between fifteen ship functions (including cloaks, shields, scanners and so on) and a myriad of weapons provide even more playing pleasure. Eight ship designs are included, with more easily designed. This is almost a miniatures game, as some weapons come with effect templates. Pieces are provided for larger ships, a space station and asteroids. Hidden movement is possible using the advanced optional rules. Turns are simultaneous, with the players using the familiar Yaquinto shields to adjust their ship displays hidden from view.

(In this game's credits, we learn that Michael S. Matheny is Michael Scott Matheny)

Asteroid Pirates: A Game of Ship to Ship Combat in the Asteroid Belts is a simplified version of this game.