Star Saga (play-by-mail game)

Star Saga was a science fiction-themed play-by-mail (PBM) game active primarily in the 1980s and early 1990s. It was a turn-based strategy game where players controlled star empires and competed for galactic dominance. The game was managed and adjudicated by a gamemaster (GM) who processed player orders, resolved conflicts, and generated game reports.

Players in Star Saga typically controlled a set of star systems, planets, and fleets of starships. They submitted orders to the GM detailing actions such as exploring new systems, building infrastructure, conducting diplomacy, engaging in combat, and researching new technologies. The GM would then process these orders and update the game state, providing players with reports on the outcomes of their actions.

Key elements of Star Saga generally included:

• Strategic Resource Management: Players needed to manage their economy, allocate resources to various projects, and balance short-term needs with long-term goals.
• Exploration and Expansion: Discovering new star systems and expanding one's empire were crucial for growth and power.
• Diplomacy and Alliances: Forming alliances with other players could provide mutual benefits and protection against stronger adversaries.
• Naval Warfare: Battles between starships were a common occurrence, and players needed to strategically deploy their fleets and utilize different ship types to achieve victory.
• Technological Advancement: Researching new technologies could provide significant advantages in combat, resource production, and other areas.

Unlike computer-based games, Star Saga relied heavily on the GM's interpretation of player orders and the overall narrative of the game. This often led to a more immersive and unpredictable experience. The game fostered a community among its players who would often communicate with each other both in and out of character. While the game is no longer actively managed, it remains a notable example of the play-by-mail genre during its heyday.