This page was last updated on 1 January 1998.

Triplanetary to VMS Conversions


Actually, using the VMS with GDW's Triplanetary is fairly simple and intuitive. Here's how I would do it:

Before play

Prepare either a 3x5 or 4x6 laminated card for each ship. [I will add one to the page as soon as I am able.]

Each card would contain:
  • two VMS vector graphics, marked "Even" and "Odd"
  • ships's name and class
  • counter ID
  • cargo capacity
  • combat rating
  • carried ordnance
  • total fuel tankage
  • a fuel countdown graphic (e.g. fuel boxes to be checked off as fuel is expended)
  • turn ship regains maneuverability (if disabled)
  • double-burn status (eligible or ineligible)
Alternatively, several ships could be tracked on a single sheet of paper. This would have the advantage of not needing a lamination machine, as sheet protectors or a plastic picture frame could be used instead.

During play

  • Track movement and maneuvering on the cards, rather than by writing on the map.
  • Ignore the VMS rules regarding ship's facing, as the timescale and distance for Triplanetary makes this irrelevant.
That's it -- it is really that simple. Enjoy!