Black Star vs Mothership
Compare Black Star and Mothership side by side. See differences in complexity, dice, genre, cost, and more.
| Black Star | Mothership | |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Scifi | Scifi, Horror |
| Play Style | Rules-Light, Pulp Action, Space Opera, Beginner-Friendly, Fast-Paced, Mana Points | Rules-Light, Deadly, One-Shot Friendly, Survival, Atmospheric, Low-Prep, Cinematic, Fast-Paced |
| Core Mechanic | Roll 2d6 + ability, 9+ to succeed. Ten abilities rated 0–5. Pick two archetypes from ten options (Commander, Engineer, Mystic, Scoundrel, etc.) to define your character's strengths. Resolve serves as both HP and hero points — spend it to boost rolls or fuel special abilities, but run out and you're down. Advantages and disadvantages modify the roll. | Roll d100 under stat/skill. Stress and panic mechanics escalate tension. |
| Dice | 2d6 | d100 |
| Complexity | Low | Low |
| Accessibility | Very High | High |
| Community | Low | Medium |
| License | All Rights Reserved | 3rd Party License |
| Cost | $ | $ |
| Publisher | Lakeside Games | Tuesday Knight Games |
| Year | 2023 | 2022 |
| Best For | Groups who want fast, pulpy space opera with simple rules — pick two archetypes, grab some d6s, and blast off into adventure. | Terrifying sci-fi horror one-shots and short campaigns. Panic table creates unforgettable moments. |
| Highlights | Simple to learn, dual archetype system creates unique combinations, Resolve as HP-and-hero-points is a clean design, fast character creation, suited for one-shots and pickup games | Rules-light, well-regarded module library, panic system creates mechanical tension |
| Considerations | Limited advancement options, narrow space opera focus, lacks deep tactical combat | Panic table can cascade and end sessions abruptly, limited long-campaign support in core rules, stress mechanics can feel repetitive over extended play |