Dystopian Sky v2025.2.2

Welcome to Dystopian Sky! 

The Dystopian Sky universe is a gritty sci-fi setting where the remnants of humanity struggle to survive in a galaxy teeming with danger and opportunity. Following the destruction of Earth, survivors scattered across the galaxy, clinging to asteroids and colonizing distant planets. Humanity's new home, a massive space station called Gallant Station, was supposed to be a symbol of hope and ingenuity but now serves as headquarters to a ruthless criminal syndicate. Resources are scarce, and tensions run high as various Affiliations vie for power and control in the chaotic aftermath.

Four Affiliations fight for survival: The Alliance of Earth Nations (AEN) represents the remnants of humanity, clinging to the hope of rebuilding their civilization. The Vutharan Empire, an ancient and technologically advanced civilization, seeks to reclaim its lost glory and reshape the galactic order. The Gauti Syndicate operates from the shadows of Gallant Station, manipulating events to gain control over the galaxy's population through fear, violence, and false media. Lastly, the Consciousness Relay, a sentient nebula with a hive mind of cybernetic life forms, explores the galaxy in search of knowledge and understanding. Each Affiliation has its own unique strengths, weaknesses, and goals, and their interactions shape the ever-evolving landscape of the Dystopian Sky universe.

What is this game? 

Players assemble a Crew of four characters, called Units, each with its own Stats, Skills, and gear, and engage in fast-paced tactical battles. Each Unit is assigned an Affiliation, then customized using a Background and equipment from the Armory. 

Players move their Units across the Skirmish Map, using Actions to attack, activate Skills for added control, or interact with the environment. Combat is resolved with dice rolls, and key elements like Effective Range, Line of Sight, and Cover play a critical role in each engagement. 

Successful attacks can deal direct damage or Inflict powerful Status Effects such as Bleed, Burn, and Fear, each of which can shift momentum in a fight.

The game features multiple modes of play, including Deathmatch, Salvage, and Contamination, each with its own objectives and strategic challenges.

When a Unit is Downed, it can suffer permanent Trauma. These Traumas alter the Unit's Stats in unexpected ways, creating lasting consequences that force players to adapt as their Crew evolves. Every battle leaves a mark. Every decision shapes your Crew.

Update 2025.2.2

Since the last update, I have been in the thick of playtesting Dystopian Sky. I've dedicated countless hours to running games, gathering feedback, and carefully analyzing every aspect of the rulebook. The process has been intense, but I believe it was worth it. I've improved and refined almost every part of the game, including rule clarifications and balance adjustments, as well as adding over 50 new Activated and Passive Skills. It’s been a busy few months full of testing countless iterations, all to make Dystopian Sky: Skirmish the best possible experience. 

What do I need to play?

These game pieces are essential for playing Dystopian Sky, helping track the progress and actions of your Crew throughout the Skirmish.

■ 28mm Figures: Each Crew requires four 28mm Figures to represent the Units and track their positions and actions on the Skirmish Map.

■ Polyhedral Dice Set: The Polyhedral Dice Set includes seven dice: D4, D6, D8, D10, D12, D20, and Percentile Dice (D100). The D20 is for attacks, Percentile Dice for Resistance and avoiding Status Effects, and the others for damage.

■ Status Markers: Status Markers are placed on the Skirmish Map next to a Unit to indicate they are Inflicted with a Status Effect like Radiation or Bleed. They are also used to indicate which Units are Readied or Defending.

■ Starting Zone: The Starting Zone is a designated 3-inch x 3-inch square on the Skirmish Map where your Crew begins the game.

■ Terrain Pieces: Terrain Pieces represent obstacles, cover, and hazards on the Skirmish Map, such as buildings, rocks, and crates, which provide Cover or block Line of Sight.

 ■ Measuring Device: A 12-inch ruler is recommended for measuring movement and distance between Units during gameplay.