Ords, The Odyssey into the 21st Century is a space-based game in which players attempt to destroy their enemies' ships and conquer their star systems, thus becoming Emperor of the Galaxy and an ORDS citizen. You begin with a random selection of star systems, a star base, a collection ships, and a few random cards (including weapons) to get you started. A roll-and-move mechanism allows you to travel through the galaxy between the six quadrants. You may attack opponents in the quadrant where your flagship is located in order to take star systems from them. In addition, the space you may land on may give you a benefit (or penalty.) You may also purchase star systems in your quadrant, as well as weapons — offensive and defensive — ships, and other items. You obtain prizes (rewards) by obtaining three or more star systems in a single quadrant. The first player to obtain a pre-determined number of systems in one quadrant wins.