Warmaster (2000) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Warmaster is a tabletop wargame released in 2000 by Games Workshop Ltd. It is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of generals commanding armies in epic battles. The game has gained a dedicated following over the years due to its strategic depth and fast-paced gameplay.

Game Components of Warmaster

Miniatures: 10-12mm scale figures, typically 6 men to a strip, or custom-based with 4-12 figures per base.

Bases: Standard bases are 40 mm x 20 mm, with infantry based along the 40 mm edge and cavalry, chariots, monsters, and artillery based along the 20 mm edge.

Characters: Generals, heroes, and wizards, often based on round diorama-sculpted coins or 40/20mm wide bases.

Dice: Six-sided dice used for command rolls, shooting, and combat.

How To Setup Warmaster

To set up Warmaster, players begin by deploying their armies on a 6′ x 4′ board. Each army is divided into units and characters, with units typically composed of three bases. Players assign command values to their characters, which determine their ability to activate and move units. The setup time is relatively quick, ranging from 4–10 minutes.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Key Mechanics

Command and Control: Units must be activated by rolling against the command value of a character. Activation rolls become progressively more difficult with each attempt.

Movement: Units can be moved into contact with enemy troops and are considered charging. Units can be formed into brigades of up to four units.

Shooting: Shooting is not very deadly but aims to disrupt enemy formation and cohesion rather than destroy units. Hits force enemy units to fall back and require additional command rolls to re-engage.

Combat: Units exchange blows, with the loser forced to fall back. Combat is limited to two exchanges, allowing for reinforcement of troops under attack.

Game Objective

The objective is to outmaneuver and defeat the enemy army, focusing on the general’s ability to command rather than just the army’s ability to fight.

Player Experience

Warmaster offers a strategic and immersive experience, emphasizing the command and control aspects of large-scale battles. Players must balance the activation of units, manage their command rolls, and coordinate their army’s movements and engagements. The game is designed for 2+ players and can last between 45-150 minutes, depending on the rules version and the complexity of the battle.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Focuses on command and control, making it a game of strategy and planning.

Scalability: Allows for large battles with multiple units and characters, representing massive conflicts in the Warhammer Fantasy universe.

Community Support: Despite official support ending, the community has maintained and expanded the game through fan-created content and revisions like Warmaster Revolution.

Cons

Complex Rules: Can be challenging for beginners due to the detailed command and control mechanics.

Miniature Availability: Original miniatures are no longer produced by Games Workshop, though community support and resin printing have filled this gap.

Time Commitment: Games can be lengthy, especially for larger battles.

Personal Thoughts on Warmaster

Warmaster is ideal for players who enjoy strategic, large-scale battles and are keen on the command and control aspects of wargaming. It is particularly suited for fans of the Warhammer Fantasy universe and those who appreciate the complexity and depth of managing large armies. While it may pose a learning curve for new players, the active community and available resources make it a rewarding game for those willing to invest the time and effort.

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