Battle Masters (1992) – Board Game Guys

Battle Masters

Battle Masters is a board game by Milton Bradley made in collaboration with Games Workshop in 1992. It is a game that simulates the type of battles as seen in Warhammer Fantasy Battle, but with much simpler game mechanics not based on its parent game. The game, like its sibling Milton Bradley/Games Workshop partnerships HeroQuest and Space Crusade, was designed by Stephen Baker, who later went on to design the popular game Heroscape. In Germany, it is called Die Claymore-Saga, in France Seigneurs de guerre, and in the Netherlands Ridderstrijd.

Why is Battle Masters Popular?

Battle Masters is significant because it was one of the first board games to use miniatures and a large vinyl mat to simulate battles. It was also designed by Stephen Baker, who went on to design the popular game Heroscape. The game is popular among fans of Warhammer Fantasy Battle and other miniature-based tabletop games.

Game Components of Battle Masters

Large 54″ x 60″ vinyl battle mat with hexes

Over 100 unpainted plastic miniatures mounted on large unit bases

Deck of 59 Battle Cards

Terrain features (river, fords, marshes, ditches, hedges)

Special dice for combat resolution

Unit stands and tokens

Rulebook and scenario guides

How To Setup Battle Masters

To set up the game, players begin by placing terrain features on the battle mat. One player sets up the terrain, which includes elements like rivers, marshes, and defensive positions. The other player then chooses which side of the mat to deploy their units on. The game includes pre-set scenarios with fixed terrain layouts, or players can create their own battlefields.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Order: Determined by drawing from a deck of Battle Cards, which decides which units can move or attack.

Unit Movement: Units move one square and can attack adjacent opponents, except for ranged units.

Combat Resolution: Uses special dice; attackers and defenders roll dice equal to their Combat Value.

Terrain Effects: Certain terrains (like rivers, marshes, and ditches) have specific game effects, such as blocking movement or altering combat dice.

Special Units: Units like the Imperial Knights’ cannon and the Ogre Champion have unique rules and mechanics.

Objective: The goal is to eliminate all of the opponent’s units.

Player Experience

Playing **Battle Masters** is an immersive experience, especially due to its large and detailed game board. The game is designed for ages 9 and up, and while the rules are relatively simple, the game can be engaging for both children and adults. However, some reviewers have noted that the game lacks strategic depth for more experienced gamers.

Pros

Visual Impact: The large battle mat and numerous miniatures create a dramatic visual environment.

Variety in Scenarios: The game includes multiple scenarios and the ability to create custom battlefields.

Unique Mechanics: Special units like the cannon and Ogre Champion add variety to gameplay.

Nostalgia: For many, it remains a beloved game from their childhood.

Cons

Balance Issues: Some units, like the Imperial Knights’ cannon, can significantly imbalance the game.

Simplicity: The rules are too simple for some players, lacking in strategic depth.

Setup Time: Setting up the game can be time-consuming due to the numerous components.

Limited Use of Some Units: Units like the Ogre Champion can be ineffective and feel like a waste.

Personal Thoughts on Battle Masters

**Battle Masters** is ideal for those who enjoy miniature wargames and are looking for a visually impressive and relatively easy-to-learn game. While it may not offer the strategic complexity that more seasoned gamers crave, it is a great introduction to wargaming for younger players or those new to the genre. The game’s nostalgic value and the active community creating new rules and mechanics also make it a valuable collector’s item for fans of Games Workshop and Warhammer Fantasy. However, potential buyers should be aware of the balance issues and the simplicity of the gameplay.

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