Kings of War (2012) Board Game

Kings of War is a fantasy miniatures wargame that was first released in 2012 by Mantic Games. It was designed by Robin Carey, Roberto Cirillo, Heath Foley, and Des Hanley, and features stunning artwork by Mantic Games. The game allows players to command armies of various fantasy creatures and battle against each other on a tabletop battlefield.

Game Components of Kings of War

Rulebook (over 400 pages, including core rules, lore, and faction rules)

Miniatures (various factions and units, such as halflings, Riftforged Orcs, elves, dwarfs, etc.)

D6 dice

Tape measure

Templates and counters (handy but not required)

Bases for miniatures (various sizes)

Painting guide and other accessories (depending on the starter set)

How To Setup Kings of War

To set up Kings of War, you’ll need to assemble your miniatures and organize your units. The game does not require individual basing for each model; instead, units can be formed into dioramas, making them easier to transport and manage. You’ll need a 4×4 feet table for smaller games or a 6×4 feet table for full-sized games, though a kitchen table or sitting room floor can suffice. Ensure you have the necessary rulebook, dice, tape measure, and any other accessories before starting.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each turn involves movement, ranged attacks (shooting and spells), and then hand-to-hand combat.

Unit Management: Units are managed as groups rather than individual models, simplifying gameplay and reducing complexity.

List Building: Army lists are built around basic units that unlock more advanced units, reducing the potential for list-building exploits.

Objective: The objective is typically to defeat the opposing army or capture specific objectives on the battlefield.

Double Turn Mechanic: Some scenarios feature a double turn mechanic, which can significantly swing the game’s momentum.

Player Experience

Kings of War offers a fast and fun gaming experience, with clean and transparent rules that make it easy for new players to jump in. The game’s streamlined mechanics allow for games to be completed within a couple of hours, even for larger battles. Players appreciate the ability to create elaborate unit dioramas and the lack of “codex creep,” where new releases do not inherently advantage over older units.

Pros

Streamlined Rules: Easy to learn but hard to master.

Transparent Rulebooks: All rules are contained in two main books, avoiding the need for multiple supplemental books.

Affordable Miniatures: High-quality miniatures at a lower cost compared to other wargames.

Community Focused: The game benefits from a Rules Committee ensuring balance across all factions.

Flexible Basing: Units can be multibased, creating miniature dioramas.

Cons

Learning Curve for Veterans: Players accustomed to more complex games might find the simplicity too straightforward.

Limited Individual Model Control: Since units are managed in groups, there is less control over individual models.

Personal Thoughts on Kings of War

Kings of War is ideal for those looking for a fun, fast-paced fantasy wargame without the complexity and cost associated with other major wargaming franchises. It’s perfect for players who enjoy storytelling through their miniatures and appreciate a game that balances accessibility with deep tactical options. Whether you’re a veteran wargamer or new to the hobby, Kings of War offers a welcoming and engaging experience.

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