INTRODUCTION
Getting started with a new game can feel a bit like jumping into the deep end – lots of information, terminology and new skills to wrap your head around. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Over the next few paragraphs, we’re going to introduce you to the thrilling world of Kill Team – one of the most exciting tabletop games out there. Designed by Games Workshop, the creators of Warhammer 40,000, it offers endless hours of strategic, immersive gameplay. But what exactly is Kill Team, and how do you play? Keep reading to find out more.
WHAT IS KILL TEAM?
Kill Team is a spin-off from the popular Warhammer 40K games – a tabletop skirmish game where players control small, specialized squads of warriors in fierce battles. What sets Kill Team apart from its parent game is its focus on smaller, more tactical encounters. The squads you control, called ‘kill teams’, are made up of a few dozen units, each with their own unique abilities, statistics, and gear. All of this takes place in the dark, richly detailed universe of Warhammer 40,000, full of alien empires, warrior cults, and post-human supersoldiers.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
So, how do you actually play Kill Team? It all starts with setting up the battlefield, which can include all manner of buildings, ruins, and other obstacles. Then, players take turns using their units to move, shoot, fight in hand-to-hand combat, and carry out special missions, rolling dice to determine the results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.
1. Set up the battlefield using the Kill Team game board and terrain pieces.
2. Each player chooses a kill team – this can be pre-arranged or chosen at random.
3. Players take turns moving their units, attempting to accomplish their specific mission objectives.
4. Dice rolls are used to resolve combat – this can involve shooting distant enemies or attacking up close.
5. At the end of each game turn, players check if victory conditions are met. If not, another turn begins.
6. The game ends when a player achieves their mission objective or all of one player’s units have been taken out of action.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play Kill Team, you’ll need a few essential items. First, of course, are the models for your kill team. These can be any model from the Warhammer 40,000 range, but Games Workshop also sells specific Kill Team starter sets that come with a team and a small set of terrain. Additionally, you’ll need a rulebook to understand how game mechanics work and special dice used to determine outcomes of actions.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Understand the game’s mechanics thoroughly. Read the rulebook cover to cover, and maybe even a second time. Kill Team has many intricacies, so make sure you’ve got a good grip on how things work.
2. Start small. A Kill Team of around 5-10 units is a good place to begin.
3. Experiment with different teams. Every team plays slightly differently, so play around to find one that suits your style.
4. Use cover. Terrain features are not just for show, they also provide in-game advantages.
5. Practice. Like any game, the more you play, the better you’ll get.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Here are some resources to help you on your Kill Team journey.
– Official Kill Team Website: Updated with all the latest news, rules clarifications, and tournament info.
– YouTube channels like Tabletop Tactics and Guerrilla Miniature Games, which create regular Kill Team content, including rules explanations and battle reports.
– Forums like DakkaDakka and Reddit’s r/killteam where you can chat with other players, ask questions, and share strategies.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Unit: An individual model in your kill team.
2. Mission: The objective each player is attempting to achieve in the game.
3. Terrain: The physical features of the game board that can provide cover and affect movement.
4. Turn: A period of play where each player gets to make moves.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you have a basic understanding of Kill Team, the best next step is to dive right in! Consider picking up a Kill Team starter set – it’s got everything you need to begin playing. Also, drop by your local games store or hobby shop – fellow gamers are always happy to help newcomers. Remember, every great player began as a newbie. So don’t be discouraged if things seem complex at first. Stick with it, and most importantly – enjoy the game! They don’t call it “playing” for nothing.
