INTRODUCTION
Hello and welcome to a beginner-friendly journey through Kill Team — a rich, exciting game that blends strategy, teamwork, and dramatic narratives on a miniature battlefield.Don’t worry if you’re just starting out, or returning after a hiatus; this article will break down everything you need to know in an easy-to-understand manner. Dive in and discover why Kill Team offers an immersive, unforgettable gaming experience.
WHAT IS KILL TEAM?
Kill Team is a fast-paced tabletop wargame created by Games Workshop, set within the grimdark future of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Unlike its parent game Warhammer 40k, Kill Team focuses on smaller scale, squad-based battles, emphasizing individual soldiers and their roles. This setup not only quickens the pace of the game but also imbues each squad member with more significance and character. This alone sets it apart from other large-scale miniature wargames, where individual models can feel less consequential.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
Playing Kill Team involves players command their squad, or Kill Team, taking turns to move their miniature models across the tabletop terrain, attacking adversaries, and achieving objectives. Here is a straightforward, step-wise outline of how the game usually progresses:
1. Prepare for Battle: Players will select their Kill Teams from a ‘Command Roster’, under a set limit of points.
2. Scouting Phase: The unique phase where players can adopt a strategic edge by choosing secret tactics that can range from laying traps to advancing your team in forward positions.
3. Battle Round: Players take turn activating one model at a time, alternating between players, which adds a layer of strategy and unpredictability.
4. After the battle: Players determine the winner based on the mission’s victory conditions (like seizing crucial terrain or eliminating enemy models).
Remember, you’re not just rolling dice in this game – you’re forging a narrative, commanding a range of characters from snipers to demolitions experts!
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To start your Kill Team adventure, you’ll require a few essential items. These include:
1. Kill Team Starter Box: This includes everything required to play the game, such as miniatures, a rulebook, a battlefield, and terrain.
2. Dice: You’ll need several six-sided dice (D6) and a handful of ten-sided dice (D10).
3. Tape Measure: For determining actions such as movement and shooting ranges.
Optional but helpful additions are painting tools for personalizing your miniatures and a Kill Team carrying case for transporting your models.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
Embarking on a new game journey can feel overwhelming. Here’s a compilation of some actionable tips:
1. Start Small: Learn the fundamentals of the game before investing in extensive expansions.
2. Understand Your Kill Team: Get familiar with each miniature’s unique skills and abilities.
3. Use the Terrain: Make full use of your surroundings to gain tactical advantages.
4. Engage in the Narrative: Part of the fun of Kill Team lies in its immersive narratives!
5. Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t get disheartened by early losses. The more you play, the better you’ll understand the strategies involved.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
For additional guidance, check out resources such as:
1. Warhammer Community: Offers official news and updates.
2. BattleScribe: An invaluable tool for building your command rosters.
3. YouTube Channels: “Tabletop Tactics” and “Miniac” offer beginner-friendly guides.
4. Reddit: Look for groups such as r/killteam for tips and discussions.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
Understanding some common Kill Team jargon will help you navigate the game:
1. Command Roster: Your pool of available miniatures for creating a Kill Team.
2. Battle-forged: A term for a Kill Team where every model shares a faction keyword.
3. D6/D10: Types of dice used to determine game actions.
4. Morale Phase: The phase where the effect of injuries and casualties is calculated.
5. Victory Points: Points gained from achieving mission objectives, used to determine the winner.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you have a basic understanding of Kill Team, what’s next? Start by purchasing your first Kill Team Starter Box and dedicating some time towards understanding the rules. Venture into your local hobby shop or gaming group for hands-on learning and peer guidance. Soon enough, you’ll be engaged in your unique, thrilling narratives on a miniature battlefield.
Remember, Kill Team is much more than a game – it’s a hobby, a community, and an exciting new narrative to explore. So take your time, enjoy each step, and welcome to the Warhammer 40,000 universe!
