INTRODUCTION
Hello and welcome all fans of tabletop gaming, or those exploring this unique hobby for the first time! Today we’re discussing a thrilling game filled with strategy, a dash of chance, and an immersive universe filled with engaging characters and intriguing lore– Warcry! If you’re sold on stepping into the fast-paced, miniature world of Warcry but don’t know where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. This is a complete beginner’s guide that will make your journey into Warcry not only easier but much more enjoyable.
WHAT IS WARCRY?
Warcry is a skirmish tabletop game set in the Warhammer Age of Sigmar universe, produced by Games Workshop. It’s a standalone game set in a grim, fantastical world filled with violent tribes and dangerous monsters, all vying for dominance. The game’s appeal largely sits in its faster pace and smaller scale compared to Warhammer: Age of Sigmar, enabling quicker games with less miniatures on the board. This doesn’t mean it’s simplistic; Warcry delivers layered strategy and tactical depth that can keep you engaged for hours.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
Warcry pits small teams, known as warbands, against each other, with the objective of wiping out the opposition or achieving mission-specific goals. Think of it as a chess match, only with spell casting, melee combat, and complex turn mechanics. Here’s a quick guide on how to get started:
1. Gather Your Warband: Each warband has a roster of fighters with unique abilities, attributes and costs. Choose wisely, considering each warrior’s strengths and shortcomings when forming your team.
2. Set up the Battlefield: Following the rules specified in the mission, players arrange the terrain and determine deployment zones.
3. Deployment: Each player takes turns setting up their warband.
4. Begin Battle Rounds: Comprises of three phases (Hero, Initiative & Combat), which involves using your warriors to move, attack, cast spells or perform other actions.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
Starting Warcry is simple and doesn’t require a large investment in miniature models. You’ll need the following:
1. Warcry Core Book: Your essential guide, filled with backstory, rule guidance and missions.
2. A Warband: Starter Sets come with two warbands, but they are also available to purchase individually.
3. Game Mat and Terrain: Many Starter Sets include these, providing a scenic battleground.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Know Your Warband: Familiarize yourself with each fighter’s abilities. The key to victory often lies in how you utilize your warband’s unique abilities.
2. Plan Your Setup: Use the terrain to your advantage, providing cover or vantage points.
3. Resource Management: Be careful with your dice. They represent various actions your fighters can take, so use them wisely.
4. Practice: You’ll make mistakes, it’s part of the fun and learning process. The more you play, the better your understanding and strategy will become.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are many helpful resources available. To start, utilize the Games Workshop website for product information and guides. Reddit and various forums offer community-driven advice and discussions. YouTube channels like ‘Warcry Battle Reports’ and ‘The Battlecast’ provide detailed advice and gameplay examples.
GLOSSARY
Warband: Your team of fighters.
Terrain: The landscapes and pieces upon which the battle is set.
Dice: Used to determine a variety of outcomes, such as combat results and initiative.
Battlefield: The board on which the game is played.
Deployment: Setting up your fighters on the battlefield.
NEXT STEPS
Feeling confident to dive into the world of Warcry? Your next step should be purchasing a Starter Set which provides everything you need to play. Additionally, find a local gaming store or club. The Warcry community is generally welcoming and supportive, and experienced players can be a great resource. Most importantly, enjoy your Warcry journey. With each game, you’ll uncover more tactics, more fun, and exciting stories!
