INTRODUCTION
In an age where we’re glued to our digital screens, it’s refreshing to find enjoyment in a tabletop game that feels tangible and profoundly immersive. Welcome, beginners to the fascinating world of the Age of Sigmar, a tabletop wargame that compels its participants with compelling narratives and detailed, stunning miniatures. If you’re yet to plunge into the mystical universe of grand alliances and thunderous battles, this guide will serve as your stepping stone. Buckle in; it’s bound to be an adventurous ride!
WHAT IS AGE OF SIGMAR?
Warhammer: Age of Sigmar is a miniature wargame produced by Games Workshop that sends you into a fantastical world steeped in rich lore and vibrant history. Originating as a progression from Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar has grown into its distinct realm, with elements of classic fantasy excitedly muddled with high-stakes, strategic gameplay. The game revolves around grand alliances locked in epic battles, which are played out using beautifully detailed miniature figures, representing various factions. Think of it as a blend between a strategy board game and an elaborate storytelling platform – it’s an experience that is both tactical and imaginative!
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO START
Getting started with Age of Sigmar is akin to embarking on a great adventure! At the heart of the game, your army (made up of the miniature models) will battle against others on a variety of terrains. Your main aim? Navigate through strategic gameplay to defeat your enemies. Here’s how you can get started:
1. BUILD YOUR ARMY: There are four Grand Alliances – Order, Chaos, Death, and Destruction. You start by choosing your alliance; each boasts unique units and characters.
2. UNDERSTAND THE GAMEPLAY: The game is typically divided into ’rounds’ during which you make your moves. Gameplay elements range from moving your units, casting spells, charging, shooting, fighting, and even testing the nerve of your units.
3. LEARN THE RULES: While established players may change up rules for a custom game, as a beginner, it’s best to stick to the core rules provided in the Age of Sigmar’s rulebook.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
Entering the world of Age of Sigmar needs a few essentials. First, you’ll need miniatures to represent your army – this could be a Start Collecting box set for your chosen Grand Alliance. Additionally, you’ll need the Age of Sigmar rulebook or the core book. You also might want to invest in a measuring tape – a critical tool for gameplay. Finally, dice – a lot of them! As your army expands, you may want to invest in paints and brushes to bring your models to life.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. START SMALL: You don’t need an extensive, expensive collection to start. Begin with a Start Collecting set or a smaller unit box.
2. READ THE RULES: Understanding the rules is crucial. A read-through of the core rulebook is highly recommended.
3. LEARN TO PAINT: Painting miniatures can be therapeutic and adds a personal touch to your game.
4. PATIENCE IS KEY: Learning Age of Sigmar and building your army takes time. Be patient; it’s worth it!
5. JOIN A COMMUNITY: Connecting with veteran players can provide invaluable insights and tips.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are excellent resources you can tap into for assistance and direction. The official Age of Sigmar app contains rules, model stats, and more. Board forums like DakkaDakka or communities on Reddit and Discord can also be helpful. For painting tips, look out for the Warhammer TV channel on YouTube.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. FACTION: a group of forces within a Grand Alliance.
2. TURN: a player’s opportunity to move and attack with their units.
3. START COLLECTING: box sets that offer an array of miniatures to begin your collection.
4. WARSROLL: a document or interactive file detailing information about a unit.
5. BATTLEPLAN: a setup of objectives and deployment maps for a particular game.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Ready to embark on your Age of Sigmar adventure? We recommend starting with the purchase of a Start Collecting box of your chosen alliance. Next, delve into the core rulebook and understand the game basics. Lastly, connect with a local gaming community – they often host demo games and events, which is an excellent way to learn. Remember, the journey of Age of Sigmar is a thrilling ride that provides continuous learning and immense fun!
