INTRODUCTION
Hello, fellow adventurer! If you have ever envisioned yourself locked in epic battles with mystical creatures across vibrant, war-ravaged landscapes, then you have come to the right place. Welcome to the realm of Age of Sigmar (AoS), a tabletop war game that dives deep into a fantastical universe full of lore, heroes, and monsters. This guide is beginner-friendly, and my aim is to introduce you to this immersive world, and get you all that you need to get started on this fascinating journey – exciting, isn’t it?
WHAT IS AGE OF SIGMAR?
Age of Sigmar, developed by Games Workshop, is a tabletop strategy game that launched in 2015, transporting players into a magical and diverse universe known as the Mortal Realms. This game is the magical sequel to the historical Warhammer Fantasy Battle. It builds off a rich, dynamic lore making the game more than just strategies and dice rolls; you are part of an ongoing epic saga.
In this multifaceted universe, you can command an army of your own, deciding their paths, and ruling over their destinies. You guide these characters through colorful battles in games that can last from a quick half-hour skirmish to a weekend long grand campaign. All the while, you’re engaged in a friendly contest of wits with your opponent. It’s chess meets Tolkien, culminating in a vibrant mix of strategy, narrative, and social interaction.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
Age of Sigmar consists of assembling your very own miniature army, painting them to your liking, and then maneuvering them across a tabletop battlefield according to a set of rules.
Firstly, choose an army that resonates with you, perhaps you like the disciplined might of the Stormcast Eternals or the wanton destruction of the Orruk Warclans. Each army has its strengths and weaknesses, but all can be used effectively with careful strategy.
Every game of AoS relies on several key phases – hero phase, movement phase, shooting phase, charge phase, combat phase, and battle-shock phase. Understanding these phase mechanics is vital. Also, you can use magical artefacts, tactical maneuvers, and warrior special abilities, the strategy and complexity can be as simple or intricate as you’d like.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To dive into Age of Sigmar, you would need a couple of things:
1. AoS Starter Set: This provides you with a selection of miniatures, game rules, and story background.
2. Dice: Used for everything from determining the success of attacks to checking if units run in fear, dice are essential to the game.
3. Ruler or Measuring Tape: Measurement controls the game’s movements and ranges.
4. Citadel Paint and Brushes: Once you’ve assembled your miniature army, you can personalize them with colors and hues.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. A game of AoS is just that–a game. Have fun and let your imagination soar.
2. Start with a smaller game. Managing a 1,000-point game (the points are used to balance armies) is less daunting for beginners.
3. Find the army that best suits your play style and aesthetic preferences.
4. Be patient when painting your miniatures. It’s an art that takes practice.
5. Learn the rules, but don’t be afraid to reference the rulebook during play.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are countless online resources to assist you on your Age of Sigmar journey:
AoS Rules App: An app that provides easy access to game rules, army information, and more.
Warhammer Community: A hub of resources ranging from news, painting guides, and game updates.
Age of Sigmar Reddit Community: An online community for players to exchange info, discuss strategies, and share their personal AoS experiences.
GLOSSARY
1. Mortal Realms: The eight worlds in AoS, each associated with a different magical wind.
2. WarScroll: The stats and details of a game unit.
3. Hero Phase: The phase of gameplay where magic and command abilities are used.
4. BattleShock Phase: A phase to see if units retreat due to losses.
5. Bravery: A stat that determines how likely a unit is to retreat in the battleshock phase.
NEXT STEPS
The best way to really get a grip on Age of Sigmar is by just starting. Consider joining a local gaming club or finding a group of likeminded adventurers online. Engaging with experienced players can provide valuable insights and advice, not to mention the added enjoyment of playing against a variety of armies and strategies. Most importantly, have fun and remember it’s your journey in the Mortal Realms!
