INTRODUCTION
Hello there, fellow gaming enthusiast! Have you ever wanted to dive into the world of tabletop wargames but found the idea a bit daunting? Fear not, for we have prepared a guide for beginner-friendly game that will change your life – Warcry. This is the perfect game for those looking to dip their toes into the vast ocean of tabletop gaming. It’s simple enough to pick up, yet engaging enough to leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a complete newbie, returning after a long hiatus, or just want to try out something fresh, this guide has got you covered.
WHAT IS WARCRY?
Warcry, introduced by Games Workshop, is a fast-paced, intense, and thrilling skirmish-style wargame set within the larger world of Warhammer Age of Sigmar. It’s a game where warbands battle for dominance amidst the ruins and chaos of the Eightpoints, a mythical dimension fallen into despair under the rule of the chaotic Everchosen.
The game was introduced in 2019 as an entry-level tabletop wargame. But don’t let the ‘entry-level’ fool you. It’s got enough depth and tactics to satisfy seasoned players and is distinct from other Warhammer iterations, with its unique mechanics and focus on small squad battles.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
To get started with Warcry, each player assembles a warband consisting of diverse fighters with different abilities and roles. The battles are generally dungeon crawling affairs, played out on a 22×30” battleboard, where warbands explore, complete objectives, and of course, engage in intense combat.
A game of Warcry generally follows these steps:
1. Select your warband: Warbands consist of about 5-15 models. You can choose from original Chaos warbands or use the ‘Alliance Books’ to use existing Age Sigmar models.
2. Set the battlefield: Battlefields in Warcry consist of multi-level terrains, with each piece playing a key role in the game’s strategy.
3. Determine scenario: The scenario defines the objectives, deployment, and terrain setup using three separate card decks.
4. Battle begins: Much of Warcry’s actions depend on six-sided dice, determining movement, attacks, and special abilities of each unit, also known as ‘abilities’.
5. Complete the objective: The goal isn’t always to wipe out the opponents, sometimes it’s to reach a certain location or protect a certain unit.
6. Postgame: Gain glory points, upgrade warriors, recruit new ones, and prepare for the next battle.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
The starting point for any game of Warcry is the Starter Set. It provides two warbands – the Iron Golems and the Untamed Beasts – a rulebook, dice, measuring tools, and terrain. Additionally, you will need a flat surface to play. Optional items may include paint, additional terrain, and other warbands to customize your experience.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Start with the Starter Set: It’s the most cost-effective way to get into the game and includes everything you need to play.
2. Know your warband: Spend time learning about each fighter’s strengths and weaknesses.
3. Use terrain to your advantage: Terrain can provide protection, hinder the enemy, and provide strategic benefits.
4. Practice! The more you play, the more fluent you’ll become in the game mechanics.
5. Communities are your friend: Join online forums or local gaming groups to find opponents, tips, and motivation.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Some useful resources for new Warcry players include the official Games Workshop website, the Warhammer Community site, and YouTube channels such as MiniWarGaming. You may also explore virtual communities on Reddit or Discord for tips, tactics or finding a gaming group.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Warband: A group of warriors that you control in the game.
2. Abilities: Special actions or powers that your warriors can use.
3. Dice: Used to determine actions and outcomes within the game.
4. Terrain: The objects on the battlefield that can affect battle strategies.
5. Glory Points: The points you earn during campaign play, used for leveling up your warband.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Considering investing in your first Warcry Starter Set, and you’ll discover an enjoyable and thrilling world of strategic battles and compelling narratives. Don’t be discouraged if your first few games don’t go as planned, everyone starts somewhere. Remember, the goal is to have fun. Soon enough, you’ll become a master of Warcry, guiding your warband through the incredible world of the Eightpoints and towards glory! Game on!
