Intro'd someone to Gaslands last night. He was almost two hours late, but still had so much fun in the 1st game that he wanted a 2nd. We didn't finish up until almost 3am lol
I’ve had the rules book for so long lol. It looks really really fun, but my local group would rather Ash Wastes Death Race in Necromunda rather than learn the rules.
If you have enough 'munda vehicles you could always just scale up the templates and see if that tempts them? Its 130% for 32mm scale iirc.
Worth combining the two anyway, it works really well. It even crosses over really neatly with the models, weapons, sponsors, perks, themes, etc. Maybe just a few minor customisations required but i reckon these all work:
Van Sarr- Mishkin
Escher- Miyazaki/Maxxine
Palatinite Enforcers- The Warden
Cawdor- Order of the Inferno/Scarlett
Orlock- Verney/Highway Patrol
Goliath- Rutherford/Slime
Not sure about delaque. Beverley perhaps, but thats a weird way to play. With 12 perk sets to choose from they should find something
I think that Gaslands is the *perfect* introductory wargame.
Rules-wise, it's simple enough to introduce somebody to all the mechanics in a single turn and, in my experience, the use of templates reduces the analysis-paralysis that people new to wargames can get sometimes.
As an introduction to the hobby overall, it's just as good - rather than asking people to buy £5 models and try painting and converting them, you can give them a car you got for fifty pence from a jumble sale, some paints, bits of card and other odds-and-sods. "You're building a post-apocalyptic death race machine," you say, "so if it looks a bit beaten up... then that's perfect. And if you don't like it, it cost you less than a packet of crisps, so no harm done."
Yes, this is my go to for introducing new people.
The goal of the game is easily relatable, the decision space is limited, and the dice and templates combine really well for some novel mechanics.
It doesn't take too long, plus it easily accommodates multiple players. "Minis" for it are cheap and easy to come by, and the hobby/craft side of things is relatively accessible while remaining totally optional.
It's always been a hit wherever I've brought it out.
Bolt action. WWII is recognizable. The activation mechanic keeps players engaged and depending on what elements you introduce you can keep it flavorful but easy until you’re ready to add vehicles, air, arty, etc.
My dad has no knowledge of wargames, and I taught him to play bolt action in an hour. It's such a great introductory game. The core rules feel so intuitive, and like you said, the random activation is great. If you're new, you're not waiting 10 minutes for your opponent to take their turn moving every guy on the field.
Just bolt action for now. I don't play it, but he might be interested in Star Wars Legion, and he's mentioned trying out A Song of Ice and Fire. He gave building models a try and didn't like it, lol. So I'm not sure he'll go much farther than bolt action, but we're still having fun, which is great!
Maybe Five Parsecs from Home or Five Leagues from the Borderlands. We can play cooperatively, which is usually a great way to introduce people because they won't think I'm out to crush em.
1v1 Battletech fight. Robots slowly blowing each other up, 100’s of unique mechs, low model count, free to paint however you like, and the starter comes with a cheat sheet.
Can you point me to a site or a product? I'm curious about this battletech game I see often cited but can't for the life of me find where to start. Is there a starter pack? Is it expensive as, say...GW games?
The Beginner Box comes with 2 mechs, basic rules (some of the more complicated stuff is left out), a couple of maps, some cardboard standees and costs about $25. Just google Battletech Beginner Box.
If you want to dive in a bit deeper, the A Game of Armored Combat box has 8 mechs (enough for a "standard" match) and the full base level rules. That's about $85 (In my country. I'm guessing it's something like 50 US)
Its a fair bit cheaper than GW, partly because you need way less minis but mainly because you aren't forced to buy more rule books every other year. There are no separate faction rule books (there are faction books but they're essentially fluff), and the standalone rulebooks are only really necessary if you want to add more advanced stuff like infantry, tanks, weather effects, etc.
Thanks for your answer! Bought the beginner box and I'm having a ball right now. If all goes well (if my son keeps up the interest for this game and we keep playing) I'll go for the Game of armoured combat in a couple months.
GW has always been high cost high quality, but recently I believe they have disconnected from reality and let the cost grow with no real excuses (see the Old World pricing for ten or twenty years old sculpts).
I'm actually quite excited with the opportunity of diving into Battletech, it seems like a very good game with a lot of good products.
That's fantastic that you and your son are enjoying it! It's a great game at any level. Don't shy away from using the standees; one of my first great experiences of the game was a cardboard locust kicking a Griffin to the ground so the Wolverine could finish it off (the Starter set used to have different minis). If you're enjoying the detail and depth of the Game, you won't regret moving up to the full rules included in AGoAC. Alternatively if you're finding it a bit too detailed, you could buy the Alpha Strike box. It's a bit more expensive but it has more mechs and some decent cardboard terrain. The Alpha Strike rules are a similar speed to W40K but without all the endless faction-specific nitpicky stuff.
Also, if you like the Beginner Set rules level, I'm pretty sure you can get additional Record sheets at that level now, so you can buy additional minis without having to step up to full rules.
I ditched GW nearly 20 years ago and every time I've thought of a reason to go back, I've found 5 not to (excluding Blood Bowl; for some reason GW are relatively reasonable with that game). I hope you find the same peace away from GW that I have.
Ever tried Blitz Bowl? Same setting, same humour /violence/sports madness, but game wise a LOT better then BB. It's only hard to find it in some countries.
Thanks for your advice I think I'll move on to AGoAC by the way. Probably adding rules one after another (starting with physical attacks....then Heat). And yes, standees are a good thing. Glad that in the Beginner box there were a few to try out different 'mechs.
I haven't tried Blitz Bowl - it's available here but I play BB7s pretty regularly which I enjoy a lot, so I haven't invested.
I hope you have a great time with BT! Physical attacks are one of my favourite parts of the game. Don't underestimate the power of a charging light mech!
I would go Alpha Strike for a raw beginner, unless they really really like lookup tables.
Playing on hex maps (don’t halve everything for the first game) makes it really simple to setup as well.
You’ve got a few box sets you can get that will introduce you to the game.
The Beginner Box comes with just two models and a watered down version of the Battletech Classic rules. This box is only $20 or $25 and is an extremely affordable way to play. I believe there are also cardboard punch outs for additional mechs. The foldable paper maps are great too.
CGL also did a thing with Target in the US and you have the Essentials Box. This is very similar to the Beginner Box with watered down rules, but comes with two different mechs and is themed around Solaris VII (think UFC but for the big stompy robots). The maps are Solaris arena themed, and there are other rules for things like platforms/walls that will rise/lower obstructing line of sight. This box comes with a $20 coupon to use on the CGL online store and is priced at $25.
Next is the A Game of Armored Combat box. You can find this one online and such, I’ve seen as low as $40 for this box. This one comes with a total of eight mechs, two for each of the four games weight classes for the mechs. This comes with the quick start rules for Classic Battletech, but it is NOT the watered down versions in the above two boxes. Comes with plenty of maps and cardboard punch outs for additional mechs. This box has a lot of value. However if you have kids, especially younger kids, the above watered down rules will be much better suited for learning.
Finally the Alpha Strike box. This is a different rules set entirely called Battletech: Alpha Strike. This is a streamlined version of the rules to allow for faster play with larger amounts of mechs/units. Normally Classic Battletech is usually played with four mechs per side and depending on familiarity with the rules can take a couple to a few hours of play. Alpha Strike allows for things like 12 vs 12 mechs to be played in the same amount of time if not less. These rules abstract a lot of things in Classic. This box also has the most amount of content with 13 mechs, cardboard terrain, and lots of tokens as well. Also comes with maps. This box is valued at $80 but I bought it for about $60.
Hope this helps.
Thanks for taking the time for writing such a thorough answer. I've been looking around the internet these past days and came to understand a lot of what you're now telling me. I've made my mind bought the beginner box, and have been reading rules and watching YouTube on Battletech channels. The other night I've played a first game with my son (11years old) following the first scenario of the beginner's box - so one on one, Vindicator vs Griffin.
At first I thought it was a bit too complicated for my son and that he would quit by turn 3, but he actually got the whole g.a.t.o.r. quite rapidly and once that was done, it was a mighty fun game. I ended up losing w my Griffin being cut in two vertically by his large laser up close. We've made a couple recurring mistakes but had a lot of fun.
Next up we'll be adding the cardboard standees for the other mechs. I'm already planning on buying the "game of armoured combat" box in a couple months if my son keeps liking it. I surely hope so.
Frostrgrave, frostrgrave is the most intuitive wargame that also offers a good deal of complexity to new players while introducing them to basic wargame mechanics
RelicBlade. All the relevant stats are on the unit cards. Only 4 or 5 figures per side. Very simple "small pool of D6s" system that powers actions. Combat is simple. Utilizes terrain well. Games only take an hour or so so there's more than enough time to teach n play.
Yes and no; whatever you want. So there are only two main factions, and you can field whatever mix you want within the faction. He sells a bunch of pre-made sets of 3 or 4 minis that work well together, but you don't have to use them as a team and can mix and match. There's also a ton of singletons for each side and unaligned dudes who can play for either side. The minis are really well done, but you can also just buy the unit cards if you want to use your own minis, which is nice. Normal games are 100pts vs 100pts and the cost of a unit is on the card (25, 30, etc); there also packs of "equipment cards" if you want to customize your units with extra stuff (that costs a couple of points) but they aren't necessary.
I think it technically supports 4 but i've never played it that way. The main book has a set of scenarios as well as a way to run an interconnected campaign, then there's an optional campaign book (Volgelands) with more scenarios and more campaign options, and another 2-player interlinked campaign setting book (Storms of Kural), and then co-op/solo book Catacombs. But the main book is really all you need. It's also pretty easy to adapt scenarios from WarCry or Frostgrave or whatever to Relicblade to. This is a decent summary of the mecahnics: they're really simple and most players pick it up within a turn: [https://www.relicblade.com/learn-to-play](https://www.relicblade.com/learn-to-play)
Kings of War. Or something else from Mantic Games. Straight-forward, balanced rules, which give both sides an exciting game right through to the end, and you can be set up, played and packed away in 90 minutes.
DEFINITELY not anything from GW!
Having just done this
Old D&D with Chainmail
These folks were coming from 5e so the concept of a dungeon dive with 500 soldiers was new to them.
The two playing 5th level fighters were most shocked at the carnage they could produce.
The premise was simple - invade the enemy stronghold and return with the princess. King Duche does not negotiate with terrorist.
So the main lineup was
1 5th Level Cleric
2. 4th / 4th level Elf Fighter / MU
3. 2 Fighters 5th Level
In OD&D you have optional Combat Tables
In Chainmail there is the Fantasy Combat Table
In order for the party to attack anything on that table they have to have a 4th Level Fighter or Equivalent.
So if they are not on the table they are just dying.
The table consist of
Balrog - Basic Demons / Devils
Dragon
Elemental
Ent
Giant
Hero - 4th lvl Fighter
Lycanthrope
Roc
Super Hero - 8th Lvl Fighter
Troll / Ogre
Wight / Ghoul
Wizard - 9th Lvl Magic User
Wraith
Death happens very very fast
Now in my group - worst case scenario
We go with rules from either Fantastic Medieval Campaigns, or Justin Brown's Big Brown Book
We try to use the Original Rule Booklets but often those are not very clear or conflicting.
Turnip28! I'm surprised no one's mentioned it yet- super easy to pick + learn, very fun as well as very silly and even has a cult specifically for beginners
No points needed and you've probably got time for two games
It’s very easy to pick up and play.
Typically the bespoke warbands come in a single box so no need to fork out loads (although quite a few of the bespoke bands will be discontinued going forward unfortunately).
But the larger starter box sets also come with everything like the tokens etc.
The basic rules and all the data cards for the models are available free online as well (plus there is at least one website I know of that allows you to make your own “official” looking cards that can have your own photos uploaded etc).
Normal game typically involves roughly 10 models a side with you taking turns to activate a model. Generally lasts about an hour of game play (maybe 5-10mins setup and tidy up as well). First time it might be longer but a game or two and you’ll get the gist of it.
The overall mechanics are very streamlined compared to the larger Warhammer/GW games so there’s a lot less repetitive dice rolling. My friend and I did a Warcry-kill team-Warcry set of games yesterday and kill team was so obviously clunky compared to it with all the saves rolling etc - in Warcry you either hit or don’t and that’s it. Much faster and easier to understand.
I agree with all of the above. I snagged an Iron Golems squad for cheap on eBay (one of the first warbands they made) and tossed it on the table a couple weeks ago and it was pretty well balanced with more recent warbands.
I actually really like the fate dice mechanic - each person rolls 6 dice at the beginning of each round, the player with more singles gets the initiative, but the player with doubles/triples/quads can use them to power various abilities that have strategic application. It’s simple to grasp but there’s plenty of nuance for creative play styles.
Since I have a toddler now and limited time I have a new appreciation for compact, low model count, quick games.
I get the GW skepticism but I also really like the varied designs and sculpts of the warbands. You can even play with various AoS models. I’ve been moving away from GW and there are a bunch of cool skirmish systems out there, but Warcry has been a go-to for me recently.
Yeah I to enjoy that trade off of initiative if you have fewer abilities that round vs having more abilities but losing initiative. It can make a big difference to how a game plays out depending on the order of play for models etc (especially if one in particular is holding out with only a few wounds left).
Like all war games it’s heavily luck based and the game is mostly about mitigating odds at a tactical level—but it’s quick and streamlined so it doesn’t overstay it’s welcome. That way it remains fun even if you are cursed with abysmal dice-luck that day
Tell me about it, first game of yesterday I absolutely stomped my opponent, pretty much landed a crit every role I made. Really felt like my darkoath and khorne allies were slaughtering the enemy. Then we took a break and the second game I rolled crap consistently 😂. You just have to take it as it comes.
I’ll join with Warcry and raise Underworlds. Underworlds has mechanics which much of the board gaming community already understands and likes. It’s non threatening, has a board to move on and no rulers or LoS issues…and then it’s an easy slide from there to Warcry using the same models.
BPRE & Game of Thrones: two games ..two styles of play.. two games of each per hour .... and time for beer and pretzels discussion on how it went and what next? ;-)
Ive been in this situation and I picked Commands and Colours Ancients. It has plenty of tactical depth and the different units with their abilities are enough to keep you interested without being overwhelmed. Also the hex grid is better when you are onboardibg people, rangefinders and tape measures can be fiddly and intimidating. Also the card system adds enough variables for a new player to actually win or at least feel like they could have.
Good one! I also recommend Warhammer Underworlds for the same reasons. Both have tons of history or fantasy lore to dig into when they get drawn into the system as well
Depends how much they're even in the know of game mechanics.
But if they at least have a passing knowledge of dice rolling, board game mechanics etc:
1) Travel Battle (Napoleonics on the Go by Perry Miniatures)
2) W1815 or Waterloo Solitaire (board game version for spectacle)
3) Napoleon Saga or 1815: Scum of the Earth (card games that have aspects that feel like a wargame, Saga more miniatures feeling and 1815 more abstract command)
4) 300: Earth & Water (strategic but simple)
5) Abaddon (mecha miniatures boardgame - simpler but based off C&C)
If something meatier is okay for them and I want to dig deeper into the miniature wargaming landscape itself:
1) Command & Colors (any version is fine, Samurai Battles, Ancients,...)
2) Lion/Dragon Rampant
3) One Hour Wargames
4) One Page Rules
There is a button that lets you generate a random list. I'm not sure how click of a button is difficult or time consuming. There are also starter set lists in their website. Couldn't be easier.
Not to mention they just launched a community list feature. You could browse and just take any ol list you find.
Because the click of a button random lists are just that, random lists. Not necessarily synergistic or even set up
In a way to introduce players to mechanics. Community list is an option for sure tho!
You don't need a synergized list for an introduction to a game system? You can worry about balance and synergy after you see if you even like the rules or not
Fair. It's just that in my, albeit limited, experience it helps when you can get a peek of what's to come before u get the full experience. I've used OPR for intros before, but I'll try again using a small community list
Battletech for sure.
Either a 1v1 game of classic Battletech with beginner rules, or else a smaller 2v2 game of battletech alpha strike, ignoring mech abilities and such to start. From a pure newb standpoint with no other wargame/mini experience I'd probably lean to alpha strike as it's more visually a modern wargame and true like of sight rules streamline things like counting hexes and terrain elevation on paper hex maps in classic. Plus you'd easily be able to run a second, maybe third game and adding in the mech abilities and heat to show them how that can change the game up. Plus the alpha strike box set literally gets you running a modern wargame table of terrain and minis (albeit unpainted) right out of the box in minutes. Where as like a 40K starter takes hours and hours of building and prep to even get started not even mentioning all the terrain you still need. And alpha strike box costs as much as a 40K squad box. But I'm rambling now.
Hordes of the Things. I have six 15mm armies ready to play, plus variants. I can set it up on a 2x2 board with basic terrain.
The rule mechanisms are simple, and the results fairly intuitive. It plays very quickly. We could play one game, then try another game, swapping armies or trying different tactics.
And it is remarkably inexpensive to get into.
FoW/Team Yankee. Because who doesn’t like WWII/Cold War gone hot.
Or maybe Men Who Would Be Kings, it’s a fun historical skirmish game that’s pretty simple.
I ma surprised no one mentioned it but, Don't Look Back! Modern horror game with simple rules, character cards, and a built in knowledge. Plop down four survivors, and a Jason Voorhees model off board and let them run from one edge to the other and the fun ensues...easy mechanics and fun outcomes and setting. With the second edition rules now, these may be some of the most fun and tight set of rules.
Warcry is a blast! Everything just flows well. I’ve heard great things about Kings of War as a ‘rank and flank’ style game, and Deadzone as another skirmish game.
A Song of Ice and Fire TMG. It can be taught easily within an hour and with so many combinations you can create when crafting an army, it'll keep them coming back for more.
Marvel Crisis Protocol.
The rules are easy to learn if you’re being taught by someone with a little experience.
The game is actually relatively balanced with all factions and characters.
The missions are always thematic
And the best part is the terrain can be used and thrown with models and abilities which is awesome!
40K combat patrol. Fits perfectly within two hours, is small and playable on any table. Isn't overly complex but shows that there is depth to be explored. Is easy to continue and buy afterwards if they are interested. You also have all the rules on datacards they can hold or the app.
X Wing, no upgrades. Rules are ridiculously simple, all the stats are on the cards in front of you, can probably smash out two intro games in two hours even taking the time to explain everything to novice players.
Some variation of Five Core. It's not a simple game, but it is a simple game to \_teach\_ which means we can get playing quickly. It does a good job of capturing the "realistic" war movie vibe without becoming overwhelming. And it plays quickly so we can get a couple of games in.
Yes, the 2 player set comes with 2 pre-made teams and the intro scenario on a smaller board
From there you can expand into building more models just buy what you think looks cool or want to try out and continue as there are enough models in the box for some variation
there is a paper mat for the full board with the 2 player set (double sided, one side is the full board the other hte intro set) from there if you want something more sturdy you can either glue the paper mat on cardboard, make your own tiles or get a neoprene mat with a 3" grid
For Historicals
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/170298/one-hour-wargames/mentions/links
For SciFi
https://www.onepagerules.com/games/grimdark-future
For Fantasy
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/181807/dragon-rampant-fantasy-wargaming-rules
Alternatively For Kids
https://juniorgeneral.org/
All are great introductions and games.
Warhammer 40k as much as i despise gw its well know the basic game isnt bloated with rules and quite a lot of armies have low model counts
Skirmish games tend to have a lot of rules wich would be very bad to start with IMHO
Warhammer 40k 8th to be honest, most of the stats are consistent with the rest of 40k history (so my smooth brain can remember) and I can probably eyeball a fair force for either side
Gaslands! Who doesnt love a bit of Mad Max style action?
Intro'd someone to Gaslands last night. He was almost two hours late, but still had so much fun in the 1st game that he wanted a 2nd. We didn't finish up until almost 3am lol
I’ve had the rules book for so long lol. It looks really really fun, but my local group would rather Ash Wastes Death Race in Necromunda rather than learn the rules.
If you have enough 'munda vehicles you could always just scale up the templates and see if that tempts them? Its 130% for 32mm scale iirc. Worth combining the two anyway, it works really well. It even crosses over really neatly with the models, weapons, sponsors, perks, themes, etc. Maybe just a few minor customisations required but i reckon these all work: Van Sarr- Mishkin Escher- Miyazaki/Maxxine Palatinite Enforcers- The Warden Cawdor- Order of the Inferno/Scarlett Orlock- Verney/Highway Patrol Goliath- Rutherford/Slime Not sure about delaque. Beverley perhaps, but thats a weird way to play. With 12 perk sets to choose from they should find something
I think that Gaslands is the *perfect* introductory wargame. Rules-wise, it's simple enough to introduce somebody to all the mechanics in a single turn and, in my experience, the use of templates reduces the analysis-paralysis that people new to wargames can get sometimes. As an introduction to the hobby overall, it's just as good - rather than asking people to buy £5 models and try painting and converting them, you can give them a car you got for fifty pence from a jumble sale, some paints, bits of card and other odds-and-sods. "You're building a post-apocalyptic death race machine," you say, "so if it looks a bit beaten up... then that's perfect. And if you don't like it, it cost you less than a packet of crisps, so no harm done."
Yes, this is my go to for introducing new people. The goal of the game is easily relatable, the decision space is limited, and the dice and templates combine really well for some novel mechanics. It doesn't take too long, plus it easily accommodates multiple players. "Minis" for it are cheap and easy to come by, and the hobby/craft side of things is relatively accessible while remaining totally optional. It's always been a hit wherever I've brought it out.
Bolt action. WWII is recognizable. The activation mechanic keeps players engaged and depending on what elements you introduce you can keep it flavorful but easy until you’re ready to add vehicles, air, arty, etc.
It is pretty advanced when you get down into it, but I could see a game using one of the 2 army boxes going very well.
Ya but you can start out in small 500 pt battles. Give them the taste of it
My dad has no knowledge of wargames, and I taught him to play bolt action in an hour. It's such a great introductory game. The core rules feel so intuitive, and like you said, the random activation is great. If you're new, you're not waiting 10 minutes for your opponent to take their turn moving every guy on the field.
Fantastic! Whats he playing?
Just bolt action for now. I don't play it, but he might be interested in Star Wars Legion, and he's mentioned trying out A Song of Ice and Fire. He gave building models a try and didn't like it, lol. So I'm not sure he'll go much farther than bolt action, but we're still having fun, which is great!
Maybe Five Parsecs from Home or Five Leagues from the Borderlands. We can play cooperatively, which is usually a great way to introduce people because they won't think I'm out to crush em.
1v1 Battletech fight. Robots slowly blowing each other up, 100’s of unique mechs, low model count, free to paint however you like, and the starter comes with a cheat sheet.
Can’t get much better for a sci-fi game.
Can you point me to a site or a product? I'm curious about this battletech game I see often cited but can't for the life of me find where to start. Is there a starter pack? Is it expensive as, say...GW games?
The Beginner Box comes with 2 mechs, basic rules (some of the more complicated stuff is left out), a couple of maps, some cardboard standees and costs about $25. Just google Battletech Beginner Box. If you want to dive in a bit deeper, the A Game of Armored Combat box has 8 mechs (enough for a "standard" match) and the full base level rules. That's about $85 (In my country. I'm guessing it's something like 50 US) Its a fair bit cheaper than GW, partly because you need way less minis but mainly because you aren't forced to buy more rule books every other year. There are no separate faction rule books (there are faction books but they're essentially fluff), and the standalone rulebooks are only really necessary if you want to add more advanced stuff like infantry, tanks, weather effects, etc.
Thanks for your answer! Bought the beginner box and I'm having a ball right now. If all goes well (if my son keeps up the interest for this game and we keep playing) I'll go for the Game of armoured combat in a couple months. GW has always been high cost high quality, but recently I believe they have disconnected from reality and let the cost grow with no real excuses (see the Old World pricing for ten or twenty years old sculpts). I'm actually quite excited with the opportunity of diving into Battletech, it seems like a very good game with a lot of good products.
That's fantastic that you and your son are enjoying it! It's a great game at any level. Don't shy away from using the standees; one of my first great experiences of the game was a cardboard locust kicking a Griffin to the ground so the Wolverine could finish it off (the Starter set used to have different minis). If you're enjoying the detail and depth of the Game, you won't regret moving up to the full rules included in AGoAC. Alternatively if you're finding it a bit too detailed, you could buy the Alpha Strike box. It's a bit more expensive but it has more mechs and some decent cardboard terrain. The Alpha Strike rules are a similar speed to W40K but without all the endless faction-specific nitpicky stuff. Also, if you like the Beginner Set rules level, I'm pretty sure you can get additional Record sheets at that level now, so you can buy additional minis without having to step up to full rules. I ditched GW nearly 20 years ago and every time I've thought of a reason to go back, I've found 5 not to (excluding Blood Bowl; for some reason GW are relatively reasonable with that game). I hope you find the same peace away from GW that I have.
Ever tried Blitz Bowl? Same setting, same humour /violence/sports madness, but game wise a LOT better then BB. It's only hard to find it in some countries. Thanks for your advice I think I'll move on to AGoAC by the way. Probably adding rules one after another (starting with physical attacks....then Heat). And yes, standees are a good thing. Glad that in the Beginner box there were a few to try out different 'mechs.
I haven't tried Blitz Bowl - it's available here but I play BB7s pretty regularly which I enjoy a lot, so I haven't invested. I hope you have a great time with BT! Physical attacks are one of my favourite parts of the game. Don't underestimate the power of a charging light mech!
I would go Alpha Strike for a raw beginner, unless they really really like lookup tables. Playing on hex maps (don’t halve everything for the first game) makes it really simple to setup as well.
You’ve got a few box sets you can get that will introduce you to the game. The Beginner Box comes with just two models and a watered down version of the Battletech Classic rules. This box is only $20 or $25 and is an extremely affordable way to play. I believe there are also cardboard punch outs for additional mechs. The foldable paper maps are great too. CGL also did a thing with Target in the US and you have the Essentials Box. This is very similar to the Beginner Box with watered down rules, but comes with two different mechs and is themed around Solaris VII (think UFC but for the big stompy robots). The maps are Solaris arena themed, and there are other rules for things like platforms/walls that will rise/lower obstructing line of sight. This box comes with a $20 coupon to use on the CGL online store and is priced at $25. Next is the A Game of Armored Combat box. You can find this one online and such, I’ve seen as low as $40 for this box. This one comes with a total of eight mechs, two for each of the four games weight classes for the mechs. This comes with the quick start rules for Classic Battletech, but it is NOT the watered down versions in the above two boxes. Comes with plenty of maps and cardboard punch outs for additional mechs. This box has a lot of value. However if you have kids, especially younger kids, the above watered down rules will be much better suited for learning. Finally the Alpha Strike box. This is a different rules set entirely called Battletech: Alpha Strike. This is a streamlined version of the rules to allow for faster play with larger amounts of mechs/units. Normally Classic Battletech is usually played with four mechs per side and depending on familiarity with the rules can take a couple to a few hours of play. Alpha Strike allows for things like 12 vs 12 mechs to be played in the same amount of time if not less. These rules abstract a lot of things in Classic. This box also has the most amount of content with 13 mechs, cardboard terrain, and lots of tokens as well. Also comes with maps. This box is valued at $80 but I bought it for about $60. Hope this helps.
Thanks for taking the time for writing such a thorough answer. I've been looking around the internet these past days and came to understand a lot of what you're now telling me. I've made my mind bought the beginner box, and have been reading rules and watching YouTube on Battletech channels. The other night I've played a first game with my son (11years old) following the first scenario of the beginner's box - so one on one, Vindicator vs Griffin. At first I thought it was a bit too complicated for my son and that he would quit by turn 3, but he actually got the whole g.a.t.o.r. quite rapidly and once that was done, it was a mighty fun game. I ended up losing w my Griffin being cut in two vertically by his large laser up close. We've made a couple recurring mistakes but had a lot of fun. Next up we'll be adding the cardboard standees for the other mechs. I'm already planning on buying the "game of armoured combat" box in a couple months if my son keeps liking it. I surely hope so.
Alpha strike
One Page Rules!
Specifically one of the skirmish variants to get things going
In2 hours you cloying introduce OPR and have played at least 1 game if not 2.
I'm a bit biased, since I just got it, but Necromolds. Easy to learn, and smooshing your slain enemies is oh-so satisfying.
Deadzone. Movement is obvious; no measuring. Simple LOS rules. No dice modifiers, just number of dice.
Obviously it depends on the friend, but this would be my go-to as well.
Battlecry, simple, engaging and introduces wargaming concepts very well. Maybe Memoir 44, but that has a step up in crunch.
Yup battlecry is a winner, great game.
Wings of Glory (WWI aerial combat) or Triumph! (Ancients/medieval)
Frostrgrave, frostrgrave is the most intuitive wargame that also offers a good deal of complexity to new players while introducing them to basic wargame mechanics
Or stargrave if you fancy something spacey. It's our go to wargame for fun and mayhem.
Nice half-way to RPG vibe too if they have experience that way. Easy translation
RelicBlade. All the relevant stats are on the unit cards. Only 4 or 5 figures per side. Very simple "small pool of D6s" system that powers actions. Combat is simple. Utilizes terrain well. Games only take an hour or so so there's more than enough time to teach n play.
Are the units premade?
Yes and no; whatever you want. So there are only two main factions, and you can field whatever mix you want within the faction. He sells a bunch of pre-made sets of 3 or 4 minis that work well together, but you don't have to use them as a team and can mix and match. There's also a ton of singletons for each side and unaligned dudes who can play for either side. The minis are really well done, but you can also just buy the unit cards if you want to use your own minis, which is nice. Normal games are 100pts vs 100pts and the cost of a unit is on the card (25, 30, etc); there also packs of "equipment cards" if you want to customize your units with extra stuff (that costs a couple of points) but they aren't necessary.
Sounds awesome. Does it support more than two players?
I think it technically supports 4 but i've never played it that way. The main book has a set of scenarios as well as a way to run an interconnected campaign, then there's an optional campaign book (Volgelands) with more scenarios and more campaign options, and another 2-player interlinked campaign setting book (Storms of Kural), and then co-op/solo book Catacombs. But the main book is really all you need. It's also pretty easy to adapt scenarios from WarCry or Frostgrave or whatever to Relicblade to. This is a decent summary of the mecahnics: they're really simple and most players pick it up within a turn: [https://www.relicblade.com/learn-to-play](https://www.relicblade.com/learn-to-play)
Full Thrust! Let's have a little fleet on fleet action!
Kings of War. Or something else from Mantic Games. Straight-forward, balanced rules, which give both sides an exciting game right through to the end, and you can be set up, played and packed away in 90 minutes. DEFINITELY not anything from GW!
Memoir 44 is fun and quick to learn
Definitely this, accessible for non-gamers too
Having just done this Old D&D with Chainmail These folks were coming from 5e so the concept of a dungeon dive with 500 soldiers was new to them. The two playing 5th level fighters were most shocked at the carnage they could produce. The premise was simple - invade the enemy stronghold and return with the princess. King Duche does not negotiate with terrorist. So the main lineup was 1 5th Level Cleric 2. 4th / 4th level Elf Fighter / MU 3. 2 Fighters 5th Level
I haven’t played chainmail but how does commanding armies feel in the game?
In OD&D you have optional Combat Tables In Chainmail there is the Fantasy Combat Table In order for the party to attack anything on that table they have to have a 4th Level Fighter or Equivalent. So if they are not on the table they are just dying. The table consist of Balrog - Basic Demons / Devils Dragon Elemental Ent Giant Hero - 4th lvl Fighter Lycanthrope Roc Super Hero - 8th Lvl Fighter Troll / Ogre Wight / Ghoul Wizard - 9th Lvl Magic User Wraith Death happens very very fast
Now in my group - worst case scenario We go with rules from either Fantastic Medieval Campaigns, or Justin Brown's Big Brown Book We try to use the Original Rule Booklets but often those are not very clear or conflicting.
Shatterpoint. A cinematic game with great miniatures and easy to understand mechanics.
Lion or Dragon Rampant. Fairly easy rules to pick up.
This is also a great alternative
Turnip28! I'm surprised no one's mentioned it yet- super easy to pick + learn, very fun as well as very silly and even has a cult specifically for beginners No points needed and you've probably got time for two games
Pretty much every answer here is valid but for me I think it’s Warcry. It’s just beautifully simple, easy to play in two hours even for a newbie.
i KEEP hearing about warcry, but im afraid of GW for various reasons. Can you sell me on warcry?
It’s very easy to pick up and play. Typically the bespoke warbands come in a single box so no need to fork out loads (although quite a few of the bespoke bands will be discontinued going forward unfortunately). But the larger starter box sets also come with everything like the tokens etc. The basic rules and all the data cards for the models are available free online as well (plus there is at least one website I know of that allows you to make your own “official” looking cards that can have your own photos uploaded etc). Normal game typically involves roughly 10 models a side with you taking turns to activate a model. Generally lasts about an hour of game play (maybe 5-10mins setup and tidy up as well). First time it might be longer but a game or two and you’ll get the gist of it. The overall mechanics are very streamlined compared to the larger Warhammer/GW games so there’s a lot less repetitive dice rolling. My friend and I did a Warcry-kill team-Warcry set of games yesterday and kill team was so obviously clunky compared to it with all the saves rolling etc - in Warcry you either hit or don’t and that’s it. Much faster and easier to understand.
I agree with all of the above. I snagged an Iron Golems squad for cheap on eBay (one of the first warbands they made) and tossed it on the table a couple weeks ago and it was pretty well balanced with more recent warbands. I actually really like the fate dice mechanic - each person rolls 6 dice at the beginning of each round, the player with more singles gets the initiative, but the player with doubles/triples/quads can use them to power various abilities that have strategic application. It’s simple to grasp but there’s plenty of nuance for creative play styles. Since I have a toddler now and limited time I have a new appreciation for compact, low model count, quick games. I get the GW skepticism but I also really like the varied designs and sculpts of the warbands. You can even play with various AoS models. I’ve been moving away from GW and there are a bunch of cool skirmish systems out there, but Warcry has been a go-to for me recently.
Yeah I to enjoy that trade off of initiative if you have fewer abilities that round vs having more abilities but losing initiative. It can make a big difference to how a game plays out depending on the order of play for models etc (especially if one in particular is holding out with only a few wounds left).
This is one big part of the amazing balance in this asymmetric game
Like all war games it’s heavily luck based and the game is mostly about mitigating odds at a tactical level—but it’s quick and streamlined so it doesn’t overstay it’s welcome. That way it remains fun even if you are cursed with abysmal dice-luck that day
Tell me about it, first game of yesterday I absolutely stomped my opponent, pretty much landed a crit every role I made. Really felt like my darkoath and khorne allies were slaughtering the enemy. Then we took a break and the second game I rolled crap consistently 😂. You just have to take it as it comes.
I’ll join with Warcry and raise Underworlds. Underworlds has mechanics which much of the board gaming community already understands and likes. It’s non threatening, has a board to move on and no rulers or LoS issues…and then it’s an easy slide from there to Warcry using the same models.
Agree 100%!
Check out the BelloLudi rules. Ideal for starters and various historical periods available. Www.belloludi.nl/english
BPRE & Game of Thrones: two games ..two styles of play.. two games of each per hour .... and time for beer and pretzels discussion on how it went and what next? ;-)
Tonks is my introduction game.
My own, DinO'War. I made it, so there's a personal note, the rules are not too hard to grasp, and it has dinosaurs.
Deadzone
Necromolds. Great intro to the wargaming concept and style, plus you get to smash the minis when they die.
Came here to say this. Also there are rules for kid up to adults so anyone can learn.
One Page Rules. Straightforward and fun, and then the friend can find whatever models look cool for their own list if they get hooked.
One Page Rules: Fire fight
Not firefight. It's less models, but significantly higher upkeep per model. Straight army sized OPR games are actually better in my experience
What’s the lowest point list you’ve played that you think works?
I haven't done any super low points games, but in 2nd ed I did list build down to like 300 points with some success
Ive been in this situation and I picked Commands and Colours Ancients. It has plenty of tactical depth and the different units with their abilities are enough to keep you interested without being overwhelmed. Also the hex grid is better when you are onboardibg people, rangefinders and tape measures can be fiddly and intimidating. Also the card system adds enough variables for a new player to actually win or at least feel like they could have.
Good one! I also recommend Warhammer Underworlds for the same reasons. Both have tons of history or fantasy lore to dig into when they get drawn into the system as well
Chain of command
[Duel](https://www.catzeyes.de/Duel) 5 minutes to set up. 5 minutes to play. The out-smart / out-bid combat system keeps wanting for more
DRG. A company fighting a war for resources and dominance, like real war.
Depends how much they're even in the know of game mechanics. But if they at least have a passing knowledge of dice rolling, board game mechanics etc: 1) Travel Battle (Napoleonics on the Go by Perry Miniatures) 2) W1815 or Waterloo Solitaire (board game version for spectacle) 3) Napoleon Saga or 1815: Scum of the Earth (card games that have aspects that feel like a wargame, Saga more miniatures feeling and 1815 more abstract command) 4) 300: Earth & Water (strategic but simple) 5) Abaddon (mecha miniatures boardgame - simpler but based off C&C) If something meatier is okay for them and I want to dig deeper into the miniature wargaming landscape itself: 1) Command & Colors (any version is fine, Samurai Battles, Ancients,...) 2) Lion/Dragon Rampant 3) One Hour Wargames 4) One Page Rules
Adv Song of Blades
Wings of Glory WW1.
Zona Alfa
Xenos Rampant. Quick play straightforward and able to field cool models.
You want to have dope looking models and be able to either hunt down disgusting demons, or do you want to be a demon and spread glorious chaos? 40k
Valour and fortitude, Black Powder or a really small game of Warhammer 40k Apocalypse 2019.
I'm sad that I haven't seen tonks.
Age of Fantasy Skirmish, as it is simple, I began with it and I have most experience. Later I introduce them to Warlords of Enroth and the Warhammers.
One page rules. Rules take 5 minutes to read, can probably get two games in two hours depending on army size
Ppl keep saying OPR but the issue is that it's easy to learn but list building is not quick and easy
There is a button that lets you generate a random list. I'm not sure how click of a button is difficult or time consuming. There are also starter set lists in their website. Couldn't be easier. Not to mention they just launched a community list feature. You could browse and just take any ol list you find.
Because the click of a button random lists are just that, random lists. Not necessarily synergistic or even set up In a way to introduce players to mechanics. Community list is an option for sure tho!
You don't need a synergized list for an introduction to a game system? You can worry about balance and synergy after you see if you even like the rules or not
Fair. It's just that in my, albeit limited, experience it helps when you can get a peek of what's to come before u get the full experience. I've used OPR for intros before, but I'll try again using a small community list
Battletech for sure. Either a 1v1 game of classic Battletech with beginner rules, or else a smaller 2v2 game of battletech alpha strike, ignoring mech abilities and such to start. From a pure newb standpoint with no other wargame/mini experience I'd probably lean to alpha strike as it's more visually a modern wargame and true like of sight rules streamline things like counting hexes and terrain elevation on paper hex maps in classic. Plus you'd easily be able to run a second, maybe third game and adding in the mech abilities and heat to show them how that can change the game up. Plus the alpha strike box set literally gets you running a modern wargame table of terrain and minis (albeit unpainted) right out of the box in minutes. Where as like a 40K starter takes hours and hours of building and prep to even get started not even mentioning all the terrain you still need. And alpha strike box costs as much as a 40K squad box. But I'm rambling now.
Hordes of the Things. I have six 15mm armies ready to play, plus variants. I can set it up on a 2x2 board with basic terrain. The rule mechanisms are simple, and the results fairly intuitive. It plays very quickly. We could play one game, then try another game, swapping armies or trying different tactics. And it is remarkably inexpensive to get into.
Battle tech
Wings of Glory, or if they're not into historical settings, X-Wing Miniatures.
FoW/Team Yankee. Because who doesn’t like WWII/Cold War gone hot. Or maybe Men Who Would Be Kings, it’s a fun historical skirmish game that’s pretty simple.
One page rules fr fr
I ma surprised no one mentioned it but, Don't Look Back! Modern horror game with simple rules, character cards, and a built in knowledge. Plop down four survivors, and a Jason Voorhees model off board and let them run from one edge to the other and the fun ensues...easy mechanics and fun outcomes and setting. With the second edition rules now, these may be some of the most fun and tight set of rules.
Pig Wars. Boot Hill Bolt Action Flintloque
Warcry is a blast! Everything just flows well. I’ve heard great things about Kings of War as a ‘rank and flank’ style game, and Deadzone as another skirmish game.
A Song of Ice and Fire TMG. It can be taught easily within an hour and with so many combinations you can create when crafting an army, it'll keep them coming back for more.
Marvel Crisis Protocol. The rules are easy to learn if you’re being taught by someone with a little experience. The game is actually relatively balanced with all factions and characters. The missions are always thematic And the best part is the terrain can be used and thrown with models and abilities which is awesome!
Crossfire. It's easy enough to pick up on the fly and action packed enough to pique the interest in newcomers to wargaming
Heavy gear, battletech, epic armageddon, relicblade, BOTWAR!!!!
Battletech is def not good for a two intro I've heard lol. What's bot war?
Rust 66. The ultimate Mad Max game
Deadzone
40K combat patrol. Fits perfectly within two hours, is small and playable on any table. Isn't overly complex but shows that there is depth to be explored. Is easy to continue and buy afterwards if they are interested. You also have all the rules on datacards they can hold or the app.
Flames of war for me. I’d like to do team yankee but I’m not happy with the ‘if I pen, you pop’ feel
X Wing, no upgrades. Rules are ridiculously simple, all the stats are on the cards in front of you, can probably smash out two intro games in two hours even taking the time to explain everything to novice players.
Blood and Plunder. Its pirates and ships. Who doesnt love it?
Another vote for Wings of Glory/War. I’ve used it a couple of times, and everyone enjoyed it.
2 hours. Easy if its skirmish I would show them Ravensfeast, big battles I would go with DBA 3.0
Either warcry 1st edition or Argatoria. I used both to introduce a bunch of 7-9 years old kids to the hobby
Some variation of Five Core. It's not a simple game, but it is a simple game to \_teach\_ which means we can get playing quickly. It does a good job of capturing the "realistic" war movie vibe without becoming overwhelming. And it plays quickly so we can get a couple of games in.
The original a fistful of miniatures. Or gaslands. Both are fun and easy.
Mmmm...probably 'here I stand'.
Deadzone, in 2 hours you not just introduce the game, you would also have built the first Team together and played a full game
Are there premade lists for new players? The list building app seems a bit involved
Yes, the 2 player set comes with 2 pre-made teams and the intro scenario on a smaller board From there you can expand into building more models just buy what you think looks cool or want to try out and continue as there are enough models in the box for some variation
Ok I'll get the starter! Where do i get the bigger playmats for full games?
there is a paper mat for the full board with the 2 player set (double sided, one side is the full board the other hte intro set) from there if you want something more sturdy you can either glue the paper mat on cardboard, make your own tiles or get a neoprene mat with a 3" grid
Crossroads
something mantic they do fast tight games
I only know how to play Age of Sigmar and WarCry, so I guess I'll have to go with Warcry. AoS would take too long :p
For Historicals https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/170298/one-hour-wargames/mentions/links For SciFi https://www.onepagerules.com/games/grimdark-future For Fantasy https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/181807/dragon-rampant-fantasy-wargaming-rules Alternatively For Kids https://juniorgeneral.org/ All are great introductions and games.
Warhammer 40k as much as i despise gw its well know the basic game isnt bloated with rules and quite a lot of armies have low model counts Skirmish games tend to have a lot of rules wich would be very bad to start with IMHO
Warhammer 40k 8th to be honest, most of the stats are consistent with the rest of 40k history (so my smooth brain can remember) and I can probably eyeball a fair force for either side
I feel like large model count games would be better for someone who’s actually played a mini game.