FFG: Runewars Command Dial Breakdown
Fantasy Flight Games shows off how the dial system works for Runewars!
Runewars is an upcoming Miniatures game from Fantasy Flight Games. They first debute it at GenCon 2016 and we got a quick overview of how it works:
Recently, FFG has written up an article explaining in more detail how the Dial system will impact game play.
The basic command dial is composed of a two-dial system. This command tool is unique for each and every unit in the game. Players will set the command tool to determine exactly how each of your units will act during their activation. These commands can range from shooting arrows, to spell casting, to ordering a might charge into close combat.
On the left is the action dial and the right is the modifier dial – both feature a wide variety of symbols.
What really makes things interesting is that the Command tools must be set at the beginning of the round before units have activated. If you’ve played X-Wing you know where this is going – because that means you have to develop the ability to accurately estimate your opponents moves as well as visualize where your units are going to end-up. This is quite an important skill to develop. You’ll either get better at it quickly or your army will collapse into chaos. Watching your army carry out a strange dance of orders can be quite entertaining…for your opponent at least.
Aside from the actions, you also have to consider your stance. The stance of your unit will impact which modifiers you can choose. The cool part about this relationship is that everything is color coded. If you want to do a “blue” action, you have to choose a “blue” modifier. White modifiers typically work with any action. Note that the dials are also labeled for the colorblind – nice touch FFG.
This example has the “blue” march action and must have a blue modifier to match – this is known as the unit’s stance.
The last key thing to note about the dial is the initiative value on the action dial. During the activation phase the lower numbers activate first. This is where things can get complicated really quickly. Is it worth trying to hold back a charge until later in the round when you opponent may move up or do you want to try to beat them to the punch – but you might open yourself up to a counter-charge!
If you’re looking for a rank-and-file fantasy game that’s going to be tactically challenging as well as rewarding I’d keep an eye out for this one. Runewars is expected to launch later this year.
Runewars Miniatures Game $99.95
For years, the armies of Waiqar the Undying have stayed within their borders, launching only minor raids across the border. But now, a nameless threat stirs within the Mistlands, and legions of undead cross into the realm of Terrinoth under Waiqar’s command! The Daqan Lords have sounded the call to war, and their finest generals lead armies of warriors and golems to take up defensive positions in the border territory of Roth’s Vale. The first battles of the next great war are about to begin.
Subscribe to our newsletter!Get Tabletop, RPG & Pop Culture news delivered directly to your inbox.By subscribing you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.RuneWars: The Miniatures Game is a two-player miniatures game of battles between the great powers of Terrinoth. In each game, you and your opponent will gather armies of miniatures and lead them into battle—blocks of infantry will maneuver for position, cavalry wings will wheel and slam into a weakened flank, and monstrous rune golems or carrion lancers will smash through formations of lesser warriors. Innovative command tools, two distinct factions, and countless ways to customize your experience combine to offer an unparalleled miniatures gaming experience in RuneWars. Finally, with forty-eight beautifully sculpted, unpainted figures, you’ll be able to paint and customize your armies to bring an entirely unique touch to your games and enter the hobby of miniatures painting!
Runewars: The Miniatures Game – Epic Battles in an Age of Heroes!
