1

CREDITS
PRESIDENT Sherry Yeary CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER Matthew D. Wilson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ed Bourelle
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT William Shick DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Jason Martin DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Michael G. Ryan

WARMACHINE GRAPHIC DESIGN & LAYOUT CONCEPT ARTISTS, NEW MODELS Alexandre Marks STUDIO ADMINISTRATION
CREATED & DESIGNED BY Shona Fahland Roberto Cirillo Ben Misenar ASSISTANT
Matthew D. Wilson Matt Ferbrache Nate Feyma Jerzy Montwill Dan Roman
LEAD DESIGNER & DEVELOPER Josh Manderville Johan Grenier Paul Muller HOBBY & TERRAIN MANAGER
Jason Soles Jessy Stetson Nick Kay Oliver Nkweti Stuart Spengler
ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Ainsley Yeager Matthew D. Wilson Felix Paniagua HOBBY & TERRAIN SPECIALIST
David Carl ART DIRECTOR STUDIO DIRECTOR Edgar Ramos Michael Archer
Jack Coleman Mike Vaillancourt Ron Kruzie Bob Ridolfi
PHOTOGRAPHY
Brian Cutler Neil Roberts
CARTOGRAPHER SCULPTING MANAGER Matt Ferbrache
Laine Garrett Doug Hamilton Jose Roig
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT Stuart Spengler
Ben Saunders
Cody Ellis COVER ILLUSTRATOR STAFF SCULPTORS
Steve Saunders SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER
EDITORIAL & WRITING MANAGER Nstor Ossandn Brian Dugas Nate Scott Shona Fahland
Darla Kennerud Andrea Uderzo Michael Jenkins Ben Seins PROJECT MANAGER
SENIOR WRITER & CONTINUITY ILLUSTRATORS SCULPTORS Javier Garcia Urea Gabriel Waluconis
Douglas Seacat Carlos Cabrera Shawn Bruner Stephane Nguyen Van Gioi PLAYTEST COORDINATOR
WRITERS
Oscar Cafaro Steve Buddle Jim Warner Jack Coleman
Matt Goetz Alberto Dal Lago Sean Bullough Kev White
Zachary C. Parker Eric Deschamps Reed Casey Jeff Wilhelm INFERNALS

Jonathan Gonzales Carlos Castao John Winter Peter Gaublomme

ADDITIONAL WRITING
Lars Grant-West Russ Charles Travis Marg
Simon Berman Johan Grenier Adam Clarke
STUDIO MODELER
John Morin
Matt DiPietro James A. Thomas Gilles Reynaud
Grant Griffin Gregory Clavilier
Darla Kennerud Imaginary Friends Studios Benoit Cosse DIGITAL ENGINEER D. Anthony Robinson
Michael Plummer Ben Lo Christian Danckworth Nathan Lombardi Donald Sullivan
Aeryn Rudel Raphael Lbke Chaz Elliot STAFF PAINTERS PROOFREADERS
William Shick Luke Mancini Mauro Gnani Matt DiPietro David Carl
Jason Soles Slawomir Maniak Jeff Grace Dallas Kemp Jack Coleman
ADDITIONAL EDITING Marco Mazzoni Shaun Hamm MINIATURE PAINTERS Matt Goetz
Dan Henderson Marcel Mercado Will Hannah Angel Giraldez Will Hungerford
GRAPHIC DESIGN DIRECTOR Hgni Jarleivur Mohr Todd Harris Geordie Hicks Cal Moore
Laine Garrett Nstor Ossandn Jason Hendricks Ron Kruzie William Schoonover
Miroslav Petrov Bobby Jackson Meg Maples William Shick
LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Dave Rapoza Vladd Jnger Ali McVey Jason Soles
Richard Anderson
Neil Roberts Pat Keith Mike McVey
Daniel Rudnicki Werner Klocke Tom Schadle
Serg Souleiman Fausto Gutierrez Lopez Quentin Smith
Andrea Uderzo
Svetlin Velinov

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR FANTASTIC PLAYTESTERS!

Charles Agel Jack Coleman Geordie Hicks Bryan Maclaflin Giles Reynaud
Andrew Allen Bryan Cutler William Hungerford Travis Marg Aeryn Rudel
Oren Ashkenazi Cody Ellis Federico Ingrosso Chris McLeroy William Schoonover
Alice Bettoli Charles Foster Tony Konichek Matthew Miller William Shick
Jonathan Boggs Peter Gaublomme Geoffrey Konkel James Moreland Tim Simpson
Corey Brown Brian Green Ron Kruzie Michael Plummer Jason Soles
Ed Bourelle JR Godwin Stu Liming Joseph Michael Raper III Stuart Spengler
David Carl Matt Goetz Lyle Lowery Andrew Ready Jesse Sterland
Johan Cea Doug Hamilton Erik Reierson Brent Waldher

ADDITIONAL STAFF SUPPORT

LICENSING & MARKETING MANAGER VIDEO PRODUCER RESIN CASTING SUPERVISOR Keith Loree
CONTRACT MANAGER JR Godwin Tony Konichek Scott Paschall Bryan McClaflin
Brent Waldher Antonio Mora
IT ADMINISTRATOR NO QUARTER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PRODUCTION
GAME DEVELOPER Micah Scott Ralston Lyle Lowery Oren Ashkenazi Phuong Nguyen
William Schoonover Nelson Baltzo Soroth Penh
CONVENTION MANAGER NO QUARTER EDITORIAL
ORGANIZED PLAY DEVELOPER Michael Plummer ASSISTANT Felisha Bolzenthal Antwan Porter
William Hungerford Kelsey Fox Thomas Cawby Sam Rattanavong
CONVENTION COORDINATOR
Johan Cea Erik Reiersen
ROLEPLAYING GAME PRODUCER Brian Green PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Yami Rios
Matt Goetz Mark Christensen Stephen Cox
SOCIAL MARKETING MANAGER Bryan Dasalla Rob Seamount
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT & Simon Berman TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Alfonso Falco Jesse Sterland
OFFICE MANAGER Kelly Yeager Joel Falkenhagen Colton Stoddard
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Michelle Horton
Valerie Herron PACKING & SHIPPING MANAGER Delilah Gearhart Chris Tiemeyer
CUSTOMER SERVICE Joe Lee Brian Green Ben Tracy
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Justin Cottom Trevor Hancock Thanh Tu
Allen Krause James Arbuthnot VENDOR COORDINATOR
Geoffrey Konkel Mike Harshbarger Dara Vann
Matt Razincka RETAIL SUPPORT &
Chris Lester Ryan Walker
DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST METAL CASTING SUPERVISOR
David Lima Zixiao Zhou
Charles Agel Marcus Rodriguez
2 Clayton Links
 CONTENTS
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Combat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Making Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Attack Roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Rules Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Melee Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Game Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Ranged Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Dice & Rounding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Area-of-Effect (AOE) Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
General Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Spray Attacks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Rule Priority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Magic Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Sportsmanship & Sharing Information . . . . . . . . 12 Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Measuring Distances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Special Combat Situations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Anatomy of a Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Model Proles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Warbeasts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Model Special Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Weapon Statistics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Warlocks & Fury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Weapon Qualities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Spells, Spellcasting & Animi. . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Damage Capacity & Life Spirals . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Base Size & Facing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Additional Model Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Preparing for War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Terrain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Encounter Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Building Your Army. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Scenarios. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Setup, Deployment & Victory Conditions. . . . . . . 26 Appendix A: Timing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Gameplay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Appendix B: WARMACHINE Rules . . . . . 96
The Player Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Activating Models. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Appendix C: WARMACHINE .
Faction-Specic Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Movement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Rhulic Mercenaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Combat Actions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Cephalyx Mercenaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Line of Sight & Targeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Convergence of Cyriss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Measuring Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Privateer Press, Inc.

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Tel (425) 643-5900 Fax (425) 643-5902

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This book is printed under the copyright laws of the United States of America and retains all of the protections thereof. All Rights Reserved.
All trademarks herein including Privateer Press, Iron Kingdoms, Full Metal Fantasy, Immoren, WARMACHINE, Forces of WARMACHINE,
Steam-Powered Miniatures Combat, Cephalyx, Convergence of Cyriss, Convergence, Cygnar, Cryx, Khador, Protectorate of Menoth, Protectorate,
Retribution of Scyrah, Retribution, warcaster, warjack, HORDES, Forces of HORDES, Monstrous Miniatures Combat, Circle Orboros, Circle,
Legion of Everblight, Legion, Skorne, Trollbloods, Trollblood, warbeast, Formula P3, Formula P3 Hobby Series, War Room, and all associated logos
are property of Privateer Press, Inc. This book is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual people, places, or events is purely coincidental.
No part of this publication may be stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form without written permission from Privateer Press.
Duplicating any portion of the materials herein, unless specifically addressed within the work or by written permission from Privateer Press,
is strictly prohibited. In the event that permissions are granted, such duplications shall be intended solely for personal, non-commercial use
and must maintain all copyrights, trademarks, or other notices contained therein or preserve all marks associated therewith. Please dont steal
our copyrighted material. We see anyone who does as fair gameliterally. Thats why we keep an eager argus around. Going after a copyright
violator lets him release some of that excess energy. Good boy!
First printing: December 2015. Printed in China.

3
 FOREWORD
The world is full of beasts, great and small, fearless and timid. Beauty, it is said, is in the eye of the beholder. As much as
Each is a product of its environment, uniquely equipped for our individuality informs our varied tastes, our common
its place in the world. Only one rule governs all of them: humanity draws us all to certain qualities. Strength, power,
survival of the fittest. speed, elegance: these are all characteristics shared by those
beasts we consider majestic. What could be more beautiful
With claw and fang, unyielding predators vie for dominion
than a creature evolved to embody all these traits together?
in a never-ending competition to claim the highest rank
within the natural order. When a beast falls short of genetic Transformation is a requirement of continued existence. For
superiority, it must adapt by changing its behavior, its three years, we have analyzed every fiber of HORDES over
patterns, and sometimes even its environment. And when the course of designing the game you see before you. Every
adaptation cannot ensure its dominance, it must evolve. rule on every model has been scrutinized, re-evaluated, and
refined in order to maximize performance, eliminate overlap,
And so it goes with our games.
and make the model a viable choice within the context of
Creating an ever-expanding, immersive miniatures game the army you choose to assemble. But where HORDES has
can feel like trying to tame a wild beast. Finding the transformed the most is in the play experience, specifically
balance between a true-to-life mass-combat simulation the arc of the game. By developing her spiritual connection
and an enjoyable recreational pastime requires negotiating with her warbeasts, a warlock retains some potency all the
its unpredictable nature and hidden dangers. Somewhere way to a battles finish despite whatever losses she may suffer.
between the realism and the entertainment is the sweet spot, Instead of slowly winding down to an inevitable conclusion,
or what we refer to as the fun. Untamed, the beast can the conflict remains an intense battle to the very end.
rampage out of control, trampling those caught in its path.
In every aspect of this game, weve endeavored to preserve
Chained too tightly, the poor creature becomes dull and
the strength and elegance of the original while evolving it into
lifeless, a pale shadow of its potential.
a form that heightens what we crave from tabletop battles.
We want you to care for our beast the way we do, to forge a Our beast has undergone a metamorphosis, emerging more
sublime connection to it. We want to give you an experience equipped to create the most perfectly immersive experience
that taps into your primal nature and keeps you coming possible on the tabletop. And while perfection is a quality
back for more. that can never be achieved, you must know that well never
stop trying. Its our nature.

HORDES now represents the best of everything we know

and have learned over a decade of creating the world and the
game. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Lets unleash the fun!

Matthew D. Wilson

4
 WELCOME
TO MONSTROUS MINIATURES COMBAT!
HORDES is a game of cunning strategy, brutal tactics, and an army to guidance on terrain and scenarios. Whatever your
epic clashes between forces of snarling warbeasts, battle- experience level, youll quickly be leading your chosen army
hardened warriors, and elite battle mages. The game is set onto the field of battle to dominate your foes.
in the Iron Kingdoms, where mankind enjoys the fruits of
HORDES is also a rewarding hobby where players collect
steam-powered arcane technology while simultaneously
and paint finely detailed miniatures representing the
protecting itself from the horrors that lurk in the wilderness.
warriors, beasts, and heroes of this untamed fantasy world.
Its a world where swordplay and guncraft go hand-in-hand
Throughout this book youll see a variety of inspiring
and powerful magic can turn the tide of battle. The Iron
photographs of our studio models in action.
Kingdoms are rife with conflict, and only the boldest heroes
will reign supreme. We sincerely hope youll enjoy HORDES as much as we do.
With this book and a few miniatures, youll be well on your
This book gives you the gritty details of how to play out
way to ultimate monstrous miniatures combatand your
these conflicts on your tabletop, from the basics of building
tabletop will never be the same!

5
6
 RULES BASICS GENERAL KNOWLEDGE FOR
COMBAT IN HORDES

Game Overview multiple warlocks and legions of warriors take the field
to crush their enemies with the combined might of spears,
Take control of a powerful warlock and wreak havoc on your spells, and claws.
foes with a horde of hulking warbeasts fueled by unbridled
rage. In HORDES, only the strongest, fastest, and most cunning Warbeasts are mighty creatures drawn from the wilds of
survivethe rest are a feast served up for your warbeasts. Immoren and trained for combat. They are bred or chosen
for their ability to fight and heed their warlocks commands.
HORDES is a fast-paced and aggressive 32mm fantasy tabletop Most rely on claw and fang, but some wield massive weapons
miniatures combat game for two or more players set in the wilds or boast supernatural powers.
of the Iron Kingdoms. Players jump into the action controlling
powerful warrior-sorcerers or battle-shamans known as A warlock maintains mental contact with the warbeasts in his
warlocks. Though warlocks are formidable combatants, their battlegroup and can force them to attack with greater accuracy
true strength lies in their parasitic synergy with packs of savage and strength or evoke latent arcane abilities, increasing the
warbeastsmonstrous creatures of flesh, blood, and bone beasts fury. During a conflict, the warlock can leech this fury
that allow the warlocks to contend on equal footing with the from his warbeasts and use it to boost his combat abilities, heal
greatest modern armies. Players collect, assemble, and paint his battlegroup, stave off injury, or cast formidable spells.
fantastically detailed models representing the various beasts, The warlock is the tie that binds the horde together but is also
minions, and warriors in their horde. its weakest link. If a warlock falls, his warbeasts lose interest
In addition, HORDES is fully compatible with the steam- in the fight and soon fall to their enemies on the field.
powered miniatures combat of WARMACHINE, which is set The outcome of a battle depends on the ability to think
in the industrial nations of the Iron Kingdoms and features quickly, use sound tactics, and decisively employ your
powerful warcasters whose magic and steam-powered warjacks forces. A crucial component of strategy is the warlocks
make the earth tremble. This allows players to pit their forces management of warbeasts fury to enhance their attacks
against each other in epic battles of machines versus beasts. (A and fuel his own powers. Properly managed, fury can turn
WARMACHINE Rules appendix is included on p.326.) a battlegroup into a nigh-unstoppable horde of destruction!
A HORDES army is built around a warlock and his warbeasts. Too much fury can backfire, however, causing warbeasts
Bands of warriors and other allies can further bolster a to frenzy uncontrollably and attack whatever is nearest
hordes combat capabilities. Sometimes huge armies with whether friend or foe.

In these conflicts its survival of the fittest!

Bring the hurtor head for the hills.

7
 Some events call for rolling a d3. To do so, roll a d6, divide
Summary of Play the result by 2, and round up.
Before a battle begins, players agree on an encounter level, which
Some instances call for a models stat or a die roll to be divided
determines the scope of the game being played, and a scenario
in half. For distance measurements, use the actual result after
for play. They then create their armies based on those guidelines.
dividing the number in question. For everything else, always
Next, the players determine the turn order. Once established, the
round a fractional result to the next highest whole number.
turn order will not change throughout the game. Players then
deploy their forces and prepare for battle to begin.

Battles are conducted in a series of game rounds. During a DICE SHORTHAND

game round, each player receives one turn to command his
A six-sided die is referred to as a d6. When you need two or
army. During his turn, a player activates all the models in his
more of these, a numeral before the d indicates the number
army, one after another. When activated, a model can move
of dice to roll. Two six-sided dice are abbreviated as 2d6, three
and then make one of a variety of actions such as attacking dice as 3d6, and so on.
or healing a warbeast. Once both players have taken their
turns, the current game round ends and a new one begins, The term d3 is a shortcut for roll a d6, divide by 2, and round
starting again with the first player. Game rounds continue up. Heres how to read the results of a d3 roll quickly:
until one player wins by destroying the opposing warlock (or
warcaster), meeting the scenario objectives, or accepting the
or =1
surrender of his opponent or opponents.
or =2
WHAT YOU NEED or =3
In addition to this book and your army of HORDES models, you
also need a few basic items to play:

A table or playing surface where you can conduct your Additional Dice & Boosted
battles (typically 4 4).
A tape measure or ruler marked in inches and fractions
Rolls
Sometimes a special rule or circumstance will allow a model
thereof to measure movement and attack distances.
to roll an additional die. An additional die is a die added to the
A few six-sided dice. Six will be plenty. number of dice a model would ordinarily roll. For example,
A handful of tokens, like the official token sets offered by when a model makes a ranged attack roll, it generally rolls 2d6
Privateer Press, to indicate focus points, spell effects, etc. and adds its RAT stat. If the model gains an additional die on
this attack, it would roll 3d6 and add its RAT stat.
Stat cards for all the models in your army. You can either
use the physical cards that came with your models, or A die roll can include multiple additional dice as long as each
you can download War Room, the digital WARMACHINE additional die comes from a different rule.
and HORDES companion app from the iTunes, Google
Play, or Amazon App stores. When using physical cards, Some effects grant models boosted attack or damage rolls.
we recommend you put them in card sleeves and use a Boosting a roll allows you to roll one extra die. If a model has
dry erase marker to mark damage. a rule that gives it the option to boost a roll, you must declare
that it is boosting before rolling any dice for the roll. Each
The markers and templates in the Basic Training tutorial
attack or damage roll can be boosted only once, but a model
guide. You may photocopy them for personal use.
Privateer Press also offers high-quality laser-cut acrylic can boost multiple rolls during its activation. When an attack
versions of these templates. affects several models, the attack and damage rolls against
each individual model must be boosted separately.

Even though they affect dice rolls similarly, boosting a roll is

Dice & Rounding different than gaining additional dice. A roll can be boosted
and gain additional dice.
HORDES uses six-sided dice, abbreviated d6, to determine
the success of attacks and other actions. Most events, such EXAMPLE: The damage roll for a charge attack that hits
as attacks, require rolling two dice (abbreviated 2d6). Other is boosted, meaning it adds an extra die to its damage roll.
events typically require rolling one to four dice. Die rolls often Because this roll is already boosted, the model cannot spend
have modifiers, which are expressed as + or - some quantity fury to boost the damage roll again in order to receive a
after the die roll notation. For example, melee attack rolls are total of two extra dice on the roll. A model that receives an
described as 2d6+ MAT. This means roll two six-sided additional die on an attack or damage roll can still also
dice and add the attacking models MAT stat to the result. boost that roll, however.

8 RULES BASICS
 models from a single Faction and can also include Minions
General Guidelines that will work for that Faction. When a rule references
This section covers how HORDES handles game terms, Faction it refers to the Faction of the model carrying the
the relationship between standard and special rules, rule. On a Minion model, for instance, friendly Faction
sportsmanship between players, and the procedures for warbeast means friendly Minion warbeast, while the
resolving rules disputes. same text on a Trollblood model means friendly Trollblood
warbeast.
Game Terms, Model Names & The names of the models and units in HORDES appear on two
Rules References lines that describe what the model is called and what type of
When these rules define a game term, it appears in bold. model it is. Each model also has a name that appears on its
stat profile. Rules in HORDES can refer to a model by any of
For the sake of brevity, the phrase model with the special these identifiers. Additionally, a model can be identified by
rule is sometimes replaced with the rules name. For example, its own rules; for this to apply to a unit, however, all models
a model with the Pathfinder advantage is a pathfinder, and in the unit must have the identifying rule.
a model with the Spellcaster rule is a spellcaster. Similarly,
EXAMPLE: The Pyg Bushwhacker unit has the name
the phrases attack with the weapon and attack
Pyg Bushwhackers (listed on the first line) and is a
granted by the special rule can be replaced by the
Trollblood Unit (listed on the second line). This unit
expression attack. For instance, the attacks a trampling
could be referenced specifically as Pyg Bushwhackers, as a
warbeast makes against models it moved over are called
Trollblood unit, as a unit, or as Pygs.
trample attacks.
EXAMPLE: The Hunters Grim is a warlock unit consisting
All models in your army are friendly models. Models of Grim Angus and his two hunting buddies, Muggs and
controlled by your opponent are enemy models. Krump. Grim has a rule stating that he is a Trollkin model,
while Muggs and Krump have a rule stating that they are
The rules of models are written as if speaking to the current
Pygs. As a result Grim is affected by special rules that
controller of the model. When a models rule references you
affect trollkin, and Muggs and Krump are affected by rules
or yours, it refers to the player currently controlling the model.
that affect Pygs. Because neither the Trollkin nor the Pyg
In a models rules, this model always refers to the model rule is shared by all models in the unit, however, the unit is
carrying the rule. not considered a Trollkin unit or a Pyg unit.

The various nations and tribes within the Iron Kingdoms are EXAMPLE: The Feralgeist solo has the Undead

represented by the different Factions. Armies are made up of advantage. This solo could be referenced as an undead solo.

RULES BASICS 9
 Unless specified otherwise, when a models rules reference
another model by name, the model referenced is assumed
to be a friendly model. For example, the Skorne model
Tyrant Rhadeim has a Leadership rule that grants the Dodge
special rule to Skorne Praetorian Ferox models in Rhadeims
command range. Praetorian Ferox gain Dodge only if their
controlling player also controls Rhadeim. An enemy Rhadeim
model does not grant Dodge to the Praetorian Ferox.

Rule Priority
HORDES is a complex game that provides a multitude of
play options, but its rules are intuitive and easy to learn. The
standard rules lay the foundation for the game and provide
all the typical mechanics used in play. Additional rules apply
to specific models and modify the standard rules in certain
circumstances. When they apply, the rules of individual
models take precedence over the rules in this rulebook.

Unless otherwise specified, multiple instances of the same

effect (that is, effects with the same name) affecting a model
are not cumulative. If a model is affected by more than
one instance of an effect, the effect does not expire until all
instances of the effect expire.

EXAMPLE: A spell that grants Death Shroud is not

cumulative with the Death Shroud rule of Thagrosh, Prophet
of Everblight, because those effects have the same name.
Different effects are cumulative with each other, however,
even if they apply the same modifier to a model. For example,
a model in a Burning Ash cloud without Immunity: Fire
suffers 2 to its attack rolls. Ashen Veil also reduces models
attack rolls by 2 but has a different name, so a model affected
by both would suffer 4 to its attack rolls.

Occasionally, two special rules conflict. Use the following

guidelines, in order, to resolve special rules interactions.

If one rule specifically states its interaction with another

rule, follow it.
Special rules stating that something cannot happen
override rules stating that the same thing can or
must occur. (Treat rules directing or describing actions
or circumstances as if they use must. Examples include
Gain an additional die, Knocked down models stand
up, and This model gains cover.)

EXAMPLE: A model has a rule stating it cannot be knocked

down, and it is affected by something that states it becomes
knocked down. Because the rules make no specific mention
of each other, follow the second guideline to resolve the
interaction: the model is not knocked down.

10 RULES BASICS
Active or Inactive Player Use of Any Time Special Rules
If a model is making an attack, its controller is the active Spells, feats, and other special rules that state they can be
player. If no model is making an attack, the active player is used at any time during this models activation can be used
the player whose turn it is. In both cases, the other player is before moving, after moving, before making an attack, or
the inactive player. When resolving effects that occur after after an attack but not while moving, attacking, or resolving
the attack is resolved, the active and inactive players remain another triggered effect. A model cannot interrupt movement
the same as during the attack until all effects triggered by the or an attack to use one of these special rules.
attack (see below) are resolved.
EXAMPLE: Warlocks can cast spells at any time during
their activation. This means Thagrosh, Prophet of
Triggers Everblight can cast a spell before and after moving, before
Some rules will describe conditional effects, also referred and after an attack, before using his feat, and after placing
to as triggered effects. These rules will typically describe the model from his feat. He cannot, however, cast a spell
the trigger condition, the timing of the trigger, the resulting while he is moving, making an attack, or using his feat to
effect, and the timing of the resolution of this effect. If no place a Carnivean back into play.
specific timing is described, the effect is resolved upon the
trigger condition being met.

If a triggered effect contains an optional part, indicating the

DYNAMIC RULES UPDATES
player can do something, the player can choose not to It is our goal to provide you the best, most entertaining
resolve that part of the effect but the trigger will still count as experience possible when playing a game of WARMACHINE
having resolved. or HORDES. To best achieve this goal, we may update model
entries and rules to maintain balance in the game as it
Whenever two or more special rules are triggered at the continues to evolve and grow. We will publish any such
same time, such as attack hit or end activation, the active updates online semiannually at privateerpress.com/errata.
player chooses the order in which special rules on his models Additionally, these changes will automatically be applied in
resolve and resolves them, then the inactive player chooses War Room, the digital companion app for WARMACHINE and
the order in which special rules on his models resolve and HORDES, ensuring users will always have the most up-to-date
resolves them. cards and rules information on their digital devices.

Some effects cause certain conditions of an attack, such as In addition to the downloadable reference documents and
whether it hit or what models it disabled or destroyed, to War Room updates, annually we will release a physical update
change during resolution. When resolving triggered effects, pack containing updated versions of the cards that were
recheck trigger conditions as you resolve each special rule. affected by the previous years adjustments. Models that
If a condition is no longer met, the effect does not resolve. have been updated in this way will be listed on our website at
privateerpress.com/errata. In order to make card versions
Similarly, if an effect on one model causes a condition to
easily identifiable, each stat card contains the year and version
change on another model, effects triggered by that condition
number and is marked with a color specific to that year. This
will resolve for each of those models.
will enable players in an official event setting to quickly and
EXAMPLE: A Gatorman Husk has the Death Blast special easily confirm the cards they are using are the most current
rule, which causes it to explode when disabled. If it is also versions by cross-referencing them with the stat card version
affected by a Gatorman Witch Doctors Zombify special sheet found at the front of the errata document.
action (which grants Tough and Undead ) when an
We highly recommend that you visit this site regularly
enemy model disables it, both Tough and Death Blast need
to ensure you are using the current version of a models
to resolve as inactive player effects. The inactive player
rules and enjoying the best possible WARMACHINE and
decides which effect resolves first. If you resolve Death
HORDES experience.
Blast first, the Gatorman Husk will explode and be removed
from play, and then Tough does not resolve. If you resolve
Tough first and pass the check, the Gatorman Husk removes
1 point of damage and so is no longer disabled. Death Blast
then will not resolve, as its condition is no longer met. If
you fail the Tough check, the Gatorman Husk will remain
disabled; the condition of a disabled model will still be met,
and Death Blast will resolve.

RULES BASICS 11
 Sportsmanship & Sharing Measuring Distances
Information A player can measure any distance for any reason at any time.
Although HORDES simulates violent battles between rival A model is within a given distance when the nearest edge of
forces, you should still strive to be a good sport in all aspects its base is within that distance. If two models are exactly a
of the game. Remember, this is a game meant to provide certain distance apart, they are considered to be within that
entertainment and friendly competition. Whether winning distance of each other.
or losing, you should still be having lots of fun.
A model is completely within a given distance when its entire
From time to time, your opponent may wish to see your base is within that distance.
records to verify a models stats or see how much damage
If models bases overlap, they are within 0 of each other.
a particular warbeast has taken. Always represent this
information honestly and share your records and information When determining the effects of a rule that affects models
without hesitation. within a specified distance of another model, the effect is a
circular area that extends out from the edge of the specified
Resolving Rules Issues models base and includes the area under the models base.
Unless the rule says otherwise, that model is considered to be
These rules have been carefully designed to provide as much
completely within the area described.
guidance as possible in all aspects of play. That said, you still
might encounter situations where the proper course of action is
not immediately obvious. For instance, players might disagree
on whether a model has line of sight to its intended target. WITHIN VS. .
During a game, try to resolve any such issue quickly in the
COMPLETELY WITHIN
Praetorian Swordsman A is not within the shaded area. Praetorian
interest of keeping the game flowing. There will be plenty of
Swordsmen B and E are within the shaded area. Praetorian
time after the game to determine the best answer, which you
Swordsmen C and D are completely within the shaded area.
can then incorporate into future games.

If all players cannot agree on a solution, briefly discuss the

matter and check this rulebook for an answer, but do not
spend so much time doing so that you slow the game. In
B
striving to resolve an issue, common sense and the precedents A
set by related rules should be your guides.

If you cannot solve the dispute quickly, roll for a resolution.

Each player rolls a d6, and the person with the highest
result decides the outcome. Reroll any ties. In the interest of C
fairness, once a ruling has been made for a specific issue, it E
applies for all similar circumstances for the rest of the game.
After the game ends, you can take the time to reference the
D
rules and thoroughly discuss the issue to decide how best to
handle that same situation in the future.

12 RULES BASICS
 MODELS
MODEL TYPES, STATS,
& DAMAGE CAPACITY

Each HORDES combatant is represented on the tabletop by rules that are common to all warlocks and are not listed on
a highly detailed and dramatically posed miniature figurine the models stat card (see Warlock Special Rules, p.70).
referred to as a model. There are several basic model types: All warlocks are characters.
warlocks, warbeasts, troopers, solos, and battle engines.
In the game of WARMACHINE, the parallel of the warlock is
Troopers, solos, and nonbattle engine warlocks are warriors.
called a warcaster and is a commander of warjacks and soldiers.
Models are considered to be living unless otherwise noted.

Warbeasts
Independent Models Warbeasts are creatures noted for formidable battle prowess
Independent models are those that activate individually. and a capacity to be controlled by warlocks. Warbeasts come
Warlocks, warbeasts, solos, and battle engines are in a variety of shapes and sizes and are drawn from diverse
independent models. geographies and ecologies. They are smarter than animals
but more primitive and savage than the races fighting across
Warlocks the face of Immoren. Each of the armies in HORDES brings
A warlock is a tremendously powerful sorcerer, shaman, distinct types of warbeasts to their battles and employs
or druid with the ability to control a group of warbeasts specialized techniques in recruiting and controlling them.
telepathically. A warlock is a deadly opponent highly skilled Once warbeasts are brought to fight, the fury of their attacks
in both physical combat and spellcasting. A battlegroup strengthens their warlocks, and together they form an
includes a warlock and the warbeasts it controls. A warlock almost-unstoppable synergy.
can force only the warbeasts in its battlegroup.
Warbeasts would be considered terrible monsters by civilized
During battle, a warlock commands a battlegroup of nations, for each is capable of ripping even armed foes limb-
warbeasts in an effort to complete objectives. A warlock can from-limb. Many have had their considerable natural abilities
use fury points drawn from the warbeasts in its battlegroup enhanced with heavy armor and the best-made weapons
to enhance its own combat abilities and cast spells. available. Most have endured considerable training to
Throughout a battle, the warlock forces warbeasts to bolster capitalize on their abilities and fight ably alongside warriors
their effectiveness in combat. and warlocks. Though warbeasts are capable of acting on their
own, a warlocks dominating will overrides their individuality
Warlocks are generally independent models, though some
except in cases of frenzy (p.67).
warlocks command their own units (see Warlock Units,
p.72). A model with the model type Warlock has many

MODELS 13
 BATTLE ENGINE
Meat Thresher
WARBEAST
Dire Troll Mauler WARLOCK
Thagrosh, Prophet of Everblight

SOLO
Lord of the Feast

UNIT
COMMAND ATTACHMENT Praetorian Swordsmen
Praetorian Swordsman
Officer & Standard

Warbeasts are classified according to base size: each lesser Battle Engines
warbeast and each warbeast that is part of a warbeast pack
Battle engines are powerful weapons of war. Battle engines
has a small base (30mm), a light warbeast has a medium
are independent models with huge bases (120mm). Battle
base (40mm), a heavy warbeast has a large base (50mm),
engines are not warrior models. Battle engines have a number
and a gargantuan has a huge base (120mm). Most warbeasts
of special rules, which can be found on p.78.
are independent models even though they are assigned to
specific battlegroups. However, some warbeasts operate as
part of warbeast packs (p.68). Units
A unit is a group of similarly trained and equipped
Models with the model type Warbeast have many rules
trooperssuch as swordsmen, riflemen, and scoutswho
that are common to all warbeasts and are not listed on their
operate together as a single force. All models in a unit are
stat cards. These rules are detailed on p.66.
troopers, and every unit includes a unit commander and one
or more additional troopers. Models in units do not activate
Solos individually; instead, all members of the unit activate at the
Solos are individuals who operate alone, such as monster same time and progress through the steps of an activation
hunters and heroes. Solos are independent models. together. See Anatomy of a Unit on p.62 for more
detailed rules on units.

Grunts
Grunts are the basic troopers in a unit.

14 MODELS
 SPD, Speed A models movement rate. A model moves up
Unit Commanders, Leaders & to its SPD in inches when making a full advance.
Officers
Each unit is led by a unit commander. A unit commander is STR, Strength A models physical strength. STR is used to
a trooper that has the ability to give its unit orders that allow calculate melee damage.
the unit to perform specialized battlefield maneuvers. MAT, Melee Attack A models skill with melee weapons
In most cases, the Leader of a unit is its unit commander. such as swords and hammers or with natural weapons like
Some units are led by Officers. While an Officer is in play, it fists and teeth. A model uses its MAT when making melee
is the unit commander of its unit. attack rolls.

RAT, Ranged Attack A models accuracy with ranged

Attachments weapons such as guns and crossbows or with thrown items
Attachments are troopers that can be added to some units. like spears and knives. A model uses its RAT when making
They include command attachments and weapon attachments. ranged attack rolls.
A unit can have only one command attachment and up to
DEF, Defense A models ability to avoid being hit by an
three weapon attachments. Attachments are easily identified
attack. A models size, quickness, skill, and even magical
by their Attachment rule, which specifies the unit or units
protection all contribute to its DEF. An attack roll must be
to which they can be attached.
equal to or greater than the target models DEF to score a hit
against it.
Model Profiles ARM, Armor A models ability to resist being damaged. This
Every model and unit has a unique profile called a model resistance can come from natural resilience, worn armor, or
entry that translates its combat abilities into game terms. even magical benefits. A model takes 1 damage point for
HORDES uses a set of stats to quantify and scale the attributes every point by which a damage roll exceeds its ARM.
fundamental to gameplay. In addition, a model can have
CMD, Command A measure of a models leadership and self-
special rules that further enhance its performance. The full
discipline. Every model with a CMD stat has a command range
HORDES: Primal rulebook includes enough model entries
equal to its CMD in inches. A model is always completely
to begin building armies for several HORDES Factions. The
within its own command range. Models in a unit that are in
rules for even more models are available in the Faction decks.
their unit commanders command range are considered to be
For more detailed information on the individual Factions,
in formation (see Unit Formation, p.64).
check out the Forces of HORDES books.
FURY, Fury A measure of a models arcane power. For
A model or units stat card provides a quick in-game reference
warbeasts, FURY indicates how much the beast can be forced.
of its profile and special rules. The cards front lists the models
When warbeasts are forced to perform certain actions, they
name and model type, field allowance, and point cost; its
generate fury. Models with the Fury Manipulation ability,
model and weapon stats; and a graphic for tracking damage
such as warlocks, draw on that fury to enhance their own
if the model can suffer more than 1 damage point. The text
abilities. FURY determines such a models control range and
for special rules appears on the cards back. A warlock has an
beginning fury points, and the model uses its FURY when
additional stat card that explains its spells and feat.
making magic attack rolls.

Model Statistics THR, Threshold A measure of a warbeasts ability to resist

frenzy (p.67).
Model statistics, or stats, are a numerical representation of
the models basic combat qualities; the higher the number,
the better the stat. These stats are used for various die rolls
throughout the game. A stat bar presents model statistics in FURY OR FURY
an easy-to-reference format. The abbreviation for each stat FURY, in all caps, always refers to the FURY stat. When its
shows how it& is referenced in the rules.FOR CIRCLE
- USE THIS AMPERSAND not set in all caps, fury refers to fury points.

KAYA THE WILDBORNE 2016 v1

CIRCLE BLACKCLAD WARLOCK

KAYA 1
SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
7 6 6 4 16 14 8

SPLINTER
RNG POW P+S
2 6 12
Kaya the Wildborne

MODELS 15
 Base Stats, Current Stats & Model Special Rules
Modifiers Most HORDES combatants are highly specialized and
Rules in HORDES can refer to a models base stats or to its trained to fill unique roles on the battlefield. To represent
current stats. A models base stats are typically those printed this, models have special rules that take precedence over
in its stat bar. Some special rules can change the base stat the standard rules. Special rules include advantages, feats,
of a model to a specific value, however. Apply this change immunities, orders, special actions, special attacks, spells,
before applying any other modifiers to the stat. If a model weapon qualities, and other rules that appear on a models
is affected by multiple rules that change a base stat, the base card and in its model entry.
stat becomes the lowest value. If the base stats of a model
In addition, some model types have additional rules that
are modified, they are then referred to as the models current
appear in the text of a book. For example, warbeasts and
stats. Unless a rule specifies otherwise, always use a models
warlocks have additional rules that appear in the Warbeasts
current stats.
(p.66) and Warlocks & Fury (p.70) sections of this
To determine a models current stat, start with the base stat rulebook, which detail many special rules common to all
and then apply modifiers in the following order. warlocks and warbeasts that do not appear on their stat cards
or model entries.
1. Apply modifiers that double the stat.
Some special rules have a range (RNG). A rules range is the
2. Apply modifiers that halve the stat.
maximum distance in inches it can be used to affect another
3. Apply bonuses that add to the stat. model or unit (see Measuring Range, p.40). A RNG of
4. Apply penalties that reduce the stat. CMD indicates the special rule has a range equal to the
models Command stat. A model with a special rule that has
The result is the models current stat. A models base and
a RNG is the point of origin of the rules effect (see Point of
current stats can never be reduced to less than 0.
Origin & Origin of Damage, p.40).
EXAMPLE: Stationary models have a base DEF of 5,
and cover grants +4 DEF. Therefore, a stationary model If the target model is within range, it is affected by the special
behind cover has a current DEF of 9 (base DEF 5 + 4 DEF rule. If the target model is outside the range, it is not affected
for cover). A stationary model (base DEF 5) affected by but the special rule has still been used. Spells and attacks
Megaliths Undergrowth animus (2 DEF) would have a have their own rules for measuring range and determining
current DEF of 3. the effects of making an action if the target is out of range.

Note that these limitations apply only to the stats If a model can be a valid target for its own special rule, then
themselves and not to attack rolls. A Venator Catapult Crew it is always within range of its special rule.
with RAT5 affected by a spell that reduces their RAT by 2
EXAMPLE: Tyrant Xerxis has Battle Plan special rules with
has a current RAT of 3. The Venator Catapult Crew suffers
4 to their attack roll from its weapons Inaccurate rule, RNG 5 that can target warrior models. Because Xerxis is a
so what would have been 2d6+3 becomes 2d61 even warrior model, he can target himself with his Battle Plans
though the stat itself is not less than 0. and is always within range.

16 MODELS
Advantages Incorporeal This model treats all non-impassable terrain
Advantages are common special rules that many models have.
as open terrain (p.82) while advancing. It can move through
A models advantages are represented by icons beneath its obstructions and through other models if it has enough
stat bar; the text of the advantages does not appear in the movement to move completely past them. While charging,
model entries or on the cards but is listed below. Advantages slam power attacking, or trample power attacking, this model
are always in& - USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE
effect. does not stop its movement when it contacts an obstacle,
an obstruction, or another model. Other models, including
slammed, pushed, or thrown models, can move through
LORD OF THE FEAST 2016 v1 this model without effect if they have enough movement to
CIRCLE SOLO
move completely past it. This model does not count as an
LORD OF THE FEAST 1
SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD intervening model. This model is immune to continuous
5 8 8 7 12 17 3 effects and non-magical damage. This model cannot be
moved by a push, slam, or throw. When this model makes a
RAVEN
RNG ROF AOE POW
melee or ranged attack, before the attack roll is made it loses
10 1 Incorporeal until the start of its next activation. This model
These symbols show that the Lord of the Feast has cannot make free strikes while Incorporeal.
Advance Deployment, Pathfinder, and Stealth.
WURMBLADE
RNG POW P+S
1 5 13
Advance Deployment This model can be placed after
normal deployment, up to 6 beyond the established
deployment zone (p.26).

Amphibious This model treats shallow water as open

terrain while advancing (p.82). While completely in
shallow water, this model gains concealment (p.50) and
LORD OF THE FEAST
does not block line of sight. Circle Solo

Arc Node In WARMACHINE, this advantage denotes a

warjack with an arc node. Arc nodes enable warjacks to be a
DAMAGE

conduit for spells cast by their warcasters

PC FA
6 C
Assault This model can make an Assault ranged attack
(p.52). Jack Marshal In WARMACHINE, this denotes a non-
warcaster model that can control warjacks.
Cavalry This model is a cavalry model (p.79).
Officer This model is an Officer (p.62).
Combined Melee Attack This model can participate in
combined melee attacks with other models in its unit (p.65). Parry This model cannot be targeted by free strikes.

Combined Ranged Attack This model can participate in Pathfinder This model treats rough terrain as open
combined ranged attacks with other models in its unit (p.65). terrain (p.82) while advancing. While charging, slam
power attacking, or trample power attacking, this model does
Construct This model is a construct and is not a living
not stop its movement when it contacts an obstacle.
model. See Warbeast Constructs on p.66 for additional
rules for constructs that are also warbeasts. Soulless This living model does not generate a soul
token (p.59) when it is destroyed.
Eyeless Sight This model ignores cloud effects (p. 59)
when determining line of sight. This model ignores concealment Stealth Ranged and magic attacks targeting this
(p.50) and Stealth (p.17) and never suffers Blind. model from a point of origin (p.40) greater than 5 away
automatically miss. This model is not an intervening model
Flight This model treats all non-impassable terrain as
(p.36) when determining line of sight from a model more
open terrain (p.82) while advancing. It can move through
than 5 away.
obstructions and through other models if it has enough
movement to move completely past them. While charging, Tough When this model is disabled (p.57), roll a d6.
slam power attacking, or trample power attacking, this model On a 5 or 6, remove 1 damage point from this model; it is no
does not stop its movement when it contacts an obstacle, an longer disabled and becomes knocked down (p.61). While
obstruction, or another model. This model ignores intervening knocked down this model loses Tough.
models when declaring its charge target.
Undead This model is an undead model and not a living
Gunfighter This model is a gunfighter (p.52). model.

MODELS 17
 Immunities continuous effect is never applied to that model. If a model
gains immunity to a continuous effect while suffering that
Immunities are advantages that protect models from some
effect, the continuous effect immediately expires.
types of damage and effects. A model never suffers damage
from a damage type to which it is immune. If the damage has
multiple damage types, a model that is immune to any of the
Feats
types will not suffer the damage. Each warlock has a unique and powerful special rule called a
feat that can be used only once per game (p.70).
Immunity: Cold This model does not suffer cold
damage (p.56). Orders
Immunity: Corrosion This model does not suffer An order lets a unit perform a specialized combat maneuver
corrosion damage (p. 56) and is immune to the Corrosion (see Issuing Orders, p.64).
continuous effect (see below and p.60).

Immunity: Electricity This model does not suffer

Special Actions (HActions) &
electrical damage (p.56). Additionally, when lightning Special Attacks (HAttacks)
arcs as a result of a special rule, ignore models with Immunity: A model can make a special action or a special attack during
Electricity when determining which model the lightning its Combat Action if it meets the requirements for the special
arcs to. actions or special attacks use (see Combat Actions, p.36).

Immunity: Fire This model does not suffer fire

damage (p. 56) and is immune to the Fire continuous
Spells
effect (see below and p.60). Some models have the ability to cast spells during their
activations (see Spells, Spellcasting & Animi, p.73).
Immunity to Continuous Effects
Some immunities and special rules also grant immunities
Weapon Qualities
to some or all continuous effects (p. 60). A model that is Weapon qualities are special effects that are marked as icons
immune to a continuous effect never suffers the effect; the on a weapons stat block. See p.20 for a full list.

18
 ROF, Rate of Fire The number of initial attacks a model can
Weapon Statistics make with this ranged weapon during its activation.
On a models weapon stat bar a sword icon denotes a melee
weapon, a pistol icon denotes a ranged weapon, and a EXAMPLE: Lylyth, Herald of Everblights weapon
horseshoe icon & denotes a Mount.
- USE THIS The entry
AMPERSAND for a model with
FOR CIRCLE Hellsinger has ROF2. When Lylyth makes ranged attacks
multiple identical weapon has a single weapon stat bar with with Hellsinger during her activation, she can make two
the number of weapons indicated on the icon. A weapons attacks. A Dire Troll Blitzers Slugger has ROFd3. When
BEAST
stat bar lists only theMASTER
stats XEKAAR
that apply to its use. Those
2016 v1that are the Blitzers controlling player declares the warbeast is
SKORNE PAINGIVER WARLOCK
going to make ranged attacks with its Slugger, that player
not applicable are marked with .
XEKAAR 1 first rolls a d3 and then can make up to the number of
SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
7 6 6 4 15 14 8 attacks indicated.
AOE, Area of Effect The diameter in inches of the template

& an area-of-effect (AOE) weapon uses for determining which

BARBED WHIP
- USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE
RNG POW P+S
2 3 9 models are hit by the attack. When using an AOE weapon,
center the template on the determined point of impact. All
& - USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE
models within the template are affected and potentially
LYLYTH, HERALD OF EVERBLIGHT 2016 v1
Sample
LEGION Melee Weapon
BLIGHTED Stat Bar for
NYSS WARLOCK suffer the attacks damage and effects. (See p. 52 for
Two Identical Weapons
LYLYTH 1 detailed rules on AOE attacks. Templates for AOEs can be
THARN WOLF RIDERS MAT RAT DEF ARM 2016
CMDv1
found in the tutorial guide.)
SPD STR
CIRCLE UNIT
7 4 5 7 16 14 8
FURY
LEADER & GRUNTS
POW, Power The value used when making damage rolls. A
6 SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
9 6 HELLSINGER
6 6 14 14 9 weapon or attack marked with a POW of does not cause
RNG ROF AOE POW
12 2 12 damage. Some special rules can affect a weapons POW. A
THROWN JAVELIN
RNG ROF AOE POW
weapons POW can never be reduced to less than 0.
BOW BLADE
7 1 9
Sample Ranged Weapon Stat Bar
RNG POW P+S P+S, Power plus Strength The P+S value provides the sum
0.5 3 7
JAVELIN of the models base STR and the melee weapons POW for
quick reference.
DAMAGE
RNG POW P+S
1 3 9
FURY WB FA
+31 C L/R, Location The weapon stat bars on a huge-based model
5 MOUNT
RNG POW
indicate where its weapons are located: on its left side (L)
0.5 12 or right side (R). These locations are used to determine the
weapons field of fire (p.39). A weapon that is not in one of
MODEL AS DAMAGE these locations is marked with .
Sample Mount Weapon Stat Bar
MODEL BS DAMAGE

DAMAGE

RNG, Range The maximum distance in inches between the

MODEL CS DAMAGE

WB FA
attacks point of MODEL
origin and the target before +the
DS DAMAGE 30 attack
C will
automatically miss (see Making Attacks, p.41). Measure
MODEL ES DAMAGE FA
PC Leader & 2 Grunts 11
range from the edge of the point ofLeader
origins
& 4 Grunts base18nearest
2 to the
target up to the maximum range of the attack (see Measuring
Range, p.40). Spray attacks use special range descriptors
beginning with SP (p.54). A RNG of CTRL indicates
the weapon can target any model in the attacking models
control range. Remember, the attacking model needs line of
sight to a model target it (p.36). A RNG of * indicates the
models special rules contain information about determining
the RNG. Some special rules can affect a weapons range. If
a weapons RNG is reduced to 0 or less by some effect, the
weapon cannot be used to make attacks.

MODELS 19
 & Qualities
Weapon - USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE Disruption A warjack hit by this attack loses its focus
Weapon qualities are special rules that are marked as icons on
points and cannot channel spells or gain focus by any means,
a weapons statGRAYLE
block. THE FARSTRIDER including by being allocated focus, for one round.
2016 v1
CIRCLE WOLF SWORN WARLOCK
Open Fist This weapon is an Open Fist. A warbeast can
GRAYLE 1
SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
use a weapon with an Open Fist to make some power attacks
7 6 7 4 15 16 9 (p.44).

HUNTING BLADE Shield This weapon is a shield that gives the model a
RNG POW P+S cumulative +2ARM bonus; for example, a model with two
1 4 10
of them gains a bonus of +4ARM. A model does not gain
this bonus when resolving damage that originates in its
back arc (p. 42).
These symbols show that Grayle the Farstriders Hunting
Weapon Master When attacking with this weapon, add
Blade melee weapons have Damage Type: Magical
and Weapon Master . an additional die to its damage rolls.
FURY

6 with this weapon ignore bonuses from

Blessed Attacks Damage Capacity & .
spells, including animi, that add to a models ARM or DEF.
Life Spirals
Buckler This weapon has an integral buckler that gives A models damage capacity determines how many damage
the model a cumulative +1ARM bonus; for example, a model points it can suffer. Most troopers do not have a damage
with two of them gains a bonus of +2ARM. A model does capacity. The entry for a model with damage capacity gives
not gain this bonus when resolving damage thatDAMAGE
originates the total amount of damage it can suffer. Its stat card provides
in its back arc. WB FA a row of damage boxes for tracking the damage it receives.
+29 C
Chain Weapon Attacks with this weapon ignore the On warbeasts, damage boxes are represented as circles and
Buckler and Shield weapon qualities and Shield Wall. are arranged in a life spiral.

Continuous Effect: Corrosion A model hit by this attack Every time a model with multiple damage boxes suffers
suffers the Corrosion continuous effect (p.60). damage, mark one damage box for each damage point taken.
(See Recording Damage, p.57, for more.) A model with
Continuous Effect: Fire A model hit by this attack suffers damage capacity is disabled once all its damage boxes are
the Fire continuous effect (p.60). marked. A warbeast can suffer from crippled aspects before
Critical Corrosion On a critical hit, the model hit by this its life spiral is completely filled, however. A warbeasts life
attack suffers the Corrosion continuous effect (p.60). spiral is arranged into three aspects: Mind, Body, and Spirit.
When all damage boxes for a specific aspect have been
Critical Disruption On a critical hit on a warjack, the marked, that aspect is crippled. (See Recording Damage,
warjack suffers Disruption. A warjack suffering Disruption p.57, for more.)
loses its focus points and cannot channel spells or gain
focus by any means, including by being allocated focus, for
one round.
2
Critical Fire On a critical hit, the model hit by this attack
1
suffers the Fire continuous effect (p.60). 3
MIND

BOD
Damage Type: Cold This weapon causes cold damage
Y

(p.56). 4

Damage Type: Corrosion This weapon causes corrosion I

T

IR
SP
damage (p.56). 6
Damage Type: Electricity This weapon causes electrical 5
damage (p.56).

Damage Type: Fire This weapon causes fire damage Sample life spiral from a warbeast stat card
(p.56).

Damage Type: Magical This weapon causes magical

damage (p.57).

20 MODELS
Base Size & Facing
The physical models themselves have some properties
FACING & DIRECTLY FACING
important to gameplay, namely base size and facing. The Titan Cannoneer is facing both Lylyth, Herald of Everblight
and the Carnivean. The Cannoneer is directly facing the
Base Size Carnivean. Note that although it is facing the other warbeast,
the Carnivean is not directly facing the Cannoneer.
The physical size and mass of a model are reflected by its
base size. There are four base sizes: small bases (30mm),
medium bases (40mm), large bases (50mm), and huge bases Cannoneer
(120mm). Generally, most human-sized warrior models
have small bases; larger creatures and light warbeasts have
medium bases; very large creatures and heavy warbeasts
have large bases; and gargantuans and battle engines have
huge bases. A models entry states its base size. Lylyth

Facing
A models facing is determined by its shoulder orientation.
The 180 arc in the direction its shoulders face defines the
models front arc; the opposite 180 defines its back arc.
Many players find it helpful to make a small mark on either
side of each models base to indicate where the front arc ends
and the back arc begins instead of relying on the positioning
of its shoulders. If a model lacks shoulders, you must mark Carnivean
its base or discuss its facing with your opponent before the
game starts.

MARKING YOUR .
Front Arc MODELS FACING
We recommend you paint lines on your models bases to
identify their facing clearly.

Back Arc

A huge-based models front arc and fields of fire are marked

on its base. See Huge-Based Models & Line of Sight,
p.39, for details.

A models front arc determines its perspective of the

battlefield. A model typically directs its actions, determines
line of sight, and makes attacks within this arc. Likewise, a
model is usually more vulnerable to attacks from its back
arc due to a lack of awareness in that direction. A model that
has any part of its base within another models front arc does WOLDWARDEN
not count as being in that models back arc. Circle Heavy Warbeast

A model is facing another model when the second model is

within the first models front arc. A model is directly facing
another model when the center of its front arc aligns with the
center of the second models base.

MODELS 21
 PREPARING FOR WAR
ARMY BUILDING, ENCOUNTER LEVELS & SETUP

When you and your opponent decide to play a game of

HORDES, you begin by deciding on the size of the game you
Encounter Levels
intend to play, determined by its point size or encounter level HORDES battles are played at different encounter levels
(see Encounter Levels, next, and Point Costs, p. 23). to allow for a diversity of army sizes, strategies, and game
The more army points in a game, the larger the armies and experiences. Smaller games are a good starting point for
the longer the game. new players who are learning the rules and building their
first armies. Over time players can expand to larger games
Next you should agree on which scenario you will play to broaden the scale of their battles. Each encounter level
or randomly determine a scenario to be played (p.86). lists the maximum number of points each player can spend
Scenarios are missions or special circumstances that determine when designing an army. You need not spend every point
the conditions of the battle and how to win the game. available, but your armys point total cannot be more than 5
Once a scenario has been determined, both players make points under the determined amount and cannot exceed the
their armies and prepare for battle. set number of army points.

CIRCLE BATTLEGROUP

22 PREPARING FOR WAR

Each encounter level also dictates the number of warlocks Grand Melee
available to each player. In larger battles, you can even field
Max. Warlocks: 1  Army Points: 100
multiple warlocks for greater might.
A grand melee is a battle between large forces under the
Warbeast points can be combined with army points to pay direction of individual commanders. A grand melee is the
for the warbeasts in a warlocks battlegroup. largest battlefield conflict suited for a single warlock on each
side of the engagement.
EXAMPLE: Johan and Chris decide to play a skirmish game
at 10 army points because they want a game that includes
just warlock battlegroups and a couple of extra solos. Major Engagement
Johans warlock is Baldur the Stonecleaver, who grants Max. Warlocks: 2  Army Points: 125
31 warbeast points. Johan adds 34 points of warbeasts to Major engagements are pivotal events that shape whole
Baldurs battlegroup and has 7 army points left over for military campaigns. With two warlocks in an army, you can
other models. He chooses to include the Lord of the Feast, fully realize the opportunities for army customization to
which costs 6 army points. Johan has 1 army point left that bring devastating force to bear.
remains unused.
Chris chooses Lord Tyrant Hexeris as his warlock, so he Open War
gets 29 warbeast points. Chris has 35 points of warbeasts Max. Warlocks: 3+ Army Points: 200+
that he wants to put in his army, so he assigns them all When objectives can no longer be achieved by limited force
to Hexeris battlegroup. Because he used 6 of his 10 army of arms, when both sides refuse to yield, then nothing
points filling the battlegroup, Chris has just enough left to less than war can resolve their differences. This is a huge
include a 4-point Void Spirit. game in which each player fields three or more warlocks,
allowing your forces enough breadth to inflict and recover
Duel from staggering blows as the fight swings back and forth.
Max. Warlocks: 1  Army Points: 0 Additional warlocks can be added to a force for every
A duel occurs when two warlocks cross paths, sometimes additional 75 points. When playing a game of 275 points, for
on special assignments, other times to settle old scores. example, players can each field four warlocks. When playing
Duels include only warlocks and the warbeasts in their 350 points, players can each field five warlocks, and so on.
battlegroups. This encounter level is perfect for playing with
the contents of a battlegroup box. Theme forces cannot be
used at this encounter level. Building Your Army
A warlock and its warbeasts form the central fighting group
Skirmish of every HORDES army, but units and solos with a variety of
Max. Warlocks: 1  Army Points: 10 abilities further support the force.
A skirmish is a battle between warlocks and a few trusted
The first step to building an army is to choose a Faction.
companions. This encounter level is perfect for players just
Each Faction presents its own visual aesthetic and variety
beginning to expand their armies.
of play styles and tactics, but all Factions make for fun and
strategically interesting games. An army can include only
Rapid Assault models from one Faction and the Minions that will work for
Max. Warlocks: 1  Army Points: 25 that Faction.
A rapid assault is a conflict between warlocks and their
battlegroups supported by a small retinue of units and solos. Once you have selected your Faction, you can begin creating
Rapid assaults can occur over such things as routine border an army made up of models from that Faction.
patrols or elite surgical missions.
Point Costs
Clash of Arms All models in HORDES have a point cost that indicates how
Max. Warlocks: 1  Army Points: 50 many army points you must spend to include one of these
Clashes are small battles between well-rounded forces. models (or in the case of units, one basic unit) in your army.
Though such encounters can be decided relatively quickly, Some models and units have different costs associated with
they give players a sense of the greater conflicts to come. different play options. For example, many units have one cost
listed for the minimum-strength unit and a separate cost for
Pitched Battle the maximum-strength unit. When you compose a list of the
Max. Warlocks: 1  Army Points: 75 models in your army (commonly known as your army list),
Pitched battles are sizeable conflicts between significant you must specify which point cost option you are taking.
forces. They are considered the average engagement size for
a game of HORDES.

PREPARING FOR WAR 23

 SAMPLE ARMY
Warlocks & Warbeast Points
Warlocks are the driving force of your army and do not cost
Here is a sample army built for a 75-point game.
army points to include. Instead, they grant you a number
WARLOCK: Lord Tyrant Hexeris warbeast points that can be spent only on warbeasts for your
(+29 warbeast points) warlocks battlegroup. These bonus points are in addition to the
army points determined for the game, and any warbeast points
The available point total is
not spent on warbeasts for a warlocks battlegroup are lost.
75 army points + Hexeris 29 warbeast points = 104 total points.

Hexeris Battlegroup Army Point Cost

Field Allowance
1 Titan Gladiator heavy warbeast 14 Field allowance (FA) is the maximum number of models or
3 Cyclops Raider light warbeasts 27 units of a given type that can be included for each warlock
Each Cyclops Raider is 9 points and FA U. in an army. For example, Trollbloods Trollkin Champion
1 Cyclops Savage light warbeast 8 units have FA2, indicating an army can have up to two
Trollkin Champion units for each warlock. An army with two
Units and Solos Army Point Cost
warlocks could have up to four Trollkin Champion units.
1 Tyrant Commander & Standard Bearer unit 6
A field allowance of U means an unlimited number of these
2 Praetorian Swordsman units of 10 troopers 26
Each unit is 13 points and FA U. models or units can be fielded in an army. A field allowance of
C means the model or unit is a character (see Characters,
1 Venator Reiver unit of 6 troopers with 9
next page). Effects that increase the FA of models or units do
a Venator Reiver Officer & Standard command attachment 4
not affect the field allowance of characters.
1 Paingiver Beast Handler unit with 4 troopers 5
Field allowance is not Faction-specific. If an army includes
1 Ancestral Guardian solo 5
both Faction and Minion warlocks, count all the warlocks
Battlegroup Subtotal 49 in the army when determining field allowance limits for
Units and Solos Subtotal 55 both Faction and Minion models and units. For example, if
TOTAL ARMY POINTS 104 a Trollblood army contains both a Trollblood warlock and a
This is a 75-point army led by Lord Tyrant Hexeris, who has 29 Minion warlock, that army can include up to four Trollkin
warbeast points, so the army can include up to 104 points of Champions, just as if it had two Trollblood warlocks.
models in addition to the warlock. The five warbeasts in the Some solos, like Trollbloods Troll Whelps, are purchased in
army are assigned to Hexeris battlegroup. groups. In these cases, field allowance determines the number
The unit of Venator Reivers is at minimum strength with only six of groups of these models a player can include in an army
troopers, as allowed by the unit options, but is fortified with a rather than the number of individual models. For example,
command attachment. We also included a Tyrant Commander & Troll Whelps are FA3 and cost 4 points for five Whelps. That
Standard Bearer unit that always includes just two models. There means a player can add three groups of Troll Whelpsa total
are two units of Praetorian Swordsmen, each with ten troopers of fifteen modelsfor each warlock in the army.
as allowed by their unit option. There is one unit of Paingiver
Beast Handlers with four troopers as allowed by its unit option.
The army is rounded out by an Ancestral Guardian solo. The total
Battlegroups
number of army points spent is 104, so no points are left unused. Each warlock in an army controls a group of warbeasts.
A warlock and the warbeasts he controls are collectively
HEXERIS BATTLEGROUP referred to as a battlegroup. There is no limit to the number of
TITAN warbeasts that can be fielded in each warlocks battlegroup.
GLADIATOR Warbeasts must begin the game assigned to a battlegroup.

Because a warlock can leech fury points only from warbeasts

in its battlegroup, it is important to distinguish which
warbeasts are controlled by each warlock. When composing
HEXERIS your army, specify the controller for each of the warbeasts
in your army. For more information on battlegroups, see
Warlocks & Fury, p.70.
CYCLOPS SAVAGE

CYCLOPS RAIDER x3

24 PREPARING FOR WAR

Characters Minions
Some models represent unique individuals from the Iron Minions are sell-swords and individuals pressed into service
Kingdoms. These personalities carry proper names and are that can be fielded in a variety of Faction armies. When you
identified as characters. Characters follow the rules for their are building your army, you can include Minion models
basic model type as well as the rules for characters. that will work for your Faction. Each Minions rules list the
Factions that model will work for. Additionally, you can
Character units are unique units that may or may not be made
field an army made up entirely of Minion models. If the only
up of named characters.
warlocks in an army are Minions, the army is a Minion army
Characters have FAC, and an army can include only one and can include only Minion models. Minion armies can be
instance of each named character, whether the character composed of any Minion models regardless of what Factions
is a warlock, a solo, part of a unit, an attachment, or so on. the models will work for.
Many characters in HORDES have evolved throughout the
Minion warbeasts can be added to an army only as part of a
developing storyline, and as a result you can choose from
Minion warlocks battlegroup.
several versions of the same characters to include in your
armies. Each version of the same character will have the Some Minion models have the Partisan special rule. When a
same name on its stat profile followed by a numeral denoting Minion model with the Partisan special rule is included in
the incarnation of that character. You can include only one an army of the specified Faction, it is considered a model of
character model with the same stat profile name in your army. that Faction instead of a Minion model. A Minion warlock
with the Partisan special rule that is part of a Faction army
EXAMPLE: The following three models represent the same
it is partisan to can be the only warlock in the army. When
character in the game, so the name on the stat profiles is the
a Minion warlock with the Partisan special rule is part of a
same. An army can therefore include no more than one of
& - USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE
these models. Faction army it is partisan to, it can have warbeasts of only
that Faction in its battlegroup because it is not considered to
be a Minion model.
LYLYTH, HERALD OF EVERBLIGHT 2016 v1
LEGION BLIGHTED NYSS WARLOCK

LYLYTH 1
SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
7 4 5 7 16 14 8

HELLSINGER
RNG ROF AOE POW

&
12 2 12
- USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE
BOW BLADE
RNG POW P+S
0.5 3 7
LYLYTH, SHADOW OF EVERBLIGHT 2016 v1
LEGION BLIGHTED NYSS WARLOCK

LYLYTH 2
FURY SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
7 4 5 8 16 14 8
5
WHISPER
RNG ROF AOE POW

&
12 1 12
- USE THIS AMPERSAND FOR CIRCLE
BOW BLADE
RNG POW P+S
0.5 3 7
LYLYTH, RECKONING OF EVERBLIGHT DAMAGE
2016 v1
LEGION BLIGHTED NYSS BATTLE ENGINE WARLOCK
WB FA
LYLYTH 3 +30 C
FURY SPD STR MAT RAT DEF ARM CMD
9 8 6 8 15 16 8
5
WHISPER
RNG ROF AOE POW
12 3 12

MOUNT
RNG POW
0.5 12
DAMAGE

WB FA
+28 C
FURY

5 PREPARING FOR WAR 25

 Theme Forces
Theme forces are rules that allow a player to field a themed
Setup, Deployment &
army made up of a limited selection of models but with special Victory Conditions
rules that support the theme. A theme force can include only Once players have determined the scenario they will use and
the models and units described in its entry. If a theme force have built their armies, they are ready to play. Games are
can include a given unit, you can add any attachments to the typically played on a 4 4 battlefield, sometimes referred
unit that are available to it, subject to normal FA restrictions. to as the table. To start a game of HORDES, perform the
following steps in order:
Many character warbeasts have Bond special rules representing
an affinity with a particular warlock. An army made using a 1. Players set up the battlefield with a number of terrain
theme force can include any character warbeasts that can features generally outlined by the scenario they
be bonded to a particular warlock as part of that warlocks have decided to play (see Terrain, p.81, and
battlegroup whether or not the warbeast can normally be Scenarios, p.86).
included in armies made using the theme force.
2. Players make a starting roll with each rolling a d6 to
EXAMPLE: Jason uses a Trollbloods theme force to create determine who will be the first player and who will
an army with Hoarluk Doomshaper, Shaman of the be the second player. The player who rolls the higher
Gnarls as its warlock. The army can still include Mulg the number chooses which player will be the first player
Ancient even if the warbeast is not on the theme force list and which will be the second.
because Mulg has a special rules stating it is bonded to
3. The second player chooses an edge of the battlefield to
Doomshaper.
deploy to.
Minion warlocks with the Partisan special rule can be included
4. The first player deploys his models first, placing them
in the theme forces of the Factions they are partisan to.
completely within 7 of the table edge opposite the one
Theme forces and their requirements and benefits can be chosen by the second player. This area is the players
found in the Forces of HORDES book. deployment zone. Deploy units so that all their troopers
are in formation (p.64). Models with Advance
Deployment do not have to be deployed at this time.
SCENARIOS 5. The second player deploys his models on his chosen
A scenario is a specific mission that adds unique rules and side of the battlefield, placing them completely within
victory conditions to a game, which introduces an extra layer of 10 of that edge, following the same guidelines.
excitement. A player wins a scenario by achieving its objectives,
6. The first player deploys any of his models with Advance
not necessarily by eliminating the opponents forces. Some
Deployment that he did not place in step 4, deploying
scenarios have specific guidelines for deployment, battlefield
models up to 6 beyond his deployment zone.
size, terrain setup, deployment zones, and turn order. If you
feel particularly daring, you can randomly determine which 7. The second player deploys any of his models with
scenario to play. Advance Deployment that he did not place in step
5, following the same guidelines.
As long as all players agree, you can even design your own
scenarios to create a unique battle experience. Just be sure 8. After all forces have been deployed, the first game
to allow a minimum of 28 between rival deployment zones. round begins with the first player taking the first turn.
Feel free to be creative when setting up your games. Your Players then alternate taking turns for the rest of the
imagination is the only limit. game. This is the turn order. Once established, the
turn order remains set for the rest of the game. Game
A selection of scenarios is presented beginning on p.86.
rounds continue until one side achieves its victory
conditions and wins the game.

Starting Fury
Every warlock and other model with the Fury Manipulation
special rule begins the game with a number of fury points
equal to its Fury stat.

26 PREPARING FOR WAR

 Force deployment should be done in turn order following
Games with More Than Two the above guidelines, with teammates sharing the same
Players deployment zone across the battlefield from their opponents
When playing games of HORDES with more than two people, deployment zone.
players can choose to play either a team game or a free-for-all
game. Agree on the type of game to be played, then set up the Free-for-All Games
battlefield and use the following guidelines to determine the In a free-for-all game, each player fights independently. To
games turn order. establish turn order, each player makes a starting roll. Starting
with the player rolling the highest result and working to the
Team Games lowest, each player chooses any available position in the
Before beginning a team game, players split into two turn order. Reroll to break ties as they occur, with the player
opposing sides. Each side then builds an army according to rolling the highest reroll result winning his choice of position,
the rules above. If the players on a team wish, they can build followed by the next highest reroller, and so on.
their army using a theme force. Once the players on a team EXAMPLE: Matt, Jason, Will, and Oz roll 6, 5, 5, and 3
have built their army, they should determine which player respectively for turn order. Matt chooses his position first.
controls which battlegroups, units, and solos. Then Jason and Will reroll their tie, getting a 4 and a 2,
respectively. Jason chooses his position next, followed by
The game will work just like a standard two-person game of
Will. As the lowest roller, Oz gets the remaining position in
HORDES except instead of one army taking a turn, only one
the turn order.
player will take a turn. Then the next player will be a player
from the other team. Players take turns like this until all Use your best judgment to establish deployment zones based
players have taken a turn, then the next game round begins. on the number of players and the size and shape of your
playing surface. Deployment zones should be spaced such
At the beginning of the game, one player from each team rolls that no player gets a significant advantage or disadvantage
a d6 to establish the turn order. The team that rolls higher (unless mutually agreed upon). As a starting point, for
chooses which team goes first, and the first team chooses games with three or four players on a 44 playing surface,
which of its players will be the first player. Once the first player deploying forces completely within 10 of any corner of the
is determined, the opposing team chooses which of its players playing area should ensure adequate separation.
will go next. The first team then names one of its players to
be third, followed again by the opposing team. This continues
until all players have a place in the turn order and ensures the
turn order will alternate between players of opposing teams.

27
 GAMEPLAY
TURN SEQUENCE, MOVEMENT & ACTIONS

The Game Round

HORDES battles are fought in a series of game rounds. For game effects, a round is measured from the current
Each game round, every player takes a turn in the order players turn to the beginning of his next turn regardless of
established during setup. Once the last player in the turn his location in the turn order. A game effect with a duration
order completes his turn, the current game round ends. A of one round expires at the beginning of the current players
new game round then begins, starting with the first player next turn. This means every player will take one turn while
again. Game rounds continue until one side wins the game. the effect is in play.

28 GAMEPLAY
The Player Turn Activation Phase
The Activation Phase is the major portion of a players turn.
A players turn has three phases: Maintenance, Control, and
Activation. All models you control must be activated once per turn.
This is usually done during the Activation Phase, but some
Some effects are resolved at the beginning of a players turn. effects allow a model to activate earlier in the turn. Units
These effects are resolved before the start of the Maintenance and independent models are activated one at a time in the
Phase. Remember to remove markers for any effects that order you choose. A model cannot forfeit its activation unless
expire at the beginning of your turn. allowed to do so by a special rule (see Forfeiting Normal
Movement or Combat Actions, below). A model must be on
Maintenance Phase the table to activate.
During the Maintenance Phase, perform the following steps
in order:
Activating Models
1. Remove all fury points in excess of the FURY stat for When a model activates, the activation is divided into its
each of your models with the Fury Manipulation special Normal Movement (see Normal Movement & Advancing,
rule. Leave fury points on warbeasts at this time. p.30) and its Combat Action (see Combat Actions,
2. Check for expiration of continuous effects on any p.36). A models Normal Movement must be resolved
models you control. After checking for expired before progressing to its Combat Action. For a detailed
continuous effects, resolve the effects of those that breakdown of model activation, see Activation Timing in
remain in play. the Timing appendix p.324.

3. Resolve all other effects that occur during the

Maintenance Phase. Activating Independent
Models
Control Phase Independent models activate individually. Only one
During the Control Phase, perform the following steps in order: independent model can activate at a time. The model makes its
Normal Movement if it was not forfeited. Then, after resolving
1. Each of your models with the Fury Manipulation
its Normal Movement, the model resolves its Combat Action
special rule, like warlocks, can leech (p.71) any
if it was not forfeited. After resolving its Combat Action, the
number of fury points from warbeasts in its battlegroup
model ends its activation. The active model must end its
that are in its control range. However, a model cannot
activation before another model or unit can be activated.
exceed its current FURY in fury points as a result of
leeching.
2. After leeching, a model with the Fury Manipulation
Activating Units
special rule can additionally gain up to 1 fury point for Troopers do not activate individually. Instead, the entire unit
each medium-based or larger warbeast that was part activates at once. See Unit Activation, p.64, for details
of its battlegroup and has been destroyed or removed on activating units. As with activating independent models,
from play. If a destroyed warbeast returns to play for a unit must end its activation before another model or unit
any reason, this model can no longer gain fury points can be activated.
for that warbeast from Spirit Bond. A model cannot
exceed its FURY in fury points as a result of Spirit Bond. Forfeiting Normal Movement
3. Each model with the Fury Manipulation special rule or Combat Actions
can spend fury points to maintain its upkeep spells in Some rules require a model to forfeit its Normal Movement
play. If a model does not spend fury points to maintain or Combat Action or allow it to do so voluntarily for some
an upkeep spell, the spell expires and its effects benefit. When a model voluntarily forfeits its Normal
immediately end. Movement or Combat Action, resolve the effect for which its
4. Make a threshold check (p.67) for each of your Normal Movement or Combat Action was forfeited.
warbeasts with 1 or more fury points left on it. Any
A model cannot voluntarily forfeit its Normal Movement
warbeasts that fail the check immediately frenzy
or Combat Action if it is also required to forfeit it, and a
(p.67).
model cannot forfeit the same thing for multiple effects.
5. Resolve all other effects that occur during the Control For example, a Troll Impaler that is knocked down (p.61)
Phase. cannot forfeit its Normal Movement to stand up and also aim
by forfeiting that movement.

GAMEPLAY 29
 Movement BY ANY OTHER NAME
Normal Movement & Remember that all intentional movementwhether full
Advancing advancing, running, or chargingis considered to be
advancing regardless of whether it takes place during a
The first part of a models activation is its Normal Movement
models Normal Movement.
(see Activating Models, p.29). While models generally
move only during this portion of their activations, some
special rules permit movement at other times.
When a model resolves its Normal Movement, it must choose
Advancing refers to movement a model intentionally makes, one of the following options:
not to involuntary movement caused by other effects, such as
Forfeit its Normal Movement
being pushed or slammed. A model can change its facing at any
time during its advance, but when it advances it must always Aim
move in the direction it is facing. Make all measurements from Full advance
the front of an advancing models base. Determine the distance
Run
a model advances by measuring how far the leading edge of
its base travels. The distance moved is absolute. Changing Charge
facing by rotating in place is still advancing even though the Additionally some models can choose to perform a power
models position on the table does not change. A models base attack encompassing its Normal Movement and Combat Action
cannot pass over another models base while advancing. This such as a slam (p.45) or trample power attack (p.48).
means that if a gap between the bases of two models is too
small for another models base to fit between them, the third
model cannot move through the space.
Forfeiting Normal Movement
See Forfeiting Normal Movement or Combat Actions, p.29.

ADVANCING Aim
During Normal Movement the model changes its facing to The model does not advance, not even to change its facing; then its
point in the direction it moves. Normal Movement ends. For the rest of the models activation, it
receives a +2 bonus to every ranged attack roll it makes. A model
in melee (p.43) cannot use its Normal Movement to aim.

Full Advance
The model advances up to its current speed (SPD) in inches.

Run
2 The model advances up to twice its current SPD in inches.
When a model uses its Normal Movement to run, it must
forfeit its Combat Action before advancing and its activation
ends as soon as it completes its run movement. A model
3 cannot use its Normal Movement to run after casting a spell
or using a feat that activation.

INVOLUNTARY MOVEMENT If a model cannot run due to some effect and is required to use
its Normal Movement to run, instead of running it forfeits its
During involuntary movement the model does not change
Combat Action and makes a full advance, then its activation
its facing.
ends. A model that is required to run for some reason cannot
cast spells or use its feat even if it cannot run.

Some models must meet special requirements to run:

A warbeast must be forced to use its Normal Movement

to run.
A trooper must receive a Press Forward order (p.64) to use
its Normal Movement to run, or it must be compelled to run
3 as a result of a game effect (such as being out of formation).
A trooper that receives the Press Forward order must use its
Normal Movement to run or charge.
30 GAMEPLAY
Charge
The model rushes into melee range with a target and takes CHARGE DIRECTION
advantage of its momentum to make a more powerful first strike. Either of these charge moves would bring the Strider Scout to
A model that does not have a melee range or cannot make attacks within its melee range of its target, the Troll Axer. The red area
also cannot charge. A model that forfeits its Combat Action represents the Strider Scouts melee range.
cannot use its Normal Movement to charge that activation. A
model cannot target a friendly model with a charge.

Declare a charge and its target before moving the model. A

model requires line of sight to another model to target it (see
Line of Sight & Targeting, p.36). After declaring a charge,
the charging model turns to face any direction that will
bring its target into its melee range when it moves, ignoring
terrain, the distance to the charge target, and other models.
The charging model then advances up to its current SPD plus Strider
Troll Axer
Scout
3 in that direction, in a straight line. The charging model
cannot voluntarily stop its movement until its target is in its
melee range, but after that point it can end this movement
at any time. Once the charging model has the charge target
in its melee range, it must keep the charge target in its
melee range for the rest of the charge. The charging model
stops if it contacts a model, an obstacle, or an obstruction
Strider Troll Axer
or if it is pushed, slammed, thrown, or placed during its Scout
charge movement. If a model contacts a model, obstacle or
obstruction while charging, but is able to move through it
for whatever reason, the charging model does not stop but
is still considered to have contacted the model, obstacle, or If a charging model ends its charge movement without its
obstruction. At the end of the charge movement, the charging charge target in its melee range, it has made a failed charge.
model turns to directly face its target. If a model makes a failed charge during its activation, its
activation ends.
Some effects require a model to charge. If a model is required
to charge and either it cannot or there are no legal charge Some models must meet special requirements to charge:
targets in its line of sight, the model activates but must forfeit A warbeast must be forced to use its Normal Movement
its Normal Movement and Combat Action. to charge.
A charging model that is engaging its charge target at the end A trooper must receive the Press Forward order (p.64)
of its charge movement has made a successful charge. The to use its Normal Movement to charge. A trooper that
charging model must use its Combat Action to make either receives the Press Forward order must use its Normal
initial melee attacks or a special attack with a melee weapon. Movement to either run or charge. Troopers in the same
The charging models first melee attack after ending its charge unit can charge the same target or multiple targets.
movement must target the model it charged. If the charging Cavalry models have additional rules governing charges.
model advanced at least 3, its first attack with a melee (See Cavalry, p.79.)
weapon targeting the model it charged is a charge attack. If
If the charging model did not fail its charge and cannot make
that attack hits, the damage roll against the charge target is
its first melee attack against the charge target, the charging
automatically boosted. After resolving its charge attack, the
model can make its first melee attack against another eligible
charging model completes its Combat Action normally.
target. In that case, its first melee attack damage roll is not
If a charging model moved less than 3, its first attack with a automatically boosted.
melee weapon is not a charge attack. Its first attack must still
be made against the charge target, however.

GAMEPLAY 31
 A MODEL CAN CHARGE WHAT IT SEES
A model needs only line of sight to another model to charge it, even if there are circumstances that will cause the charge to fail.
Sometimes tactical benefits from the extra distance of a charge outweigh the negatives of failing the charge (such as when using the
Assault advantage to reposition close enough for a ranged attack). Each of the following is a valid charge, even though the attacker is
not able to reach the charge target.

CHARGE EXAMPLES
Wild Argus
Wild Argus
Lord of the Feast

Rough
Terrain
Wolves of
Orboros

Blighted Nyss
Swordsman

Blighted Nyss
Swordsman Blighted Nyss
Swordsman

Charge is hindered by rough terrain.

The Blighted Nyss Swordsmans Though the Blighted Nyss Swordsman
charge to the Lord of the Feast is models charge is not stopped by the
Charge target is out of
blocked, as the base of the Blighted rough terrain, it moves at only half
charge range.
Nyss model cannot fit between the its normal rate through that area and
bases of the Wolves of Orboros. ends its movement without its charge
target in its melee range.

DIRECTLY TOWARD . Strider Scout

& DIRECTLY AWAY
The dotted line represents the line
connecting the center points of the
Strider Scout and the Troll Axer. To move
Directly Directly
directly toward or directly away from the Away Toward
Troll Axer, the Strider must travel along
this line. Troll Axer

32 GAMEPLAY
Charges Outside of Activation End of Activation Movement
When a model charges outside its activation, such as with Some special rules enable a model to advance a certain
the Countercharge special rule, follow the rules on p.31 distance at the end of its activation. If two or more special
but ignore any references to the models activation, Normal rules would grant a model such movement, the models
Movement, or Combat Action. When a model makes a controlling player chooses which special rule to apply. The
charge outside its activation, it makes only one attack. models movement is then resolved using the rules for that
Countercharging cavalry models can still make their impact special rule.
attacks (see Cavalry, p.79). A model that charges outside
its activation cannot make a special attack. If the model fails EXAMPLE: Tyrant Xerxis casts Tactical Supremacy on
its charge, it does not make any attack. a Paingiver Bloodrunner Master Tormentor, granting it
Reposition [3]. It has Sprint already, which enables it to
make a full advance at the end of an activation in which it
Movement Restrictions destroys an enemy model with a melee attack. At the end
Some effects place restrictions on how a model moves or of such an activation, the Master Tormentor would have to
advances. There are four types of these restrictions. In the choose whether to advance as a result of Sprint or because
following descriptions, Model A is moving with some of Tactical Supremacy.
restriction relative to Model B.

Model A Must Move Toward Model B: Model A can move

Base-to-Base & Contact
along any path such that the distance between Model A Models whose bases are touching are in base-to-base (B2B)
and Model B is always decreasing or remaining the same contact. If a model has a special rule that allows it to move
during the movement. through another model, while it is moving through the other
model they are considered to be in base-to-base contact.
Model A Must Move Directly Toward Model B: Model A
moves along the straight line that connects the center One model contacts another when it changes from not
points of Model A and Model B such that the distance being base-to-base with it to being base-to-base with it.
between them decreases during the movement. A model Additionally, when a model is already base to base with
that moves directly toward a point cannot change its another model and would move toward it, it is considered to
facing after moving. contact that model again.
Model A Must Move Away From Model B: Model A can
move along any path such that the distance between Entering
Model A and Model B is always increasing or remaining A model enters an area when it moves from not being within
the same during the movement. the area to being within the area or when it is put into play in
Model A Must Move Directly Away From Model B: Model the area, or when it is placed in the area. A model can suffer
A moves along the straight line that connects the center the effects of entering any particular area only once each time
points of Model A and Model B such that the distance it advances.
between them increases during the movement. A model
that moves directly away from a point cannot change its
facing after moving. MOVEMENT IN A NUTSHELL
In all these cases, the model affected by the movement All intentional movement, for any reason, is advancing.
restriction can still forfeit its Normal Movement, change its
The Normal Movement phase of your models activation is the
facing, or choose not to move at all.
time you can be certain your model will have the opportunity
A model can be affected by more than one movement to move.
restriction. For example, a model required to advance toward Unintentional movement can also occur at various times.
one model and away from another would need to move in
a manner to satisfy both requirements. If a moving model
cannot satisfy all restrictions on the movement, it cannot
move at all.

GAMEPLAY 33
 Unintentional Movement Slammed
Models can move without advancing as a result of being Sometimes models are slammed as a result of a spell or
pushed or slammed or from other effects. Determine the attack. When a model is slammed, it is moved a certain
distance a model moves in this way by measuring how distance directly away from the point of origin of the slam
far the leading edge of its base travels. Unless otherwise (usually the attacker), then becomes knocked down (p.61).
specified, a models facing does not change when it moves The distance the slammed model is moved is determined
unintentionally. Remember, unintentional movement is not by the spell or attack that caused the slam. The slammed
advancing, so things like free strikes that occur as a result model then suffers a damage roll determined by the spell
of advancing do not apply to movement caused by pushes, or attack that caused the slam. A slammed model moves at
slams, or throws. half rate through rough terrain, suffers any damaging effects
through which it passes, and stops if it contacts an obstacle,
Pushed an obstruction, or a model with an equal or larger base. A
Sometimes models can be pushed as a result of an attack, a slammed model moves through models with smaller bases
special rule, or a spell. A pushed model moves at half rate than its own.
through rough terrain, suffers the effects of any hazards Add an additional die to the damage roll the slammed model
(p.85) through which it moves, and stops if it contacts an suffers if it contacts an obstacle, an obstruction, or a model
obstacle, an obstruction, or another model. with an equal or larger base.

SLAMMED BY . SLAMMED BY . SLAMMED BY .

A POWER ATTACK A MELEE ATTACK A RANGED ATTACK
A Dire Troll Mauler power attack slams Tyrant Xerxis charges a Feral Warpwolf and A Troll Impaler makes a Thrown Spear
a Gnarlhorn Satyr. The Mauler rolls a 4 uses his Attack to slam it. He successfully ranged attack targeting a Gorax Rager
for the slam distance, so the Gnarlhorn rolls to hit and then rolls 6 for the slam and triggers a Critical Smite, which
is moved 4 directly away from the distance. Because the Warpwolf has a slams the model hit. The Impaler rolls
Mauler and is knocked down before larger base than he does, due to a special a 5 for distance, so the Gorax is moved
suffering damage. rule of his Attack Xerxis slam moves the 5 directly away from the Impaler and is
Warpwolf only half the normal distance. The knocked down before suffering damage.
Warpwolf is moved 3 directly away from
Xerxis and is knocked down. The damage
roll is boosted for being a charge attack.

Gorax Rager
Feral
Warpwolf
Gnarlhorn
Satyr
4 3

Tyrant
Xerxis
Dire Troll
Mauler

Troll Impaler

34 GAMEPLAY
If a slammed model contacts a model with an equal or
smaller base or moves through a model with a smaller base,
Beyond the Play Area
If an effect would cause a model to move or be placed beyond
the contacted model becomes knocked down (p.61) and
the table edge (such as being thrown or slammed), the model
suffers a collateral damage roll determined by the spell or
stops at the table edge and remains in play. The table edge
attack that caused the slam. A contacted model with a larger
does not count as an obstacle; models do not take additional
base does not suffer collateral damage and is not knocked
damage for stopping there.
down. Resolve any collateral damage simultaneously with
the damage resulting from the spell or attack that caused the
slam (see Simultaneous Effects, p.43). Falling
A model that is slammed, thrown, or pushed or that otherwise
If a slammed model cannot be knocked down it must still
moves off an elevated surface to another surface at least 1
forfeit its Normal Movement or Combat Action if it activates
full inch lower falls. A falling model becomes knocked down
later in a turn in which it was slammed.
(p. 61) and suffers a damage roll. A fall of up to 2 causes
a POW12 damage roll. Add an additional die to the damage
roll for every additional 2 the model falls, rounded up.
COLLATERAL DAMAGE
Fall Damage Roll = 2d6+12 + d6 for
Collateral damage cannot be boosted and is not considered
every 2 of the fall after the first
damage from an attack or model.
EXAMPLE: A model falling 2 suffers a damage roll of
2d6+12. One falling 5 suffers a damage roll of 4d6+12,
and one falling 7 suffers a damage roll of 5d6+12!
Thrown If a falling model lands on top of another model, follow the
Sometimes models are thrown as the result of a spell or attack. rule of least disturbance to move the non-falling model into
When a model is thrown, refer to the spell or attack that caused a legal position.
the throw to determine the models point of impact, generally
If a falling model contacts a model with an equal or smaller
directly away from the attacking model. However, when
base, the contacted model becomes knocked down and suffers
resolving a throw power attack, it may be necessary to roll for
the same damage roll as the falling model. A contacted model
deviation to determine the thrown models point of impact
with a larger base than the falling model, however, does
(see Throw Power Attack, p.46, and Deviation, p.52).
not suffer damage and is not knocked down. All damage
Move the thrown model from its current location in a straight
resulting from the fall is simultaneous. (see Simultaneous
line directly toward the point of impact. During this movement,
Effects, p.43).
a thrown model moves through models with smaller bases
without contacting them. Unlike when a model is slammed,
rough terrain does not affect this movement, but the thrown Rule of Least Disturbance
model still stops if it contacts an obstacle, an obstruction, Some rules can cause moving models to overlap the bases of
or a model with an equal or larger base. After moving, the other models temporarily, such as when a model is thrown
thrown model becomes knocked down (p.61) and contacts or slammed. Once the model has stopped moving, models
all models with which it is base-to-base and models whose must be repositioned so that there are no overlapping bases.
bases it overlaps. The thrown model then suffers a damage roll The model that was moving stays in its final position; other
determined by the spell or attack that caused the throw. models are moved out of the way to make room. If the model
that was moving overlaps the base of a model that cannot be
Add an additional die to the damage roll the thrown model
moved, then the moving model is repositioned using the rule
suffers if it contacts an obstacle, an obstruction, or a model
of least disturbance.
with an equal or larger base.
To determine which models to move and where to move
If a thrown model contacts a model with an equal or smaller
them, first identify the fewest models that would need to
base, the contacted model becomes knocked down (p.61)
be moved to make room. Then find the locations to move
and suffers a collateral damage roll determined by the spell
them that create the least total distance moved. If multiple
or attack that caused the throw. A contacted model with a
options yield the least distanceif one model is centered
larger base than the thrown model does not suffer collateral
over another, for examplerandomly determine the option
damage and is not knocked down. Resolve any collateral
to use. A models facing does not change when the model is
damage simultaneously with the damage resulting from
moved as a result of this rule.
the spell or attack that caused the throw (see Simultaneous
Effects, p.43).

If a thrown model cannot be knocked down it must still

forfeit its Normal Movement or Combat Action if it activates
later in a turn in which it was thrown.
GAMEPLAY 35
 Placed Basic Attacks
Sometimes models are placed in a new location as a result A basic attack is, quite simply, an attack made with a weapon
of a special rule or spell. Placing a model is not moving that is not a special attack, power attack, or chain attack.
or advancing the model. Because a placed model did not
advance, it cannot be targeted by free strikes. A model that
is placed within an area, however, is considered to enter
Special Actions (Actions) &
that area. There must be room for the models base in the Special Attacks (Attacks)
location the model is placed. A model cannot be placed in Special attacks and special actions let models make actions
impassable terrain or with its base overlapping an obstacle, that are unavailable to other models.
an obstruction, or another models base. The player placing
Special attacks listed as a rule of a melee weapon are melee
the model chooses its facing.
special attacks. Special attacks listed as a rule of a ranged
When you are placing a friendly trooper model that is in weapon are ranged special attacks. Special attacks listed as a
formation, it must be placed in formation unless it is the rule of the model itself are neither melee attacks nor ranged
unit commander. Unit commanders can be placed without attacks. The rules for these special attacks indicate the nature
considering formation (see Unit Formation, p.64). of any additional attacks that can be made afterward, if any.

Replacing Models Additional Attacks

When replacing one model with another, place the new model After resolving its initial attacks, a special attack, or a power
so the area covered by the smaller of their bases is completely attack, a model might be able to make additional attacks if it
within the area covered by the larger. If the two bases are the has a special rule allowing it to do so.
same size, place the new model in the same location as the
A model can make additional attacks only during its Combat
one being replaced. There must be room for the models base
Action. Each additional attack is a basic attack that can be
in the location the model is placed. The player choosing the
made with any weapon the model possesses that is allowed
placed models new location chooses its facing.
by the special rule granting the attack, including multiple
attacks with the same weapon. Completely resolve each
Combat Actions attack before making another attack. A model cannot make a
special attack or a power attack as an additional attack.
After completing its Normal Movement, a model makes its
Combat Action. A model chooses one of the following options Warlocks can spend fury points to make additional attacks
when making its Combat Action: (p.72). Warbeasts can be forced to make additional attacks
(p.67).
Forfeit its Combat Action.
Make one initial attack with each of its melee weapons.
Make a number of initial attacks with each of its ranged
Line of Sight &
weapons equal to the weapons rate of fire (ROF).
Make one special attack (HAttack) allowed by its special
Targeting
Many game situations such as charging or making attacks
rules. require a model to target another model. A model must have
Make one special action (HAction) allowed by its special line of sight (LOS) to another model to target it. Simply put,
rules. having line of sight means a model can see another model.
When a model chooses another model, it need not have
Make one power attack allowed by its special rules
line of sight. A models controller can check its line of sight
(p.44)
at any time.
Unless noted otherwise, a model cannot make both melee
and ranged attacks in the same Combat Action. In other There are several steps to determining whether one model
words, a model cannot make a ranged attack after making a has line of sight to another. These steps are listed on p. 39.
melee attack, and it cannot make a melee attack after making If any step results in a models potential line of sight being
a ranged attack. A model making more than one attack can blocked, return to the first step and try a different line. If no
divide its attacks among any eligible targets. line can be found to pass all steps, the model does not have
line of sight to the desired model and cannot target it.

If you can draw any straight line between the bases of two
models that crosses over any part of the base of a third model,
the third model is an intervening model.

36 GAMEPLAY
 LOS & TARGETING Titan Gladiator

Thagrosh, Prophet of Everblight obviously has line of sight to

the Cyclops Savage. Because the Savage has a medium base,
it blocks line of sight to other models with medium and small Swordsman A
bases. Thagrosh has line of sight to Praetorian Swordsman A
because you can draw an unobstructed line from Thagroshs
front arc to the edge of Swordsman As base that does not
cross the Savages base. On the other hand, Thagrosh does
not have line of sight to Praetorian Swordsman B, because you
Swordsman B
cannot draw a line between their bases that does not cross
Cyclops Savage
the Savages base. Because they have smaller bases than the
Titan Gladiator, the Savage and the two Swordsmen do not
block line of sight to it. Thagrosh can draw line of sight to the Morghoul
Gladiator as if those models were not there.

Thagrosh has line of sight to Master Tormentor Morghoul

because Morghouls base is not completely obscured.

Thagrosh

DETERMINING MODEL VOLUME

A model is considered to occupy a standard volume regardless of its pose or the size of the sculpt itself.

A small-based model occupies the A large-based model occupies the

space from the bottom of its base space from the bottom of its base
to a height of 1.75. to a height of 2.75.

A medium-based model occupies the A huge-based model occupies the 5

space from the bottom of its base space from the bottom of its base
to a height of 2.25. to a height of 5.

2.75

2.25

1.75

Small Base Medium Base Large Base Huge Base

Lord of the Feast Basilisk Krea Carnivean Mountain King

GAMEPLAY 37
 LOS & TERRAIN
Cannoneer Cannoneer

Druid of Orboros Druid of Orboros

Here, the Titan Cannoneer has line of sight to the Druid of Here, the Titan Cannoneer does not have line of sight to
Orboros, because an unobstructed line can be drawn from the Druid of Orboros, because there is no unobstructed line
its volume to the Druids volume. between their volumes.

This wall is shorter than 1.75. It will not block line of sight This wall is taller than 1.75 but shorter than 2.25. It will
to any of the models behind it. block line of sight to small-based models behind it.

This wall is taller than 2.25 but shorter than 2.75. It will block This wall is taller than 2.75. It will block line of sight to all
line of sight to small- and medium-based models behind it. non-huge based models behind it.

TITAN SENTRY
Heavy Warbeast

PYG BUSHWHACKER
Trooper Model

CYCLOPS SAVAGE
Light Warbeast

Although the Pyg Bushwhackers pose has it hidden below the stone Similarly, although the top of the Titan Sentrys banners can be
wall, its defined height as a small-based model is greater than the seen over the wall, its defined height as a small-based model is
walls height. The Pyg Bushwhacker can see over the wall to the lower than the wall's height. The Pygs do not have line of sight to
Cyclops Savage, and the Cyclops Savage can see the Pyg Bushwhacker. the Sentry.

38 GAMEPLAY
 HUGE-BASED MODEL FIELDS OF FIRE
The Mountain King can target the Wild Argus with the weapons on its left side, the Wolves of Orboros with the weapons on its right side,
and the Feral Warpwolf with the weapons on either or both sides.

Argus Warpwolf

LEFT
SIDE

Wolves of Orboros

RIGHT
SIDE

Mountain King

Line of sight can also be blocked by terrain. To determine Huge-Based Models & .
whether a models line of sight to another model is blocked by
terrain, consider each models volume. Every model occupies
Line of Sight
a volume of space above the bottom of its base determined A huge-based models front arc is marked on its base. Its
by its base size. See the callout Determining Model Volume front arc is further divided into two 90 fields of fire. These
on p. 37 for details. fields of fire determine which models a huge-based model
can target with its weapons, depending on the location of
In the following descriptions, Model A is determining line of those weapons. Weapons located on a huge-based models
sight to Model B: left side (L) can be used to target only models in its left field
1. Draw a straight line from any part of Model As of fire, and weapons located on its right side (R) can be used
volume to any part of Model Bs volume that is within to target only models in its right field of fire. Weapons with
Model As front arc. location can be used to target models in either field of
fire. If any part of a models base is on the line separating the
2. The line must not pass through a terrain feature that left and right fields of fire, the model is considered to be in
blocks line of sight. both fields of fire.
3. The line must not pass over an intervening models
base that is equal to or larger than Model Bs.
4. The line must not pass over an effect that blocks line of
sight, such as a cloud effect.

GAMEPLAY 39
 LOS & ELEVATION
The Troll Impaler is on a hill that grants Troll Impaler
elevation (p. 82).

The Troll Impaler has line of sight to

Shifting Stone A because Shifting Stone
A is on a lower elevation and there are
no intervening models that would block
line of sight within 1 of it.

The Troll Impaler does not have line of

sight to Kaya the Wildborne because the
Feral Warpwolf is an intervening model Warpwolf
that is within 1 of Kaya.

Wolves of Orboros

Kaya
Shifting Stone B

Shifting Stone A

For most attacks, the origin of damage will be the same as the
Using Reference Objects point of origin of the attack. The origin of damage for a direct
If you cannot easily determine line of sight between your
hit with an AOE attack is the attacks point of origin, but the
model and another model due to the position of terrain on
origin of damage for any other damage caused by an AOE
the table, use reference objects for drawing the line. First
attack is the point of impact.
confirm the other model is in your models front arc; if it
is not, your model cannot have line of sight to it. Next, Finally, some non-AOE attacks, such as Chain Lightning, have
choose an edge of your models base and an edge of the special rules that allow them to damage models in addition to
other models base. For each model, hold an object next to the attacks target. The origin of damage in those cases is the
the chosen edge that is the height used to determine the model or point from which you measure the range to other
models volume (1.75, 2.25, 2.75, or 5). If you can draw affected models. For example, when the lightning generated
a line from the inside edge of the object next to your model by Chain Lightning arcs to another model, the model most
to the inside edge of the other object that does not pass recently struck by the lightning is the origin of that damage.
through a terrain feature, your models line of sight to the
The origin of damage for an AOE that is not considered to
other model is not blocked by terrain.
be part of an attack, such as from a hazard, is the center of
the AOE.
Point of Origin &
Origin of Damage Measuring Range
When measuring range, measure from the edge of the point
The point of origin of an effect or attack is the location or model
of origins base nearest to the target up to the maximum range
from which the attack or effect originates. Typically this is the
of the attack or special rule. If the nearest edge of the target
model causing the effect or making the attack, but not always.
models base is within the maximum range of the attack or
For example, when a warlock channels a spell through a model,
special rule, the target is in range.
the model the spell is channeled through is the point of origin of
the spell even though the warlock is the model casting the spell.
Both line of sight and any attack roll modifiers that depend on
line of sight (such as concealment) are checked from the point
of origin of the attack. Range is also checked from the point of
origin, including the placement of spray templates.

40 GAMEPLAY
 COMBAT
ATTACK RESOLUTION & DAMAGE

If the target of an attack is in range, make an attack roll to

Making Attacks determine if the attack hits. If the target is beyond range, the
A models Combat Action is the part of its activation dedicated attack automatically misses. If the attack has an area of effect
to making attacks. Special rules might also permit a model to (AOE) and the target is out of range, the attack deviates. See
make attacks at other times. An attack roll determines if an Area of Effect Attacks on p.52 for details.
attack hits its target. A damage roll determines how much
damage an attack deals.

There are three main types of attacks: melee attacks, ranged

Attack Roll
Whether an attack hits is determined by making an attack roll.
attacks, and magic attacks. Though a model cannot make
Roll 2d6 and add the models appropriate stat for the attack
both melee and ranged attacks in the same Combat Action,
type. Roll an additional die if the attack is boosted. Special rules
magic attacks made by spellcasters with the FURY stat have
and certain circumstances might modify the attack roll as well.
no such restriction. Warlocks can make magic attacks and
melee or ranged attacks in the same activation. Melee Attack Roll = 2d6 + MAT

When a model makes an attack, start by declaring its target. Ranged Attack Roll = 2d6 + RAT
Unless stated otherwise, an attack can target any model,
Magic Attack Roll = 2d6 + FURY or
whether friendly or enemy.
Magic Ability Score (p.74)

A model is directly hit by an attack if the attack roll against it

EFFECTS THAT . equals or exceeds the models defense (DEF). If the attack roll
PREVENT TARGETING is less than the targets DEF, the attack misses.
Certain rules and effects prevent a model from being targeted. If the attack hits and any two dice in the attack roll show the
A model that cannot be targeted by an attack still suffers its same number, it is a critical hit. When an attack roll for an
effects if it is hit by an attack, such as a result of being inside AOE results in a critical hit, every model under the template
an area of effect. Other rules and effects, such as Stealth , suffers the critical effect.
can cause an attack to miss automatically. They do not prevent
the model from being targeted by the attack, however. A roll of all 1s on the dice is a miss. A roll of all 6s is a direct hit
unless you are rolling only one die, regardless of the attackers
MAT or the targets DEF. Sometimes a special rule causes an
attack to hit automatically. Such automatic hits are also direct hits.

COMBAT 41
 Attacks That Hit or Miss Switching Targets
Automatically Some models have the ability to cause another model to
be directly hit by an attack in their place. Others can cause
Some rules cause attacks to hit automatically or miss
themselves to be directly hit by an attack in place of another
automatically. If a rule causes an attack to hit automatically,
model. Switching targets occurs as soon as a hit or a miss has
you do not have to make an attack roll. If you choose to make
been determined, including the resolution of all rerolls.
a roll (because you want to try for a critical hit, for example),
the attack no longer hits automatically. If the attack roll fails,
the attack misses. Back Strikes
A back strike grants a +2 bonus to the attack roll of a melee,
If a rule causes an attack to miss automatically, do not make
ranged, or magic attack. For a model to receive the back strike
an attack roll. The attack just misses.
bonus, the point of origin of the attack must be completely in
If one rule causes an attack to hit automatically and one the back arc of the target of the attack.
causes it to miss automatically, the automatic miss takes
precedence over the automatic hit. For instance, an effect
that allows attacks to hit automatically would not override MAKING A BACK STRIKE
special rules such as Stealth that would cause an attack to Blighted Nyss Swordsman As base is partially in the front arc
miss automatically. of the Basilisk Drake. Therefore, Blighted Nyss Swordsman A
Some effects can also reduce the number of dice a model can cannot make a back strike against the Basilisk Drake.
roll for an attack. If the number of dice a model can roll for Blighted Nyss Swordsman Bs base is completely within
an attack is reduced to zero, the attack automatically misses. the back arc of the Basilisk Drake. Therefore, Blighted Nyss
Swordsman B can make a back strike against the Basilisk Drake.
Rerolls
Some models have special rules that enable them to reroll Swordsman A
attack or damage rolls or that cause another model to
reroll its attack or damage rolls. These rerolls occur before
applying effects that are triggered when an attack roll hits
or misses or when a damage roll damages a model or fails
to damage a model. The reroll results replace the original Basilisk Drake
rolls results. For example, if a reroll causes a hit model to be Swordsman B
missed, it is missed. If a reroll causes a missed model to be
hit, it is hit. Multiple reroll effects can come into play on the
same roll. Resolve them all before resolving any other effects
dependent on hitting/missing or damaging/not damaging.
See the Timing appendix on p. 324 for details on timing.

Effects Triggering on a Hit

Resolve effects that trigger on a hit before making a damage
roll. GET BEHIND THEM!
The back strike bonus of +2 to the attack roll can make the
EXAMPLE 1: Saeryn, Talon of Everblight hits a Praetorian
difference in a tense melee engagement, so make use of it by
Swordsman model that is affected by the Defenders Ward
moving completely into your targets back arc!
spell with her staff. The staff has the Dispel special rule
that says that when it hits a model or unit, upkeep spells
and animi on that model or unit immediately expire.
That means that the spell on the Praetorian expires before
Saeryn makes a damage roll to resolve her attack.
EXAMPLE 2: Brine rolls a critical hit with a Gore attack
against a model with Tough , knocking it down before
Cyclops
the damage roll is made. If the damage roll disables the
Savage
knocked down model, it will not get a chance to make a Cyclops
Tough roll to avoid being destroyed because it is already Savage
knocked down.
Scattergunner

42 COMBAT
Simultaneous Effects Melee Range
When resolving simultaneous effects, completely resolve all A models melee range is considered the longest melee range
attack and damage rolls before applying any of the targets of its melee weapons. Additionally, each individual weapon
special rules triggered by suffering damage, being destroyed, can be used to attack only targets within its own range. For
or being removed from play. example, a Totem Hunter has two melee weapons: Kelkax has
a range of 2, and the Spiked Buckler has a range of 0.5. The
EXAMPLE 1: A Trollkin Runeshaper is slammed backward
Totem Hunters melee range is 2 because that is the longest
through a Farrow Brigand, but the Runeshaper is not knocked
range of its melee weapons, but it cannot attack targets with
down by the slam because it has the Steady special rule.
Slam damage is simultaneous with collateral damage, so the Spiked Buckler that are beyond the Bucklers range of 0.5.
the damage rolls for both the Runeshaper and the Brigand Models with no melee weapons have no melee range.
are resolved completely before the Runeshapers Tough
advantage resolves. The Brigand cannot benefit from Tough ,
because it became knocked down before suffering damage.
Engaged & Engaging
When a model is within an enemy models melee range and
EXAMPLE 2: Krueger the Stormwrath targets a Cyclops
in that models line of sight, it is engaged. When a model
Savage with Forked Lightning and lightning arcs to one
has an enemy model in its melee range and line of sight,
additional model, Master Tormentor Morghoul. Resolve
the damage rolls for both models hit by the spell before it is engaging that model. When a model is either engaged
Morghoul has the opportunity to transfer damage. The or engaging, it is in melee, which prevents it from making
Cyclops Savage suffers 5 damage points of its remaining 7 ranged attacks.
damage boxes. If Morghoul transfers damage to the Savage,
it can suffer only 2 damage points before being destroyed,
and Morghoul will suffer the remaining damage.
MELEE RANGE & .
ENGAGED MODELS
Attack-Generating Special Rules If a model is in melee range and line of sight, it has engaged
its opponent in melee combat. When opposing models are in
When a model is granted more attacks as a result of an
each others melee ranges, they are both engaged. However,
attack it made, it gains only one. If two or more special rules
a model with a weapon that has a longer melee range than
would grant the model another attack as a result of making
its opponent can take advantage of its greater melee range
an attack, its controlling player chooses which special rule
to engage the opponent without becoming engaged itself.
to apply. The attack is then resolved using those rules. These Though both models are considered to be in melee, a model is
attacks can in turn grant more attacks of their own. engaged only if it is in its opponents melee range.

Melee Attacks Gun Blade Melee Range: 0.5

Melee attacks include power attacks and attacks made with
weapons such as spears, swords, hammers, flails, saws, axes,
and the like. A model can make a melee attack against any
target that is in its line of sight and its melee weapons range.

A model using its Combat Action to make attacks with its

melee weapons can make one initial attack with each of its
melee weapons. Some models have special rules that allow
additional melee attacks during their Combat Actions. See
Additional Attacks on p.36 for details.

Melee Attack Roll = 2d6 + MAT

Claw Melee Range: 1

Great Sword Melee Range: 2
COMBAT 43
 FREE STRIKE EXAMPLES
Swordsman
Swordsman
Swordsman

Warpwolf
Stalker Warpwolf Stalker
Warpwolf Stalker

The Blighted Nyss Swordsman advances The Blighted Nyss Swordsman advances The Blighted Nyss Swordsman advances
out of the Warpwolf Stalkers melee out of the Warpwolf Stalkers melee range out of the Warpwolf Stalkers line of
range but not its line of sight, giving the and its line of sight, giving the Warpwolf sight but not its melee range, giving the
Warpwolf Stalker a free strike against it. Stalker a free strike against it. Warpwolf Stalker a free strike against it.

Free Strikes Power Attacks

When an engaged model advances out of an enemys melee Power attacks are attack options available to some models,
range or line of sight, the enemy model can make a free strike such as warbeasts. The power attacks available to non-
against it just before it leaves. The model makes one normal warbeast models are described in their special rules.
melee attack with any melee weapon that has sufficient Warbeasts can make power attacks as follows.
melee range to reach the moving model and gains a +2 bonus
Lesser warbeasts and warbeasts that are part of warbeast
to its attack roll. If the attack hits, the damage roll is boosted.
packs cannot make power attacks.
When the free strike is made, treat the free striking model as
A light warbeast can make head-butt and slam power
being in the advancing models back arc. Free strikes do not
attacks. A light warbeast with at least one weapon with the
benefit from the back strike bonus (p.42).
Open Fist weapon quality can make throw power attacks.
A heavy warbeast can make head-butt, slam, and trample
power attacks. A heavy warbeast with at least one
MELEE ATTACK ROLL MODIFIERS
weapon with the Open Fist weapon quality can make
The most common modifiers affecting a models melee attack
throw power attacks.
roll are summarized here for easy reference. Where necessary,
additional detail can be found on the pages listed. A gargantuan can make head-butt, slam, and trample
power attacks. A gargantuan with at least one melee
Back Strike (p. 42): A back strike gains +2 to the weapon that has a location of L or R can make sweep
attack roll.
power attacks. A gargantuan with at least one weapon
Free Strike (above): A free strike gains +2 to the attack with the Open Fist weapon quality can make power
roll and a boosted damage roll if the attack hits. strike and throw power attacks.
Intervening Terrain (p.50): A model with any portion A warbeast must be forced to make a power attack.
of its volume obscured from its attacker by an obstacle or
an obstruction gains +2DEF against melee attack rolls. Unless otherwise noted, a model can make a power attack
only during its activation. A model cannot make a power
Knocked Down Target (p. 61): A melee attack
attack during an activation in which it charges.
against a knocked down model hits automatically.
Stationary Target (p. 61): A melee attack against a When a model makes a power attack, do not apply the special rules
stationary model hits automatically. on its weapons unless they specifically reference power attacks.

A model that is able to do so can make additional melee

attacks after making a power attack. A model cannot make a
power attack as an additional attack.
44 COMBAT
 SLAM POWER ATTACK MOVEMENT & COLLATERAL DAMAGE
A Dire Troll Mauler declares a slam attack against a Carnivean. Because it moved more than 3 to make contact with the Carnivean, the Dire
Troll Mauler will be able to slam its target. The attack succeeds, and the Carnivean is slammed directly away from the Dire Troll Mauler d6.
The roll comes up a 6, but the Carnivean stops when it hits the wall 4 behind it and is knocked down. During the slam, the Carnivean passes
over a Shredder, and the Shredder is knocked down and suffers collateral damage. In addition, because the Carnivean was slammed into a
wall, it suffers a damage roll of 3d6 plus the STR of the Dire Troll Mauler (that is, 2d6 plus an additional die for colliding with a solid terrain
feature, plus the Dire Troll Maulers STR). This damage roll can still be boosted on top of the additional die.

Carnivean

Wall

Shredder

4
Dire Troll Mauler

Power Attack Damage Rolls & with the Open Fist weapon quality to make a power strike
power attack. The power strike power attack has a melee
Collateral Damage range equal to that weapons melee range. Its target must be
Though power attacks are melee attacks, they do not resolve
in the Open Fists field of fire and have a smaller base than
damage rolls the same way. Instead of rolling 2d6 and adding
the gargantuan.
both the attackers STR and the POW of the weapon being
used, roll 2d6 and add just the attackers STR. If the power The gargantuan makes a melee attack against the target. If
attack results in collateral damage, collateral damage is the attack hits, the target is slammed d6+2 directly away
also determined by rolling 2d6 and adding the STR of the from the gargantuan (see Slammed, p. 34) and suffers a
attacking model. Collateral damage cannot be boosted and is power attack damage roll.
not considered to be damage from an attack or model.

EXAMPLE: An effect triggered by being damaged by an

Slam
enemy attack would not trigger due to collateral damage. A model making a slam power attack rams a model with
the full force of its body to send the target model flying
Power Attack Damage Roll = 2d6 + STR backward and knock it to the ground. A slam combines a
Power Attack Collateral Damage Roll = 2d6 + STR models Normal Movement and Combat Action. A model
cannot make a slam power attack if it forfeited either its
Head-Butt Normal Movement or its Combat Action that activation.

A model making a head-butt power attack smashes its head A slam power attack made by a gargantuan has a 2 melee
into a model to drive it to the ground. A head-butt power range. A slam power attack made by any other model has a
attack made by a gargantuan has a 2 melee range. A head- 0.5 melee range.
butt power attack made by any other model has a 0.5 melee
A model making a slam power attack during its activation
range. The attacking model makes a melee attack roll against
can attempt to slam any model that is in its line of sight at
its target. If the attack hits, the target becomes knocked down
the beginning of its Normal Movement. Declare a slam and
(p.61) and then suffers a power attack damage roll.
its target before moving the slamming model. Remember,
A model cannot head-butt a model with a larger base. a model requires line of sight to another model to target it.
After declaring a slam, turn the slamming model to directly
Power Strike face the slam target. The slamming model then advances its
Only gargantuans can make power strikes. full SPD plus 3 directly toward its target. The slamming
model cannot voluntarily stop its movement unless its target
A gargantuan making a power strike power attack uses the is in its melee range, but it can end this movement at any
force of its tremendous melee power to send a smaller-based point with its target in its slam power attacks melee range.
model flying. A gargantuan must have at least one weapon

COMBAT 45
 It stops if it contacts a model, an obstacle, or an obstruction Throw
or if it is pushed, slammed, thrown, or placed during its slam
A model making a throw power attack picks up and throws
movement. If a model contacts a model, an obstacle, or an
another model. A warbeast must have at least one weapon
obstruction while moving as part of a slam power attack but
with the Open Fist weapon quality to make a throw power
is able to move through it for some reason, the slamming
attack. A throw power attack has a melee range equal to the
model does not stop but is still considered to have contacted
melee range of its weapon with Open Fist. A model cannot
the model, obstacle, or obstruction.
throw power attack a model with a larger base; that is, a
The slamming model cannot change its facing after advancing model with a larger base cannot be targeted.
as part of a slam.
The attacking model must first attempt to grasp the model it
A slamming model that ends its slam movement with its intends to throw by making a melee attack roll against it. If
target in the melee range of its slam power attack has made the attack hits, that model is grasped and tries to break free
a successful slam. If the slamming model advanced at least before it is lifted off the ground. Both models roll a d6 and
3, it makes a melee attack roll against its target. A model that add their current STR. If the attacker has two weapons with
power attack slams a model with a larger base suffers 2 to its Open Fist, it rolls 2d6 instead. If the grasped models total
attack roll. If the attack hits, the target is slammed d6 directly is greater, it breaks free and the attack ends. If the attackers
away from the attacker, becomes knocked down, and then total equals or exceeds the grasped models total, the grasped
suffers a power attack damage roll (see Slammed, p.34). model is thrown (see Thrown, p.35).

If the model making the slam power attack has a smaller base When your model throws another model, you can choose either
than the model it slammed, the slammed model is slammed to throw the model directly away from the attacker or to throw
half the distance rolled. it at another model within the attackers line of sight. The throw
distance is equal to half the attackers current STR in inches.
Smaller-based models hit by a slam power attack made by a
a huge-based model are moved an additional 2. If you choose to have your model throw a model at another
model, ignore the model being thrown when determining line
If a slamming model makes a successful slam but moved less
of sight to the target. The target can have a larger base than
than 3, the model still makes an attack roll against its target.
the attacker. If the distance between the thrown model and the
If the target is hit, it suffers a power attack damage roll but
model it is being thrown at is beyond the throw distance, the
is not slammed. These are still slam attack rolls and slam
point of impact is the point along the line from the thrown
damage rolls.
model to the model it is being thrown at equal to the throw
A model that does not end its slam movement with its target distance (see Thrown, p.35). In this case, do not roll for
within its slam melee range has failed its slam power attack. deviation. If the other model is within the throw distance, the
If a model fails its slam power attack during its activation, its attacker makes a melee attack roll against it. On a hit, move
activation ends. the thrown model from its current location directly toward the
other models base until it contacts the target.
Slams Outside of Activation If the target was in the throw range and the attack roll resulted
When a model makes a slam power attack outside its
in a miss, determine the thrown models actual point of impact
activation, such as with the Counter Slam special rule, follow
by rolling for deviation. Referencing the deviation rules
the rules above but ignore any references to the models
(p.52), roll a d6 for direction and a d3 for distance in inches.
activation, Normal Movement, or Combat Action. If the
Measure deviation from the center of the missed models base.
model fails its slam, it does not make any attack.
The deviation distance cannot exceed half the distance between
the thrown model and the model that was missed.
Sweep
When moving the thrown model, it moves through the
A gargantuan can use its arms to scythe through models
throwing model without contacting it.
within its reach. A gargantuan chooses a melee weapon with
a location of L or R to make the sweep power attack. It then The thrown model suffers a power attack damage roll.
makes one melee attack with the weapon against each model
in the weapons field of fire that is within the weapons melee
range, ignoring intervening models when determining line DEVIATION
of sight. This power attack does not require a target, but each In HORDES most attacks that miss have no further effect.
separate attack does. These attacks are simultaneous (see However some attacksprimarily power attack throws,
Simultaneous Effects, p. 43). Models hit suffer a power ranged AOE attacks, and AOE spell attacksare so strong or
attack damage roll. explosive that they will still land somewhere even when they
miss. Use the rules for deviation (p.52) to determine where
those attacks land.

46 COMBAT
 EXAMPLE OF A THROW POWER ATTACK

Titan Gladiator
6 Titan Gladiator
5 1 Actual
Point of
Intended Point of Impact Impact
2
4
Beast Handler 3 Beast Handler

Cyclops Swordsman Swordsman

Savage
5.5 Cyclops
Savage

Dire Troll Dire Troll

Blitzer Blitzer

It is the Dire Troll Blitzers activation, and the Trollblood player template on the Gladiator, the Blitzer rolls a 2 for direction and
wants to throw the Skorne Cyclops Savage at the Titan Gladiator. a 2 for distance. The actual point of impact is just to the right of
the Gladiator.
First the Blitzer must roll to hit the Savage. The Blitzers MAT is
6 and the Savages DEF is 13, so the Blitzer needs to roll a 7 or The Savage then moves in a straight line from its current position
better. It rolls a 9 and hits the Savage. to the actual point of impact. During this move its base crosses
the base of the Beast Handler on the left, but because the Beast
Next, both models roll dice and add their STR to see if the Savage
Handlers base is smaller than the Savages, the Savage does not
can break free. Because both its Claws have Open Fist , the
contact it.
Blitzer rolls 2d6, while the Savage rolls only a single d6. The Blitzer
rolls a 7 and adds its STR of 12 for a total of 19. The Savage rolls The Savage stops when it comes into contact with the Gladiators
a 5 and adds its STR of 8 for a total of 13. The Savage does not base because the Gladiators base is equal to or larger than the
break free. Savages. When it stops, the Savages base is overlapping the base
of the Praetorian Swordsman on the right, so the Swordsman
The Blitzer then can choose to throw the Savage either directly
is contacted and must be moved according to the rule of least
away or at a target. In this case, the Blitzer chooses to throw it at
disturbance (p. 35). Both the Savage and the Swordsman are
the Titan Gladiator, hoping to destroy a Beast Handler in addition
knocked down.
to damaging the Savage.
The Savage suffers a damage roll from the power attack, and an
Because the Blitzers STR is 12, the thrown model can travel 6.
additional die is added to the damage roll because the Savage
The Gladiator is 4 away from the Savage, so the Gladiator is in
contacted a model with an equal or larger base. The Swordsman
range of the throw.
suffers a collateral damage roll of 2d6 plus the Blitzers STR of
The Blitzer makes another melee attack roll against the Gladiators 12. The Gladiator does not suffer any damage and is not knocked
DEF of 10 to hit the Gladiator with the thrown model. Needing a 4 down because its base is larger than the Savages.
to hit, the Blitzer rolls a 3. The throw misses!
The Blitzer wasnt able to crush the Beast Handler, but at least the
A missed throw behaves like a missed AOE attack and deviates warbeast eliminated a pesky Swordsman with its throw.
from the center of the Gladiators base. Centering the deviation

COMBAT 47
 ANOTHER . Gnarlhorn Satyr
EXAMPLE OF . Gorax
A THROW .
POWER ATTACK 6
A Carnivean throws a Gorax Rager at a
nearby Gnarlhorn Satyr. The Carnivean has
a STR of 12, so the throw distance is 6.
The Satyr is just out of range of the throw,
so it is missed. The point of impact is the
point 6 away from the Gorax Rager along
the line between them. The Gorax Rager Carnivean
is knocked down and then suffers a power
attack damage roll.

Trample
TRAMPLE EXAMPLE A model making a trample power attack crashes its way
A Carnivean trample power attacks through a unit of through small-based models in its path. A trample combines
Praetorian Swordsmen. The Carnivean chooses a direction a models Normal Movement and Combat Action. A model
that allows it to contact as many Swordsman models as cannot make a trample power attack if it forfeited either its
possible as it moves. The Carniveans SPD is 5, so it moves 8 Normal Movement or its Combat Action.
in a straight line without changing its facing. Upon finishing
Declare a trample power attack at the beginning of the models
this trample movement, the Carnivean makes a melee attack
Normal Movement. Choose a direction in which you wish to
roll against Swordsmen A, B, C, D, and E. After resolving
trample, and turn the model to face that direction. The model
those attacks, Swordsman F and the Basilisk Drake make free
strikes against the Carnivean. then advances up to its current SPD plus 3 in a straight line
in that direction. It moves through any small-based model in
its path, but there must be room for the trampling models
Carnivean
base at the end of the movement. It stops if it contacts a model
with a medium or larger base, an obstacle, or an obstruction.
Basilisk If a model contacts a model with a medium or larger base, an
Drake A obstacle, or an obstruction while moving as part of a trample
power attack but is able to move through it for some reason,
the trampling model does not stop but is still considered
to have contacted the model, obstacle, or obstruction. The
trampling model cannot change its facing during or after this
D movement. Do not resolve free strikes against the trampling
B model during this movement.
C
After the model has finished its trample movement, it makes
a melee attack roll against each small-based model it moved
F through during this movement. Models hit by a trample
attack suffer a power attack damage roll. These attacks are
simultaneous (see Simultaneous Effects, p. 43). When a
Praetorian trampling model hits a model with a Buckler or a Shield
E Swordsmen
or while a model is benefiting from the Shield Wall order, the
hit model gains the shield, buckler, or Shield Wall ARM bonus
only if the trampling model first contacted the model through
its front arc. A trampling model gains a back strike bonus
against a model only if the trampling model was completely
in that models back arc when it first contacted that model.

48 COMBAT
 Ranged Attacks
Ranged attacks include attacks made with weapons such
as bows, rifles, pistols, cannons, flamethrowers, crossbows,
harpoon guns, mortars, and thrown spears. A model can
make a ranged attack against any target in its line of sight. A
model in melee (p.51) cannot make ranged attacks.

A model using its Combat Action to make attacks with its

ranged weapons can make a number of initial attacks with
each of its ranged weapons equal to the weapons rate of fire
(ROF). Some models have special rules that allow additional
ranged attacks during their activations. See Additional
Attacks on p.36 for details.

Ranged Attack Roll = 2d6 + RAT

RANGED ATTACK ROLL .

MODIFIERS
The most common modifiers affecting a models ranged attack
roll are summarized here for easy reference. Where necessary,
additional detail can be found on the pages listed.

Aiming (p. 30): A model that uses its Normal

Movement to aim receives a +2 bonus to every ranged
attack roll it makes this activation. A model in melee
cannot aim.
Back Strike (p. 42): A back strike gains +2 to the
attack roll.
Cloud Effect (p. 59): A model inside a cloud effect
gains concealment.
Concealment (p. 50): A model with concealment in
relation to its attacker gains +2DEF against ranged and
magic attack rolls. Huge-based models never gain the
DEF bonus from concealment. Cover and concealment
are not cumulative.
Cover (p. 50): A model with cover in relation to its
attacker gains +4DEF against ranged and magic attacks.
Huge-based models never gain the DEF bonus from cover.
Cover and concealment are not cumulative.
Elevation Bonus (p. 82): A non-huge-based elevated
model gains +2 DEF against ranged and magic attack
rolls made by models on lower elevations. Huge-based
Resolve free strikes against the trampling model after models never gain the DEF bonus from elevation.
resolving all trample attacks. Small-based models contacted Knocked Down Target (p. 61): While knocked down,
by the trampling model during its trample movement cannot a model has its base DEF reduced to 5.
make free strikes against the trampling model. Wait to resolve Stationary Target (p. 61): While stationary, a model
free strikes against the trampling model until after resolving has its base DEF reduced to 5.
all trample attacks. Ignore the distance between models
Target in Melee (p.51): A model in melee gains +4DEF
when resolving free strikes against the trampling model; if a
against non-spray ranged and magic attacks. Huge-based
model was eligible to make a free strike against the trampling
models never gain the target in melee DEF bonus.
model during the trampling models movement, it can do so
whether or not the trampling model ended its movement in
the eligible models melee range.

COMBAT 49
 EXAMPLES OF CONCEALMENT & COVER

Cover:
+4 DEF

Cover:
+4 DEF

Concealment:
+2 DEF

Concealment & Cover A model with concealment, either granted by being within
1 of a terrain feature that provides concealment in relation
Terrain features, spells, and other effects can make it more
to its attacker or from another effect, gains +2 DEF against
difficult to hit a model with a ranged or magic attack. A model
ranged and magic attack rolls. Concealment provides no
within 1 of an intervening terrain feature can gain either a
benefit against spray attacks. Examples of concealment-
concealment bonus or a cover bonusdepending on the type
granting terrain features include low hedges and bushes.
of terrainto its DEF against ranged and magic attacks. If
you can draw a line from any part of an attackers volume A model with cover, granted either by being within 1 of a
to any part of the target models volume and that line passes terrain feature that provides cover in relation to its attacker
through a terrain feature, that terrain feature is intervening. or from another effect, gains +4 DEF against ranged and
Concealment and cover bonuses are not cumulative with magic attack rolls. Cover provides no benefit against spray
themselves or each other, but they are cumulative with other attacks. Examples of cover-granting terrain features include
effects that modify a models DEF. In order to benefit from stone walls, giant boulders, and buildings.
concealment or cover, the target model must be within 1 of
Remember, huge-based models never gain the DEF bonuses
that terrain feature along at least one straight line between
from concealment or cover.
it and the attacker. See Terrain on p.81 for details on
terrain features and how they provide concealment or cover.

CONCEALMENT &.
COVER IN ACTION Basilisk
Krea
It might appear at first that the Dire Troll Titan Gladiator
Blitzer has several targets from which to
choose, but many of them are actually well
defended. The forest grants concealment
(+2 DEF) to the Titan Gladiator, and the Praetorian
crates grant cover (+4 DEF) to Praetorian Swordsmen
Swordsmen A and B. The Blitzer cannot
A
draw line of sight to the Basilisk Krea at C
all because there is a forest between them Dire Troll Blitzer
(see the rules for forests on p. 83).
Praetorian Swordsman C is behind the
crates, but because it is more than 1 from
them, it does not receive the cover bonus.
B

50 COMBAT
Targeting a Model in Melee
A model making a ranged or magic attack roll against a
TARGETING INTO MELEE .
target in melee risks hitting another model participating in EXAMPLE
the combat, including friendly models. A model in melee Madrak Ironhide, Thornwood Chieftain is in melee with Kaya the
gains +4DEF against non-spray ranged and magic attacks. Wildborne and a Gorax Rager. A Scattergunner enters the fight
from the side to engage Kaya but not the Gorax. A Troll Impaler,
If a non-AOE, non-spray attack misses its intended target and which gets the back strike bonus against the Gorax, makes a
the target was in range, the attack might hit another combatant. ranged attack against the Gorax and misses. Because Madrak
If the target was not in range, the attack misses automatically and is in melee with the Gorax and Kaya is in melee with Madrak,
cannot hit another combatant. If a magic or ranged AOE attack they are both in the same combat as the intended target. The
misses a target in melee, it deviates normally instead of following Scattergunner is not included because it is not in melee with
these rules (see Area-of-Effect [AOE] Attacks, p. 52). Spray the intended target (the Gorax) or with another model that is in
attack rolls that miss a model in melee do not follow these rules; melee with the intended target (Madrak).
they simply miss (see Spray Attacks, p.54).
A die roll determines Kaya is the new target. Unfortunately, since
Ignore the target in melee DEF bonus when the point of the Impaler is more than 5 away from Kaya and she is affected
origin (p.40) of the ranged or magic attack is in melee with by the Occultation upkeep spell, which gives her the Stealth
the model the attack roll is being made against. advantage, the attack automatically misses. Even though Stealth
prevents Kaya from being hit, she can still be targeted. Since
If the target was in range, the attacker must then reroll its the attack missed both its intended target and the new target, it
attack against another model in that combat and in the misses completely with no further chance of hitting Madrak or
attackers line of sight, ignoring intervening models. If the the Scattergunner.
new target is out of the attacks range, it misses normally.
When determining the attacks new target, the only models If the die roll had determined Madrak to be the new target, the
Impaler would make an attack roll against Madrak but would not
considered to be in the same combat are those that are in
get the back strike bonus because it is not in Madraks back arc.
melee with the attacks original target and any models that
are in melee with them. Any model meeting these criteria can
become the new target. If multiple models in the combat are
eligible targets, randomly determine which model becomes Troll Impaler
the new target (excluding the original target).

If the attack against the new target misses, it misses

completely without targeting any more models.

EXAMPLE 1: Using a d6, if there are three other models

in the combat, the first model will become the new target
on a 1 or 2, the second on a 3 or 4, and the third on a 5 or
6. If the attacker cannot draw line of sight to one of those
models due to an obstruction (such as if it is around the
corner of a building), ignore that model and randomize the Gorax Rager
attack between the other two: it targets the first on a 1, 2,
or 3 or the second on a 4, 5, or 6. If one of those two models
cannot be targeted for some reason, only one model is an
eligible target and thus a random roll is not necessary.
EXAMPLE 2: Madrak Ironhide, Thornwood Chieftain is in
melee with a Cyclops Savage affected by the Defenders Ward
spell. A Troll Impaler aims, targets the Savage with its thrown
spear, and is forced to boost its attack roll. The Impalers attack Madrak
roll gains an additional die for boosting the attack roll, gets +2
to the roll for aiming, and suffers the 4 penalty for targeting Kaya
a model in melee. In addition, the Savages DEF against this
attack is enhanced due to the spell affecting it. Scattergunner

If the attack misses, the Impaler rerolls the attack, this time
targeting Madrak because he is the only other model in the
same combat. It still includes the additional die for boosting
the attack roll, the +2 for aiming, and the 4 penalty for
targeting a model in melee. If Madrak is behind cover in
relation to the Impaler, he gains +4DEF against this attack.

COMBAT 51
 Once the point of impact has been established, every model
Targeting a Huge-Based Model other than the model directly hit that has any part of its base
in Melee covered by the AOE template is hit, but not directly hit, by
Huge-based models never gain the Target in Melee DEF the attack and suffers a blast damage roll of 2d6+POW.
bonus. If a ranged or magic attack misses a huge-based Make separate damage rolls against each model in the AOE;
model in melee, it does not reroll the attack against another each roll must be boosted individually.
model. It misses completely.
AOE Direct Hit Damage Roll = 2d6 + POW

Assault AOE Blast Damage Roll = 2d6 + POW

A model with the Assault advantage can make one ranged Damage rolls resulting from AOEs are simultaneous (see
attack as part of a charge during its activation. This ranged Simultaneous Effects, p.43).
attack must occur after the model ends its movement but
before it begins its Combat Action and must target the model Deviation
charged. A model that begins a charge in melee cannot make
An AOE attack that misses its target deviates a random
an Assault ranged attack as part of that charge. If the target
direction and distance. An AOE attack targeting a model
is not in the charging models melee range after ending its
beyond its range (RNG) automatically misses, and its point
movement, the charge fails, but the model with Assault can
of impact deviates from the point on the line from the attacks
still make the Assault ranged attack before its activation ends.
point of origin to its declared target at a distance equal to its
A model can make an Assault ranged attack while in melee.
RNG away from the attacks point of origin. An AOE attack
that misses a target in range deviates from the center of the
Gunfighter intended targets base.
A model with the Gunfighter advantage can make ranged
Determine the deviation of the AOEs point of impact
attacks targeting models it is in melee with and can make free
by referencing the deviation template and rolling a d6 to
strikes with its ranged weapons. If it does not have a melee
determine the direction the point of impact deviates. For
weapon, it gains a melee range of 0.5.
example, a roll of 1 means the attack goes long and a roll of 4
A model with the Gunfighter advantage can make charges. means the attack lands short. Then roll a d6 to determine the
If it makes a charge, the model can make its initial attacks with deviation distance in inches. Determine the missed attacks
its ranged weapons, but these attacks can target only models actual point of impact by measuring the rolled distance from
in its melee range. The charging gunfighters first melee attack the original point of impact in the direction determined by
after ending its charge movement must target the model it the deviation roll.
charged. If the charging gunfighter did not fail its charge and
If the target is within range of the attack, the point of
cannot make its first melee or ranged attack against the charge
impact will not deviate more than half the distance from
target, the charging gunfighter can make its first attack against
the attacks point of origin to its intended target.
any eligible target. Remember, your first attack after charging
is a charge attack only if you make it with a melee weapon, If the intended target is beyond the range of the weapon,
and a model in melee cannot aim (p.51). determine deviation from the point on the line from the
attacks point of origin to its declared target at a distance
Gunfighter does not allow a model to make melee and ranged equal to its RNG. In this case, the point of impact will
attacks during the same activation. not deviate more than half the RNG of the attack.
When determining deviation distance, use the exact value
Area-of-Effect (AOE) Attacks for this maximum; do not round it. For instance, an attack
An attack with an area of effect (AOE) is sometimes referred to made at a target 5 away from the attacks point of origin will
as an AOE attack. A ranged attack with an AOE is still a ranged deviate a maximum of 2.5 even if the attacker rolls a 3, 4, 5,
attack, a magic attack with an AOE is still a magic attack, and or 6 for deviation distance.
a melee attack with an AOE is still a melee attack. The attack
covers an area with a diameter equal to its AOE. Templates for Terrain features, models, and other effects do not block
AOEs appear in the tutorial guide. deviating AOE attacks. Deviating AOE attacks always take
effect at the determined point of impact. If the deviated point
An AOE attack follows all normal targeting rules. A successful of impact would be off the table, reduce the deviation distance
attack roll indicates a direct hit on the intended target, which so the point of impact is on the edge of the table instead.
suffers a direct hit damage roll of 2d6+POW. Center the AOE
template over the point of impactin the case of a direct hit, the Deviating AOE attacks never cause direct hits even if the
center of the base of the model directly hit. In the case of a missed point of impact is on top of a model.
attack, the point of impact deviates (see Deviation, next).

52 COMBAT
 DEVIATION EXAMPLE
A Titan Cannoneer makes a ranged attack with its Siege Cannon targeting the Wolf of Orboros in the middle of the unit 12 away. If it
hits, the Cannoneer will catch four Wolves under the template! The Cannoneers ranged attack roll misses, however, and since the attack
is an AOE attack, the Cannoneers controller must roll deviation to determine the attacks point of impact. The roll is a 5 for direction and
a 4 for distance in inches. Measure 4 in the determined direction from the center of the attacks original target in order to locate the
point of impact. Models under the template are hit, but not directly hit, and suffer blast damage and are subject to the attacks special
effects. The Cannoneer does not hit as many Wolves as it wanted, but it still catches one under the template.

Point of Impact

4
6
5 1

4
2
3
in of Attack
< Orig

Titan Cannoneer Wolves of Orboros

Point of Impact & Origin of

Damage POINT OF IMPACT EXAMPLE
Three Cataphract Cetrati are benefitting from the Shield Wall
An AOE attacks point of impact determines the origin of
order when Cataphract B is hit by an AOE attack. Center the
damage and effects for models not directly hit by the attack.
AOE template on Cataphract B; it is directly hit. Cataphract A is
For instance, suppose an AOE ranged attack targets a trooper
hit by the attack, but since the center of the template is within
in a unit that has used the Shield Wall order. If the attack hits,
Cataphract As front arc, it benefits from Shield Wall. Cataphract
the target trooper will benefit from Shield Wall if the attacker
C is also hit by the attack, but since the center of the template is
is in the troopers front arc, as will other troopers that have the
in Cataphract Cs back arc, it does not benefit from Shield Wall.
AOEs point of impact in their front arc. Troopers that have
the AOEs point of impact in their back arc will not benefit
from Shield Wall, though, as the damage is originating in
their back arc. Should the attack miss and deviate long, into
the target troopers back arc, the target trooper still will not
benefit from Shield Wall. See p.40 for more information on
point of origin and origin of damage.

A B C

COMBAT 53
 EXAMPLES OF .
SPRAY ATTACKS Praetorian
A Scattergunner makes a spray attack Swordsmen
against a group of Praetorian Swordsmen.
The Trollblood player chooses the
centermost Swordsman as the target and
centers the SP 8 spray template laterally
over that model. Targeting that trooper Scattergunner
enables the player to cover the greatest
number of Swordsmen with the template
without covering his own nearby Troll
Impalers. He makes a ranged attack roll
against each of the four Swordsmen in Troll Impalers
the spray. If an attack roll against the
Swordsman in melee with the Impalers
misses, it will not hit one of the Impalers.

A pair of Wolves of Orboros has advanced

to within range of a Carniveans Dragon Carnivean
Breath. The Circle player has been careful
to place them far enough apart that a
spray attack targeted against either one
of them will not catch the other under
the template. Unfortunately he has not
taken the Wild Argus behind them into Wolves of Orboros
account. The Carnivean has line of sight to Argus
the Argus and therefore can target it with
its Dragon Breath even though it is out of
range. Doing this will cover both Wolves of
Orboros with the spray template.

Spray Attacks
An attack using the spray template is sometimes referred Make separate attack rolls against each model under
to as a spray attack. Some weapons and spells, such as the template. Remember that each roll must be boosted
flamethrowers and Lylyth, Reckoning of Everblights Frost individually. A model under the spray template cannot be hit
Hammer spell, make spray attacks. These devastating short- by the attack if the attackers line of sight to it is completely
ranged attacks can potentially hit several models. A spray blocked by terrain.
attack uses the spray template, which is marked with three
Spray attacks ignore concealment, cover, Stealth, intervening
possible ranges: SP6, SP8, and SP10. Consider only
models, and the target in melee DEF bonus. A spray attack
the portion of the template corresponding to the RNG of the
roll against a model in melee that misses is not rerolled
spray attack when determining which models are hit by the
against another model; it misses completely. See Targeting a
attack. Effects that modify RNG do not affect spray attacks.
Model in Melee on p.51 for details.
A spray attack follows all normal targeting rules. When
Every model hit by a spray attack suffers a direct hit. Make
making a spray attack, center the spray template laterally
separate damage rolls against each model hit.
over the target with the narrow end of the template touching
the nearest edge of the point of origins base. The target itself A spray attack is a simultaneous attack (see Simultaneous
need not be under the template. Every model with any part Effects, p.43).
of its base covered by the appropriate section of the spray
template can be hit by the attack.

54 COMBAT
Magic Attacks MAGIC ATTACK ROLL .
A model can make a magic attack targeting any model in
the spells range that is in its line of sight. Magic attacks are MODIFIERS
similar to ranged attacks and follow most of the same rules, The most common modifiers affecting a models magic attack
but they are not affected by rules that affect only ranged roll are summarized here for easy reference. Where necessary,
attacks. See Casting a Spell on p.74 for more information additional detail can be found on the pages listed.
on magic attacks. Back Strike (p. 42): A back strike gains +2 to the
attack roll.
Magic Attack Roll = 2d6 + FURY or
Magic Ability Score (p.74) Cloud Effect (p. 59): A model inside a cloud effect
gains concealment.
Magic Attacks & Targets in Concealment (p. 50): A model with concealment in
relation to its attacker gains +2DEF against ranged and
Melee magic attacks. Huge-based models never gain the DEF
Targeting a model in melee with a magic attack works the bonus from concealment. Concealment and cover are
same way as targeting a model in melee with a ranged not cumulative.
attack (p.51). However, when a magic attack targeting a
Cover (p. 50): A model with cover in relation to its
model in melee misses, ignore its targeting restrictions when
attacker gains +4DEF against ranged and magic attacks.
determining which model in the combat might be hit instead. Huge-based models never gain the DEF bonus from cover.
If the new target is an invalid one for the spell, the spell has Concealment and cover are not cumulative.
no further effect.
Elevation Bonus (p. 82): A non-huge-based elevated
EXAMPLE: Thagrosh, Prophet of Everblight attempts to model gains +2 DEF against ranged and magic attack
cast Twisted Form on a Troll Axer warbeast that is in melee rolls made by models on lower elevations. Huge-based
with one of his Neraph warbeasts. The Neraph is itself in models never gain the DEF bonus from elevation.
melee with two Trollkin Champion troopers. Thus, there
Knocked Down Target (p. 61): While knocked down,
are four models in combat. If Thagrosh misses, he will have
a model has its base DEF reduced to 5.
to determine if one of the other three models in the combat
might be hit by the spell instead of the Axer being hit. If the Stationary Target (p. 61): While stationary, a model
spell hits one of the trooper models, the spell will have no has its base DEF reduced to 5.
effect because Twisted Form can target only warbeasts. Target in Melee (p.51): A model in melee gains +4DEF
against non-spray ranged and magic attacks. Huge-based
models never gain the target in melee DEF bonus.

55
 Damage
Warlocks, warbeasts, and some other models can take a
tremendous amount of damage before they fall in combat.
What might be an incapacitating or mortal wound to a
regular trooper will just bruise a warbeast or be deflected by
a warlocks arcane protections.

Damage Rolls
Determine how much damage is dealt to a model by making a
damage roll. In the case of ranged attacks, magic attacks, and
most other damaging effects, roll 2d6 and add the Power (POW)
of the attack. In the case of melee attacks, roll 2d6 and add the
P+S of the attack, which is the POW of the weapon used for the
attack + the Strength (STR) of the attacking model. A boosted
damage roll adds an additional die to this roll. Special rules for
certain circumstances might modify the damage roll as well.

Damage Roll = 2d6 + POW (+ STR if melee)

Compare this total against the Armor (ARM) of the model

suffering the damage. That model takes 1 damage point for
every point that the damage roll exceeds its ARM. A model
cannot suffer more damage than it has damage boxes.

A weapon or attack with POW does not cause damage.

Damage Types
Some weapons inflict a specific damage type that might affect
some models differently than others. When a damage type is
referenced in text, it is described as X damage. For example,
a damage roll that causes electrical damage is described as an
electrical damage roll .

A model with immunity to a certain damage type never takes

damage of that type. A single attack can inflict damage of
several types. If a model is immune to any of those types, it does
not suffer damage from the attack. A model immune to damage
from an attack can still suffer other effects from the attack.

EXAMPLE: The Pyre Troll is a warbeast with Immunity:

Fire . If it were hit by an attack that caused fire damage,
the warbeast would not suffer a damage roll from the attack.
Some damage types are identified by their attack type.
For example, damage caused by a ranged attack might be
referred to as ranged attack damage.

Damage types and immunities include:

Cold Corrosion Electricity Fire Magical

Immunity: Immunity: Immunity: Immunity:

Cold Corrosion Electricity Fire

56 COMBAT
Damage Type: Magical Crippling Aspects
Magical damage can affect models with the Incorporeal Life spirals are divided into three aspects that can be crippled
advantage. Attacks made with weapons that cause magical as a warbeast suffers damage: Body, Mind, and Spirit. As
damage are not magic attacks; magical ranged weapons a warbeasts aspects are crippled its performance on the
make ranged attacks, and magical melee weapons make battlefield suffers. While all the boxes corresponding to
melee attacks. Damage from spells is magical damage. an aspect are marked, the aspect is crippled. The effects of
crippled aspects are as follows:
Recording Damage Crippled Body: The warbeast rolls one fewer die on
A models entry gives its damage capacity, or the total damage rolls.
amount of damage it can suffer before being disabled. For
Crippled Mind: The warbeast rolls one fewer die on
models without damage boxes, this is 1 damage point. A
attack rolls. Additionally, the model cannot make chain
non-warbeast resilient enough to take more than 1 point
attacks, power attacks, or special attacks.
of damage will have a row of damage boxes for tracking
the damage it receives. Record its damage left to right by Crippled Spirit: The warbeast cannot be forced.
marking one damage box for each damage point taken. A If 1 or more damage points are removed from a crippled
model is disabled once all its damage boxes are marked. aspect, the aspect is no longer crippled.
Warbeasts have life spirals consisting of six branches of
damage boxes (represented by circles) labeled with the Disabled, Boxed & Destroyed
numbers 1 through 6. Different life spirals will be slightly A model is disabled when all its damage boxes are marked
different in shape and the number of damage boxes, but or, if it does not have damage boxes, when it suffers 1
they function the same way. When a model with a life spiral damage point. When a model is disabled, immediately
suffers damage, roll a d6 to determine which branch takes resolve any effects triggered by being disabled. If 1 or more
the damage. Starting with the outermost unmarked box in damage points are removed from a disabled model, it is no
that branch and working inward, mark one damage box longer disabled.
per damage point taken. Once a branch is full, continue
recording damage in the next branch clockwise that contains After resolving any effects triggered by being disabled, if the
an unmarked damage box. Continue filling branches as model is still disabled it is considered to be boxed. When a
required until every damage point taken has been recorded. model is boxed, resolve any effects triggered by being boxed.
After resolving any effects triggered by being boxed, if the
When a rule specifically states a model suffers damage to a model is still boxed it is destroyed, triggering any relevant
particular aspect, find the lowest numbered branch on the effects. Remove the destroyed model from the table.
models card that has an unmarked damage box for that
aspect. Within that branch, mark the outermost unmarked If an effect causes a model to leave play or cease being
damage box of that aspect. disabled, such as when damage is removed due to a Tough
roll, do not resolve any additional effects that were triggered
by the model being disabled. The model does not become
boxed or destroyed, thus effects triggered by the model
2 becoming boxed or destroyed do not occur.
1
3 Likewise, if an effect causes a boxed model to leave play or no
MIND

BOD
Y
longer be boxed, do not resolve any additional effects triggered
4 by the model being boxed. For example, if an effect causes a
boxed model to be removed from play, no additional effects
I
triggered by the model being boxed take place, and the model
T

IR
SP
6
is not destroyed. In this case, the removed model does not
5
generate a soul token (p.59) because it was not destroyed.

The first unmarked damage box of the Body aspect

COMBAT 57
 Warlock Destruction Removed from the Table &
When a model with the Battlegroup Commander special rule
is destroyed or removed from the table, the warbeasts in its
Removed from Play
Some rules cause a model to be removed from the table, such
battlegroup become wild. Additionally, all upkeep spells cast
as when it is destroyed or temporarily leaves the game for
by that model expire (p. 76).
some reason. The model is removed from the playing field
Wild Warbeasts and set aside; it can return to the game at a later point (see
Return to Play, next).
While it is wild, a warbeast must use its Normal Movement
to run during its activations. It is not required to move Some rules cause a model to be removed from play; sometimes
the full distance of its run, however, and can even run 0 this is instead of being destroyed, and at other times it is in
if desired. If a wild warbeast cannot run, it makes a full addition to being destroyed. A model removed from play is
advance and must forfeit its Combat Action. A wild taken off the table and set aside for the rest of the game; it
warbeast cannot advance outside its Normal Movement, cannot return to the game for any reason.
make special actions, be forced, cast its animus, or make
attacks, including attacks that do not take place during the Expiring Effects
warbeasts activation, such as free strikes. It also does not When a model is removed from play or removed from the table,
gain an ARM bonus for shields or bucklers. A wild warbeast any effects on it expire. In the case of an upkeep spell affecting
cannot gain fury points and never frenzies. a unit, the spell will not expire as a result of a model being
When a warbeast goes wild, remove all fury points from it. removed until the last model in the unit is removed (p.76).

Anytime during its activation, a friendly Faction model with

the Battlegroup Commander special rule, such as a warlock,
Return to Play
can spend 1 fury point to take control of a wild warbeast Some special rules can cause a model to return to play after
while in base-to-base contact with it. The warbeast is no it is removed from the table. Unless otherwise specified, a
longer wild but must forfeit its Combat Action the turn it model that is returned to play has all damage removed and
becomes controlled. The warbeast becomes a part of its new can activate that same turn. Models removed from play
controllers battlegroup. cannot be returned to play.

If a model has a special rule it can use only once per game
and uses it before being removed from the table, it cannot
use that special rule again that game even if it returns to play.

58 COMBAT
Corpse & Soul Tokens
Living models have souls that can be claimed as soul tokens.
EXAMPLE OF A CLOUD EFFECT
Living and undead models have corpses that can be claimed The Troll Impaler has line of sight to Shredders A and C.
as corpse tokens. Some special rules allow models to gain Shredder C is completely within the cloud effect, so it gains
corpse tokens and soul tokens when a model is destroyed. +2 DEF from concealment against any ranged or magic
attacks from the Impaler. Shredder A does not gain this
A model generates only one of each type of token when
concealment, as its base is partially out of the cloud effect.
destroyed. If multiple models are eligible to claim a specific
The cloud effect blocks line of sight between the Impaler and
token as a result of the destruction of a model, the nearest
Shredder B. The Impaler and Shredder B do not have line of
eligible model claims the token. If a model has a limit on how
sight to each other because the cloud effect is between them.
many of a specific token it can have and is at that limit, it is
not considered an eligible model for claiming the token.

EXAMPLE: A Tharn Ravager that has its maximum of three

corpse tokens destroys a Bog Trog Ambusher while the Bog
Trog is within a Gatorman Bokors command range. Both the Troll Impaler A C B
Tharn Ravager and the Gatorman Bokor have special rules
that allow them to claim corpse tokens. The Tharn Ravager is
closer to the Bog Trog Ambusher than the Gatorman Bokor is,
so it can normally claim the Bog Trogs corpse token before the
Shredders
Gatorman Bokor can. Because the Tharn Ravager already has
its maximum number of corpse tokens, though, it is not eligible
to claim any more. The Gatorman Bokor can claim this corpse
token instead.

Removing Damage
Some special rules, spells, and other effects remove damage
points from a model. When a model with a life spiral has
damage removed, remove the damage points from anywhere
on the models life spiral. Remember, if a model has damage
points removed while disabled, it is no longer disabled.

Special Combat
Situations
The chaos of a battlefield is constantly producing the
unexpected. The following rules cover a variety of effects
certain weapons or models can produce.

Cloud Effects
A cloud effect produces an area of dense smoke, magical
darkness, thick mists, or the like that remains in play for
a specified length of time. Use an AOE template of the
appropriate diameter to represent the cloud. Every model
with any part of its base covered by the clouds template is
within the cloud and is susceptible to its effects.

In addition to being affected by a clouds special rules, a

model completely within the perimeter of a cloud effect gains
concealment (p. 50). The cloud effect does not block line of
sight from models within it to those outside of it or from models
outside it to models within it, but it completely obstructs line of
sight from models outside of it to anything beyond it. Thus, a
model can see into or out of a cloud effect but not through one.
A cloud effect provides no protection from melee attacks.

Cloud effects do not block line of sight to huge-based models.

COMBAT 59
 Continuous Effects
Continuous effects remain on a model and have the potential
to damage or affect it some other way on subsequent turns. A
model can have multiple continuous effects on it at once, but it
can have only one of each continuous effect type on it at a time.

Resolve continuous effects on models you control during

your Maintenance Phase. First roll a d6 for each continuous
effect; if the result is a 1 or 2, the continuous effect expires
without further effect. On a 3, 4, 5, or 6 the continuous effect
remains in play.

Remove a continuous effect only when it expires, when an

effect causes it to end, or when the affected model is removed
from the table.

Some common continuous effects are represented on a

weapons stat bar as weapon qualities.

Continuous Corrosion A model hit by this attack suffers

the Corrosion continuous effect , which slowly erodes its
target. Corrosion does 1 point of corrosion damage each turn
to the affected model during its controllers Maintenance
Phase until it expires. Models with Immunity: Corrosion
never suffer this continuous effect.

Continuous Fire A model hit by this attack suffers the

Fire continuous effect , which sets it on fire. A model on
fire suffers a POW 12 fire damage roll each turn during its
controllers Maintenance Phase until the continuous effect
expires. Models with Immunity: Fire never suffer this
continuous effect.

Critical Corrosion On a critical hit, the model hit suffers

the Corrosion continuous effect .

Critical Fire On a critical hit, the model hit suffers the

Fire continuous effect .

Some effects and attacks are capable of temporily disrupting

the normal functions of a warjack. These effects are generally
electrical or arcane in nature.

60 COMBAT
Control of Enemy Models A knocked down model can stand up at the start of its
next activation unless it became knocked down during its
Some special rules can allow a player to take temporary or
controllers turn. In that case it cannot stand up until its
permanent control of his opponents models. If your opponent
controllers next turn, even if it has not yet activated this turn.
takes control of one of your models during play, it becomes
A model cannot stand up during a turn it was knocked down.
an enemy model for as long as it is under your opponents
control. If you take control of one of your opponents models, Knockdown is not cumulative; a model cannot become
it is friendly for as long as it is under your control. knocked down while it is knocked down.

If you take control of an enemy trooper, it is an independent EXAMPLE: A model becomes knocked down during your
model (p.13) while it is under your control; it is not opponents turn, and before it gets a chance to stand up it
considered to be part of its unit while under your control. If is affected by an attack that would normally cause it to be
your opponent takes control of the commander of one of your knocked down. It is not affected by the second instance of
units, select a new unit commander according to the rules knockdown, so it can still stand up on your turn.
found in Unit Commander: Leaders & Officers on p.62. To stand up, a knocked down model forfeits either its Normal
Movement or its Combat Action. A model that forfeits its
Note that special rules that can be used only during a units
Combat Action to stand can use its Normal Movement to
activation cannot be used by an independent model under
make a full advance but cannot run, charge, or perform a
another players control, as an independent model is not part
slam or trample power attack that activation. When a model
of a unit.
stands, it ceases to be knocked down.
For how control of enemy models affects battlegroups, see
Battlegroup Commander, p.70.
Stationary Models
Some attacks and special rules cause a model to become
Knockdown stationary. While stationary a model does not have a melee
Some attacks and special rules cause a model to become range and cannot advance, make special actions, make
knocked down. While knocked down, a model does not have attacks, cast spells, use feats, be used to channel a spell,
a melee range and cannot advance, make special actions, or give orders. A stationary model does not engage other
make attacks, cast spells, use feats, or be used to channel a models and cannot be engaged by them. As a consequence,
spell. A knocked down model does not engage other models a model is never in melee with a stationary model. A melee
and cannot be engaged by them. As a consequence, a model is attack against a stationary model automatically hits. A
never in melee with a knocked down model. A melee attack stationary model has a base DEF of 5.
against a knocked down model automatically hits. A knocked
down model has a base DEF of 5. A knocked down model does
not block line of sight and is never an intervening model.

COMBAT 61
 ANATOMY OF A UNIT
COMPONENTS, FORMATION
& MOVEMENT

An armys soldiers and support personnel are mostly A troopers proximity to its unit commander determines
organized into units. Members of a unit are generally whether it is in unit formation (see Unit Formation, p.64).
equipped the same and trained to fill a certain battlefield
role. Some units specialize in melee combat, others excel Field Promotion
with ranged weapons, and some provide critical or highly If an Officer leading a unit is destroyed, is removed from
specialized capabilities. play, or leaves the unit for another reason and there is a
Leader model in its unit, the Leader model becomes the unit

Unit Components commander. If there is not a Leader model in the unit, choose
another model in the unit to become the unit commander.
Most units are made up of a single Leader model and one or
more Grunts that all share the same stat profile. Some units When a units Leader is destroyed, choose a Grunt in that
are led by an Officer with a different stat profile than the unit to take its place as the new Leader, even if there is an
models it leads. Officer model in the unit. Replace the Grunt model with the
Leader model. Effects on the destroyed Leader expire. The
All models in a unit are troopers.
promoted model retains any effects that were applied to it
while it was a Grunt and has the same number of unmarked
Grunts damage boxes remaining as the Grunt it replaced. The
Grunts are the basic troopers in a unit. The number of Grunts new Leader must forfeit its Combat Action the turn it was
in a unit is noted on the units card. promoted and is not considered to have entered an area (for
the purposes of hazards and similar abilities).
Unit Commanders: Leaders & If a units Leader is destroyed while under your opponents
Officers control, do not replace the Leader model.

A unit is always led by a unit commander, a model that is If the units Leader is the unit commander and it is destroyed
the focal point of its unit. In most cases the Leader model while there is no Grunt to replace it, is removed from play, or
in a unit is the unit commander. An Officer is a special type leaves the unit for another reason, choose another model in
of unit commander with the Officer advantage. If a unit the unit to become the unit commander.
includes an Officer, the Officer is the unit commander even if
If the units Officer or Leader later returns to the unit, that
a Leader model is also part of the unit.
model becomes the units commander.

62 ANATOMY OF A UNIT
 WEAPON WEAPON
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
WEAPON
ATTACHMENT

STANDARD
BEARER

PIPER

GRUNT LEADER GRUNT

GRUNT
GRUNT GRUNT

EXAMPLE 1: The Leader of a Trollkin Champion unit is

destroyed. The Grunt that the units controlling player
Other Trooper Models
Some units contain models that are not Leaders or Grunts,
chooses as the new unit commander has four unmarked
such as Standard Bearers. These models might have different
damage boxes and is suffering from the Fire continuous
stats and weapons than the other models in the unit.
effect . The player replaces the Grunt model with
the Leader model. The new Leader model now has four
unmarked damage boxes remaining and suffers from the Attachments
Fire continuous effect . Attachments are made up of one or more models that can be
EXAMPLE 2: The Chieftain in charge of a Wolves of added to a unit. Each attachments rules list the unit types
Orboros unit is destroyed. Because the Chieftain is an it can be added to. Attachments can be fielded only as part
Officer, instead of replacing a Grunt in the unit with it, the of a unit, not as individual models. There are two types of
Chieftain leaves play and the Leader of the unit becomes attachments: command attachments and weapon attachments.
the new unit commander.
A unit can have only one command attachment added to it.
EXAMPLE 3: Because he is an Officer and not a Leader,
if Sevryn of the Blackfrost Shard is destroyed during play A unit can have up to three weapon attachments added to
he does not replace another model in his unit. Instead, the it, and the same weapon attachment can be added to a unit
player controlling the Blackfrost Shard unit chooses either more than once. For example, a Kriel Warrior unit could
Rhylyss or Vysarr to become the new unit commander. receive up to three additional Kriel Warrior Caber Throwers,
EXAMPLE 4: A Kriel Warrior unit that consists of a Leader, two Trollkin Sorcerers and one Caber Thrower, or any other
a Piper, a Caber Thrower, and a Grunt is caught in an AOE combination of attachment options, provided the unit has no
attack that destroys both the Leader and the Grunt. The more than three weapon attachments at any time.
controlling player must make the Piper or the Caber Thrower
the unit commander. In either case, the model is not replaced Granted Special Rules
by the Leader model because neither is a Grunt. Models in a unit gain the benefits of Granted special rules
EXAMPLE 5: The Leader of a Praetorian Swordsman unit is hit only while the model with the special rule is in formation.
by an opponents Influence spell, allowing the opponent to take
control of that model. Because the Leader was not destroyed, a Tactics Special Rules
Grunt is not replaced with the Leader model. Instead, because
Tactics are special rules granted to units by some attachments.
the Leader left the unit, a Grunt is chosen as the new unit
The unit retains these special rules even if the model that granted
commander. After Influence is resolved, the Leader returns to its
them is out of formation, destroyed, or removed from play.
unit and becomes the unit commander once again.
ANATOMY OF A UNIT 63
 Unit Formation Unit Activation
Regardless of a units role on the battlefield, a unit is most When a unit begins its activation, every trooper in it activates.
effective when all its members are in formation, which means A unit must receive the Press Forward order from its unit
they are within the unit commanders command range. The commander in order to run or charge (see Issuing Orders,
unit commander is always in formation. A unit commander next). When a unit makes its Normal Movement, troopers
can give orders to models in its unit that are in formation. A can move in any order. Completely resolve the Normal
trooper that is out of formation will not receive orders issued Movement of one trooper before moving on to the next.
by its unit commander (see Out of Formation, next). Remember, a trooper that is out of formation at the start of its
units activation must use its Normal Movement to advance
Remember, you can measure the distance between the unit
toward or run directly toward its unit commander.
commander and a model in its unit at any time.
After all the models in a unit resolve their normal Movements,
All models in a unit must begin the game in formation.
then each trooper makes its Combat Action. Once the models
in a unit begin resolving their Combat Actions, each troopers
Out of Formation Combat Action cannot begin until the previous model's
While out of formation, a trooper cannot advance outside of Combat Action has been resolved.
its Normal Movement, make special actions, or make attacks,
including attacks that do not take place during the models Issuing Orders
or units activation, such as a free strike. Friendly models
Orders allow models in a unit to make specialized combat
cannot target out-of-formation troopers with spells or special
maneuvers. Unlike other warrior models, troopers cannot
rules. Note that many upkeep spells and special rules also do
just choose to run or charge during their Normal Movement;
not affect out-of-formation models.
they must receive an order to do so.
At the beginning of a units activation, determine if any
A unit can receive up to one order from its unit commander at
troopers are out of formation. Those that are out of formation
the beginning of each of its activations. The unit commander
will not receive any order issued by their unit commander
is the only model in a unit that can issue its unit orders.
that activation. A trooper that is out of formation at the start
of its units activation must use its Normal Movement to When a unit is issued an order, every trooper in formation
make a full advance toward or run directly toward its unit receives the order and is affected by it. Troopers that are out
commander. If it makes a full advance, it must forfeit its of formation at the time an order is issued are not affected
Combat Action that activation. by orders received by their units. Models in a unit that are
in formation when an order is issued but that do not receive
it for some reason can still use their Normal Movement to
IN & OUT OF FORMATION make a full advance and take their Combat Actions normally.
Praetorian Swordsmen B, D, and E are in formation since
Some units have orders described in their special rules that can
they are within the command range of the unit commander.
be issued by their unit commanders, such as the Cataphract
Praetorian Swordsmen A and C are out of formation since they
Cetratis Shield Wall order. A unit commander can issue any
are not within the command range of the unit commander.
order to its unit that is specified in the units or Leaders special
rules. Orders that appear in the special rules of an Officer can
be issued only by that Officer. If the Officer leaves play, the
new unit commander cannot issue those orders.

A Command Range Press Forward Order

B Any unit commander can issue the Press Forward order.
During an activation in which this order is given, models
in the unit that are in formation must use their Normal
Movement to run or charge. If a model in the unit cannot run
Unit
Commander due to some effect, such as knockdown, instead of running
or charging it can forfeit its Combat Action and make a full
E advance, after which its activation ends.
D
C

64 ANATOMY OF A UNIT
 EXAMPLE: Four members of a Kriel Warrior unit make
Spells & Effects a combined melee attack against a Seraph. One model is
Some special rules and spells affect entire units, as noted in chosen to make the melee attack for the group, adding +4
their descriptions. If a special rule or spell specifies target to its attack and damage rolls since there are four models
unit, it must target a trooper in a unit but will affect all models participating in the attack. Two other troopers in that unit
in the unit. Effects that specify target model/unit can target make a combined melee attack against a nearby Raek. The
any model, including non-troopers, but if the target model is a trooper declared as the primary attacker makes one melee
attack and adds +2 to its attack and damage rolls.
trooper the effect will apply to the entire unit.

When a spell or effect affects a unit, it affects models that are later
added to the unit until the spell or effect expires. If no models
Combined Ranged
remain in a unit, any unit-affecting spells or effects on that unit
expire. This is usually only important when a trooper becomes
Attacks
Models in some units have the Combined Ranged Attack
an independent model while it is under an opponents control.
advantage. When resolving their Combat Actions, two or more
EXAMPLE: A unit of Trollkin Champions is affected by troopers with the Combined Ranged Attack advantage in
the Crippling Grasp spell. After suffering casualties, only the same unit can combine their ranged attacks against the
one model remains in the unit. When the opponent takes same target. In order to participate in a combined ranged
control of that model using the Influence spell, there are no attack, a trooper must be able to declare a ranged attack against
models remaining in the unit, so Crippling Grasp expires. the intended target, be within range, and be in formation.
Furthermore, a model that would automatically miss if attacking
Combined Melee the target normally cannot participate in a combined ranged
attack. Choose one model in the attacking group to be the primary
Attacks attacker, and make one ranged attack roll for the group. Add +1
Models in some units have the Combined Melee Attack to the attack and damage rolls for each model participating in the
advantage. When resolving their Combat Actions, two or more attack, including the primary attacker. All bonuses and penalties
troopers with the same unit with the Combined Melee Attack for the attack are based on the primary attacker.
advantage in the same unit can combine their melee attacks Each model in a combined ranged attack=
against the same target. In order to participate in a combined +1 to the attack and damage rolls
melee attack, a trooper must be able to declare a melee attack
against the intended target, have the intended target within Combined ranged attacks cannot target a model in melee
its melee range, and be in formation. Choose one model in the unless it has a huge base. Combined ranged attacks can
attacking group to be the primary attacker and make one melee target huge-based models in melee normally.
attack roll for the group. Add +1 to the attack and damage In a combined ranged attack, only the primary attacker
rolls for each model participating in the attack, including the actually makes an attack. The other participants lose the
primary attacker. All other bonuses and penalties to the attack attacks they contributed to the combined attack.
and damage rolls, such as the bonus for intervening terrain,
are based on the primary attacker. Units with Combined Ranged Attack ignore the rule that
one troopers Combat Action cannot begin until the previous
Each model in a combined melee attack= models Combat Action is resolved. The ranged attacks of a
+1 to the attack and damage rolls unit with Combined Ranged Attacks can be grouped in
In a combined melee attack, only the primary attacker actually any way, including as multiple combined ranged attacks.
makes an attack. The other participants lose the attacks they EXAMPLE: Before declaring a combined ranged attack
contributed to the combined attack. A model that charged during with her four Blighted Nyss Archers targeting a Tharn
its activation can participate in a combined melee attack, but the Bloodtracker (which has Stealth), a Legion player decides
combined attack cannot be a charge attack unless all contributed to measure range to it. She determines that one of her
attacks are charge attacks. If any non-charge attack is contributed, Blighted Nyss Archers is more than 5 away from the Tharn
the combined attack is not a charge attack. Bloodtracker and therefore would automatically miss. That
model cannot participate in the combined attack and does
Units with Combined Melee Attack ignore the rule that
not lose its attack. The model chosen to make the ranged
one troopers Combat Action cannot begin until the previous
attack for the group gains only +3 to its attack and damage
models Combat Action is resolved. The melee attacks of a unit
rolls since only three of the four models can contribute to
with Combined Melee Attack can be grouped in any way,
the attack.
including multiple combined melee attacks. Troopers capable
of multiple melee attacks can divide them among eligible
targets and participate in multiple combined melee attacks.

ANATOMY OF A UNIT 65
 WARBEASTS
SPECIAL RULES, FORCING & FRENZY

Living engines of rage, warbeasts are the greatest assets in a

warlocks arsenal. They are equipped with a broad variety of Warbeast Special Rules
melee and ranged weaponry and embody the primal power All warbeasts have the following special rules in common.
of their respective Factions. A single warbeast can annihilate
dozens of warriors, and several warbeasts working together Life Spiral
comprise a threat no enemy can ignore. Warbeasts have life spirals. A warbeast is not destroyed
until all the damage boxes in its life spiral are marked. See
Recording Damage on p.57 for details.

Warbeast Constructs
Warbeasts with the Construct advantage (p.17) never
make threshold checks and cannot be healed.

Fury & Forcing

A warbeast is a primal creature that reaches its full potential
only when under the control of a battlegroup commander
such as a warlock, who impels it through strength of will for a
desired effect, such as an additional attack. This is called forcing.

Only a model with the Fury Manipulation special rule can

force a warbeast, and then it can only force a warbeast that is
part of its battlegroup. A warbeast can be forced only while
in its controllers control range, but it does not need to be in
its controllers line of sight to be forced.

When a warbeast is forced, declare the desired effect and place

a number of fury points on it according to the rules of the effect.
FERAL WARPWOLF A warbeast can be forced several times during its activation, but
Circle Orboros Heavy Warbeast
it can never have a fury point total higher than its current Fury
stat, or FURY. A warbeast cannot be forced if the fury points
gained would cause it to exceed its current FURY.
66
If a warbeasts current FURY is reduced for any reason,
immediately remove excess fury points. Fury points remain
Power Attacks
Warbeasts can make power attacks. To make a power attack,
on warbeasts until removed by leeching, reaving, frenzying,
a warbeast must be forced. When a warbeast is forced to
or a special rule.
make a power attack it gains 1 fury point. For the rules for
Wild warbeasts cannot gain fury points or be forced. power attacks and their requirements, see Power Attacks
on p.44.
Forced: Additional Attack
A warbeast can be forced to make additional melee attacks as Threshold & Frenzy
part of its Combat Action (p.36). It gains 1 fury point and Tapping into the primal energies of vicious warbeasts is
can make one additional attack each time it is forced. Some not without risks. The fury accumulated by a warbeast can
warbeasts possess special rules that also enable them to be potentially send it into a blind rage, causing it to frenzy.
forced to make additional ranged attacks. During your Control Phase, after your warlocks have leeched
fury from their warbeasts and spent fury to upkeep their
Forced: Boost spells, each of your warbeasts with 1 or more fury points
A warbeast can be forced to boost any of its attack rolls or remaining on it must make a successful threshold check or
damage rolls during its activation. Add an extra die to the frenzy. To make a threshold check, roll 2d6 and add 1 to the
boosted roll. Boosting must be declared before rolling any roll for each fury point on the warbeast. If the roll exceeds the
dice for the roll. Remember, a particular roll can be boosted warbeasts current Threshold (THR) stat, it fails and frenzies.
only once, but a warbeast can boost as many different rolls as EXAMPLE: During his Control Phase, Jack makes a
you choose and can afford to force it. Each time a warbeast is threshold check for his Dire Troll Blitzer, which has 3 fury
forced to boost an attack or damage roll it gains 1 fury point. points on it. Jack rolls 2d6 and adds 3 to the roll for the Dire
Troll Blitzers fury points. He then compares the result to the
Forced: Rile Blitzers THR of 9. If Jack rolls 6 or less (the Blitzers THR of
During its activation, a warbeast can be riled, or forced for 9 3 fury points = 6), the Blitzer passes the threshold check
the sole purpose of gaining fury points. When a warbeast is and nothing happens. If he rolls 7 or more, the Dire Troll
riled, it can gain any number of fury points but cannot exceed Blitzer frenzies because the result exceeds its THR.
its current FURY. A warbeast can be riled even if it runs. When a model frenzies:

1. It immediately activates.
Forced: Run or Charge
A warbeast must be forced in order to use its Normal 2. Without being forced, it automatically shakes
Movement to run or charge. When a warbeast is forced to knockdown, stationary, and any other effects that can
run or charge it gains 1 fury point. be shaken. A frenzied warbeast also ignores effects
that would cause it to forfeit its Normal Movement or
Forced: Shake Effect Combat Action during an activation in which it frenzies.

During your Control Phase after resolving threshold checks 3. It immediately charges directly toward the closest
and frenzies, a warbeast can be forced for the following: model in its line of sight without being forced, even
if the closest model is a friendly model. The frenzied
If the warbeast is knocked down, it can be forced to warbeast cannot voluntarily stop its movement before
stand up. contacting its charge target.
If the warbeast is stationary, it can be forced to cause the 4. It makes one basic attack against the model it charged
stationary status to expire. with the highest-POW weapon that has range to the
If the warbeast is suffering an effect like Blind or Shadow target. The attack roll is automatically boosted. If the
Bind that can be shaken, it can be forced to cause the warbeast moved at least 3 during the charge, the
effect to expire. attack is a charge attack and its damage roll is boosted.
A warbeast gains 1 fury point each time it is forced to shake A frenzied warbeast cannot make Assault ranged
an effect. attacks or additional attacks.
5. At the end of the warbeasts frenzy activation, it is no
Animi longer frenzied and you can remove any number of
fury points from it.
Warbeasts have dormant arcane spells called animi that can
be tapped by the warlocks who control them. See Animi on If two or more models are closest to the warbeast when
p.74 for details. it frenzies, randomly determine which of those models it
charges.

WARBEASTS 67
 Because a frenzied warbeast activates in the Control Phase,
it cannot activate during its controllers Activation Phase Warbeast Packs
that turn. During the frenzy activation, a frenzied warbeast Warbeast packs are units of small-based warbeasts that fight
can only take its Normal Movement and Combat Action as together and support each other on the battlefield. Models in
described above. It cannot be forced, cast its animus, make a pack do not activate individually; instead, all members of
special actions, and so on. If a frenzied warbeast cannot the pack activate at the same time and progress through the
immediately activate or if it cannot charge, it loses its steps of an activation together. The warbeasts in a pack are
activation and is no longer frenzied, and you can remove any part of the same battlegroup and have the same battlegroup
number of fury points from it. controller.

MINION WARBEASTS
Unit
A warbeast pack is a unit, but each model in the unit is a
Remember, Minion warbeasts can be controlled only by
warbeast, not a warrior. As models in a unit, these warbeasts
Minion warlocks. Likewise, a Minion warlock can control
are all troopers, the unit commander is the Leader, and
only Minion warbeasts.
the other models in the unit are Grunts. While it is part of
a warbeast pack, a warbeast is not an independent model.
Although warbeast packs are both warbeasts and units, they
follow warbeast theme force restrictions as other warbeasts
Gargantuans do but are not affected by unit restrictions.
The gargantuans are the largest and most powerful warbeasts
Models in a warbeast pack cannot run or charge during the
ever to stride the battlefield. As a result of their great size and
packs activation unless they receive the Press Forward order
raw power, there are a number of special rules that apply to
or are compelled to run or charge as part of a game effect.
gargantuans but not to smaller warbeasts.
A packs unit commander can issue a Press Forward order
A gargantuan is a huge-based (120mm) warbeast. only while in the control range of its battlegroup controller.
Models in a warbeast pack cannot make power attacks.
Controlling a Gargantuan When a friendly Faction model with the Battlegroup
Gargantuans must be assigned to a battlegroup. Your Commander special rule takes control of a wild warbeast
opponent can never take control of your gargantuan. that is in a warbeast pack, it takes control of all models in
the warbeast pack, not just the warbeast it is in base-to-
Gargantuan Movement base contact with. When an opponent takes control of a
warbeast in a warbeast pack, for the duration of the effect,
A gargantuan can advance only during its Normal Movement.
that warbeast becomes an independent model with FURY 0
A gargantuan can never be placed.
that cannot be forced.

Great Beast Pack Fury & Fury Points

A gargantuan can never gain Advance Deployment ,
The models in a warbeast pack share a single Fury stat equal
Incorporeal , or Stealth .
to the number of models currently in the pack. Game effects
that increase or decrease a warbeasts Fury stat never affect
Massive a warbeast pack.
A gargantuan cannot be pushed, knocked down, or made
Models in a warbeast pack are forced independently, but
stationary. A gargantuan cannot be moved by a slam or throw.
when a model in the unit is forced, place the fury points
generated on the unit commander. A model in the pack can
Ranged Attacks While in be forced only while it is in formation and the packs unit
Melee commander is in its controllers control range, but a non-
commander model in the pack need not be in its controllers
A gargantuan can make ranged attacks while in melee.
control range to be forced.

Only the packs unit commander can gain fury points, and
that model can gain fury points only as a result of being
forced. The unit commander can never have a fury point total
higher than the packs current FURY. A model in a warbeast
pack cannot be forced if the fury points gained would cause
the unit commander to exceed the packs current FURY.

68 WARBEASTS
When the packs Fury stat is reduced as a result of a change
in the number of models in the pack, immediately remove
fury points in excess of its new Fury stat.

If a warbeast in the pack is destroyed while the packs

unit commander is in its controllers control range and its
destruction would result in the removal of a fury point from
the packs unit commander, the packs controller can reave
(p.72) the fury point that would be removed. When a
warbeast in a pack is destroyed by a friendly attack or as a
result of damage transferred from its battlegroup controller,
however, fury cannot be reaved from the pack.

If a new unit commander is selected due to Field Promotion,

place the fury points from the old unit commander on the
new commander before reducing the Fury stat.

Pack Frenzy
If the unit commander frenzies, all models in the pack also
frenzy. When a model in the pack frenzies, it ignores the
other models in its pack when determining which model it
charges.

Pack Animus
Only the unit commander has an animus. The packs
controller can cast the packs animus only while the packs
unit commander is in the pack controllers control range.

Damage & Healing

Warbeasts in a pack have a set number of damage points but
do not have life spirals. A pack warbeasts damage points
are considered a single aspect with a single branch for the
purposes of game rules. A rule that heals 1 damage in each
aspect, for example, would heal 1 damage point to a pack
warbeast, and a rule that fills in unmarked damage of the
last branch damaged would fill in all remaining damage,
disabling the pack warbeast.

The packs controller can transfer damage to a pack warbeast

if the warbeast model is in the pack controllers control
range and in formation. The packs controller cannot transfer
damage to a pack warbeast if the packs unit commander has
a number of fury points equal to the packs FURY.

The packs controller can heal warbeasts in a pack as normal.

WARBEASTS 69
 WARLOCKS.
& FURY
SPECIAL RULES & FURY MANIPULATION

Warlocks are the most powerful models in HORDES. They Only friendly models can be part of a battlegroup. If a rule
are potent shamans and deadly warriors as effective in causes a warbeast to become an enemy model, it is not part of
martial combat as when wielding magical forces. A warlocks its original battlegroup while that rule is in effect.
greatest talent, however, is controlling warbeasts.
If an effect causes a battlegroup commander to fall under
Battles can be won or lost purely by how well a player your opponents control, while the model is controlled by
manages his models fury and how he forces his warbeasts. your opponent the warbeasts in its battlegroup remain
HORDES is a game of risk management, pure and simple. under your control but are not considered to be part of their
Players need to know not only where to boost an attack or former controllers battlegroup. If you regain control of the
cast a spell but also how far they are willing to push the battlegroup commander, it resumes control of the warbeasts
warbeasts under their control. Choosing poorly can result in in its battlegroup unless some other model has already taken
a frenzied warbeast charging ahead of the rest of the army control of them.
or worse, assaulting its controlling warlock in a blind rage.
Feat
Warlock Special Rules Each warlock has a unique feat that can turn the tide of battle
if used at the right time. A warlock can use this feat at any
All warlocks have the following special rules in common.
time during its activation. A warlock can use its feat only
once per game.
Battlegroup Commander
A warlock cannot use its Normal Movement to run after using
This model can control a group of warbeasts. This model
its feat and cannot use its feat after using its Normal Movement
and the warbeasts it controls are collectively referred to
to run, as its activation ends as soon as it completes the run
as a battlegroup. This model can force the warbeasts in its
movement. Additionally, because a warlock can use its feat
battlegroup.
at any time, it can do so before moving, after moving, before
As warlocks and warbeasts are independent models, each making an attack, or after an attack but not while moving or
model in a battlegroup can move freely about the battlefield attacking (see Use of Any Time Special Rules, p.11).
separate from the rest of the group. Although warbeasts
usually benefit from remaining within their battlegroup
commanders control range, they are not required to do so.

70 WARLOCKS & FURY

 A warbeast must be in its battlegroup commanders control
Fury Manipulation range to be forced or for the battlegroup commander to leech
This model has a Fury stat (FURY) and begins the game fury points from it.
with a number of fury points equal to its FURY. During
your Control Phase, this model replenishes its fury points Forcing Warbeasts
by leeching fury from the warbeasts in its battlegroup. This
A model with the Fury Manipulation special rule can force
model cannot exceed its Fury stat in fury points as a result of
its warbeasts as long as they meet the following criteria. The
leeching. Unless otherwise stated, this model can spend fury
warbeast must be in the battlegroup commanders own
points only during its activation.
battlegroup and in its control range, though the warbeast
A model with the Fury Manipulation special rule has a need not be in its battlegroup commanders line of sight. A
control range and can spend its fury points for additional battlegroup commander cannot force warbeasts in another
melee attacks, to boost attack and damage rolls, and to shake models battlegroup even if they are both part of the same army.
some effects. During its controllers Maintenance Phase, a
model with the Fury Manipulation special rule loses all fury Leeching
points in excess of its Fury stat. During its controlling players Control Phase, a model with
the Fury Manipulation special rule can leech fury points
from warbeasts in its battlegroup that are in its control range.
REPRESENTING FURY Fury points leeched from a warbeast are removed from it and
Use something countable, such as coins, beads, or tokens, to placed on this model.
represent fury points. Place these tokens next to the models
This model can also leech fury points from its own life force
that have fury points and move them to the warlock when it
leeches or reaves the fury. Remove fury point tokens from the during its controlling players Control Phase. For each fury
table as they are used. point a model leeches in this way, it suffers 1 damage point.
This damage cannot be transferred.

This model can leech any number of fury points but cannot
Control Range exceed its FURY in fury points as a result of leeching.
A model with the Fury Manipulation special rule has a Leeching is performed at the start of the Control Phase before
control range, a circular area centered on the model with a threshold checks are made or fury is spent to upkeep spells.
radius that extends out from the edge of its base a number of EXAMPLE: Hoarluk Doomshaper has FURY7. If he begins
inches equal to twice its current FURY. When a special rule his controlling players turn with 2 fury points, he can
changes a models current FURY, its control range changes leech up to 5 additional fury points from warbeasts in his
accordingly. Some spells and feats use the control range, battlegroup that are in his control range, but he cannot
noted as CTRL, as their range or area of effect. leech more than 5 because the additional points would
cause him to exceed his FURY.
A model is always considered to be in its own control range.

WARLOCKS & FURY 71

 Spirit Bond Discarding Fury
After leeching, a model with the Fury Manipulation special rule During its activation, a model with the Fury Manipulation
can additionally gain up to 1 fury point for each medium-based special rule can remove any number of fury points from
or larger warbeast that was part of its battlegroup and has itself, even if it runs.
been destroyed or removed from play. If a destroyed warbeast
returns to play for any reason, this model can no longer gain Transferring Damage
fury points for that warbeast from Spirit Bond. A model cannot When this model would suffer damage, it can spend 1 fury point
exceed its FURY in fury points as a result of Spirit Bond. to transfer that damage to a warbeast in its battlegroup that is in
its control range. The warbeast suffers the damage instead of this
Reaving model. Determine where to mark the damage normally. When
A model with the Fury Manipulation special rule is able to capture this model transfers damage to a warbeast, damage exceeding
the life essence of its warbeasts as they are destroyed or removed the warbeasts unmarked damage boxes is applied to this model
from play. When a warbeast in its battlegroup is destroyed or and cannot be transferred again. This model cannot transfer
removed from play while in its control range, this model can reave damage to a warbeast that currently has a number of fury points
the fury points on the warbeast. Before removing the warbeast equal to its FURY. This model is still considered to have suffered
from the table, remove its fury points and place them on the damage even if the damage is transferred. Models unable to suffer
reaving model. A model cannot reave fury points from a warbeast transferred damage cannot have damage transferred to them.
in its battlegroup that was destroyed or removed from play by a
EXAMPLE: A warlock with one unmarked damage box
friendly attack or as a result of transferring damage to the warbeast.
remaining is hit by an enemy attack and would suffer
Some special rules enable a model that does not control 10 damage points. The warlock spends 1 fury point and
a warbeast to reave its fury points. The fury points of a transfers the damage to a warbeast in his battlegroup. Unless
warbeast that was destroyed or removed from play can only the warbeast has at least ten unmarked damage boxes, the
ever be reaved by a single model, however. remaining damage will be suffered by the warlock.

A model cannot exceed its FURY in fury points as a result of

reaving. Excess fury points gained from reaving are lost.
Healing
At any time during its activation, this model can heal by spending
fury points to remove damage it has suffered. This model can
Fury: Additional Attack also spend fury points to remove damage suffered by warbeasts
A model with the Fury Manipulation special rule can spend fury
in its battlegroup that are in its control range. For each fury point
points to make additional melee attacks as part of its Combat
spent this way, this model can remove 1 damage point.
Action (p.36). It can make one additional attack for each fury
point spent. Some models have special rules that enable them to
also spend fury points to make additional ranged attacks. Spellcaster
This model can cast spells by paying the COST of the spells
Fury: Boost in fury points. In addition to the spells listed on its card, a
battlegroup commander can also cast the animi (p.74) of
A model with the Fury Manipulation special rule can spend 1
the warbeasts in its battlegroup that are in its control range.
fury point to boost any of its attack or damage rolls during its
activation. Add an extra die to the boosted roll. Boosting must
be declared before rolling any dice for the roll. Remember,
a particular roll can be boosted only once, but a model can
Warlock Units
Some warlocks are part of a unit rather than being independent
boost as many different rolls as you choose and can afford.
models. The warlock is the unit commander and activates as
part of the unit. The warlock is the model in the unit with the
Fury: Shake Effect Officer advantage and is the only model in the unit that has
During your Control Phase after leeching fury, a model with the special rules of a warlock. The warlock controls a battlegroup,
the Fury Manipulation special rule can spend fury points for has a feat, can spend fury, and so on. If the warlock is destroyed,
the following: its upkeep spells expire and its warbeasts become wild as normal.
If the model is knocked down (p.61), it can spend 1 The models in a warlocks unit are part of its battlegroup.
fury point to stand up.
Warlock units cannot have command or weapon attachments
If the model is stationary (p.61), it can spend 1 fury
added to them. However, a warlock that is part of a warlock unit
point to cause the stationary status to expire.
can still have solos with the Attached special rule attached to it.
If the model is suffering an effect like Blind or Shadow If a solo with the Attached special rule is attached to a warlock
Bind that can be shaken, it can spend 1 fury point to cause who is part of a warlock unit, the solo remains an independent
the effect to expire. model and does not become part of the warlock unit.

72 WARLOCKS & FURY

 SPELLS,
SPELLCASTING.
& ANIMI
RULES FOR CASTING SPELLS & ANIMI

Some models have the ability to cast spells during their

activations. Non-warbeast models with the FURY stat, like
Spell Targeting
warlocks, cast spells by paying the spells COST in fury When a spell is cast, declare its target. A spell can target any
points. Warbeasts can be forced to cast their animi. Models model in the spellcasters line of sight. Non-offensive spells
with Magic Ability (p.74) cast spells by making a special with a numeric RNG can also target the spells point of origin.
action or special attack. Many spells can target only certain types of models, such as
Animi are spells. A model that casts an animus, whether it is warbeasts or enemy troopers. Such restrictions are noted in the
a warlock or a warbeast, is considered to be casting a spell. spells description. To abbreviate these targeting restrictions,
when a spells description mentions an effect against a target
A spells point of origin (p.40) is the model casting the X, the spell can be cast only on that type of model.
spell or the model through which the spell is channeled
EXAMPLE 1: Kromac the Ravenous spell Wild Aggression
(p.77). Unlike ranged attacks, being in melee does not
states, Target friendly living warbeast in the spellcasters
prevent a model from casting a spell.
battlegroup can run, charge, or make slam or trample power
attacks without being forced and gains boosted melee attack
rolls. Therefore, when Kromac casts this spell it can target
only a warbeast in his battlegroup.
EXAMPLE 2: The Troll Axers Rush animus states,Target
friendly Faction warbeast gains +2 movement when
advancing as part of its Normal Movement and Pathfinder .
Rush lasts for one turn. Therefore, when the Axer or its
controlling warlock casts this animus it can target only a
friendly Faction warbeast.
EXAMPLE 3: Helga the Conquerors spell Muzzle states,
TROLLKIN RUNESHAPERS An enemy warbeast damaged by Muzzle cannot advance
toward the spellcaster for one round. The spell can target
non-warbeast models, but only enemy warbeasts damaged
SPELLCASTERS by Muzzle are prohibited from moving toward Helga.
When a spells description references the spellcaster, it
refers to the model that cast the spell.

SPELLS, SPELLCASTING & ANIMI 73

 Measuring the Range Casting a Spell with
of a Spell Magic Ability
Measure the range (RNG) of a spell from the edge of the The spells a model with the Magic Ability special rule can cast
point of origins base to the target, up to the maximum range are listed in its entry under Magic Ability. Magic Ability special
of the spell. If the nearest edge of the target models base is attacks are magic attacks (p.55) that are resolved using the
within the maximum range of the spell, the target is in range. models Magic Ability score. A models Magic Ability score
appears in brackets next to Magic Ability; for example, a
If the target is in range and the spell is not a magic attack,
Trollkin Runeshaper model has Magic Ability [7].
apply the spells effects. If the target is beyond maximum
range, the spell does not take effect.

If the target is in range and the spell is an attack, make a Animi

magic attack roll. If the target is beyond maximum range, Warbeasts have dormant arcane spells called animi that can
the spell automatically misses. If a magic attack has an AOE be tapped by the warlocks who control them. A warbeast can
and the target is out of range, it automatically misses, and its be forced to cast its animus, or the warlock whose battlegroup
point of impact will deviate from the point on the line to its the warbeast is part of can treat the animus as if it were one
declared target at a distance equal to its RNG. See Area-of- of its own spells while the warbeast is in its control range.
Effect (AOE) Attacks on p. 52 for details on these attacks
A warbeast can be forced to cast its animus only once per
and deviation.
activation, at any time. Remember, a model cannot use its
Normal Movement to run after casting a spell, including
an animus, and it cannot cast a spell after using its Normal
Movement to run, because its activation ends as soon as
it completes its run movement. Additionally, because a
warbeast can be forced to cast its animus at any time, it can

74 SPELLS, SPELLCASTING & ANIMI

be forced to cast its animus before moving, after moving,
before making an attack, or after resolving an attack but not
Spell & Animus Statistics
while moving or attacking (see Use of Any Time Special Animi and spells cast using fury points are defined by the
Rules, p.11). following six statistics. If a stat is listed as *, the spell or
animus does not use the stat in a normal way and contains
Instead of gaining only 1 fury point when it is forced to special rules relating to that aspect of the spell. For example,
cast its animus, the warbeast gains a number of fury points a spell that has an AOE but does not use one of the standard
equal to the COST of the animus. A warbeast cannot exceed 3, 4, or 5 templates would have * as its AOE stat and
its FURY in fury points as a result of casting its animus. If include rules explaining how its AOE is measured.
the fury points gained by casting its animus would cause a
warbeasts fury point total to exceed its FURY, it cannot cast COST The number of fury points that must be spent to cast a
the animus. spell or the number of fury points a warbeast gains by being
forced to cast its animus.
Remember that a model that casts an animus, whether it is a
warbeast or a warlock, is considered to be casting a spell, so RNG, Range The maximum distance in inches from the
if a rule prohibits a model from casting a spell, that model spells point of origin to its target in order for a non-offensive
also cannot be forced to cast an animus. spell to take effect (see Measuring the Range of a Spell, on
p.74). A RNG of SELF indicates the spell can target only
A model or unit can have only one friendly animus in play the model casting it. A RNG of CTRL indicates the spell can
on it at any time. If another friendly animus is cast on the target any model in the spellcasters control range. Remember,
same model or unit, the older friendly animus expires and is the spellcaster needs line of sight to a model to target it.
replaced by the new one when the affected model is affected
by the animus. The older friendly animus expires even if only a POW, Power The POW forms the basis of the spells damage
single model in the unit is affected by the new friendly animus. roll. This damage is magical . A spell with POW does
not inflict damage.
If an animus affecting a unit expires on one model in the unit,
it expires on all models in the unit. AOE, Area of Effect The diameter in inches of the template an
AOE spell uses. A model with any part of its base covered by
the template potentially suffers the spells effects. Templates
Casting a Spell with FURY for AOEs appear in the tutorial guide.
A model with the FURY stat can cast any number of spells A spell with an AOE of CTRL is centered on the spellcaster
during its activation for which it can pay the COST. A spell can and affects models in its control range. See Area-of-Effect
be cast multiple times per activation if the COST can be paid. (AOE) Attacks on p. 52 when resolving an offensive spell
A model can cast spells by spending fury at any time during with an AOE.
its activation. Remember that a model cannot use its Normal DUR, Duration Determines how long the spell effect
Movement to run after casting a spell and cannot cast a remains in play. Spells generally have a duration of one turn
spell after using its Normal Movement to run because its (TURN) or one round (RND), are upkeep spells (UP), or have
activation ends as soon as it completes its run movement. no duration past the resolution of their effect. Spells with a
Additionally, because a model can cast a spell at any time, it duration of remain in play only long enough to resolve
can cast a spell before moving, after moving, before making their effects. An upkeep spell remains in play if its spellcaster
an attack, or after resolving an attack but not while moving spends 1 fury point to maintain it during its controllers
or attacking (see Use of Any Time Special Rules, p.11). Control Phase.
EXAMPLE: A warlock could cast a spell, move, use its
OFF, Offensive (Yes/No) Determines whether the spell is a
Combat Action to make a melee attack, cast two more
magic attack (p.55).
spells, and then spend another fury point to make an
additional melee attack.
A model with the FURY stat uses it to resolve its magic
attacks (p.55).
CASTING SPELLS ON .
OUT-OF-FORMATION TROOPERS
Remember, a model cannot target friendly trooper models that
are out of formation with spells. This includes offensive spells
and spells cast using Magic Ability. See Out of Formation on
p.64 for details.

SPELLS, SPELLCASTING & ANIMI 75

 Pay particular attention to this restriction when casting
Upkeep Spells upkeep spells with a target of SELF.
Upkeep spells are spells that can be maintained from round to
round. During your Control Phase, your models can spend EXAMPLE: If Dr. Arkadius has Aggravator in play on
fury to keep their upkeep spells in play. Each upkeep spell himself, casting Guardian Beast on himself would cause
requires 1 fury point for its upkeep every round. A model Aggravator to expire.
can maintain an upkeep spell even if the spells effects are EXAMPLE: A unit of Skorne Praetorian Swordsmen
outside that models control range. If fury is not spent to currently has the Death March spell in play on it. The
maintain one of your upkeep spells during your Control Skorne player decides it would be more beneficial to have
Phase, the spell expires. the Defenders Ward spell affecting the unit instead and
casts it, and the Death March spell is removed when he pays
Remember, a model can have only one instance of each Defenders Wards COST. During the Trollblood players
specific upkeep spell in play at a time, but it can maintain turn, Grissel Bloodsong, Fell Caller casts Calamity on the
any number of different upkeep spells simultaneously if it unit. This does not remove the Defenders Ward spell because
spends enough fury points to do so. A model or unit can have an enemy upkeep spell does not replace a friendly one.
only one friendly and one enemy upkeep spell in play on it at
A model can recast any of its upkeep spells already in play.
a time. If another upkeep spell is cast on a model or unit that
If this happens, the spells previous casting expires when the
already has one from the same sidefriendly or enemythe
COST of the new casting is paid.
older upkeep spell expires and is replaced by the newer one
when the affected model is hit by the spell. For a unit, the If an upkeep spell affecting a unit expires on one model in the
older upkeep spell expires even if only a single model in the unit, it expires on all models in the unit. However, upkeep
unit is affected by the new upkeep spell. Likewise, an upkeep spells on a unit will not expire as a result of a model being
spell on one model expires if any model in its unit is affected removed from the table until the last model in the unit is
by a new upkeep spell from the same side. removed from the table.

When a spellcaster is destroyed or removed from play, its

upkeep spells expire.

76 SPELLS, SPELLCASTING & ANIMI

Channeling
Some models, known as channelers, can act as passive relays
CONTROL RANGE & .
for spells and extend their effective range. A spellcaster can CHANNELING
cast spells through any channeler in its battlegroup that is Kaya the Moonhunter has FURY 6, so her control range
also within its control range. The spellcaster is still the model (represented by the glowing blue area) measures 12 from her
casting the spell and, if the spell is offensive, the attacker, but base. Kaya can channel spells through Laris as long as Laris is
the channeler becomes the spells point of origin (p.40). within her control range.
This means that eligible targets and the spells range are A channeler must have line of sight to the target of the spell.
measured from the channeler and that the channeling model Therefore Kaya can use Laris to channel spells at the Troll Axer,
must have line of sight to the spells target. Channeling a spell but she cannot use him to channel spells at the Troll Impaler
does not require the spellcaster to have line of sight to either even though Kaya herself has line of sight to it.
the channeler or the spells target. There is no additional fury
cost for channeling a spell. Troll Axer

A channeler that is stationary, knocked down, or engaged by

an enemy model cannot channel spells. A channeler can be
the target of a non-offensive spell it channels, but a spell with
a RNG of SELF cannot be channeled. A channeler cannot Laris
be the target of an offensive spell channeled through it.

Make a magic attack for a channeled offensive spell normally.

The spellcaster can spend fury to boost die rolls.

Remember, the channeler is just a relay. Being used to

channel a spell is a passive effect that occurs during a
spellcasters activation and has no impact on the channelers
own activation. A channeling warbeast cannot be forced to
pay the spells COST or boost its rolls, for example.
Troll Impaler

Multiple Spell Effects Kaya the

Moonhunter
Although it is not possible to have more than one friendly
upkeep spell and one enemy upkeep spell on a model or
unit at a time, it is possible for a model or unit to be affected
by more than one spell or animus at a time. Regardless of
how many upkeep spells are affecting a model or unit, it
can be affected by any number of non-upkeep spells and
up to one friendly animus at the same time. See Animi on
p.74 for details.

EXAMPLE: A Troll Axer targets a Dire Troll Blitzer already

under the effects of Sure Foot with its Rush animus. Sure
Foot does not expire when the Dire Troll is affected by Rush
because Rush is not an upkeep spell.

SPELLS, SPELLCASTING & ANIMI 77

 ADDITIONAL .
MODEL RULES
BATTLE ENGINES, CAVALRY & MORE

Battle Engines Massive

A battle engine cannot be pushed, knocked down, or made
Battle engines are powerful weapons of war. These giant
machines require neither sorcerous control from an armys stationary. A battle engine cannot be moved by a slam or throw.
warlock nor battlefield guidance from its officers. Instead,
a battle engines own commander, crew, or consciousness
guides it to rain down destruction upon enemies bold or
foolish enough to stand in its path.

A battle engine is a huge-based (120mm) independent model.

WAR WAGON
Trollblood Battle Engine

78 ADDITIONAL MODEL RULES

Cavalry CAVALRY CHARGE EXAMPLE
Cavalry are models with the Cavalry advantage. In addition
to all the standard rules for models of their types, cavalry The Praetorian Ferox declares a charge targeting Wolf of
Orboros A. The Praetorian Ferox then moves in a straight line
models have the following additional rules in common.
toward its target. After moving 4, it stops short when it moves
into base-to-base contact with Wolf of Orboros B. The Praetorian
Mount Attacks Ferox then makes impact attacks targeting Wolves of Orboros B
A cavalry models Mount not only provides transportation and C since both models are in its Mounts melee range.
but also is a weapon in its own right. Mount attacks are
After hitting and destroying Wolves of Orboros B and C, the
melee attacks with a 0.5 melee range. A cavalry model using
Praetorian Ferox continues its charge movement to Wolf of
its Combat Action to make melee attacks can make one initial
Orboros A.
attack with its Mount just as with any other melee weapon.
If Wolf of Orboros C had not been destroyed, the Praetorian
Mount attacks are resolved normally except that the STR of Ferox could have continued the charge anyway, although it
the cavalry model is not added to Mount damage. The damage would have suffered a free strike. If Wolf of Orboros B had
roll for a Mount attack is 2d6 plus only the POW of the Mount. not been destroyed, the Praetorian Feroxs charge would have
Mount Melee Attack Damage Roll = 2d6 + POW of Mount been unable to continue and the charge would have failed.

If Wolf of Orboros B were not there, the Praetorian Ferox

Mounts are indicated by a horseshoe icon in their stat bars.
would have charged past Wolf of Orboros C, incurred a free
strike from it, and then made first an impact attack and then a
Cavalry Charge charge attack against Wolf of Orboros A.
Cavalry models gain boosted charge attack rolls.

Impact Attacks Wolf A

A cavalry model cannot make an initial melee attack with its
Mount during an activation it charged. Instead, a charging
cavalry model uses its Mount to make impact attacks. If a
charging cavalry model contacts another model during its
charge movement and has moved at least 3, it can stop and
make impact attacks with its Mount (see Mount, previous)
against all models in the Mounts melee range. The cavalry
model makes these attacks even if it is out of formation. Impact
attack and damage rolls cannot be boosted. Impact attacks
are simultaneous (see Simultaneous Effects, p. 43). After
resolving the impact attacks, the charging cavalry model
Wolf B
resumes its charge movement. The charging model does not
Wolf C
resume its movement if it is pushed, slammed, thrown, or
placed while it was stopped. It cannot make further impact
attacks during this charge. If the charging cavalry model did
not move at least 3 before contacting the other model, it does
not make any impact attacks and must stop its movement at
that point.

If the cavalry model chooses to make an impact attack against

its charge target, before making the attack the cavalry model
turns to face the charge target and its charge movement ends.
If the impact attack destroys the charge target, it does not
result in a failed charge.

Praetorian Ferox

ADDITIONAL MODEL RULES 79

 TYRANT RHADEIM (DISMOUNTED)
Skorne Dragoon

TYRANT RHADEIM (MOUNTED)

Skorne Dragoon

Dragoons
Dragoons are cavalry models that begin the game mounted
but can become dismounted during play.

While mounted, a dragoon is subject to all the normal cavalry

rules. Once the dragoon has become dismounted, it is no
longer a cavalry model and loses all cavalry special rules,
including its Mount weapon. A models Dragoon rule might
list special rules and additional weapons the model loses
when it becomes dismounted. Dragoons have stats with two
different base values. Use the first value while the dragoon is
mounted and the second while the dragoon is dismounted.

When a mounted dragoon suffers damage, apply that damage

to its mounted dragoon damage boxes. When all these
damage boxes are marked, the dragoon becomes dismounted
instead of disabled. Damage points in excess of the mounted
dragoons remaining unmarked damage boxes are not applied
to its dismounted damage boxes. If a dragoon is dismounted
while advancing, it cannot continue to advance; if a dragoon
becomes dismounted during its activation, its activation
ends. Remove the mounted dragoon and replace it with
the dismounted dragoon model (see Replacing Models,
p. 36). Apply effects that were on the mounted dragoon to
the dismounted dragoon. When the dismounted form replaces
the mounted form, the dismounted form is not considered to
have entered an area and does not trigger effects triggered
by entering that area. Once this replacement is complete,
any further damage the dragoon suffers will be applied to its
dismounted dragoon damage boxes. The dragoon is disabled
when all its dismounted damage boxes have been marked.

Elite Cadres
Some models confer special rules to other models of a certain
type in an army. Models that gain special rules from an Elite
Cadre rule retain them even if the model that granted those
special rules is destroyed or removed from play.

80 ADDITIONAL MODEL RULES

 TERRAIN THE BATTLEFIELD,
TERRAIN FEATURES,
& HAZARDS

The lay of the land has a tremendous impact on an armys ability to

maneuver. The most cunning commanders use terrain conditions
Terrain Features
to their best advantage. These terrain rules provide guidelines Any natural or man-made object on the battlefield is a
for establishing the effects and restrictions a battlefields objects terrain feature. Terrain features may limit visibility, restrict
and environment can exert on a game. Covering the rules for movement, grant a degree of protection, or even adversely
every possible terrain type would be an endless task, so players affect models moving through it. When placing terrain for
themselves need to determine the exact nature of each terrain a battle, players can choose to use standard terrain with a
feature on the battlefield before the game begins. defined set of qualities, custom terrain whose qualities are
established by the players before the battle, or a combination
of both. Standard terrain features include forests, patches
Placing Terrain of dense fog, piles of rubble, shallow water, sloped hills,
When placing terrain, players should strive for a visually trenches, and other hazards; these are described at the end
appealing and tactically challenging battlefield. Discuss the of this section.
terrain setup and agree on the characteristics for different
terrain features prior to deploying the armies. Decide which
terrain features grant cover or concealment, which provide
elevation, which are impassable, and so on. It is vital to
understand the rules for all terrain features in play before
the start of the game; developing the habit of discussing
terrain before the game will help you avoid unnecessary
disagreements and misunderstandings during play.

Terrain placement is a non-competitive portion of the game.

While a good player will take advantage of the terrain,
players should not strategically place terrain features in a
manner that unfairly aids or penalizes a specific army.

Use the amount of terrain that suits the type of game you
wish to play. A table with few terrain features favors ranged
attacks and swift movement, while using more terrain
features shifts the emphasis toward melee combat.

TERRAIN 81
 Custom Terrain 2) Does the Terrain Grant .
Custom terrain features enable players to tailor terrain Elevation?
for their games, allowing them to use any terrain in their Some terrain features provide elevation to models completely
collections. Because the terrain features in each players within their perimeters. Elevation can both influence what a
collection are unique and varied, the players decide the model can see and provide it with a defensive bonus against
specific qualities of each feature before starting the game. ranged and magical attacks made by models at lower elevations.
Terrain features are virtually limitless in their variety, but
Elevation is relative. When determining which terrain
you can quantify each by how it affects movement, the type
features grant elevation, players should also decide if any
of protection it affords, and how it affects visibility.
terrain features grant higher elevations than others.
If players decide to use custom terrain, discuss the terrain
prior to the start of the game and answer the following four Elevation & Line of Sight
questions for each piece of custom terrain. When determining if a model on an elevated terrain feature
has line of sight to a model on a lower elevation, ignore
1) What Type of Terrain Is It? intervening models on lower elevations except those within
A models movement can be affected by the type of ground 1 of the model the elevated model is drawing line of sight to.
it covers. A terrain features type determines how the feature
When determining if a model at a lower elevation has line of
affects the movement of models moving over it.
sight to a model on a higher elevation, the model at the lower
elevation ignores intervening models on lower elevations
Open Terrain than the model it is drawing line of sight to.
A model in open terrain moves without restriction. Generally,
most of the battlefield will be open terrain. Examples include Melee Range & Elevation
grassy plains, barren fields, flat rooftops, dirt roads, sloped
When a model makes a melee attack targeting a model on a
hillsides, elevated walkways, and paved surfaces.
different elevation, use the models volumes when determining
melee range instead of measuring from base to base.
Rough Terrain
Rough terrain can be traversed, though at a significantly Elevation Bonus
slower pace than open terrain. As long as any part of its base
An elevated model gains +2DEF against ranged and magic
is in rough terrain, a model moves at half rate. Examples
attack rolls made by models on lower elevations. Huge-based
include thick brush, rocky areas, murky bogs, forests, shallow
models never gain the DEF bonus from elevation.
water, and deep snow.

Difficult Terrain 3) Does the Terrain Grant Cover .

Difficult terrain is ground that cannot be crossed by most
or Concealment?
models. Unlike truly impassable terrain (next), difficult Some types of terrain can obscure or protect a model within
terrain is not intended to be off limits from play. or behind it by granting cover or concealment (p.50).
Decide if the terrain feature provides cover, concealment, or
When using difficult terrain, take care to make sure no neither. Objects that represent solid barriers on the battlefield
areas of the table are accessible only to models with certain like stone walls, giant boulders, and buildings provide cover,
advantages or special rules. Such locations can give an unfair features that obscure vision like thick undergrowth, hedges,
advantage to one player or, worse yet, stalemate the game. and tall grass provide concealment, and terrain like uneven
ground provide neither.
Impassable Terrain
Impassable terrain is terrain that is out of bounds and not 4) Does the Terrain Block Line .
intended for models to enter or be placed on, often because
doing so would effectively put models out of the game or
of Sight?
Some types of terrain block line of sight to models behind it.
could cause a stalemate or otherwise make play impossible.
While most obstacles operate according to the standard line
Examples of impassable terrain include decorative elements
of sight rules (p.36), others may be slightly more nuanced.
such as mountain peaks, the sheer cliff faces of a ravine,
For example, players playing with a custom piece of terrain
or tall castle walls without any means of entry or egress. A
modeling tall grass and heavy undergrowth may decide that
model cannot enter impassable terrain for any reason.
models can see up to 3 into the terrain feature but not beyond.
Other types of terrain may appear mostly solid but have large
gaps that would enable models to see through them. For
example, players may decide that the ruins of blasted wall do
not block line of sight at all regardless of their apparent height.
(See the LOS & Terrain diagram on p. 38.)
82 TERRAIN
 When drawing line of sight to or from a point within a forest,
Standard Terrain the line of sight can pass through up to 3 of forest without
being blocked; anything more blocks it. When a model outside
Features a forest attempts to draw line of sight to another point also
Standard terrain represents common terrain features players outside that forest, the forest blocks line of sight to anything
can use in their games. Instead of discussing the specific beyond it. Thus, a model can see 3 into or out of a forest but
qualities of each piece of standard terrain, players simply not completely through one regardless of how thick it is.
declare the feature is of a common type described below.
Forests do not block line of sight to huge-based models.

Dense Fog Rubble

Patches of dense fog or thick smoke limit visibility on the
Rubble represents large areas of ruined ground that provide
battlefield. Dense fog is represented by clusters of 3, 4, or 5
ample opportunities for cover but are challenging to traverse,
AOE templates. These templates are cloud effects (p.59).
such as collapsed structures and impact craters. Rubble
Fog may lift unpredictably from the battlefield at any time. is rough terrain and provides cover (p.50) to a model
At the end of each players turn, starting with the end of the completely inside its perimeter.
second players first turn, roll a d6 for each dense fog template
in play. On a roll of 1 or 2, remove that template from the table.
Hill
A hill is a terrain feature with a gentle rise or drop in
Forests elevation. A hill is open terrain, and models move up and
A forest is generally considered to be a wooded area that is down it normally. A hill provides elevation to models that are
not so dense that models cannot move through it, but these completely within its perimeter. Hills do not provide cover
rules can be applied to any terrain feature that hinders or concealment, but tall hills can block line of sight. A model
movement and makes a model inside it difficult to see. moving off of a hill does not fall or suffer falling damage.
A forest is rough terrain and provides concealment (p.50)
to a model completely inside its perimeter. Shallow Water
Shallow water is rough terrain.

TERRAIN 83
 Trenches
Trenches are earthwork fortifications represented by 3 5 TRENCHES
templates. Trench templates are designed to be placed in Strider Scouts A, B, and C are completely within the area of
contact with each other to create networks of trenches on one or more trench templates, so they have cover and do not
the table. suffer blast damage unless the origin of the damage is in a
trench template they are touching.
A model completely within one or more trench templates has
cover from attacks made by models that are not touching any Strider Scouts D and E are not completely within the area of
of the trench templates the model is in. Models completely at least one trench template, so they do not gain the benefits
within one or more trench templates do not suffer blast of being within the trench.
damage unless the origin of damage is in a trench template
they are touching. When drawing line of sight to a model not
completely within one or more trench templates, ignore models
that are completely within one or more trench templates.

Obstacles
An obstacle is a physical barrier on the table up to 1 tall, such
as a wall, hedge, or standing ruin. A non-charging advancing B
A
model can cross an obstacle if it has enough movement to
move completely past the obstacle. Otherwise, the model C
must stop short of the obstacle. A charging model stops its
movement if it contacts an obstacle. A model cannot partially
cross, climb on, or stand atop an obstacle. E
D
A model with any portion of its base obscured from its
attacker by an obstacle gains +2DEF against melee attack
rolls and may gain a DEF bonus against ranged or magical
attacks for concealment or cover depending on the nature of
the terrain (p.82).

When resolving a slam or throw, remember to add an

additional die to the damage roll when the slammed (p.34)
or thrown (p.35) model contacts an obstacle.

Obstruction

Obstacle Hill
Forest

Rubble
Dense Fog
Shallow Water

Trench

84
 Acid Bath Burning Earth

Obstructions An acid bath is shallow water. A model without Flight

entering or ending its activation within an acid bath suffers
An obstruction is a terrain feature 1 tall or greatersuch as
the Corrosion continuous effect (p.60). A model with
a high wall or a gigantic boulderthat cannot be climbed
Flight that is knocked down within the acid bath also
upon. Obstructions are difficult terrain. Only models with
suffers the Corrosion continuous effect .
Flight or Incorporeal can move through obstructions.

A model with any portion of its base obscured from its Burning Earth
attacker by an obstruction gains +2DEF against melee attack Burning earth represents fires raging on the tabletop. Flames
rolls and may gain a DEF bonus against ranged and magical can be represented by one or more 3 AOE templates or can
attacks for concealment or cover depending on the nature of affect another terrain feature, such as the area of a forest
the terrain (p.82). or structure. For example, a burning oil slick could be
When resolving a slam or throw, remember to add an represented by burning shallow water (p.83).
additional die to the damage roll when the slammed (p.34) A model without Flight entering or ending its activation
or thrown (p.35) model contacts an obstruction. within a burning earth terrain feature suffers the Fire
continuous effect (p.60). A model with Flight that
Terraced Obstructions is knocked down within the area of a burning earth terrain
Players may decide that an obstruction is wide and accessible feature also suffers the Fire continuous effect . Burning
enough that models can climb on it, allowing models to move earth terrain features are cloud effects (p.59).
up and down it normally. A terraced obstruction provides
Flames can go out unpredictably at any time. At the end
elevation to models that are completely within its perimeter.
of each players turn, starting with the end of the second
Terraced obstructions provide cover to models behind them
players first turn, roll a d6 for each burning template in
but not to models on top of them.
play. On a 1 or 2, the flames go out and the area is no longer
A models base size can limit which terraced obstructions it considered to be on fire. If the burning earth terrain feature
can climb. A model cannot climb onto a terraced obstruction if was represented by a 3 AOE template, that template is
its base would hang off the terrain feature by more than 1. For removed from the table.
example, a huge-based model cannot climb onto a terraced
obstruction that is only 1 wide because doing so would result
in its base overhanging the edge by more than 1. Variably Sized Terrain
Hazards Features
Terrain features can have some parts that are greater than 1 tall
Hazards are dangerous terrain features that wreak havoc with and some parts that are less, such as a crumbling wall. In such
models entering or ending their activations within them. cases players decide before the start of the game whether they
are treating the terrain feature as an obstacle, an obstruction,
Acid Bath or both. If they are treating it as both, the parts up to 1 tall are
An acid bath is a caustic pool of industrial waste, alchemical obstacles and the parts over 1 tall are obstructions.
sludge, or corrosive acid. An acid bath can be represented by
3, 4, or 5 AOE templates or by another piece of terrain that
simulates a pool.
TERRAIN 85
 SCENARIOS
VARIATIONS OF GAMEPLAY

There are as many reasons for war as there are wars

themselves. Sides seldom clash only to eliminate one another.
A battle could be a skirmish over boundaries, a fight over
resources, or an attempt to hold important strategic ground,
but establishing a context for your conflicts can greatly
enhance your HORDES gaming experiences.

Here you will find nine ready-to-play scenarios. Each occurs

on a balanced playing field, one that does not grant any specific
advantage to a particular side. You and your opponent can
either agree on a scenario to play or determine one randomly
by rolling on the table below. Decide what scenario you will
play before building your armies or placing terrain. Some
scenarios restrict terrain placement in various ways.

Each scenario provides special rules that describe how to

handle its unique circumstances. The following scenarios can
be played at any encounter level (p.22) and are intended
to be played on a 4 4 table with a fair amount of terrain.

Determine deployment and turn order with a starting roll as

normal (p.26) unless otherwise noted.

86 SCENARIOS
Flags Annihilation
Some scenarios use flags to mark key positions on the
Annihilation is a brutal battle of attrition in which victory
battlefield. Flags are represented on the table with 40 mm
is determined by the number of casualties inflicted upon
flag markers. The flag is not considered a model or terrain.
the enemy.
A model can move through a flag normally as long as it has
enough movement to move completely past it; otherwise, the
model must stop short of the flag.
Special Rules
Players deploy normally. The game ends after six rounds.
A player who has one or more of his models in base contact Throughout the game, players score points equal to the army
with a flag that is not contested controls that flag. A flag is point value of their opponents models that are destroyed
contested if an opponent controls a model within 4 of it. A or removed from play. Points are scored even if a destroyed
model that is wild, inert, or out of formation cannot contest model is later returned to play. For units, points are scored
or control a flag. only when all the models in the unit are destroyed or
removed from play.
Zones
Some scenarios use zones to mark key areas on the battlefield. Victory Conditions
A player controls a zone if one or more of his models are The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
within a zone that is not contested. A zone is contested if remaining in play wins the game.
your opponent controls one or more models within it. A
At the end of six rounds, if both players still have one or
model that is wild, inert, or out of formation cannot contest
more warcasters/warlocks in play, the player who scored the
or control a zone.
most points during the game wins.

RANDOM SCENARIO
DETERMINATION
If both players agree, instead of choosing a scenario for your
battle, you can roll 2d6 and play the scenario indicated here.

ROLL RESULT

23 Incoming

4 Annihilation

5 Seek and Destroy

6 Throw Down
10 Player 2
7 Mosh Pit Deployment

8 Close Quarters

9 Hold the Line

10 Outflank

1112 Reinforcements

Player 1
7 Deployment

SCENARIOS 87
 Close Quarters Hold the Line
Close Quarters is a brutal struggle for control over the Hold the Line is a desperate struggle between two armies
battlefield in which only a decisive victory can carry the day. to seize control of the battlefield, either by entrenching
themselves on the centerline or by inflicting crippling losses
Special Rules on the enemy.
Before the start of the game, place two flags on the table. The
first flag is centered 21 forward from the first players table Special Rules
edge and 18 from the table edge to that players right. The Before the start of the game, place three flags in the middle
second flag is centered 21 forward from the second players of the table: one at the center and one 12 from the right and
table edge and 18 from the table edge to that players right. left table edges. Do not place any terrain features within 5 of
Do not place any terrain features within 5 of a flag that a flag that would prevent a model from being in base contact
would prevent a model from being in base contact with the with the flag. Starting on the second players second turn, a
flag. Starting on the second players second turn, a player player scores 1 control point for each flag he controls at the
scores 1 control point for each flag he controls at the end of end of his turn.
his turn.
Players deploy normally.
Players deploy normally.
Victory Conditions
Victory Conditions The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s) remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon
remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon scoring 5 or more control points.
scoring 4 or more control points.

10 Player 2 10 Player 2
Deployment Deployment

21

18
12 12
18

21

Player 1 Player 1
7 Deployment 7 Deployment

88 SCENARIOS
 Incoming Mosh Pit
The key to victory in this pitched battle, with artillery raining The rhythm of warfare often leads to decisive moments as
down on all sides, is to hold the field. enemy lines are crossed or territories lost. Mosh Pit is a bitter,
disorganized brawl in the center of the battlefield in which
Special Rules the only way to victory is to seize the initiative and never
Before the start of the game, mark one 12-diameter control back down.
zone centered in the middle of the table. When placing terrain,
do not place any obstructions within this area. Starting on the Special Rules
second players second turn, a player scores 1 control point if Before the start of the game, mark a 12-diameter control zone
he controls the zone at the end of his turn. centered in the middle of the table. When placing terrain, do
not place any obstructions within the control zone. Starting
Players deploy normally.
on the second players second turn, a player scores 1 control
Starting at the beginning of round 2, the battlefield will be point if he controls the zone at the end of his turn.
continuously bombarded with artillery fire. At the start of
Players deploy normally.
each turn from then on, each player will choose a point on
the table outside the control zone for a bombardment blast
to deviate from. The bombardments then deviate 2d6 from
Victory Conditions
these points in a direction determined by the deviation The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
template. Direction 4 on the deviation template should remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon
be pointed toward the rear edge of the rolling players scoring 3 control points.
deployment zone. Center a 4 AOE on the point of impact.
Models hit suffer a POW10 ranged attack blast damage roll.

Victory Conditions
The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon
scoring 3 control points.

10 Player 2 10 Player 2
Deployment Deployment

12 12
Control Control
Zone Zone

Player 1 Player 1
7 Deployment 7 Deployment

SCENARIOS 89
 Outflank Reinforcements
With each force seeking advantage over the other, two great Sometimes the battle turns on the actions of the warlock and
armies wheel about each other at the start of battle. his battlegroup, at least until reinforcements can arrive.

Special Rules Special Rules

Before the start of the game, place two flags on the table. Before the start of the game, mark one 12-diameter control
Center the first 21 forward from the first players table edge zone centered in the middle of the table. When placing terrain,
and 18 from the table edge to that players right. Center the do not place any obstructions within the control zone. Starting
second 21 forward from the second players table edge and on the second players second turn, a player scores 1 control
18 from the table edge to that players right. Do not place point if he controls the zone at the end of his turn.
any terrain features within 5 of a flag that would prevent
Players deploy normally; however, at the start of the game
a model from being in base contact with the flag. Starting
each player must nominate two non-warcaster models or
on the second players second turn, a player scores 1 control
units to act as reinforcements. Reinforcement models/units
point for each flag he controls at the end of his turn.
must have a point cost of at least 5. At the start of each of his
Each player has two deployment zones: a 10 x 24 primary turns after the first, a player has the option to put up to one
deployment zone centered on the rear edge of that players side of his reinforcement models/units into play. Reinforcement
of the table and a 4 x 12 secondary deployment zone centered models must be placed completely with 8 of the rear table
along the table edge to that players right. Each player must edge of his deployment zone. Reinforcement models lose
deploy a single non-warcaster, non-huge-based model or unit in Advance Deployment and Ambush.
their secondary deployment zone. Models and units deployed
in a secondary deployment zone lose Advance Deployment. Victory Conditions
Models and units lose Ambush when playing this scenario. The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon
Victory Conditions scoring 3 control points.

The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)

remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon
Note
scoring 4 or more control points. This scenario is not appropriate for very small-scale games
with only a handful of models in each players army. If you
Note decide to play this scenario, plan accordingly.

This scenario is not appropriate for very small-scale games

with only a handful of models in each players army. If you
decide to play this scenario, plan accordingly.

Player 2
10 Player 2
Deployment Deployment
10 24

21

18 Secondary
Deployment
Secondary 4 12 12
Deployment Control
4 12 18 Zone

21

Player 1
Deployment Player 1
10 24 7 Deployment

90 SCENARIOS
 Seek & Destroy Throw Down
Two opposed armies clash over control of the battlefield. Armies desperately clash across the muddy, blood-drenched
field to secure two points of vital strategic importance. Each
Special Rules side strives to gain supremacy while trying to manage their
Place five flags on the table: one centered in the middle of the divided forces.
table and each of the remaining four centered 18 from the
middle of the table toward a different table corner. Do not place Special Rules
any terrain features within 5 of a flag that would prevent a Before the start of the game, mark two 12-diameter control
model from being in base contact with the flag. Starting on the zones on the centerline of the table, one centered 14 from the
first players second turn, a player scores 1 control point for each left table edge and one centered 14 from the right table edge.
flag he controls at the end of his turn. A player can score a control When placing terrain, do not place any obstructions within
point for each flag only once. these areas. Starting on the second players second turn, a
player scores 1 control point for each zone he controls at the
Players deploy normally.
end of his turn.

Victory Conditions Players deploy normally.

The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon Victory Conditions
scoring a control point from all five flags. The player controlling the last warcaster(s)/warlock(s)
remaining in play wins the game. A player also wins upon
scoring 5 or more control points.

10 Player 2 10 Player 2
Deployment Deployment

14 14

18 18

12 12
Control Control
Zone Zone
18 18

Player 1 Player 1
7 Deployment 7 Deployment

SCENARIOS 91
 WARMACHINE
REMOVED FROM THE WILDS OF IMMOREN,
MONSTERS OF METAL AND STEAM REIGN SUPREME.
HORDES is fully compatible with WARMACHINE, a In game terms, warcasters differ from warlocks in many
32mm tabletop miniatures game set in the Iron Kingdoms ways. Instead of leeching fury from warbeasts to fuel their
and focused on the nations that shaped western Immoren. magic, warcasters draw on their own innate reserve of arcane
WARMACHINE features powerful soldier-sorcerers known power called focus. Warcasters cannot transfer damage from
as warcasters who possess formidable arcane talents, themselves to members of their battlegroup, but they take to
including the ability to mentally control the massive steam- the field wearing steam-powered, arcantrikally tuned armor.
powered machines of war known as warjacks. An impressive fusion of magic and technology, warcaster armor
can be charged with the warcasters own power to absorb
The gameplay is similar to HORDES, but there are some
incoming damage. Finally, warcasters can use their focus for
key differences. In WARMACHINE, warcasters rather than
more than just casting spells or absorbing damage. They can
warlocks lead armies, and a warcasters battlegroup is made
also use it to enhance the combat efficiency and effectiveness of
up of warjacks rather than warbeasts. Masters of martial
their warjacks, making focus a flexible and vital resource.
combat as well as spellcraft, warcasters can channel their
arcane abilities into the warjacks they control to make the Warbeasts battle warjacks, and warlocks clash with
machines nearly unstoppable. In addition, a warcasters warcasters, but HORDES and WARMACHINE are two sides
army often includes supporting units of soldiers and other of the same coin. All official Privateer Press organized play
combatants, their combined might a match for any army in and events are open to armies of either game. So when youre
western Immoren. ready to feel the power of technology fused with magic
and the might of hulking mechanikal constructs, check out
WARMACHINE and gear up for action!

IRONCLAD
Heavy Warjack

MAJOR BETH MADDOX

Warcaster

CASTIGATOR
Heavy Warjack
MALEKUS,
THE BURNING TRUTH
Warcaster

92 WARMACHINE
 LORD KOZLOV, JUGGERNAUT
VISCOUNT OF SCARSGRAD Heavy Warjack
Warcaster

BANE WITCH AGATHIA

Warcaster

SLAYER
Heavy Warjack

MANTICORE
Heavy Warjack

MAGISTER HELYNNA
Warcaster

WARMACHINE 93
 APPENDIX A:
TIMING
STEP-BY-STEP ATTACKS, DAMAGE & ACTIVATIONS
Every triggered special rule or effect has conditions dictating
when it begins and ends. Situations in which multiple effects
resolve at the same time are not uncommon, and the following
tables help explain the order in which effects resolve. In most
cases the sequence shown here is more detailed than you will
need. Remember, when they apply, the rules of individual
models take precedence over the timing sequence.

Activation Timing
1. Resolve effects that occur at the start of activation,
including the unit commander issuing an order to its unit.
2. Resolve all required forfeitures of Normal Movement
and Combat Action. You cannot use at any time
abilities or forfeit your Normal Movement or Combat
Action voluntarily before this step is resolved.
3. Resolve effects that occur before Normal Movement.
4. The model makes its Normal Movement.
5. Resolve effects that occur at the end of Normal
Movement.
6. If activating a unit, repeat steps 4 and 5 for each
trooper, then resolve effects that occur at the end of the
units Normal Movement.
7. The model makes its Combat Action.
8. Resolve effects that occur at the end of a models
Combat Action.
9. If activating a unit, repeat steps 7 and 8 for each
trooper, then resolve effects that occur at the end of the
units Combat Action.

Spellcasting Sequence
Models cannot use at any time abilities while resolving the
spellcasting sequence or while resolving triggered effects.

1. Declare the spell being used and pay its COST (by
spending focus or fury, being forced to use an animus,
using the model's combat action to perform a special
action, etc.).
2. Declare the spells target.
3. Resolve effects that occur when a model is targeted by
a spell.
4. If the spell is not an Offensive spell, check the range
to the target. If the target is in range, it is affected by
the spell. If the spell is an Offensive spell, resolve the
spell using the Attack Sequence timing beginning with
"Check range to the target."
5. If the spell is not an Offensive spell, the spell is now
resolved. If the spell is an Offensive spell, it is resolved
when you reach "The attack is now resolved" during
94 APPENDIX A: TIMING the Attack Sequence timing.
Attack Sequence
Models cannot use at any time abilities while resolving the c. Resolve effects that remove dice from the roll.
attack sequence or while resolving triggered effects, including d. Determine if the roll would damage the model.
between new attacks triggered by the previous attack.
e. Resolve effects that cause the damage roll to
1. Declare the attack and its target. be rerolled. Return to step b if needed. When
2. Resolve effects that occur when a model is targeted by returning to step b, add all dice removed in
an attack. step c back to the roll.

3. Check the range to the target. If the target is out of f. Resolve effects triggered by a damage roll
range, the attack automatically misses; do not make that fails to exceed the ARM of a model hit.
any attack rolls, and go to step 6. g. Resolve effects that trigger when a model
4. Resolve effects that cause an attack to hit or miss would suffer damage such as damage
automatically. transference.

5. Make all attack rolls as dictated by the type of attack 10. Apply all damage.
and its special rules. For example, a spray attack or
Thresher special attack must go through the attack
roll sequence for each model potentially hit before
Damage Application
proceeding to step 6. If an attack damaged more than one model, choose
one model, follow the damage application sequence
Attack Roll below, then repeat for each other damaged model.

a. Resolve effects that change the number of a. Resolve effects triggered by a model
dice rolled, such as boosting the roll. suffering damage.

b. Roll the dice. b. If all of a models damage boxes are marked,

the model is disabled. Resolve effects
c. Resolve effects that remove dice from the roll.
triggered by the model becoming disabled.
d. Determine if the model would be hit or
c. If the model is still disabled, it becomes
missed by the attack roll against it.
boxed. Resolve effects triggered by the
e. Resolve effects that cause the attack roll to model becoming boxed.
be rerolled. Return to step b if needed. When
d. If the model is still boxed, it is destroyed.
returning to step b, add all dice removed in
Resolved effects triggered by a model being
step c back to the roll.
destroyed.
6. Resolve effects that cause the attack to automatically e. Remove the destroyed model from the table,
hit a model other than the target. then return to the main sequence.
7. Resolve the AOE hit or deviation. All models within
11. The attack is now resolved.
the AOE at its final position are now hit by it.
12. Resolve active player effects that trigger after the
8. Resolve all other effects triggered by hitting or
attack is resolved that do not involve making another
missing.
attack.
9. Make all damage rolls resulting from the attack.
13. Resolve all inactive player effects that trigger after
the attack is resolved.
Damage Roll 14. Resolve active player effects that trigger after the
a. Resolve effects that change the number of attack is resolved that involve making an attack.
dice rolled, such as boosting the roll.
b. Roll the dice.

APPENDIX A: TIMING 95
 APPENDIX B:
WARMACHINE RULES
WARCASTERS, WARJACKS, 'JACK MARSHALS & MERCENARIES

Fully compatible with the monstrous miniatures combat of Warjack Special Rules
HORDES, WARMACHINE is set in the industrial nations All warjacks are independent models and have the following
of the Iron Kingdoms. This allows players to pit their forces special rules in common.
against each other in epic battles of machines versus beasts.

WARMACHINE players take on the role of elite soldier- Cortex

sorcerers known as warcasters, who control and coordinate Warjacks can gain focus. A warjack can have no more than 3
mighty warjacksmassive magic- and steam-powered focus points at any time. Unless otherwise stated, a warjack can
combat automatons that are the pinnacle of military might spend focus only during its activation. This model cannot gain
in the Iron Kingdoms. When they take the field, the very or spend focus while its Cortex system is crippled (p. 98).
earth shakes as enormous constructs of iron and steel slam
into each other with cataclysmic force, lead-spewing cannons Damage Grid
chew through armor plating as easily as flesh, and bold Warjacks have damage grids (see Recording Warjack
heroes set the battlefield ablaze with a tempest of arcane Damage, p. 97). A warjack is not destroyed until all the
might to forge the fates of their unyielding nations. boxes in its damage grid are marked.

This section provides the basic rules for using the models
Focus: Additional Attack
representing these great military powers in swift and brutal
A warjack can spend focus to make additional melee attacks
conflict. This is steam-powered miniatures combat, and your
as part of its Combat Action (p.50). It can make one
tabletop will never be the same!
additional attack for each focus point spent. Some models
have special rules that enable them to also spend focus points
Warjacks to make additional ranged attacks.
Warjacks represent the pinnacle of military technology in the
Iron Kingdoms and are the greatest assets in a warcasters Focus: Boost
arsenal. They are equipped with a broad variety of melee A warjack can spend 1 focus point to boost any of its attack
and ranged weaponry and embody the strengths of their rolls or damage rolls during its activation. Add an extra die
respective Factions. A single warjack can annihilate dozens to the boosted roll. Boosting must be declared before rolling
of warriors, and several warjacks working together comprise any dice for the roll. Remember, a particular roll can be
a threat no enemy can ignore. boosted only once, but a warjack can boost as many different
rolls as you choose and can afford.
Warjacks are classified according to base size: a light warjack
has a medium base (40 mm), a heavy warjack has a large base
Focus: Run or Charge
(50 mm), and a colossal has a huge base (120 mm). Each
A warjack must spend 1 focus point in order to use its Normal
warjack is an independent model even though it is assigned
Movement to run or charge.
to a specific battlegroup.

96 APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES

Focus: Shake Effect marshal reactivates an inert colossal, the colossal becomes
During your Control Phase after allocating focus, a warjack autonomous (p.99) instead of coming under the jack
can spend focus points for the following: marshals control.

If the warjack is knocked down, it can spend 1 focus Your opponent can never take control of your colossal.
point to stand up.
Colossal Movement
If the warjack is stationary, it can spend 1 focus point to
A colossal can advance only during its Normal Movement. A
cause the stationary status to expire.
colossal can never be placed.
If the warjack is suffering an effect like Blind or Shadow
Bind that can be shaken, it can spend 1 focus point to Great Machine
cause the effect to expire. A colossal never suffers Disruption . A colossal can never
gain Advance Deployment , Incorporeal , or Stealth .
Machine
Warjacks do not have a CMD stat or a command range. Massive
A colossal cannot be pushed, knocked down, or made
Power Attacks
stationary. A colossal cannot be moved by a slam or throw.
Warjacks can make power attacks as follows:

A light warjack can make head-butt and slam power Ranged Attacks While in Melee
attacks. A light warjack with at least one non-crippled A colossal can make ranged attacks while in melee.
melee weapon that has Open Fist weapon quality can
make throw power attacks. Recording Warjack Damage
A heavy warjack can make head-butt, slam, and trample Some models, such as warjacks, have damage grids
power attacks. A heavy warjack with at least one non- consisting of six columns of damage boxes labeled with
crippled melee weapon that has the Open Fist weapon the numbers 1 through 6. Different damage grids might
quality can make throw power attacks. be slightly different in shape and the number of damage
boxes, but they function the same way. When a model with
A colossal can make head-butt, slam, and trample power
a damage grid suffers damage, roll a d6 to determine which
attacks. A colossal with at least one non-crippled melee
column takes the damage. Starting with the uppermost
weapon that has a location of L or R can make sweep
unmarked box in that column and working down, mark one
power attacks. A colossal with at least one non-crippled
damage box per damage point taken. Once a column is full,
melee weapon that has the Open Fist weapon quality
continue recording damage in the next column to the right
can make power strike and throw power attacks.
that contains an unmarked damage box. If all the damage
To make a power attack, a warjack must spend 1 focus point. boxes in column 6 are marked, continue recording damage
See Power Attacks on p.58 for full power attack rules. in column 1 or the next column that contains an unmarked
damage box. Continue filling columns as required until every
Weapon Location damage point taken has been recorded.
A warjacks weapon stat bars indicate where its weapons are
When a rule specifically states a model suffers damage to the
located: left arm (L), right arm (R), head (H), or superstructure
first box of a given system (see Warjack Damage Key
(S). When all the system boxes for a location have been
callout, p. 98), find the lowest numbered column on the
damaged, the system is crippled (p.98). A weapon that is
models card that has an unmarked damage box for that
not in one of these locations is marked with .
system. Within that column, mark the uppermost unmarked
damage box of that system.
Colossals
Colossals are the largest and most powerful warjacks ever
to stride the battlefield. As a result of their great size and
raw power, there are a number of special rules that apply to
colossals but not to smaller warjacks.

A colossal is a huge-based (120mm) warjack.

Controlling a Colossal
Colossals must be assigned to a battlegroup and cannot
begin the game under the control of a jack marshal (p. 102). The first unmarked Cortex system box
A colossal can never be controlled by a jack marshal. If a jack

APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES 97

 Crippling Systems Damaging a Colossal
When a model with systems, like a warjack, suffers damage, The huge-based warjacks known as colossals have two
individual systems critical to its combat performance can damage gridsright and leftbut otherwise suffer damage
be hindered or crippled. Blank damage boxes represent a like a smaller warjack.
warjacks hull. The hull is not a system. Beneath the hull are
When a colossal is damaged, the damage grid to be marked
the models vital systems, represented by system boxes. Each
is determined by the origin of the damage suffered (see
of these boxes is labeled with a letter designating the system it
Point of Impact & Origin of Damage, p.67). If the origin
supports. System boxes are still damage boxes; when recording
of damage is in the colossals right field of fire, the attack
damage, mark both blank boxes and those containing system
will damage the colossals right damage grid. If the origin of
labels to record the correct amount of damage. While all the
damage is within the colossals left field of fire, the attack will
boxes corresponding to a system are marked, the system is
damage the colossals left damage grid.
crippled. The effects of crippled systems are as follows:
If the colossal suffers damage from an attack and the attacker
Crippled Arc Node: The model loses the Arc Node
is completely within the colossals back arc or any part of the
advantage.
attackers base is directly in front of the colossal, the attacker
Crippled Cortex: The model loses any focus points on it chooses which damage grid takes the damage. If the origin
and cannot gain or spend focus points for any reason. of damage is in the colossals back arc or directly in front of
Crippled Movement: The model has its base DEF changed the colossal and the source of the damage was not an attack,
to 5. It cannot run, charge, or make slam or trample power randomize which damage grid takes the damage.
attacks. A model that has its Movement system crippled When a colossal suffers damage without a point of origin,
while advancing as part of a charge or slam power attack such as from a continuous effect, roll a d6 to determine which
immediately stops advancing, and its activation ends. damage grid takes the damage. On a 1, 2, or 3 the damage is
Crippled Field Generator: A model with a crippled Field marked on the colossals left damage grid. On a 4, 5, or 6 the
Generator cannot spend focus points to remove damage damage is marked on the colossals right damage grid.
from its force field damage track (below).
Once the damage grid taking the damage has been
Crippled Arm or Head Weapon System: The model rolls one determined, randomize which column takes the damage.
fewer die on the attack and damage rolls with weapons
If all the damage boxes in column 6 of a colossals damage
in the crippled location. Additionally, a model cannot use
grid are filled, continue recording damage in column 1 (or, if
weapons in a crippled location to make power attacks
column 1 is filled, the next column of that grid that contains an
or special attacks. A model cannot make a chain attack or
unmarked damage box). If all the damage boxes in a colossals
combo special attack, such as Combo Smite or Combo
grid are filled, continue recording damage on the other grid.
Strike, while either of the weapon systems with the special
Roll a d6 to determine where to apply this damage.
rule is crippled. If a weapon in the crippled location has the
Buckler or Shield weapon quality, the model loses the Note that on a colossal, the L and R system locations refer not
ARM bonus for that quality while the location is crippled. to just the arm on that side but to the entire suite of weapons on
If 1 or more damage points are removed from a crippled that side. For example, if the R system is crippled, all weapons
system, the system is no longer crippled. in location R suffer the effects under Crippled Weapon. Some
colossals also have an S system, or superstructure. In addition
to any effects of a crippled superstructure listed in a colossals
WARJACK DAMAGE KEY rules, all weapons in location S suffer the effects under
On a warjacks damage grid, the following letters represent the Crippled Weapon when the S system is crippled.
warjacks systems:
Force Fields
A: Arc Node H: Head weapon system
C: Cortex L: Left Arm weapon system Some models, notably the Retribution warjacks produced
by House Shyeel, have two damage tracks: a set of boxes
M: Movement R: Right Arm weapon system
representing their force fields and another representing
G: Field Generator
their damage grids. Mark the field boxes before marking the
Some Factions in WARMACHINE have additional types of
damage grids.
warjack systems. For example, the warjacks in the Convergence
of Cyriss and have the Interface Node system (I). Colossals EXAMPLE: When damage is dealt to column 2, mark
have a Superstructure (S) system due to their immense size damage first in the force field boxes and then in column
and the complexity of some of their unique systems. 2 if the force field is filled (even if the column was chosen
by the attacker as a result of a special rule such as a
Widowmaker Scouts Marksman rule).

98 APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES

 LOCATION &
ATTACKING Winter Guard Infantry
A COLOSSAL Destroyer
Winter Guard Infantry models A, B, C, and
D are in the Stormwalls left field of fire,
A Butcher
so any damage they do to the colossal is
recorded on its left damage grid.

The Destroyer is in the Stormwalls

right field of fire, so any damage it does B
to the colossal is recorded on its right
damage grid.

Part of Orsus Zoktavir, the Butcher of C

Khadovs base is directly in front of
the Stormwall, so if it damages the
colossal, the Butcher chooses which
of the Stormwalls damage grids takes D
the damage.

Winter Guard trooper E is completely

within the Stormwalls back arc, so if E
it damages the colossal, Winter Guard
E chooses which of the Stormwalls Stormwall
damage grids takes the damage.

Fields & Simultaneous Damage Autonomous Warjacks

When damage is dealt simultaneously to each column, An autonomous warjack is a warjack that does not have a
mark damage to the force field boxes first (damage from the controller and is not part of a battlegroup. A warjack becomes
first column, damage from the second column, and so on). autonomous when its controlling jack marshal (p. 102) is
If all of the fields boxes are filled, mark remaining damage destroyed or removed from play or while its controller is
to the last columns. under an opponents control.
EXAMPLE: Gorten Grundback hits a warjack with a force field An autonomous warjack acts normally but does not gain the
with his Molten Metal spell. That spell deals 1 point of damage benefits of being marshaled or being part of a battlegroup.
to each column on the warjacks damage grid; the damage
A warjack must have a controller at the start of the game. A
grid has six columns, so the spell deals 6 damage points. If
warjack cannot begin the game autonomous.
the warjack has three unmarked force field boxes remaining,
the damage points that would otherwise be marked in the A friendly Faction model with the Battlegroup Commander
first three columns are marked in the force field instead. The special rule, such as a warcaster, or a friendly Faction model
remaining 3 damage points are assigned to columns 4, 5, and 6. with Jack Marshal can take control of an autonomous
Damage to a specific system is marked in that system; in this warjack. A jack marshal that is already controlling a warjack
case, the force field is ignored. cannot take control of an autonomous warjack.

EXAMPLE: If a warjack with a force field is hit by a To take control of an autonomous warjack, a friendly Faction
Lancers Shock Shield attack, the warjack hit suffers 1 model with the Battlegroup Commander special rule must
damage point to its first available Cortex system box. This spend 1 focus point during its activation while base-to-base
damage is applied to an unmarked Cortex system box, not with the warjack. A jack marshal can take control of an
to the warjacks force field. autonomous friendly Faction warjack during its activation
by forfeiting its Combat Action while base-to-base with the
Removing Field Damage warjack. If the model taking control of the warjack has the
Once per turn during its activation, a model with a force Battlegroup Commander special rule, the warjack becomes a
field can spend 1 focus point to remove d3 + 1 damage part of its battlegroup.
points from its force field damage track unless its Field
Generator (G) system is crippled.

APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES 99

 Warcasters Feat
Like a warlock, each warcaster has a unique feat. Using a
Warcasters are the most powerful models in WARMACHINE.
warcasters feat follows the same rules as for a warlock.
They are highly trained combat arcanists as effective in martial
combat as when wielding magical forces. A warcasters greatest Focus Manipulation
function on the battlefield, however, is controlling warjacks. This model has a Focus stat (FOCUS). During your Control Phase,
Battles can be won or lost purely by how well a player this model replenishes its focus points so that it has a number
manages his warcasters focus, the magical energy that lets equal to its current FOCUS. To replenish focus, a model gains
him control warjacks and cast spells. Often a player must focus points so that it has a number equal to its current FOCUS.
decide between casting a spell and allocating focus to the This model begins the game with a number of focus points equal
warjacks in its battlegroupand that choice can easily make to its FOCUS. Unless otherwise stated, a model can spend focus
the difference between victory and defeat. points only during its activation.

A model with the Focus Manipulation special rule has a

Warcaster Special Rules control range and can spend its focus points for additional
All warcasters are independent models and have the melee attacks, to boost attack and damage rolls, and to shake
following special rules in common. some effects. During its controllers Maintenance Phase,
a model with the Focus Manipulation special rule loses all
Battlegroup Commander focus points in excess of its Focus stat.
This model can control a group of warjacks. This model
Control Range
and the jacks it controls are collectively referred to as a
battlegroup. This model can allocate focus points to warjacks A model with the Focus Manipulation special rule has a
in its battlegroup and can channel spells (p. 91) through control range, a circular area centered on the model with a
warjacks in its battlegroup with the Arc Node advantage. radius that extends out from the edge of its base a number of
inches equal to twice its current FOCUS. When a special rule
Only friendly models can be part of a battlegroup. If a rule changes a models current FOCUS, its control range changes
causes a jack to become an enemy model, it is not part of its accordingly. Some spells and feats use the control range,
original battlegroup while that rule is in effect. noted as CTRL, as their range or area of effect. A model is
If an effect causes a battlegroup commander to fall under always considered to be in its own control range.
your opponents control, while the model is controlled by A warjack must be in its battlegroup commanders control
your opponent the warjacks in its battlegroup remain under range to power up, to be allocated focus points from the
your control and become autonomous (p. 99). If you regain warcaster, or to channel spells (p.91).
control of the battlegroup commander, it resumes control of
the warjacks in its battlegroup unless some other model has Focus: Additional Attack
already taken control of them. A model with the Focus Manipulation special rule can
spend focus points to make additional melee attacks as part
Power Up of its Combat Action (p.50). It can make one additional
Warjacks are empowered by the mere presence of their attack for each focus point spent. Some models have special
controlling warcaster on the battlefield. During the Control rules that enable them to also spend focus points to make
Phase, each warjack with a functional cortex in a battlegroup additional ranged attacks.
that is in its controllers control range gains 1 focus point.
Remember, a warjack cannot have more than 3 focus points Focus: Boost
at any time. A model with the Focus Manipulation special rule can spend
1 focus point to boost any of its attack or damage rolls during
Allocating Focus Points its activation.
In addition to focus points gained from powering up, a battlegroup
Focus: Shake Effect
commander can allocate additional focus points to the warjacks in
its battlegroup during your Control Phase. A warjack must be in During your Control Phase after allocating focus, a model
its battlegroup commanders control range to be allocated focus, with the Focus Manipulation special rule can spend focus
though it need not be in its line of sight. Remember, a warjack points for the following:
cannot have more than 3 focus points at any time and a warjack If this model is knocked down (p. 75), it can spend 1
with a crippled cortex cannot be allocated focus. focus point to stand up.
A battlegroup commander cannot allocate focus points to If this model is stationary (p. 75), it can spend 1 focus
warjacks in another models battlegroup, even if they are point to cause the stationary status to expire.
both part of the same army. If this model is suffering an effect like Blind or Shadow
Bind that can be shaken, it can spend 1 focus point to
100 APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES cause the effect to expire.
Power Field Warcaster Destruction
Warcaster armor is perhaps the most sophisticated blend When a model with the Battlegroup Commander special rule
of magic and mechanics to be found anywhere. Besides its is destroyed or removed from the table, the warjacks in its
seemingly impossible strength, this armor creates a magical battlegroup become inert. Additionally, all upkeep spells cast
field to surround and protect the warcaster from damage that by that model expire (p.90).
would rend a normal individual to pieces.
In many cases, the loss of a warcaster heralds the end of the
At any time during its activation, this model can spend focus battle. If the game does not end with the warcasters loss,
points to remove damage it has suffered. For each focus point though, other warcasters or jack marshals can reactivate the
spent this way, this model can remove 1 damage point. inert warjacks.

Reinforcing the Power Field Inert Warjacks

When a model with the Power Field special rule would suffer When a warjack goes inert, it loses any focus points it had,
damage, it can immediately spend up to 1 focus point to and while it is inert it cannot gain focus points. An inert
reduce the damage it would suffer by 5. The model is still warjack cannot activate and does not have a melee range.
considered to have suffered damage even if the damage is It cannot engage or be engaged by other models. A model is
reduced to 0 or less. Excess damage prevention is lost. never in melee with an inert warjack. An inert warjack has
EXAMPLE: Captain Victoria Haley has 2 focus points left
no facing, cannot advance or make attacks, and does not gain
and is hit by an attack that deals her 13 damage. She can an ARM bonus for shields or bucklers. Abilities that cannot
spend 1 focus point to reduce the damage she suffers to 8. be used while a model is stationary cannot be used while
a warjack is inert. A melee attack targeting an inert warjack
EXAMPLE: The High Reclaimer has 1 focus point left and
automatically hits. An inert warjack has a base DEF of 5.
is hit by an attack that deals him 4 damage. He can spend
his focus point to reduce the damage to 0. An inert warjack can be reactivated by a friendly Faction
model with the Battlegroup Commander special rule, such
Spellcaster as a warcaster, or by a friendly Faction model with the Jack
This model can cast spells by paying the COST of the spells Marshal advantage. To reactivate the warjack, a model with
in focus points. Battlegroup Commander must spend 1 focus point anytime
during its activation while base-to-base with the warjack. A
Warcasters & Warjack Points jack marshal can reactivate a inert friendly Faction warjack
Warcasters are the driving force of your army and do not during its activation by forfeiting its Combat Action while
cost army points to include. Instead, they grant you a base-to-base with the warjack. The reactivated warjack is no
number of warjack points that can be spent only on warjacks longer inert, but it must forfeit its Combat Action the turn it is
for your warcasters battlegroup. These bonus points are in reactivated. If the model reactivating a warjack has Battlegroup
addition to the army points determined for the game, and Commander, the warjack becomes a part of its battlegroup.
any warjack points not spent on warjacks for a warcasters
If the model reactivating a warjack is a jack marshal, the
battlegroup are lost.
reactivated warjack comes under its control unless the jack
marshal already controls a warjack.

APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES 101

 Warcaster Units
Some warcasters are part of a unit rather than being
independent models. The warcaster is the unit commander
and activates as part of the unit. The warcaster is the model
in the unit with the Officer advantage and is the only
model in the unit that has the special rules of a warcaster.
The warcaster controls a battlegroup, has a feat, can spend
focus, and so on. If the warcaster is destroyed, its upkeep
spells expire and its warjacks become inert as normal.

The models in a warcasters unit are part of its battlegroup.

Warcaster units cannot have command or weapon

attachments added to them. However, a warcaster that is
part of a warcaster unit can still have solos with the Attached
special rule attached to it. If a solo with the Attached special
rule is attached to a warcaster that is part of a warcaster unit,
the solo remains an independent model and does not become
part of the warcaster unit.

Jack Marshals
Jack marshals are models with the Jack Marshal
advantage. They are specialists who command their warjacks
through a combination of gestures and commands shouted
across the battlefield.

Jack marshals can begin the game controlling warjacks.

These warjacks are not part of any warcasters battlegroup.
A jack marshal can control up to one Faction warjack at a
time. Mercenary jack marshals can control and reactivate
only Mercenary warjacks.

EXAMPLE: Raluk Moorclaw, the Ironmonger is a

Mercenary jack marshal who can be fielded in a Trollblood
army. He can begin the game with a Mercenary warjack
even when he is included in a Trollblood army, an army
that ordinarily could not field Mercenary warjacks.
Once during each of its activations while in its controllers
command range, a warjack controlled by a jack marshal can
gain one of the following benefits:

Crush! The warjack can make one additional melee

attack during its activation this turn. Additionally, it
gains +2 on all melee damage rolls during its activation
this turn.
Hurry! The warjack can run, charge, or make a power
attack without spending focus during its activation this
turn. Additionally, it gains +2 on charge attack rolls and
slam attack rolls during its activation this turn.
Strike True! The warjack gains +2 on all attack rolls
during its activation this turn.
Take Aim! The warjack must forfeit its movement to Aim
during its activation this turn. Additionally, it gains +2 on
all ranged damage rolls during its activation this turn.

102 APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES

A warjack cannot gain one of these benefits while its cortex army. When a Mercenary warcaster with the Partisan special
is crippled or its controlling jack marshal is knocked down rule is part of a Faction army it is partisan to, it can have
or stationary. warjacks of only that Faction in its battlegroup because it is
not considered to be a Mercenary model.
If a jack marshal is destroyed or removed from the table, its
warjack becomes autonomous (p. 99) but does not become EXAMPLE: Eiryss, Mage Hunter of Ios is a Mercenary
inert. model with the Retribution Partisan special rule and can be
included in Cygnar, Khador, Protectorate, and Retribution
A jack marshal can reactivate inert friendly Faction warjacks armies. Because Eiryss is a Mercenary, she can also be
(see p.101 for details). The reactivated warjack comes under included in a Mercenary army. Eiryss, Mage Hunter of Ios
the jack marshals control unless the jack marshal already is a Mercenary model when she is in a Cygnar, Khador,
controls a warjack; in that case, the reactivated warjack Protectorate, or Mercenary army, but she is a Retribution
becomes autonomous. A jack marshal can take control of an model when she is in a Retribution army.
autonomous friendly Faction warjack (see p.99 for details)
EXAMPLE: Constance Blaize, Knight of the Prophet is a
if it is not already controlling another warjack.
Mercenary warcaster with the Cygnar Partisan special rule
If an effect causes your jack marshal to fall under your and can be included in Cygnar and Mercenary armies.
opponents control, while your jack marshal is controlled by When Blaize is in a Mercenary army, she is a Mercenary
your opponent, the warjack under its control remains under model and can include only Mercenary warjacks in her
your control and becomes autonomous. If you regain control battlegroup. When she is in a Cygnar army, even if she is
of your jack marshal, the jack marshal resumes control of the only warcaster in the army, she is a Cygnar model and
can include only Cygnar warjacks in her battlegroup.
the warjack unless another model has already taken control
of it. If an effect causes your jack marshaled warjack to fall Blaizes battlegroup can also include Gallant, a character
under your opponents control, when you regain control of Mercenary warjack that also has the Partisan special
your jack, the jack marshal resumes control of it unless the rule, making it a Cygnaran model when included in a
jack marshal has already taken control of another warjack. In Cygnaran army.
that case the warjack becomes autonomous.
Ranking Officers
Mercenaries Ranking officers are command attachments that can be added
to any Mercenary unit in the army. While the ranking officer
Mercenaries are soldiers for hire that can be fielded in a
is in play, the models in its unit are considered models of the
variety of Faction armies. When you are building your army,
ranking officers Faction rather than Mercenary models. While
you can include Mercenary models that will work for your
the ranking officer is in play it is the unit commander of its unit.
Faction. Each Mercenarys rules list the Factions that model
If any other model in a ranking officers unit has Officer ,
will work for. Additionally, you can field an army made up
it loses that advantage while the ranking officer is in play.
entirely of Mercenary models. If the only warcasters in an
army are Mercenaries, the army is a Mercenary army and Other than the Press Forward order, a ranking officer cannot
can include only Mercenary models. Mercenary armies can issue orders that are not on its card.
be composed of any Mercenary models regardless of what
If a ranking officers unit has Advance Deployment , the
Factions the models will work for.
ranking officer gains Advance Deployment .
Mercenary warjacks can be added to an army only as part of
The Partisan special rule changes a Mercenary unit into a
a Mercenary warcasters battlegroup or under the control of
Faction unit when it is included in an army of that Faction.
a Mercenary jack marshal. During the game, inert (p.101)
Because the unit is then no longer a Mercenary unit, a ranking
Mercenary warjacks can be reactivated only by Mercenary
officer cannot be attached to it. For example, if the Precursor
warcasters and jack marshals, and Mercenary warcasters
Knights (who are Cygnar Partisans) were part of a Cygnar
and jack marshals can control and reactivate only Mercenary
army, they would be Cygnar unit and not a Mercenary unit,
warjacks. Mercenary warcasters can have only Mercenary
so the ranking officer Captain Jonas Murdoch, who can be
warjacks in their battlegroups.
attached to a small- or medium-based Mercenary unit, could
Some Mercenary models have the Partisan special rule. When not be attached to them.
a Mercenary model with the Partisan special rule is included
Remember that Ranking Officers cannot be included in theme
in an army of the specified Faction, it is considered a model
force armies unless the rules of the theme force specifically
of that Faction instead of a Mercenary model. A Mercenary
allow for the Ranking Officer and the unit it attaches to.
warcaster with the Partisan special rule that is part of a
Faction army it is partisan to can be the only warcaster in the

APPENDIX B: WARMACHINE RULES 103

 APPENDIX C:
WARMACHINE.
FACTION-SPECIFIC RULES
RHUL, CEPHALYX & CONVERGENCE

RHULIC CEPHALYX
MERCENARIES MERCENARIES
Although the dwarven kingdom of Rhul seem to have little No one in western Immoren knows the origins of the
interest in conquest, they often serve as mercenaries in the cephalyx, dreaded and enigmatic beings who emerge from
conflicts of the Iron Kingdoms. their underground lairs for slave raids that are the stuff of
nightmares. They float eerily above the ground, their faces

Warcasters hidden behind masks fitted with sinister lenses and their
bodies augmented with spider-like metal appendages, each
A Mercenary Rhulic warcaster can have only Mercenary ending in sharpened tools for their bloody work. They do not
Rhulic warjacks in its battlegroup and can reactivate only hesitate to employ their terrifying mental powers to kill or
friendly Mercenary Rhulic warjacks. dominate any who oppose them.

Warjacks Selective
A Mercenary Rhulic warjack can be controlled only by a Most Cephalyx models/units have the Selective special rule,
Mercenary Rhulic warcaster or a Mercenary Rhulic jack which states that they can be included only in a Mercenary
marshal. This model can be reactivated only by a friendly army made using a Cephalyx theme force (p. 106). This
Mercenary Rhulic warcaster or a friendly Mercenary Rhulic means that unless they are included in a non-Mercenary
jack marshal. Faction army, the army they are included in must be created
using a Cephalyx theme force.
Jack Marshals
A Mercenary Rhulic jack marshal can control only Mercenary Warcasters
Rhulic warjacks. A Mercenary Rhulic jack marshal can Some cephalyx have the ability to directly control multiple
reactivate only Mercenary Rhulic warjacks. monstrosities and wield formidable powers. While the root
of their powers is distinct from those warcasters dwelling
on the surface, the control they exert over their augmented
slaves is roughly the equivalent of a warcasters command
of his battlegroup.

Cephalyx warcasters can control only monstrosities and

cannot control warjacks. A Cephalyx warcaster can allocate
focus points to monstrosities in its battlegroup as if they
were warjacks. A Cephalyx warcasters warjack points must
be used on monstrosities even though they are not warjacks.

In addition to the standard warcaster rules (p.100),

Cephalyx warcasters have the following rules.

Healing
At any time during its activation, this model can spend focus
points to heal damage a monstrosity in its battlegroup in its
control range has suffered. For each focus point spent this
way, remove 1 damage point.

104 APPENDIX C: WARMACHINE FACTION-SPECIFIC RULES

Monstrosities
Though telepathically linked to their controllers and serving MONSTROSITY DAMAGE KEY
the same purpose as warjacks, monstrosities are not machines The following letters on a monstrositys damage grid represent
but living beings. its systems:
B: Brain L: Left Arm weapon system
Monstrosities are large-based models (50mm). Even though
H: Head weapon system R: Right Arm weapon system
it is assigned to a specific battlegroup, each monstrosity is an
independent model. M: Movement
A monstrosity with a crippled Brain system loses any focus points
Monstrosities can be controlled only by Cephalyx warcasters. on it and cannot gain or spend focus points for any reason.
Monstrosities with crippled Left Arm, Right Arm, Head, or
Monstrosity Special Rules Movement systems suffer the same penalties as warjacks do.
All monstrosities have the following special rules.

Living Models
Focus: Shake Effect
Unfortunately for them, monstrosities are living models.
During your Control Phase after allocating focus, a
They are not warjacks and do not have cortexes.
monstrosity can spend focus points for the following:
Damage Grid If this model is knocked down, it can spend 1 focus point
Monstrosities have damage grids like warjacks. to stand up.
If this model is stationary, it can spend 1 focus point to
Brain cause the stationary status to expire.
A monstrosity can be allocated focus but can have no more
If this model is suffering an effect like Blind or Shadow
than 3 focus points at any time. Unless otherwise stated, it
Bind that can be shaken, it can spend 1 focus point to
can spend focus only during its activation. A monstrosity
cause the effect to expire.
cannot gain or spend focus while its Brain system is crippled.
Unthinking
Rage-Fueled
Monstrosities do not have a CMD stat or a command range.
Though monstrosities can be allocated focus normally, they
do not power up and do not automatically gain a focus Power Attacks
point for being in their controlling warcasters control range
Monstrosities can make power attacks. To make a power
during the Control Phase. Instead, a monstrosity gains
attack, a monstrosity must spend 1 focus point.
1 focus point each time it suffers damage as a result of an
attack or a continuous effect. A monstrosity can make head-butt, slam, and trample
power attacks. A monstrosity with at least one non-crippled
Note that monstrosities are not warjacks and focus points are
weapon with the Open Fist weapon quality can make
not removed from them during the Control Phase.
throw power attacks.
Focus: Additional Attack
Warcaster Destruction
A monstrosity can spend focus to make additional melee
If a Cephalyx warcaster is destroyed or removed from the
attacks as part of its Combat Action (p.50). It can make one
table, the monstrosities in its battlegroup become autonomous.
additional attack for each focus point spent. Some models
Autonomous monstrosities remain active but do not have a
possess special rules that also enable them to spend focus
controller. An autonomous monstrosity acts normally but
points to make additional ranged attacks.
cannot be allocated focus, though it can receive focus from
other sources. A monstrosity must have a controller at the start
Focus: Boost
of the game; it cannot begin the game autonomous.
A monstrosity can spend 1 focus point to boost any of its
attack rolls or damage rolls during its activation. Add an A Cephalyx warcaster can take control of an autonomous
extra die to the boosted roll. Boosting must be declared friendly monstrosity. To do this, a Cephalyx warcaster must
before rolling any dice for the roll. Remember, a single roll spend 1 focus point during its activation while base-to-base
can be boosted only once, but a monstrosity can boost as with the autonomous monstrosity. The monstrosity must
many different rolls as you choose and can afford. forfeit its Combat Action the turn it becomes controlled.
The monstrosity becomes a part of the battlegroup of the
Focus: Run or Charge warcaster that took control of it.
A monstrosity must spend 1 focus point in order to use its
Normal Movement to run or charge.
APPENDIX C: WARMACHINE FACTION-SPECIFIC RULES 105
 Cephalyx Theme Force

OPERATING THEATER
The inscrutable cephalyx tirelessly perform diabolical Special Rules
experiments on their captives deep below the earth. For every 30 points of Drudge units in this army,
Masters of powerful psychic energies and advanced you can add one Cephalyx Overlord unit to the
surgery, these alien beings shape both the minds and army free of cost.
bodies of lesser creatures to create heavily modified
laborers and warrior slaves to suit the sinister agenda of Monstrosities in this army gain Hyper-Aggressive.
their vast underground hives. (When a model with Hyper-Aggressive suffers
damage from an enemy attack anytime except
while it is advancing, after the attack is resolved
Army Composition
it can immediately make a full advance directly
An army made using this theme force can include
toward the attacking model.)
only the following Mercenary models:
One Cephalyx Mind Slaver & Drudge unit in
Cephalyx warcasters this army gains Ambush. (You can choose not
Non-character monstrosities to deploy a unit with Ambush at the start of the
game. If it is not deployed normally, you can
Cephalyx models/units put it into play at the end of any of your Control
Non-Cephalyx units with Cephalyx Dominator Phases after your first turn. When you do, choose
command attachments any table edge except the back of your opponents
deployment zone. Place the unit with Ambush
completely within 3 of the chosen table edge.)

106 APPENDIX C: WARMACHINE FACTION-SPECIFIC RULES

CONVERGENCE Warjack MAT & RAT
Convergence warjacks do not have MAT or RAT values.
OF CYRISS Instead, their MAT and RAT are equal to the current MAT and
RAT of their controlling warcaster. For example, a Convergence
Warjacks warjack under the control of a warcaster with MAT 6 and RAT
The Convergence of Cyriss does not use warjacks in the 4 would have MAT 6 and RAT 4. Vectors do not directly benefit
traditional sense. Their machines, called vectors, are built from MAT/RAT bonuses or suffer from MAT/RAT penalties,
using arcane science fused with applied physics and but any MAT/RAT alterations to a warcaster controlling one
mathematics. Each completed vector is an act of worship to or more vectors will be passed along to those vectors.
Cyriss, the Maiden of Gears as well as an irrefutable triumph
Note that spells and abilities that affect attack rolls will still
of engineering. The smooth lines and artisanal attention to
affect vectors normally.
detail contrast with the pure brutality that the science of
kinematics can inflict on enemies of the Clockwork Goddess. EXAMPLE: The Conservator heavy warjacks Hand of
Vengeance ability grants it +2 on melee attack and melee
In addition to the standard warjack rules (p. 96)
damage rolls. Its MAT will remain equal to the MAT of
Convergence warjacks have the following rules.
the warcaster controlling it, but it will gain +2 on its melee
attack rolls from Hand of Vengeance.
Interface Node
Instead of a cortex, Convergence warjacks have an interface No Power Up
node. The (I) boxes of a Convergence warjacks damage grid Though Convergence warjacks can be allocated focus
represent this interface node. normally, they do not power up and do not automatically
This model can gain focus. This model can have no more than gain a focus point for being in their controlling warcasters
3 focus points at any time. Unless otherwise stated, this model control range during the Control Phase.
can spend focus only during its activation. This model cannot
gain or spend focus while its Interface Node system is crippled. Focus Induction
When a Convergence warjack spends a focus point during its
Because an interface node is not a cortex, Convergence
activation, you can give a focus point to another Convergence
warjacks are immune to effects that cause a warjack to suffer
warjack if the two are in the same battlegroup and are within
damage directly to its cortex (such as Cortex Damage and
6 of one another. Note that a Convergence warjack still can
Shock Field) or that require a warjack to have a functional
have no more than 3 focus points at any time.
cortex (such as Domination).

APPENDIX C: WARMACHINE FACTION-SPECIFIC RULES 107

 INDEX
A attack, 41 Buckler weapon quality, 20
additional, 36 burning earth, 85
Action, 36
AOE, 52
Attack, 36 basic, 36 C
acid bath, 85 combined, 65
cannot, 10
impact, 79
activating models, 29 initial, 36 casting spells, 73
Activation Phase, 29 magic, 55 Cavalry advantage, 79
activation timing, 94 melee, 43
mount, 79 Cephalyx, 104-106
active and inactive player, 11 ranged, 49 Chain Weapon weapon quality, 20
additional attack, 36 sequence, 95
channeling spells, 77
special, 36
additional dice, 8 diagram: Control Range & Channeling
spray, 54
vs. boosting, 8 character, 25
see also power attacks
falling, 35
obstacle, 34, 84 automatic charging, 31
obstruction, 85 boost for successful charge, 31 diagram: Cavalry Charge Example, 79
Weapon Master weapon quality, 20 hit for knocked down target, 61 diagram: Charge Direction, 31
hit for stationary target, 61 diagram: Charge Examples, 32
advancing, 3031 cavalry, 79
hit or miss, 42
charge, 31 outside activation, 33
miss for AOE attack, 52
full advance, 30
miss due to Stealth, 17 clash of arms encounter level, 23
run, 30
away from vs. directly away from, 33 cloud effect, 59
Advance Deployment advantage, 26
advantages, 17 B CMD, Command, 15

aiming bonus, 30 B2B, base-to-base, 33 colossal, 9798

diagram: Location & Attacking a Colossal, 99
allocate, 100 back strike, 42 attacking, 58
Amphibious advantage, 17 base Combat Actions, 36
base-to-base, B2B, 33
animus, animi, 74 Combined Attack advantages, 65
contact, 33
warbeast pack, 68
moving between bases, 30 command attachment, 63
any time special rules, 11 overlapping bases, 36,
command range, 15, 64
AOE, area of effect, 19 sizes, 21
concealment, 50
AOE attacks, 52 battle engine, 78
diagram: Concealment & Cover in Action
damage point of origin, 53 battlegroup, 24
damage rolls, 52 Construct advantage, 66
battlegroup commander, 70
deviation, 52 Continuous Effects, 60
direct hit, 41 beyond the play area, 35 Corrosion
Arc Node Blessed weapon quality, 20 Critical Corrosion
advantage, 17 Critical Fire
Bond special rule, 26 Fire
system, 98
bonuses control, losing and gaining
arcs, front and back, 21 aiming, 30
back strikes, 42 battlegroup commander, 70
back strike, 42 enemy model, 61
huge-based models, 39 and Blessed, 20
line of sight, 37 jack marshal, 102
Buckler, 20 Leader, 62
trample, bonus restrictions, 48 combined attack, 65 unit commander, 62
argus, 3 concealment, 50 warcaster, 100
cover, 50 warlock, 70
ARM, Armor, 15
elevation, 82 wild warbeast, 58
army list, 23 free strike, 44
knocked down target, 61 Control Phase, 29
army points, 23
order of modifiers, 16 control range, 71
aspects, 57: Body, Mind, Spirit Shield, 20 diagram: Control Range & Channeling, 77
diagram, unmarked damage box, 57 stationary target, 61
controller, 9
Assault advantage, 52 target in melee, 5152
vectors, 107 Convergence of Cyriss, 107
attachment, 15, 63
warbeast points, 24 corpse token, 59
attack-generating special rules, 43 warjack points, 101,104
wild warbeast, 58 Cortex system, 96, 98
attack roll
combined attack, 65 boosted roll, 8 COST, 75
magic attack, 55 forced, 67 cover, 50
melee attack, 43 fury, 72 diagram: Concealment & Cover in Action
ranged attack, 49
boxed and destroyed, 57 crippled aspect, 57
Brain system, 105 crippled system, 98

108 INDEX
critical effect, 20, 60 directly facing, 21 forcing and fury, 6667
Corrosion directly toward and directly away, 32 additional attacks
Disruption boost
Fire disabled, 57 rile
critical hit, 41 dismounted, 80 run or charge
shake effect
current disputes, resolving, 12
to cast animi, 74
game round, 8 Disruption rule, 61
stat, 16 forfeiting
dragoon, 80 activation, 29
D duel encounter level, 23 advance, 64
autonomous monstrosities, 105
d3, d6, 8 DUR, Duration, 75 Combat Actions, 29, 30
damage, 56 field promotion, 62
E
diagram, unmarked damage box, 57 formation, 64
AOE attack, 52 elevation, 82 frenzy, 67
capacity, 20, 57 and line of sight (LOS), 40 inert warjacks, 101
collateral, 35 Elite Cadre rule, 80 Normal Movement, 30
to a colossal, 98 Press Forward order, 64
and life spirals, 20 encounter levels, 2223 slam, 45
point of origin of, 40, 53 enemy vs. friendly, 9 standing up, 61
recording, 57 engaged, engaging, 43 timing, 90
removing, 59 diagram: Melee Range & trample, 48
transferring, 72 Engaged Models, 43 voluntarily, 29
warbeast pack, 69 warjack aiming, 102
to a warjack, 97 entering an area, 33 wild warbeast, 58
damage grid, 96, 97 evolution, 4 forest, 83
colossal, 98 expiring effect, 58 formation, 64
damage boxes, 20
Eyeless Sight advantage, 17 free-for-all game, 27
force field, 98
monstrosity, 105 F free strike, 44
recording damage on, 97 diagram: Free Strike Examples
system boxes, 98 facing, directly facing, 21
frenzy, 67, 69
damage roll, 56 falling, 35
AOE, direct hit on, 52 friendly vs. enemy, 9
feat, 70, 100
boosted, 41 full advance, 30
field allowance (FA), 24
comparing to ARM, 56 fury
crippled weapons system, 98 Field Generator system, 98, 99
callout: Representing Fury, 71
critical effect, 41 field promotion, 62 casting a spell with, 75
falling, 35 discarding, 72
rerolling, 42 first player, 26
forcing, 66
resolving with simultaneous effects, 43 flag, 87 Fury Manipulation rule, 71
Weapon Master weapon quality, 20 Flight advantage, 17 replenishing, 71
see also additional dice spending, 67, 72
focus
damage roll in specific cases allocating, 100 starting, 26
AOE attack, 52 Battlegroup Commander, 101
collateral damage, 45 G
casting a spell with, 101
combined attacks, 65 control range, 100 game materials, 8
fall, 35 Convergence of Cyriss, 107 game overview, 7
Fire continuous effect, 60 crippled Cortex, 98
melee, 56 gargantuan, 68
crippled Field Generator, 98
Mount melee attack, 79 base size, 21
Focus Manipulation rule, 100
origin of, 53 controlling a, 68
induction, 107
power attack, 45 Great Beast rule, 68
magic attacks, 101
ranged weapon, 56 head-butt, 45
monstrosities spending, 105
life spiral, 57
Damage Type weapon quality, 5657 power up, 100
Massive rule, 68
Cold, 56 removing in the Maintenance Phase, 100
movement, 68
Corrosion, 56 replenishing, 100
power attacks, 44
Electricity, 56 spending, 9697
power strike, 45
Fire, 56 starting, 100
slam, 4546
Magical, 57 vector, 107
sweep, 46
DEF, Defense, 15 warcaster, 100, 101
warjack gaining, 96, 100 grand melee encounter level, 23
deployment and zones, 2627 warjack, inert, 101 Granted, 63
destroyed, 57 warjack spending, 29, 70
for an additional attack, 66 Great Beast rule, 68
deviation, 52
to boost a roll, 96 Great Machine rule, 97
callout: Deviation, 46
to run or charge, 96
diagram: Deviation Example, 53 Grunt, 14, 62
to shake an effect, 97
dice, 8 Gunfighter advantage, 52
fog, dense, 83
direct hit, 41, 52
force field, 9899

INDEX 109
 H Jack Marshal advantage, 102 Mount, 79
control of battlegroup commander, 68 range, 43
half of a die roll or a stat, 8
on a Rhulic model, 92 weapons, 19
hazards, 85: acid bath, burning earth in a unit, 68 Mercenaries, 103
head (weapon location), 97 Cephalyx, 104
K
head-butt, 45 Partisan special rule, 103
knockdown, knocked down, 61 Rhulic, 104Minions, 25
which HORDES models can, 44
which WARMACHINE models can, 97 callout: Minion Warbeasts, 68
L
healing, 72 miss, automatic, 19, 4142
Leader, 15, 62
healing Cephalyx, 104 model
least disturbance, rule of, 35 independent, 13
hill, 83 leeching, 71 profiles, 15
hit/miss, 4142 life spiral, 20, 57 special rules, 16
huge-based model, 39 volume, 37, 39
line of sight (LOS)
diagram: Huge-based Model Field of Fire, 39 diagram: LOS & Elevation, 40 model statistics (stats), 15
battle engine, 78 diagram: LOS & Targeting, 37 see also FOCUS
and clouds, 59 diagram: LOS & Terrain, 38 model types
colossal, 9798 elevation, 40 battle engines, 14, 78
elevation, 82 targeting, 3638 cavalry, 79
fields of fire, 39 terrain, 38 dragoons, 80
forest, 83 using reference objects, 40 gargantuans, 68
gargantuan, 68 monstrosities, 105
line of sight, 39 living model, 59, 105
solos, 14
slam power attack, 46 location, weapon, 19 vectors, 107
targeted in melee, 52 warbeasts, 13, 66
L/R/H/, 19
volume, 37 warcasters, 100101
hull, 98 M warjacks, 9697
Machine rule, 97 warlocks, 13, 70
I
Magic Ability special rule, 74 monstrosities, 105
immunities, 18, 56
magic attack, 55 Mounts, 79
Cold
Corrosion magic attack roll modifiers, 55 movement, 3033
Electricity callout, p. 55 beyond the play area, 35
Fire back strike end of activation, 33
cloud effect Movement system, crippled, 98, 105
immunity to continuous effects, 18, 60
concealment Normal Movement, 30
impact attack, 79 restrictions, 33
cover
impassable terrain, 82 elevation bonus unintentional, 34
knocked down target unit, 64
inactive player, 11
stationary target Mount attacks, 79
Incorporeal advantage, 17 target in melee
multiplayer games, 27: free-for-all, team
independent model, 1314 Maintenance Phase, 29
activating, 29 multiple spell effects, 77
battle engine, 14, 78 major engagement encounter level, 23
must, 10
monstrosity, 105 Massive rule
solo, 14 battle engine, 78 N
warbeast, 13 colossal, 97 names of models, 9
warbeast pack, 68 gargantuan, 68
warcaster non-crippled systems, 57
MAT, Melee Attack stat, 15
warcaster unit, 102 Normal Movement, 29, 30
warjack maximum range, 40
warlock, 13 measuring O
inert warjack, 101 command range, 15 obstacles, 84
command range within a unit, 64
initial attack, 36 obstructions, 85
control range, 71
Interface Node, 98, 107 deviation, 52 OFF, Offensive spells, 55
intervening models 36 distance, 12 Officer advantage, 62
elevation, 82 with elevation, 82 issuing orders, 64
Flight, 17 movement, 30 orders in special rules, 64
Incorporeal, 17 range, 40 unit commander, 62
Stealth, 17 range of a spell, 74 warlock unit, 72
range with a channeler, 77
intervening terrain tools (tape measure, ruler), 8 Open Fist weapon quality, 20
concealment and cover, 50 unintentional movement, 34 open terrain, 82
melee attack modifier, 44
melee attack, 43 open war encounter level, 23
J callout: Melee Attack Roll Modifiers, 44 orders
attack roll, 4344 issuing orders, 64
jack, 100
damage roll, 56 Ranking Officer, 103
see also warjack
Melee Attack stat (MAT), 15 warbeast packs, 68

110 INDEX
P replenishing focus points, 100 special rules
replenishing fury points, 71 advantages, 17
P+S, Power plus Strength, 19
attack-generating, 43
Parry advantage, 17 rerolls, 42 conflicting, 10
Partisan special rule, 25 return to play, 58 feats, 70, 101
immunities, 18
Pathfinder advantage, 17 Rhulic Mercenaries, 92
model (and unit), 16
phases of a turn, 29, 90 riling, 67 orders, 64
pitched battle encounter level, 23 RNG, Range, 19 and standard rules, 9
magic attack, 74 weapon qualities, 20
placing, 36
ROF, Rate of Fire, 19 spellcasters, 7273, 101
point cost, 23
callout: Sample Army, 24 rough terrain, 82 spells, 73
animi, 74
point of impact, 53 round (game), 8, 28 Arc Node advantage, 17
diagram: Point of Impact rounding, 8 casting with FOCUS, 101
point of origin, 40 dice, 8 casting with FURY, 75
deviation distance, 52 casting sequence, 90
POW, Power, 19, 75
falling distance, 35 channeling, 77
power attacks, 44 Damage Type: Magical, 57
rubble, 83
collateral damage, 45 Magic Ability, 74
head-butt, 45 rule priority, 10 magic attack, 55
monstrosities, 93 rule of least disturbance, 35 magic attack roll, 55
push, 34 multiple effects, 77
slam, 34, 4546 rules issues, resolving, 12
OFF, offensive, 75
sweep, 46 rules update, dynamic, 11 point of origin, 53
throw, 46 running, 30, 67 range, measuring, 74
trample, 48 statistics, 75: AOE, COST, DUR, OFF, POW,
power field, 101 S RNG
targeting, 73
power strike, 45 scenarios, 86
units, 64
overview, 26
power up, 100 upkeep spells, 76
random choice of, 87
Press Forward order, 64 specific: Spirit Bond rule, 72
primary attacker, 65 Annihilation, 87 sportsmanship, 12
Close Quarters, 88
pushed, being pushed, 34 Hold the Line, 88 spray attack, 54
Incoming, 89 diagram: Examples of Spray Attacks, 54
R concealment and cover, 51
Mosh Pit, 89
Rage-Fueled rule, 93 Outflank, 90 standing up, 61
range, measuring, 40 Reinforcements, 90 starting roll, 26
Seek & Destroy, 91
Range (RNG) stat, 19 Throw Down, 91 stationary, 61
ranged attacks, 49 Selective rule, 92 stat
callout: Ranged Attack Roll Modifiers, 49 bar, 15
combined, 65 shake effects base vs. current, 16
while engaged, 43 Focus Manipulation, 100 card, 8
Ranged Attack stat (RAT), 19 Fury Manipulation, 72
monstrosities, 93 Stealth advantage, 17
weapons, 19
warbeasts, 67 STR, Strength, 15
Ranking Officer, 103 warjacks, 96
Superstructure system, 57
rapid assault encounter level, 23 shallow water, 83
superstructure (weapon location), 97
RAT, Ranged Attack, 15 sharing information, 12
systems and crippled systems, 98
reactivating inert warjacks, 101 Shield weapon quality, 20 Arc Node, 100
reaving, 72 simultaneous effects, 43 Brain, 105
reference objects, 40 Cortex, 98
skirmish encounter level, 23 Field Generator, 98
removed from the table, removed from play, 58 slam, 4546 Head, 57
continuous effects, 60 being slammed, 34 Left Arm, 98
disabled or boxed model, 57 which models can slam, 44 Movement, 98
Elite Cadre rules, 80 Right Arm, 98
expiring effects, 58 solo, 14
Superstructure, 98
Officer model, 62, 64 Soulless advantage, 17
reaving, 72 system boxes, 97
soul token, 59
spellcaster, 76
Tactics special rules, 63 SPD, Speed, 15 T
timing with simultaneous effects, 43 special action (Action), 36 table, 8, 35
unit commander, 62 Tactics special rules, 63
upkeep spells, 76 special attack (Attack), 36
warlock, 58 special combat situations, 59 targeting
effects that prevent targeting, 41
replacing models, 36 switching targets, 42
target unit vs. target model/unit,64

INDEX 111
 targeting a model in melee, 5152 triggers, triggered effects, 10 feat, 100
diagram: Targeting into Melee Example, 51 effects triggering on a hit, 42 field allowance (FA), 24
different elevations, 82 trooper, 63 FOCUS, 100
magic attacks, 55 Focus Manipulation special rule, 100
ranged attack modifier, 49 turn, 29 focus: replenishing, 100
team game, 27 turn order, 8 focus: spending, 100101
general description, 92
terrain, 81 U Mercenary, 103
diagram: LOS & Terrain, 38 power field, 101
Undead advantage, 17
diagram: Trenches, 84 power up, 100
acid bath, 85 unit, 14 Rhulic, 104
burning earth, 85 activating, 29, 64 spellcaster, 101
concealment and cover, 50 in an army list, 23 unit, 102
custom, 82 attachment, 15, 63
dense fog, 83 character, 25 warjack, 96
determining, 82 charging, 31 autonomous, 99
difficult, 82 combined melee and ranged attacks, 65 Bond special rules, 26
elevation, 82 commander, 15 character, 26
forests, 83 components, 63 Construct, 17
hazards, 85 control of enemy, 61 Convergence of Cyriss, 107
hills, 83 deployment, 26 damage grid, 96
impassable, 82 FA, field allowance, 24 damage key, 98
line of sight, 38, 82 formation, 64 force fields, 98
obstacle, 84 Granted special rules, 63 heavy warjacks, 96
obstruction, 85 Jack Marshal, 102 inert, 101
open, 82 Leader or unit commander replacement, 62 light warjacks, 96
placing, 81 multiple spell effects, 77 Mercenary, 103
rough, 82 name of, 9 points, 101
rubble, 83 Normal Movement, 64 power attacks, 97
shallow water, 83 orders, 64 power up, 100
standard features, 8385 point cost of, 23 Rhulic, 104
trenches, 84 Press Forward order, 64 systems, 9798
types, 82 Ranking Officer, 103 vectors, 107
variably sized features, 85 returning models to play, 58 warlock, 70
spell target, 64 Battlegroup Commander rule, 70
theme forces, 26
Tactics special rules, 63 casting spells, 72
Cephalyx, 94
theme forces, 26 control range, 71
threshold and frenzy, 67 upkeep spells, 76 destruction, 58
throw, 46, 97 warcaster units, 102 FA, field allowance, 24
diagrams: Examples of a Throw Power warlock units, 72 feat, 70
Attack, 47, 48 Unthinking rule, 93 FURY, 15
knockdown, 61 Fury Manipulation rule, 71
upkeep spells, 74 fury, spending, 72
unintentional movement, 34
and spellcaster destruction, 73 general description, 7
which models can throw, 44
independent model, 13
thrown models, 35 V
unit, 72
timing, 29, 90 vector, 95
WARMACHINE, 92, 96
Activation Phase, 29 volume, model, 37
attack, 41 warrior, 13
diagram: Determining Model Volume
at any time during activation, 11 water, shallow, 83
Control Phase, 29 W
damage, recording, 57 weapon attachment, 63
warbeast, 66
damage rolls, 56 weapon location, 19, 97
Construct advantage, 66
Maintenance Phase, 29 huge-based models, 39
forcing, 66, 71
simultaneous effects, 43 Weapon Master weapon quality, 20
FURY, 66
spells, 73
healing, 72 weapon qualities, 20
unit activation, 29, 64
leeching, 71
tokens, 59 power attack, 67 weapon statistics, 19
Tough advantage, 17 reaving, 72 weapon systems, 98
transferred damage, 72 within vs. completely within, 12
trample, 48 wild, 58
diagram: Trample Example diagram: Within vs. Completely Within, 12
crippled Movement system, 98 warbeast pack, 6869
free strikes, 44 Y
warcaster, 100
knockdown, 61 allocating focus, 100 you, yours, 9
monstrosities, 93 Battlegroup Commander rule, 100
warbeast, 98 casting spells, 101 Z
warjack, 96 Cephalyx, 104 zones, 87
which models can trample, 44 control range, 100
trenches, 84 Convergence of Cyriss, 107
destruction of, 101

112 INDEX