So playing with this idea for a mass combat rule set.
Fantasy war using loose squad rules.
Each squad has a leader model and any number of troops. The leader gets a different base. So a hex or 30mm base.
All los and measurement is done from leader models base to leader base. The only model you measure movement distance for is the leader. Once he is positioned, you can then move his troops to anywhere within 1" of his or another troops base in any formation you like.
Once a leader is in range of an enemy leader, the squads are engaged in combat. You may arrange your troops how you see fit, as it is aesthetic only.
Casualties are removed by owner usually but critical strikes allow enemy to pick off any model- because troops can have special powers such as standard, musician or medic. Once model removed, that ability is lost.
The idea is to get rid of rigid move trays, allow any and all bases and keep game super fast with buckets of minis.
Good idea? Seen it before? Tried it? Let me know in comments below!
God of Battles from Foundry uses that system. Works nicely in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteThough GoB also has formed units, that share the line of sight and distances from leader rules. They act slightly differently from loose units in combat and have a unit facing.
DeleteI just looked GoB up. It completely missed my attention on release. I will have to check it out.
DeleteHaving a 'formed up' unit vs. skirmish mode was something I had in mind, but using counters instead so you are still free to pose your posse how you wish.
Anything that simplifies movement and measurements is a good thing in my book. It also represents the fact that units are not a specific shape but can change.
ReplyDeleteGets my vote
Sounds good. Similar to GoB, from what I hear, but I don't think GoB has the critical strike rule, which sounds like a good one. I also like the idea of being able to arrange the buckets o' minis into dramatic battle lines depending on the situation. Movement trays just take all the drama out of giant brawls.
ReplyDeleteKings of War also uses leader measurement, but in a much more limited fashion.
I think this sounds great. Especially if you can fit the core rules in 32 pages like Kings of War does.
Also sounds like it would be nice for depicting the battles of bands rather than ordered regiments...a subtle difference, but oh so important for flavor.
DeleteYes, the sort that flow through streets and villages rather than on huge open fields.
DeleteGW's current LOTR/Hobbit rules for characters sort of work like that, each leader has a bubble of influence, there is no forced unit coherrency in the game, only advantages to keeping the troops close to the boss.
ReplyDeleteThe rules for combat are more detailed than your idea though.
JB
JB
In my mind, the only problem with using loose formations is that if you're playing a mass battle with 80+ minis per side, it takes forever to move them all. Blocks of troops in movement trays on the other hand, are quick to move. I suppose you could use the newer 'skirmish movement trays', but that sort of flies in the face of your freeform aesthetics idea.
ReplyDeleteStay focused on skulldred and stardred and making all that happen. Leave the big games to the big guys.
ReplyDelete:)
I use a similar idea in my Steam & Aether rules (in progress).
ReplyDelete