Before the battle begins, players must set up their forces on the battlefield. This section outlines the standard deployment rules for your game, including board size, deployment zones, and specific deployment restrictions.
Board Size
The typical board size for games is 3' x 3' or 4' x 6', with a 3' x 3' board recommended for smaller, quicker skirmishes and 4' x 6' for larger battles. Be sure to use a board size that suits the number of units in play and the size of the battle you wish to have.
Deployment and Terrain
Players may place terrain features on the battlefield as agreed upon before deployment. When deploying units, consider the placement of terrain, as it may provide cover and influence your strategic decisions. Units must be able to fit within their deployment zone without being obstructed by terrain features unless they have special rules for disregarding terrain.
Deployment Zones
Each player is allocated a deployment zone, which is 9 inches from their respective table edge. The deployment zone represents the area where your units can begin the game. It’s important that all units are placed entirely within this zone unless they have special rules that allow them to deploy outside of it.
Deployment Order
Roll for Priority: both players roll a dice to determine which side has priority to deploy. Each player rolls a single die, and the higher roll wins.
If Player 1 rolls higher, Player 1 has priority and will select their table edge then deploy one of their models first.
If Player 2 rolls higher, Player 2 has priority and will select their table edge then deploy one of their models first.
In the case of a tie, players re-roll until a winner is determined.
Players alternate deploying units, beginning with the player who has Priority. Units must be placed within their respective deployment zones. The player with Priority places the first unit, and then players continue alternating until all units are deployed.
If both players have a unit with the same ability or rule that allows them to deploy in a particular way (e.g., units that can deploy outside the standard zone or at specific points of interest), these units are deployed after all other units have been placed, following the same alternating method.
Deployment Restrictions
Units that are classified as having special deployment types may have rules that allow them to deploy outside of the standard 9-inch zone or at specific points of interest on the map. Be sure to check the unit profiles for deployment exceptions.
Characters and Heroes are subject to the same deployment rules as other units unless otherwise specified in their special rules.
Reserved Units
Some units may be placed off the table at the start of the game, represented as being in reserve. These units will enter the game at a later time, typically at the beginning of a subsequent turn or as specified by their abilities. The rules for this type of deployment will be outlined in their respective unit profiles.
Special Deployment Rules
Some units may have unique deployment abilities, such as the ability to teleport, or start off the battlefield. These rules will be clearly stated in the unit’s profile and should be followed when placing those units at the start of the game.
Starting the Game
Once all units are deployed, the game begins with the first player’s turn. Both players should check for any special abilities that affect the start of the game or modify the first turn.