Introduction
The Hordes: Skorne Battlegroup Starter Box represents a compelling entry point for players new to the Hordes tabletop wargame. Designed by Mike McVey, Brian Snoddy, Jason Soles, Rob Stoddard, and Matt Wilson, this product is published by Edge Entertainment and Privateer Press. It introduces players to the Skorne faction, a ruthless race from the east that employs pain and death to dominate their enemies. The box includes everything needed to begin playing, making it an ideal choice for newcomers or those looking to expand their collection.
Design & Components
The Skorne Battlegroup Starter Box is packed with high-quality components tailored for both gameplay and aesthetic appeal. At its core are four plastic miniatures: Beast Master Xekaar, a Titan Gladiator, a Cyclops Raider, and a Cyclops Savage. These models are detailed and single-colored, requiring assembly but offering a rewarding painting experience for enthusiasts. Each miniature comes with corresponding stat cards that define their abilities in battle.
Additional components include a basic training tutorial guide, a battle map, an introductory guide, the Hordes: Primal rules digest, an 18-inch ruler, four six-sided dice, 15 fury tokens, three spell tokens, and an obstacle card. These items streamline setup and ensure players can dive into gameplay quickly without needing to source additional materials separately. The box also features quick start rules that simplify the learning curve for beginners.
For those familiar with earlier editions, the Mk III version of the Skorne Battlegroup differs from its predecessors. It includes Beast Master Xekaar instead of the warlock assassin and adds a Cyclops Raider alongside two Cyclops Savages and the Titan Gladiator. This update enhances versatility and provides more strategic options during gameplay.
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Gameplay Experience
Hordes: Skorne Battlegroup is designed to be both accessible and strategically deep, catering to players of varying skill levels. The inclusion of quick start rules makes it easy for newcomers to grasp the basics of the game, while the detailed stat cards and tutorial guide help refine tactics as players progress.
The Skorne faction’s focus on pain and torment translates well into gameplay mechanics, with abilities that emphasize control, disruption, and overwhelming force. Warbeasts like the Titan Gladiator serve as heavy hitters, while Cyclops units provide flexibility in both offense and defense. Beast Master Xekaar acts as a central figure, coordinating attacks and leveraging unique powers to dominate opponents.
User experiences from unboxing videos highlight the satisfaction of assembling and painting the miniatures, with many noting that the models’ design captures the Skorne’s menacing aesthetic. However, some players have mentioned that mastering the game’s variable player powers requires time and practice, particularly for those unfamiliar with Hordes’ mechanics.
Value & Pricing
The Skorne Battlegroup Starter Box is positioned as a cost-effective way to begin playing Hordes or expand an existing collection. It includes all necessary components for immediate gameplay, eliminating the need for additional purchases of miniatures, rulebooks, or tokens. This makes it especially valuable for players who want to jump into the game without investing in separate parts.
Pricing information is sparse in available data, but the box’s limited stock (only two units listed in some sources) suggests a degree of exclusivity or demand. Additionally, buyers may earn loyalty points through certain retailers, which can be redeemed for future purchases. For those considering alternatives, other battlegroups such as Circle Orboros offer similar starter experiences but with different factions and themes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Complete Starter Set: Includes all necessary components (miniatures, stat cards, rules, tokens) to begin playing immediately.
- High-Quality Miniatures: Plastic models are detailed and customizable, appealing to both new and experienced players.
- Strategic Versatility: The inclusion of diverse warbeasts and a unique warcaster allows for adaptable gameplay styles.
Cons
- Limited Availability: Some retailers list only two units in stock, which may make it difficult to purchase in certain regions.
- Unpainted Miniatures: While this provides creative freedom, it requires additional time and effort for assembly and painting.
- Learning Curve: The game’s variable player powers can be complex for newcomers, requiring investment in learning resources or tutorials.
Conclusion
The Hordes: Skorne Battlegroup Starter Box is a well-rounded product that successfully balances accessibility with depth. It offers an excellent introduction to the Hordes tabletop wargame and provides a strong foundation for players interested in building their own Skorne warband. The high-quality miniatures, comprehensive rulebook, and strategic flexibility make it a compelling choice for both beginners and veterans of the game. However, potential buyers should be mindful of limited availability and the need to invest time into mastering the game’s mechanics. Overall, this starter box is a solid investment for anyone looking to explore the world of Hordes through the Skorne faction.
