Introduction
Warhammer The Old World represents a revival of classic Warhammer Fantasy, reimagined as a standalone game by Games Workshop. Originally created in 1983 by Bryan Ansell, Richard Halliwell, and Rick Priestley, the franchise has evolved through decades of expansions and changes, most notably the shift to Age of Sigmar in 2015. The Old World Core Set marks a return to the roots of Warhammer Fantasy Battles, offering two distinct factions—Bretonnia and Tomb Kings of Khemri—each with its own core set, rulebook, and miniatures. This review explores the design, gameplay, value, and overall experience of this highly anticipated release.
Design & Components
The Old World Core Set is a meticulously crafted product that combines high-quality miniatures, detailed rulebooks, and essential gaming accessories. The Bretonnia edition includes 76 unpainted miniatures, such as knights, bowmen, and a Lord of Bretonnia, while the Tomb Kings of Khemri set boasts an impressive 93 models, including a fearsome Liche Priest on a Necrolith Bone Dragon. Both sets come with comprehensive assembly instructions in PDF format, ensuring ease of use for hobbyists of all skill levels.
The rulebook is a standout component, spanning over 350 pages and packed with lore, army showcases, and streamlined mechanics. It provides a cohesive blend of rules from past Warhammer editions while introducing refinements that modernize the gameplay experience. Additional inclusions such as 20 D6 dice, scatter dice, templates, and a 4-page reference sheet add practicality for players. The attention to detail in both miniatures and rulebooks reflects Games Workshop’s commitment to quality, making these sets ideal for collectors and enthusiasts.
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Gameplay Experience
The Old World Core Set introduces a refined yet complex set of rules that balance strategic depth with accessibility. While the core mechanics are solid, particularly for infantry and cavalry-based gameplay, some players may find the system overwhelming due to its layered intricacies. The game emphasizes tactical positioning, unit synergy, and lore-driven narratives, allowing players to immerse themselves in the medieval fantasy world of Bretonnia or the necromantic horrors of Khemri.
A notable advantage of this release is its dual-core set approach, which allows players to explore two distinct factions without needing additional purchases. This structure contrasts with previous releases like Legions Imperialis and offers a more flexible entry point into the game. However, the learning curve for new players may be steep, especially given the depth of mechanics inherited from older Warhammer editions. Despite this, dedicated fans of the setting will appreciate the return to familiar themes, such as the presence of Imperial Wizards and the rich lore surrounding magic in the Old World.
Value & Pricing
The Old World Core Set is a premium product with an MSRP of $415 for the Tomb Kings of Khemri edition and similar pricing for Bretonnia. While this represents a significant investment, it includes everything needed to begin playing, including miniatures, rules, and accessories. The sets are currently available on platforms like Amazon and eBay, though limited stock may lead to quick sell-outs due to high demand.
For fans of Warhammer Fantasy, the value proposition is strong, as these core sets encapsulate decades of lore and gameplay evolution. However, the price point may deter newcomers or those looking for a more affordable entry into tabletop wargaming. Alternatives such as Blood Bowl or Warhammer 40,000 offer different experiences but lack the same level of immersion in the Old World’s medieval fantasy setting.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality miniatures with detailed sculpting and ample variety for both Bretonnia and Tomb Kings factions.
- Comprehensive rulebook that blends classic Warhammer mechanics with modern refinements.
- Dual-core set approach allows exploration of two distinct factions without additional purchases.
Cons
- Rules can be complex and overwhelming for new players due to layered mechanics.
- Limited stock availability may lead to difficulty in acquiring the sets upon release.
- High price point compared to other tabletop wargames, potentially limiting accessibility.
Conclusion
Warhammer The Old World Core Set is a triumph for long-time fans of the franchise, offering a polished return to the roots of Warhammer Fantasy Battles with rich lore, detailed miniatures, and refined rules. While its complexity may challenge newcomers, the sets provide an unparalleled level of immersion and customization for those willing to invest time and resources. For collectors and enthusiasts, these core sets are a must-have addition to any wargaming collection, though potential buyers should be prepared for a steep learning curve and a significant financial commitment.
