Introduction
Blood Bowl: Goblin Team by Games Workshop offers a unique entry into the world of tabletop sports strategy, combining whimsical design with chaotic gameplay. This set introduces players to the Scarcrag Snivellers, a team known for their agility, cunning, and reliance on secret weapons. While the Goblin team is often considered one of the most difficult to master in Blood Bowl, it appeals to those who enjoy unpredictable strategies and creative problem-solving. The kit includes 12 multi-part plastic miniatures, along with accessories like bases, coins, and markers, making it a complete package for both newcomers and seasoned players.
If you’re new to the game system, check out our complete Blood Bowl 3: Brutal review for a deeper dive into the mechanics and overall experience of the latest edition.
Design & Components
The Goblin Team set is packed with components designed to enhance customization and immersion. At its core are 12 multipart Goblins, featuring six pairs of unique bodies and seven pairs of distinct heads. This allows for endless variations in team appearance, ensuring no two Goblin teams look alike. The miniatures are crafted with the same attention to detail as previous Games Workshop kits, though this iteration emphasizes swapable parts for greater personalization.
Included accessories such as x2 double-sided Blood Bowl coins, x2 turn and replay markers, and x6 balls provide everything needed for gameplay. Team decals and pre-painted bases add convenience, reducing the need for additional preparation. The design of the Goblins themselves reflects their lore—small, agile figures with a mix of expressions that range from mischievous to outright menacing. While some users noted that the miniatures require careful assembly to maintain quality, the overall fit and detail are praised as consistent with other Games Workshop releases.
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Gameplay Experience
Goblin teams in Blood Bowl are defined by their agility and reliance on underhanded tactics. Their players are cheap and weak but excel at using secret weapons, such as bombs or hidden tools, to turn the tide of a match. This playstyle encourages creativity, as players must compensate for the team’s inherent fragility with clever positioning, blocking, and ambush strategies.
However, this approach comes with challenges. Goblins suffer from a -1 penalty to passing, making them vulnerable in games that rely on quick ball movement. Their small size also limits their effectiveness in direct combat against larger opponents, though trolls included in the team can serve as powerful blockers or enforcers. User experiences highlight both the joy of outmaneuvering opponents with secret weapons and the frustration of losing due to poor dice rolls or overreliance on unreliable strategies.
For players seeking a low-effort, high-reward experience, Goblins may not be ideal. They require patience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace chaos. As one user noted, “Goblin teams are all about having fun and creating chaos—it takes a different strategy than the norm.” This makes them an excellent choice for those who enjoy unpredictable, high-stakes matches but less so for players prioritizing consistency or ease of use.
Value & Pricing
The Goblin Team set is priced competitively within the Blood Bowl ecosystem, though it falls into the higher end of the spectrum compared to other teams like Orks or Black Orcs, which are often considered more beginner-friendly. The customization options and inclusion of unique miniatures justify the cost for enthusiasts who want a distinct team identity.
Alternatives such as the Halflings or Snotlings (often called Ogres) offer similar stunty playstyles but with slightly better balance in some areas. For those looking to expand their roster, additional Goblin players can be sourced through conversions or other Blood Bowl expansions. However, users caution that building a full team may require extra investment in secret weapons and accessories beyond the base set.
If you’re exploring other team options within the Blood Bowl universe, our review of Blood Bowl – X provides further insights into alternative strategies and playstyles that might suit your preferences.
Availability is straightforward through Games Workshop and Forge World, though the set occasionally slips under the radar of new releases. Despite its price point, the Goblin Team’s unique playstyle and customization potential make it a worthwhile purchase for fans of the game who enjoy embracing the team’s chaotic nature.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Customization: 6 pairs of unique bodies and 7 pairs of heads allow for endless variations in team appearance.
- Unique Playstyle: Reliance on secret weapons and agility creates a fun, unpredictable experience.
- Detailed Miniatures: High-quality plastic components with consistent fit and detail from Games Workshop.
Cons
- Difficulty for Beginners: Weak players and penalties to passing make the team challenging to master.
- High Cost: Priced higher than some other teams, requiring additional investment for full customization.
- Fragility: Goblins break easily, necessitating careful play or reliance on trolls for protection.
Conclusion
Blood Bowl: Goblin Team is a standout choice for players who thrive on chaos and enjoy unconventional strategies. While the team’s inherent weaknesses and steep learning curve may deter newcomers, its customization options and creative gameplay make it rewarding for those willing to invest time and effort. The set’s attention to detail, from unique miniature parts to included accessories, ensures a satisfying experience both on and off the pitch.
For fans of Blood Bowl seeking a team that embraces mischief and mayhem, the Goblin Team is an excellent pick—even if it means bracing for a few losses along the way. If you’re considering deeper exploration into the game system, our complete Blood Bowl 3: Brutal review offers further context on what to expect from the latest iteration of this beloved franchise.