Introduction
The Kings of War: Ice and Shadow 2-Player Starter Set is an excellent entry point for two players eager to dive into the world of mass battlefield wargaming. This set, designed by Mantic Games, introduces newcomers to a richly detailed universe where factions like the Northern Alliance and the Nightstalkers clash in epic battles. With over 80 miniatures, rulebooks, and quick start guides included, it offers a comprehensive package that balances accessibility with depth, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned players looking to expand their collection.
Design & Components
The set includes an impressive array of components tailored to provide everything needed for immediate gameplay. At its core are over 80 highly detailed Mantic miniatures, featuring two distinct factions: the Northern Alliance, known for their resilience and tactical prowess, and the Nightstalkers, a nightmarish force from the Void. Each faction comes with unique units such as Thegns, Reapers, Scarecrows, Butchers, and Banshees, all meticulously sculpted to reflect their lore.
For those interested in exploring other Nightstalker-themed content, our review of Kings Of War Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set provides further insight into this faction’s lore and gameplay mechanics.
The starter set also includes bases of various sizes—MDF and plastic options are provided for different unit types—and a softback copy of the Kings of War 3rd Edition Compendium, along with a paper guide specific to the Ice and Shadow theme. All miniatures are supplied unpainted, requiring assembly and painting, which adds an element of customization but may be a drawback for those seeking out-of-the-box playability.
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Gameplay Experience
The gameplay experience is centered around the narrative conflict between the Northern Alliance and the Nightstalkers during the Abyssal Dwarf invasion of Chill. This thematic backdrop provides a compelling reason to engage in battles, with each faction offering distinct strategies and unit capabilities. The full rulebook and quick start guide ensure that players can quickly grasp the mechanics of the game, whether they’re new to Kings of War or veterans looking for fresh challenges.
Mantic Games supports the community through regular updates, expansions, and organized play events, ensuring that the game remains dynamic and engaging over time. The inclusion of a wide range of factions—humans, elves, dwarves, orcs, undead, and more—adds to the replayability factor, allowing players to explore different playstyles and armies as they grow into the hobby.
For those seeking deeper exploration of Mantic Games’ Kings Of War universe, our review of Mantic Games, Kings Of War: 3Rd provides a comprehensive look at the game’s evolution and mechanics.
Value & Pricing
Priced at $102 (a discount from its regular price of $120), the Kings of War: Ice and Shadow 2-Player Starter Set offers excellent value for money, especially considering the quantity and quality of components included. The set provides a complete toolkit to begin playing immediately, eliminating the need for additional purchases of miniatures or rulebooks. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to enter the Kings of War universe without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality miniatures: Over 80 detailed Mantic models provide a strong foundation for both gameplay and collection-building.
- Comprehensive rulebook: The included Kings of War 3rd Edition Compendium and quick start guide ensure ease of use for new players.
- Faction diversity: Two distinct factions with unique playstyles offer flexibility and replayability.
Cons
- Unpainted miniatures require assembly: This may be time-consuming and not ideal for those seeking a ready-to-play experience.
- Learning curve: The complexity of Kings of War mechanics might overwhelm absolute beginners without prior wargaming experience.
- Limited initial playability: While the set includes two factions, expanding to other armies in the Kings of War universe requires additional purchases.
Conclusion
The Kings of War: Ice and Shadow 2-Player Starter Set is a well-rounded package that successfully introduces players to the strategic depth and immersive storytelling of Mantic Games’ flagship wargame. Its inclusion of high-quality miniatures, detailed rulebooks, and two distinct factions makes it an excellent value for those new to the hobby or looking to expand their collection. While the need to assemble and paint models may be a hurdle for some, the overall experience is rewarding, especially with the support of an active community and ongoing content updates from Mantic Games.
For a complete overview of Kings Of War’s 3rd Edition mechanics and features, our complete Kings Of War 3Rd Starter Set review is an essential read for players at any skill level. This starter set is a solid investment for anyone drawn to the world of mass battlefield wargaming.