Introduction
Kings Of War Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set is an ideal choice for newcomers to the world of tabletop wargaming, offering a compelling blend of eerie aesthetics and strategic depth. This set introduces players to the fearsome Nightstalkers, a faction embodying mortal nightmares come to life, through 16 hard plastic miniatures, rulebooks, and guides tailored for quick setup and immersive gameplay. With its emphasis on horror-themed units like Reapers and Butchers, it’s a standout option for those drawn to dark fantasy narratives in the Kings Of War universe. If you’re new to the game system, check out our complete Kings Of War 3Rd Starter Set review for a deeper dive into the mechanics and lore of this expansive universe.
Design & Components
The Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set includes 10 Reapers and 6 Butchers/Ravagers, all supplied as unassembled and unpainted hard plastic figures. These miniatures are designed with intricate details that capture the grotesque and otherworldly nature of the faction, from jagged claws to tattered robes. The set also features a comprehensive rulebook and a Nightstalkers Guide, making it easy for new players to dive into gameplay without needing extensive prior knowledge.
The packaging is practical, with components organized for ease of access during assembly. However, users should note that the miniatures require painting and glue, which may be a drawback for those seeking a ready-to-play experience. Despite this, the design’s emphasis on customization allows players to personalize their units, enhancing the creative aspect of the game.
🛒 Get the Best Deal on 
Fast, free delivery
30-day return policy
A-to-Z guarantee
Gameplay Experience
The Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set is tailored for both solo play and competitive matches, with rules that streamline setup while maintaining the tactical complexity of Kings Of War. The included Ambush Rules are particularly useful for quick games, focusing on surprise attacks and ambush tactics that align with the faction’s lore.
Players will appreciate the versatility of the miniatures, as 10 figures can be assembled as Reapers or Tormentors, and 6 can be configured as Butchers or Ravagers. This flexibility allows for experimentation with different unit roles and strategies. The set also includes bases and a getting-started guide, which helps new players understand the game’s mechanics and how to integrate their Nightstalker army into larger battles.
Value & Pricing
Priced at around $76.99 or £28.00 (with occasional discounts), the Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set offers strong value for its contents. It provides a substantial number of miniatures and rulebooks, making it more cost-effective than purchasing individual components separately. Compared to alternatives like the Forces of the Abyss Ambush Starter Set or Sands of Ahmun 2-Player Starter Set, this set stands out for its focus on horror-themed units and affordability.
However, the need to paint and assemble figures may add time and cost for those without existing painting tools. For budget-conscious buyers, this is a minor consideration given the set’s overall quality and content.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comprehensive Content: Includes 16 miniatures (10 Reapers and 6 Butchers/Ravagers), rulebooks, and guides for quick setup.
- Customization Flexibility: Figures can be assembled as Reapers/Tormentors or Butchers/Ravagers, allowing strategic experimentation.
- Community Support: Strong online communities like the Kings Of War Fanatics group on Facebook provide resources and advice.
Cons
- Assembly Required: Miniatures are unpainted and need glue and paint, which may deter casual players.
- Learning Curve: While rules are included, new players might find the game’s complexity overwhelming without prior experience.
- Limited Pre-Painted Options: No pre-painted figures or bases are included, requiring additional purchases for a ready-to-play army.
Conclusion
The Kings Of War Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set is an excellent introduction to the horror-themed faction of the game, offering a balance of quality miniatures, strategic depth, and affordability. While it requires time and effort for assembly and painting, the result is a visually striking and versatile army that fits well into both solo and competitive play. For those drawn to dark fantasy narratives and tactical gameplay, this set provides an engaging starting point with long-term replayability. Its value proposition and community support further solidify its position as a top choice among Kings Of War enthusiasts. If you’re looking for more in-depth insights into the broader game system, our complete Kings Of War 3Rd Starter Set review is an excellent resource to explore.
