BattleLore Discussion

[toddrew]

Originally Posted by jbbnbsmith

Epic Expansion - I will rarely, if ever, play with more than two people. However, having a larger map to play on is always a plus. With a price tag of about $10, this seems to be in the running.

The only reason I don't play more epic games is that it's rare I can find a face to face opponent and play the vast majority of my BL games on Vassal. The "straight" multi-player rules are, IMHO, nothing more than a way of forcing multiple players into what is really a two-player game. The 4 player Reluctant Allies variant, however, is a fun multi-player game. Mainly though, this expansion just expands the playing area for two players. This is a good thing, but doesn't make the base game board obsolete - I still very much enjoy playing on the smaller board (and sometimes due to the speed of the confrontations, prefer it).

Call to Arms - I've read mixed opinions on this. It seems to me that it is still a worthy buy as it sets the standard for the rest of the expansions. One question; does Call to Arms assume that you are playing Epic, or does it not matter at all?

Call to Arms has been implemented on Vassal, and I do play using it quite a lot. I've used it once on epic, but dozens (if not hundreds ) of times on the regular board. It adds a level of strategy to the game during set-up (but not the level that some were expecting) and makes an adventure fresh (even though just a straight replay of a board will be fresh due to the variables of the cards and dice). Fun addition to the game, though I would suggest two copies so each player has access to the same cards (though having to compete for resources can be an interesting part of the game).

Misc Goblin & Dwarf expansions - Here's where I could use some clarification. I know that each of these sets come with some new figures and new specialists, as well as about 2 new scnearios that use the new units. I also have read that Call to Arms allows for only two specialists per side. My question is, do you all see these as "must haves" or are they the sort of thing where a person can just pick and choose. For example, I really like the new Scottish/Dwarf expansion that's coming out soon. I also am drawn to the 100 years war expansion for the additional historical scenarios. Right now, I 'm leaning toward just buying a few packs that capture my attention, especially since I've not even come close to getting tired of the base game yet.

I wasn't going to get all of the unit expansions, only HYW and then pick up the others at my leisure, but ended up getting them all, save, ironically, HYW (though I plan on getting that one very soon). Between the card play, call to arms, and the war council, there is plenty of variety there to hold my interest, so from that standpoint I agree with you that these are not necessary. That said, every unit so far really does add an interesting (though at times subtle) twist to the game. The bands and the hornblowers add the most striking changes to the gameplay, but every unit does bring something new to the game. If you do end up going this route, I would suggest picking the pack that most intrigues you, as I feel they are all enjoyable.

[cavie]

jbbnbsmith,
I won't go into too much detail here but let you know what I've got and what I like.

I like Call to Arms. The deployment system does provide some different strategy techniques and with the specialist cards you definitely add some additional elements to spice things up.

Dwarven Battalion is cool with the addition of the bagpiper unit. The axe men and spear bearers are a neat addition as well.

I especially like the Goblin Skirmisher pack because I really like the Goblin Band unit.

I do not have 100 years or Mauraders yet so hopefully someone else will comment - Toddrew?

So far the expansions I've bought have added 'just enough' for my taste. I was worried that too much was being added too fast and I was not going to like all the additions but that hasn't been the case so far. After I get the next 2 I'm hoping that will hold true. I really don't want to see the game change drastically too soon. I feel it's a decent game as is for the most part.

(edit - toddrew types faster than I)

[toddrew]

Originally Posted by cavie

(edit - toddrew types faster than I)

If I typed faster, you would have seen my post before starting yours

Two posts corroborating that he should get everything should be helpful though

[skyknight]

So when are the next waves of Battlelore even coming out? I have the dwarven Battalion, Marauders and Hundred year stuff....anything else out soon???

[jbbnbsmith]

Originally Posted by toddrew

If I typed faster, you would have seen my post before starting yours

Two posts corroborating that he should get everything should be helpful though

Yeah...very helpful.

Seriously though, thanks for the input. At this point I'll probably pick up Epic and Call to Arms and hold off on the other packs until I play enough to justify them.

Now I need to decide about the air expansion for MM44!

[jbbnbsmith]

Originally Posted by skyknight

So when are the next waves of Battlelore even coming out? I have the dwarven Battalion, Marauders and Hundred year stuff....anything else out soon???

The next one announced is Scottish Wars - a dwarf expansion that will feature scenarios for Stirling Bridge, Bannonockburn, Dupplin Moor, Neville's Cross and Falkirk. That sounds like a must have to me! They are hoping it will ship by the end of the year, but it will likely be early '08.

[DarkSpade]

jbbnbsmith, the epic rules work fully for 1 on 1. I found the rules for more than 2 players "forced" like he mentioned above. Epic is worth it if you're looking to play some big games.

[skyknight]

Originally Posted by jbbnbsmith

The next one announced is Scottish Wars - a dwarf expansion that will feature scenarios for Stirling Bridge, Bannonockburn, Dupplin Moor, Neville's Cross and Falkirk. That sounds like a must have to me! They are hoping it will ship by the end of the year, but it will likely be early '08.

THnaks JBB, I love Scotch In all seriousness I went and looked this up, it does look pretty cool. I am on a DOW kinda boycott though so we will have to see

[toddrew]

Originally Posted by skyknight

I am on a DOW kinda boycott though so we will have to see

You're gonna let one company rep in the midst of a relationship crisis sour you on a whole line of games

Anyway, the Scottish Wars does sound very cool, but I'll be fine if it doesn't crop up until next year (I should have picked up HYW by then, and be on my way for saving up towards the heroes expansion...)

[toddrew]

On Vassal right now, for another hour or so. If you happened to stop by, well, who knows, maybe a game?


Yes, you. You right there reading this. um-hmm.

[champrjk]

I'm happy to say that I have played a few games with goblins and defeated the dwarves with them. Rather harsh when your opponent keeps rolling flags and lore in battles. Thanks for the tips. They sure helped in opening up my strategies. I just got the new pack with the ostrich and hyena riders and can't wait to try them out. Mounted ranged appeals to me. Now I just got to get a day off from work and con someone into playing with me.

[norseman1066]

Hi Guys,

Good to see so many people playing this game. I have a small favour to ask for which I will re-emburse you for any expenses incurred.

I recently purchased a HYW pack but it's in French. I would like to ask if anyone that ownes this expansion would be willing to photocopy the rules book and the summary cards for me and mail them? I'd be most appreciative.

Thank you in advance.