ACKS DomainsAtWar Battles

Written by ALEXANDER MACRIS
Tomorrow you will bring the battle to the foe. Tonight you walk among
the troops youll lead. The mercenaries are veterans and sleep while they
can, but the peasants levied from your lands seek courage in tales of your
previous victories. In the cover of darkness, you can listen rather than
lead. Remember when you were like them? Back when you first entered
the dungeon, you wielded a sword to fight for gold, glory, and the favor
of the gods. Winning these earned you a throne. Now you wield an army,
and fight for the right to rule the domains at war.
Domains at War: Battles (D@W) is a supplement for Autarchs best-selling Adventure Conqueror
King System (ACKS). Using the rules herein, you can run massive battles between opposing
armies using playing pieces on the tabletop. Designed specifically for battles where RPG characters
are in command, D@W: Battles makes the deeds and decisions of those characters the focus of its
gameplay, and works hard to integrate their actions into the flow of battle. Built from the same
mathematics that power ACKS, it generates outcomes like what youd get if you fought it out on the
one-on-one roleplaying scale.
Domains at War: Battles is compatible with any fantasy RPG system that uses twenty-sided dice
and shares concepts like hit points and armor class. With Domains at War: Battles, we invite RPG
gamers to bring the epic scope of pitched battle to their tabletops!
AUT1105
TM
TM
www.autarch.co Printed in the U.S.A.

DOMAINS AT WAR
B AT T L E S
FIGHTING PITCHED BATTLES WITH THE ADVENTURER CONQUEROR KING SYSTEM

ACKS Players Companion 2012 Autarch LLC. The Auran Empire and all proper names, dialogue, plots, storylines,
locations, and characters relating thereto are copyright 2011 by Alexander Macris and used by Autarch LLC under license. Cover
artwork is copyright 2011-2012 Michael C. Hayes and used under license. Some interior artwork is copyright 2012 John and Laura
Lakey and used under license. Some interior artwork is copyright 2012-2013 Ryan Browning and used under license. Some artwork
is copyright 2012 William McAusland and used with permission. Some artwork is copyright 2013 Cynthia Sheppard and used under
license. Some interior artwork is copyright 2013 Chris Hagerty and used under license. Some interior artwork is copyright 2013
Conor Nolan and used under license.
This material is protected under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Any reproduction or unauthorized use of the
material or artwork contained herein is prohibited without the written permission of the copyright owners. Autarch, Adventure
Conqueror King, Adventurer Conqueror King System, ACKS Players Companion, and ACKS are trademarks of
Autarch LLC. Auran Empire is a trademark of Alexander Macris and used by Autarch under license. Adventurer Conqueror
King System is distributed to the hobby, toy, and comic trade in the United States by Game Salute LLC. This product is a work of
fiction. Any similarity to actual people, organizations, places, or events is purely coincidental. Printed in the USA.
www.autarch.co
CREDITS
Design: Alexander Macris Counter Art: Chris Hagerty
Development: Tavis Allison Interior Art: Ryan Browning

Peter Robbins John & Laura Lakey
Thomas Weigel Conor Nolan
Cynthia Sheppard
Editing: Heather Barefoot William McAusland
Bobloblah
John Davis Graphic Design: Carrie Keymel
Thomas Weigel Greg Lincoln
Cover Art: Michael C. Hayes Webmaster: Tim Turner
Cover Design: Carrie Keymel Event Support: Tavis Allison

Alexander Macris
Cartography: Chris Hagerty Peter Robbins
Greg Tito
The Adventurer Conqueror King System: Domains at War - Battles
Table of Contents Credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chapter 6: Scale 63

Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Scaling Up the Game . . . . . . 64
Caesar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Units at Epic Scale . . . . . . . 64
IMPERATOR . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Officers and Heroes at Epic Scale . . 65
MAGISTER MILITUM . . . . . . . . 2 Spells and Items at Epic Scale . . . 65
AUTARCH RETAILER . . . . . . . . 2 Assaults at Epic Scale . . . . . . 67
LEGATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Officers and Heroes at
TRIBUNE . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Platoon Scale . . . . . . . . 70
D@W RETAILER . . . . . . . . . 2 Spells and Items at Platoon Scale . . 70
CENTURION PHALANX . . . . . . . 2 Assaults at Platoon Scale . . . . . 73
PRIMUS PILUS . . . . . . . . . . 2
Backers cont. . . . . . . . . . . 4 Chapter 7: Rosters 75
Demi-Human Units . . . . . . . 76
Introduction 6 Human Units . . . . . . . . . 77
About the Game . . . . . . . . . 7 Beastman Units . . . . . . . . 78
How to Use this Book . . . . . . . 7 Exotic Units . . . . . . . . . . 79
Inspirations . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Chapter 8: Conversion 80
Basics of Building Units . . . . . 81
Chapter 1: Basic Rules 9 Building Standard units . . . . . 81
Core Concepts . . . . . . . . . 10 Building Cavalry Units . . . . . . 82
Units. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Building Mixed Units . . . . . . 84
Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Building Behemoth Cavalry units . . 86
Set Up . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Building Chariot Units . . . . . . 89
Sequence of Play . . . . . . . . 17 Using ACKS Characters with
Command Phase . . . . . . . . 18 Domains at War . . . . . . . 91
Movement Sequence. . . . . . . 18 Calculating Battle Ratings and Cost . 92
Attack Sequence . . . . . . . . 20
Actions in Lieu of Attacking . . . . 24 Chapter 9: Scenarios 96
Morale Phase . . . . . . . . . 25 Basic Scenario: Peril at the Fangs . . 97
Ending Battles . . . . . . . . . 26 Advanced Scenario: Battle of Zidium 99
Chapter 2: Terrain 28 Chapter 10: Armies 103

Random Terrain Generation . . . . 29 The Hobgoblin Horde of Ysgre . . . 104
Terrain Types . . . . . . . . . 31 The Watchful Legion of Artashumara 106
Chapter 3: Strategic Situations 34 Glossary 110

Deployment by Strategic Situation . 35 Order of Battle . . . . . . . . . 119
Commander Characteristics . . . . 120
Chapter 4: Heroes 39 Hero Characteristics . . . . . . . 120
Qualifying as a Hero . . . . . . . 40 Domains at War: Battles
Hero Characteristics . . . . . . . 40 Characteristics . . . . . . . . 121
Heroes on the Battlemap . . . . . 40 Domains at War: Campaigns
Spells, Special Abilities, and Characteristics . . . . . . . . 121
Magic Items . . . . . . . . . 42 Stronghold Under Siege Record . . 122
Siege Journal . . . . . . . . . 123
Chapter 5: Assaults 52 Besiegers Siege Record . . . . . 125
Fortified Structures . . . . . . . 53 Defenders Siege Record . . . . . 126
Damaging and Destroying Fortified
Structures . . . . . . . . . . 54
Assault Set Up . . . . . . . . . 55
Movement During Assaults . . . . 55
Combat During Assaults . . . . . 56
Siege Equipment . . . . . . . . 57
Artillery Units . . . . . . . . . 60
1
THANK YOU
Domains at War was made possible by the supporters who backed the original Adventurer
Conqueror King Kickstarter or pre-ordered ACKS from Autarch. Were glad to thank you
once again for your contributions, and hope you enjoy this bonus goal!
CAESAR
Jeffrey Binder
Cain Gillespie
IMPERATOR TRIBUNE D@W RETAILER

Fred Liner Andrew Ronald Atomic Empire
Johnson
MAGISTER Big Blair CENTURION
MILITUM Bobloblah PHALANX
Cain Gillespie David Keyser Adam Meyers
Eric Malo Monkey Matt Foster-Jacks Dad
AUTARCH Maloof
Ronanddes
RETAILER Jarrod Maistros
William Macris
The Tower Game Center Jim Skach
Twenty Sided Store Jon Peterson PRIMUS PILUS
Ktrey Parker Benjamin Armintor
LEGATE Mark Pavlou Daniel Stack
Cain Gillespie Mark Solino Jason Azze
Casey Garske Morgan Hazel Jason Smith
Charles Myers Paul A. Nemeth Lempi Kurkinen
Jon F. Zeigler Peter PJDanger Dean M. Young
Scott Boston Peter McNamara Miguel Zapico
Richard Forest Noah Marshall
Robert Gamble Phil Karecki
Scott Maynard Philipp Kepplinger
Steven Dolges Tshilaba Verite and
Utz Westermann Artus Nemati
2
CENTURION Joe Kushner Roger Robar Matt Shoemaker

Aaron Leback John P Jones Roland Cooke Matthew Koelling
Aaron Wong Johnathan L Bingham Rus Ketcham Nicholas Cassidy
Adam Conlan Jonathan T. Combs Sam Curry Nicholas Lim
Adam Hackley Joseph Bloch Sam Stoute Niklas Nordberg
Adam Muszkiewicz Josh Reynolds Satya Tabachnick Ray Nolan
Bill Barsh Keith Davies Scott Law Richard Rush
Bill Valera Keith Sletten Sean D. Parker Ryan Latta
Carl Foner Keith Sloan simonsimple Ryan Van Winkle
Chris Allison Keith418 Sir Mark Franceschini Samuel A. Lyons
Chris Blauwkamp Kevin Heckman Stan Rydzewski Scott Kehl
Chris Pramas Kire Steve Dodge Scott Tooker
Christian Selzam Larry Yakowenko Steve Howells Steven D Warble
D. Mcphedran M&H Pumple Steven J Luke VDS
Daniel P. Jorgensen MA Hovi Thomas Darlington walter landry
Daniel Trujillo Magodan the Thomas P. Gingras William R. Edgington
David Brewster Splendiferous Thor Olavsrud
David Goldstein Mark Bober Tim Knight
DECURION
David Huttleston Jr Mark Donkers Alan
Tim Newman
David Lai Mark Malone Alex Barrett
Tom Iron Mike Myers
David Leavenworth Marky Erhardt Alex Davis
Tom Delegarde
David Williams Matthew Nelson Allan Rodda
Tom Weston
Edward Hand Matthias Phoenix Andrew D. Devenney
Tony Digaetano
Kostwein Carlos de la Cruz Morales
Edwin Charoenpitaks Troy Wells
Mike Caldwell Charles Shirk
Eric Meissner Warren Sistrom
Mike Capps Chris Harvey
erik tenkar William Brandis
Mike Hamann Chris McNeil
Faster Monkey Games Zach Glazar
Murray H Smith Christian de la Rosa
Francis Helie
N.O.S. DECURION PHALANX Confanity
Fred Herman
Nicholas J Mizer Alex Lapin Dan Bennett
Geoffrey Sears
Nick LS Whelan Chris Snyder Daniel Goupil
Grand High Poohbah
Kirkham Novakowski Christopher Livingston Dave Chrobak
Harry Culpan Patrick Tarantino Damien Brunetto Dave Jones
Ian Grey Paul MacDonald David B. McGuire David Cinabro
Iyar Binyamin Paul Ramer drnuncheon David M.
James A Paul Watson Eric Edwards Ed Johns
James C. Bennett Pedro Lisboa Gordon Cranford Edward Purcell
James Laverack Peter Robbins Gustavo Iglesias Garth Elliott
Jason Hobbs Rich Canino J. Stuart Pate Hans Kre S. Oppigrd
Jason Ludanto Smith Rich Harrison Jacques Nel Henry W. Ulrich
Jeffry Rinkel Rich Simmons John-Matthew DeFoggi Jacob Sparky Segal
Jerry L. Meyer Jr. CWT Rich Spainhour Ken Thronberry James Edward Raggi IV
Jesse Butler Rob Dean Kristian Hartmann Jeff Ruszczyk
Jim Wilmanric Pacek Rob Iannacone Mark Mealman John Davis
3
BACKERS CONT.
kadnod Dan Seif Karl Miller Usman J. Mir
Mark Moreland Dana Massey Ken Moore Wajanai Snidvongs
Matt Maranda Daniel Worthington Kevin Pulp GM McHale William Stapleton
Matthew Eskridge Dargon Myrradd Kevin Flynn
Misha Favorov David Reeves K-Slacker
DWIMMERMOUNT
BACKER
Nat Webb Denis Gagnon Lowell Francis
A Nemeth
Owen Gannon Derrick Cook Maeyanie
Aaron Atwood
Patrick Ciraco, the Edward Sturges Manuel Siebert
AncientGamer. Aaron Clancy
Eric Casey Mark Hurst
Peter Sundell Adam Rajski
Eric S. Mark Leymaster of
Philip Williams Grammarye Adam Waggenspack
F. C. Wesel
Ralph Mazza Mark Worthy Alan De Smet
Fabio Milito Pagliara
Robert Roig Matt Kay Alan J Clark
Frederic Moll
Rod Thompson Matt Walsh Alan Krause
G Woods
Sasha Bilton Matthew B Alex Dingle
Garreth Baldwin
Scott Faulkner Matthew Pianosi Alexei McDonald
Gaston Keller (aka Gurtaj)
Stefan Feltmann Mica Fetz Allen C Hannon
Geoffrey Miller
Steven J. Fader Michael (Gronan of Amado Glick
George Fields
Steven Wales Simmerya) Mornard Andreas Melhorn
George Kapp
Thomas Richard Taylor IV Michael Fransioli Andrew and Heleen
Gordon Thomas Durston
Tim Rudolph Michael Nutter
Greatnate Andrew Branstad
Todd DeWitt Neil R Lindgren
Greg Gilbraith Andrew Byers
Travis S. Casey Omer Golan-Joel
Gustavo La Fontaine Andrew Crenshaw
Trevor Xiao Patrick Pachl
Ian Magee Andrew R Nagel
Tyler M Doyon Patrick Pautler
imredave Andrew Shields
Witness Paul Hughes
James DeBruicker Anonymous
Pete Griffith
James W. Rouse III Anthony Stiller
SIGNIFIER Phil Ward
Alexander Y. James Young Arno de Lange
Qali VaShen
Hawson, M.D. Jason Italiano Arthur Braune
Robert Fisher
Alexia Harvey Jason Marks B.D. Case
Robert Towell
Andrew Gil Jeffrey J.A. Fuller II Barry C. Cook
Runeslinger
Anna B Meyer Jeffrey Webb, Royal Benjamin Lyons
Dragoons Sage LaTorra
Arnold Littleworth Bob Dunham
Jiminy Samwise Crider
Ben Alsop Brendan Tobin
Joo Bruno Scarth
Bill Fischer Brett Wilson
Joel S. Kondas Scott Isensee
BlackStar Studios Brian Sniffen
Joel T. Clark Scott Smith
Brock Synnes Carl Meyer
john hayholt Shadowstar Boxer
Carlos Daniel Muoz Diaz Chad Dodd
John Nichols Silvio Herrera Gea
Chris Collins Charlie Mason
John Stern Simon Withers
Chris Faulkenberry Chris Perkins
Jonathan P. Tate Sixten Zeis
Christopher Irvine Chris Sigmund
Jorge Tiberio Coto Steven Trustrum
Cody Black Christopher Mayfield
Juan Cruz Balda Tim Czarnecki
D. Graham Christopher ODell
Berrotarn Tom Schlickeiser
Dan Clery cmacris
4
Cody Reichenau Jacqueline Legazcue Michael Mammut Sauer Taylor Martin

Colin Campbell Jake F. Michael Cullen The Ubiquitous
Craig S Janssen Jake Parker Michael D. Blanchard Todd Roy
D. Lyons James Landry Michael De Rosa Tom Hudson
D. Weaver James MacGeorge Michael Hertling Tom Ladegard
Dan Wood James Roberts Michael Pfaff Topi Makkonen
Daniel Lofton James Stuart Michael Stevens Vicente Cartas Espinel
David Brawley Jan Sjgren Mike Bolam Vincent Ecuyer
David Campbell Jason Hierax Verbitsky Mike Davey Wesley E. Marshall
David DeRocha Jean ALAHEL Fridrici Mulgar the Merciful Wilhelm Fitzpatrick
David Haraldson Jed McClure Nathaniel Bennett
David Macauley Jeremy S. Holley
LEGIONARY
Orion Cooper
Adam Pendleton
David Parlin Joel Rojas Paolo Greco
Brett J Bayley
David Sullivan John Arendt Paul Vermeren
Charles A Taylor
David W. Johnston John Brown Peter H. Froehlich
Charles R. Simpson
Demian Walendorff John Carr Phil Lewis
Craig Cruzan
Dennis Higgins John Wills Phillip Morris Jr.
D Van Horn
Derik Malenda Jon Leitheusser R.A. Mc Reynolds
Damian Leach
Diogo Nogueira Jonathan Bolding Ramanan Sivaranjan
Daniel Corn
Donald Wheeler Jonathan Jordan Remy Braathen
Dave Woollcombe-Gosson
Doug Bailey Jose LaCario Reverance Pavane
Deborah Teramis
Drew (Andrew) South Jos M. Snchez Ricardo Signes Christian
Edward L Hamilton Joseph McRoberts Rich Stokes Evilhalfling
Eli Curtz Joshua Beale Richard Humm Jale Queen
Eric Cook Joshua BUergel Rob McArthur Jason VandenBerghe
Everitt Long Justin Cabuster Edwards Robert Kern Jeremy Geib
Florian Hbner Keith E. Clendenen Robert S. Conley Joel Strontosaurus
Franz Georg Rsel Keith Spears Rod Spellman Garrett
G. Hartman Ken Finlayson Sam Gorton John Carlson
Galahad de Corbenic Kerry Forester Scott Machpants John Proudfoot
Gary McBride Kevin Brennan Sutherland Matt Johnson
Gavin Mutter Kevin Roust Scott Barrie Moritz Khler
George R. Brown Kristian J. Jaech Sean Curtin Nicholas Peterson
Gilbert Isla Lee Reynoldson Sebastian Dietz Patrick Mooney
Greg Welty Lester Ward Shawn Wood Randall Stukey
Henry Wong Lloyd Rasmussen Simon Forster Ryan Poindexter
Herb Nowell MaGnuS Simon Stroud Simon Collins
Herman Duyker Mark buzz Delsing Stan MacDonald Simon Dangerfield
Iain Murray Mark Harvey Stephan Szabo Timothy Baker
Ian Dimitri Mark W Daymude Stephen R. Brandon Tom Enever
Ignatius Montenegro Martin Ralya Steve Huntsberry
J.Barker Matthew Skail Steve Lord
jack ackerman Matthew Wasiak Steven Danielson
Jack Gulick Matthias Weeks Stormshot
5
Introduction
The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of
what is before them, glory and danger alike, yet
notwithstanding, go out to meet it.
Thucydides
ABOUT THE GAME HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
Introduction
Domains at War (D@W) is the mass combat supplement for Domains at War: Battles includes all the rules you need to
the Adventurer Conqueror King System (ACKS). The rules of fight tabletop battles between fantasy armies derived from the
Domains at War are divided into two books: Campaigns and Adventurer Conqueror King System or a similar D20-based
Battles. The book you are presently reading is the Domains at fantasy role-playing game.
War: Battles book.
Domains at War: Battles can be used in two ways. First, it can be
Domains at War: Battles is a set of rules for running massive used to fight standalone scenarios, based on historical battles,
battles using playing pieces on the tabletop. Why are we fictional conflicts, or simply interesting engagements that pit one
offering our RPG players a tabletop wargame? We see it as force against another. Second, it can be used to fight campaign
a return to the roots of our hobby. Tabletop wargaming is battles that emerge in the context of an ongoing role-playing
the glorious ancestor of tabletop role-playing. One game in game campaign. We provide rules for both types of battles in
particular, Chainmail, written by Gary Gygax and Jeff Perren, this book, but in order to play campaign games, you will also
was particularly influential on our hobby. Although designed need Domains at War: Campaigns along with the Adventurer
to simulate the clash of armies in the Middle Ages, Chainmail Conqueror King System or a similar D20-based fantasy role-
included a short fantasy supplement that featured rules for playing game.
heroes, dragons, and wizards. This fantasy supplement led to
If you have never played a fantasy wargame, we recommend
the collaboration between Dave Arneson and Gary Gygax
that you begin by reading Chapter 1 of this book, Basic Rules.
that culminated in their development of the original edition of
Once you have read over the basic rules, set-up and play the
Dungeons & Dragons. To this day, miniatures and battlemaps
introductory scenario, Peril at the Fangs (found in Chapter
remain in common use among role-playing gamers, and even
9), re-reading each section of Chapter 1 as necessary when you
very recently written RPGs such as Savage Worlds or D&D 4th
reach the appropriate stage of the game.
Edition have stayed surprisingly close to their roots in tabletop
wargaming, albeit at a small scale. With Domains at War: Battles, Once youve run through a basic battle, you can begin to explore
we invite RPG gamers to restore the epic scope of pitched battle the more advanced rules. Chapter 2, Terrain, covers how to
to their tabletops. deliberately and randomly place forests, hills, broken ground,
and other terrain pieces, and what the game effects of each type
If you want to run tabletop battles in the context of a full-scale
of terrain are. Chapter 3, Strategic Situations, allows you to alter
military campaign, where you can raise armies, march against
the basic set-up, deployment, and pursuit rules to accommodate
enemy forces, and conquer domains, youll want to consult this
ambushes, envelopments, and other circumstances. Chapter
books companion volume, Domains at War: Campaigns. If you
4, Heroes, adds rules for lords, wizards, dragons, and other
purchased the Complete Domains at War Set, youll have both
powerful characters on the battlefield. Chapter 5, Assaults,
the Campaigns and Battles rulebooks, along with an assortment
is devoted to siege warfare, with complete mechanics for
of battlemaps, counters, and tokens that you can use to run
bombardment, assaults, magic, and more. Chapter 6, Scale,
everything from a small skirmish to an epic military conflict
explains how to adjust the game to cover everything from
spanning empires.
skirmishes with just a few score troops all the way to epic battles
with tens of thousands of troops on each side. You can test out
About the Game 7

many of the advanced rules using the second included scenario, is known as a realm. A realms leader personally controls one
the Battle of Zidium (again in Chapter 9). domain within his realm, known as his personal domain. The
other domains within his realm are governed by the leaders
The final three chapters will serve as reference points as you
vassals, and are known as vassal domains. If a realm is large
master the basic and advanced rules. Chapter 7, Rosters,
and powerful, the leaders vassals might themselves each control
provides a list of pre-generated armies, commanders, divisions,
smaller realms, and have their own vassals. The Adventurer
and units to use in your standalone scenarios and campaign
Conqueror King System provides detailed rules on establishing
battles. Chapter 8, Conversion, explains how to convert your
and managing domains and realms.
own ACKS characters and monsters for campaign battles.
Chapter 9, Scenarios, presents the basic and advanced scenarios As leaders of domains and realms, the PCs will raise armies
mentioned above. Finally, Chapter 10, Armies, offers unique of troops. Armies are organized into divisions of units led by
armies and custom units for your reference and use. commanders. At the strategic level, armies are maneuvered in
campaigns to defend domains or conquer new domains. These
rules are covered in Domains at War: Campaigns.
INSPIRATIONS
In addition to Gygax and Perrens Chainmail, many tabletop Domains at War: Campaigns uses hex maps to chart the
wargames have inspired and shaped Domains at War: Battles. movement of armies at the strategic level. Therefore the territory
We mention them here in homage to the designers who came and terrain of any realms and domains should mapped on hex
before us. We drew particular insight from Phil Barkers De paper. The map scale for strategic maneuver in Domains at War
Bellis Antiquitatis, Richard Berg and Mark Hermans Great is 1 hex = 6 miles.
Battles, Richard Borgs Battle Lore, and Arty Conliffes Armati. When two opposing armies move into the same hex, a battle
Gamers familiar with these works will doubtless note certain may result. Battles are resolved on a tabletop battlemap divided
mechanical similarities with Domains at War: Battles. The into six-sided hexes representing 60' across. Hexes regulate
biggest difference between these games and Battles is in the role movement and combat by the units on the battlemap. A typical
of commanders and heroes on the battlefield. While Domains battle will have a dozen to two dozen units on each side. In a
at War: Battles could be enjoyed as a stand-alone wargame, it campaign game, usually the PCs will be controlling one army
has been designed specifically for battles where RPG characters and the Judge will be controlling the other, but battles that pit
are in command. It makes the deeds and decisions of those different PCs against each other are also possible.
characters the focus of its gameplay, and works hard to integrate
their actions into the flow of battle. The Glossary at the back of the book summarizes many more
defined game terms used throughout the rules. Glossary terms
are generally introduced in bold when they initially appear
TERMINOLOGY in the rules, and bolded again each time they are defined or
The terms below are used in Adventurer Conqueror King System, elaborated upon.
Domains at War: Campaigns, and Domains at War: Battles.
When a group of people sit down to play, the participants are
called players, and they take on the role of a character
(or, sometimes, more
than one character).
Characters played by
players are referred to
as player characters
(PCs) or adventurers.
One participant will take
on the role of the Judge
and control non-player
characters (NPCs).
In Domains at War,
characters are not just
dungeon crawlers they are
leaders who rule domains
and realms. A domain is
an area of land secured
by a fortified structure,
known as a stronghold.
A collection of domains
under control of one
powerful leader
8 Inspirations
Chapter 1: Basic Rules
We have devised a rather modest elementary handbook for

those devoting themselves to generalship, which should facilitate
the progress of those who wish to advance to a better and more
detailed knowledge of ancient tactical theories.
Maurices Strategikon
This chapter introduces the basic rules of Domains at War: Each officer is represented on the battlefield with an officer
Battles. It includes only whats necessary to fight a straightforward counter. An assortment of 1" x 1" officer counters is included
battle between two forces on open plains or fields without heroes with the Complete Domains at War Set, but you can substitute
(p. 40) or terrain (p. 29). fantasy miniatures or other playing pieces as desired. Officers
are rated with various officer characteristics (p. 14), the most
important of which is leadership ability (p. 14).
CORE CONCEPTS
Officers are divided into three types: generals, commanders,
SIDES, ARMIES, DIVISIONS, AND UNITS and lieutenants. Generals are officers in charge of armies; an
A battle is fought between two sides. Each side may consist army can be thought of as a group of divisions under one general.
of one or more players. All of the forces controlled by one side The maximum number of divisions in an army is limited by its
during a battle are referred to as that sides army. generals leadership ability.
Each army is made up of several divisions. An army typically Commanders are officers in charge of divisions; a division can
has three to eight divisions. In a multi-player battle, each player be thought of as a group of units under one commander. Each
will usually control one or more divisions. armys general will always serve as one divisions commander,
while other officers will command the remaining divisions in
Each division is itself made up of one or more units. A division
the army. The maximum number of units in a division that can
typically has three to eight units. In the basic game, units are at
move and fight is determined by its commanders leadership
company scale. A company-scale unit is usually made up of a
ability.
group of human, demi-human, or beastman troops, numbering
120 infantry or 60 cavalry, although units of e.g. skeletons, Lieutenants are officers in charge of individual units. Lieutenants
harpies, wyverns, or even dragons are also possible. Whatever increase their units morale (p. 13), make the unit easier to
its make-up, each unit is represented on the tabletop with a unit control, and can replace division commanders lost in battle.
counter (p. 12). An assortment of unit counters, scaled for use While an army must include a general and commanders, it might
with 2" hexes (see below), is included with the Complete or might not have any lieutenants. An exceptionally well-trained
Domains at War Set. and organized army, such as the historical Roman legion, might
have a lieutenant leading each unit, while a barbarian warband
You can use 15mm or 25mm ancient/fantasy miniatures instead
might have no lieutenants at all. When lieutenants are present in
of unit counters if you dont have the Complete Domains at War
an army, each one will be assigned to a different unit.
Set or just prefer the aesthetics of miniatures. Below are the
recommended base sizes and the number of figures per base in In the basic rules, officers do not personally move, fight, or use
each scale. These are compatible with the most common magic. Chapter 4, Heroes, offers advanced rules for handling
miniature basing schemes in each scale. heroic officers.
A typical Domains at War army will
have 10 to 25 units, representing a force BATTLEMAPS AND HEXES
of around 600 to 3,000 combatants.
I M P O R TA N T N O T E : The units and officers of the opposing
This is a perfectly sized army for war- If you are using miniatures instead of armies move and fight on a battlemap
mongering barons, earls, counts, and unit counters (p. 12), you may find you
representing the region of the battlefield.
dukes. However, some scenarios or The battlemap is a paper or game-board
need to use a battlemap with larger hexes.
battles fought in the context of an surface divided into six-sided hexes.
15mm figures work well on 2" hexes, but
ongoing RPG campaign (campaign Each hex represents an area of ground
for 25mm figures we recommend 4" hexes. measuring 60' across. The hexes on
battles) will feature far larger armies. Kallistras Hexon line of 4" terrain hexes is a
For battles with less than 600 or more the battlemap serve to regulate the
great choice for building a Domains at War: movement and combat of units.
than 3,000 combatants on a side, refer
Battles battlemap in 25mm. Ultimately,
to Chapter 6, Scale. A 4' x 3' fold-out battlemap, 24 hexes
hexes of any available size will work as long
wide and 18 hexes deep, is included
as the playing pieces used can fit inside the
OFFICERS with the Complete Domains at War Set.
hexes, but Domains at War looks and plays
An officer is an important character It is designed to the same scale as our
taking part in the battle. In a campaign better if the physical size of the hexes and unit and commander counters, and
game, officers are usually PCs and the counters correlate with each other. features 2" wide hexes.
major NPCs and monsters. In a battle
When fighting battles with lots of units,
fought outside of an RPG campaign (a
we recommend using multiple
standalone scenario), the scenario itself will specify the officers
battlemaps. This will ensure that the armies have sufficient
involved.
Frontage 25mm Basing 25mm Figures Per Base 15mm Basing 15mm Figures per Base
Infantry 75mm x 50mm 3 figures wide x 2 figures deep 40mm x 30mm 3 - 4 figures wide x 2 figures deep
Cavalry/Ogres 75mm x 50mm 3 figures wide x 1 figures deep 40mm x 30mm 3 - 4 figures wide x 1 figure deep
Giants/Monsters 80mm x 40mm 2 figures wide x 1 figure deep 40mm x 40mm 1 figure
War Machines 50mm x 60mm 1 war machine + 1-2 crew figures 40mm x 40mm 1 war machine + 1-2 crew figures
10 Core Concepts
frontage to maneuver. For battles with 30 or more units on a which to activate his divisions units, as well as the exact nature
side, use two adjacent battlemaps to create a battlefield that is 8' of each units actions. Once the commander has spent all of
x 3' (48 hexes wide and 18 hexes deep). Add an additional his AP, his command phase ends and the next commanders
battlemap for every 30 units on a side. Additional battlemaps command phase begins.
can be created by hand, ordered from Autarch, or printed using
After all command phases have been resolved, a morale
the Complete Domains at War Set pdf.
phase (p. 25) is held, during which the morale of each army
If desired, terrain pieces (p. 29) such as is assessed. Play then proceeds to
Basic Rules
hills, streams, groves of trees, patches of the next combat round, continuing
mud, and other geographical features can
I M P O R TA N T N O T E : until all units on one side have been
be placed on the battlemap. See Chapter 2, Why does each unit take up 60' x 40'? destroyed, routed (p. 23), or have
Terrain, for an explanation of placement Man-sized troops in close order each occupy voluntarily exited the battlefield
and effects of terrain. a frontage of 3' and a depth of 6'. A unit (p. 19).
of 120 men represents a formation 20 men
SEQUENCE OF PLAY wide and 6 deep. So the formation is (20 x
In Domains at War, battles are fought in 3') 60' wide and (6 x 6') 36' deep.
UNITS
a series of combat rounds of 10 seconds Now that weve gone over the basics,
each. Each round begins with an initiative
Likewise, men on horseback in close order lets look at units more closely. We
phase during which each commander rolls occupy a frontage of 4' and a depth of noted earlier that units represent
initiative for his division. 8' each. A unit of 60 cavalry represents companies of around 120 infantry
a formation 15 horses wide and 4 horses or 60 cavalry. More specifically,
Starting with the commander with highest deep, so the formation is (15 x 4') 60' wide units can consist of up to 120
initiative, each commander then receives man-sized creatures; 60 large-sized
and (4 x 8') 32' deep.
a command phase during which he creatures such as ogres; 60 man-
receives a number of activation points Of course, troops formed in open order, sized riders seated on large-sized
(AP) equal to his leadership ability (p. such as slingers or horse archers, take mounts, such as human heavy
14). The commander then spends his AP up more room than units in close order. cavalry; 20 huge creatures, such
to activate the units of his division. Units Imagine these troops are spilling out of as hill giants; 5 gigantic creatures,
are activated one at a time, each taking a their counter to occupy their hexs available such as elephants; or even 1 colossal
movement sequence (p. 18) followed by space. creature, such as a giant roc. Such
an attack sequence (p. 20) when activated. a large body of creatures takes up a
The commander chooses the exact order in substantial amount of space; each
Illus. 1-1: BATTLE MAP
Units 11
unit is assumed to be approximately 60' wide and 36' deep. Each cavalry, and Numidian and Persian light cavalry. Missile-armed
unit is represented with a unit counter on the battlemap. Since charioteers, such as those of the New Kingdom Egyptians, also
each 2" hex represents 60' of ground, the unit counters are 2" function as Loose Mounted.
wide and 1.16" deep.
Formed Mounted: Formed Mounted are highly-disciplined
cavalry mounted on medium or heavy warhorses fighting in
UNIT CHARACTERISTICS close order (knee to knee). A frontage of one horse per 4' is
Units are defined by the following characteristics. typical. Formed Mounted are generally shock troops equipped
Unit Type: Unit Type is a general designator of the units size, with lances, but some (cataphracts) may carry and use
training, and equipment. Unit Type is presented in the following composite bows, which they use to disorder their foes before
format: [number] [race, if non-human] [veteran status, if finishing them off with a charge. Historical examples of Formed
veterans] [unit type] Mounted troops include Macedonian Companion cavalry,
Parthian and Byzantine cataphracts, and medieval knights.
EXAMPLE: A unit might be designated as 120 Veteran Spear-armed charioteers, such as those of the Hittites, also
Heavy Infantry or 60 Elven Horse Archers. function as Formed Mounted.
Unit Formation: Unit Formation determines what sort of Flyer: Flyers are aerial monsters or cavalry. Flyers generally fly
tactics and maneuvers the unit is capable of. The unit formations wingtip-to-wingtip in order to maximize striking power, with
are Irregular Foot (IF), Loose Foot (LF), Formed Foot (FF), as few as 5 and as many as 60 in a unit depending on size. Some
Irregular Mounted (IM), Loose Mounted (LM), Formed flyers carry riders equipped with lances or bows and serve as
Mounted (FM), Flyer (FLY), and War Machinery (WM). Each highly mobile cataphracts. Other flyers rely on beak and talon.
of these is briefly described below. Fantasy examples include dragon riders, giant eagles, griffin
knights, and wyverns. Historical examples are sadly absent.
Irregular Foot: Irregular Foot are poorly-trained and
undisciplined bands of warriors. They are incapable of any War Machinery: War Machinery includes all crew-served pieces
advanced tactics and must rely on individual ferocity or sheer of artillery and siege equipment. War Machinery crews are
mass. Historical examples of Irregular Foot troops include only lightly equipped with hand weapons, with the real value
Persian militia, medieval peasant levies, and Viking berserkers. being the machine itself. Historical examples of War Machinery
Fantasy examples include beastmen and mindless undead. includes ballistas, catapults, trebuchets, battering rams, and
siege towers (p. 57 p. 62).
Loose Foot: Loose Foot are well-trained soldiers fighting in
open order, with a frontage of one soldier every 5' to 6'. Their Unit Movement Rate: Unit Movement Rate determines how
extended formation allows them to easily pass through or many hexes the unit can move per round. Each unit has three
around obstacles or friendly units, and to withdraw in the face separate movement rates: marching (p. 18), hustling (p. 18), and
of enemy missiles or heavy troops. Conversely, they are ill- charging (p. 19). These are presented in the format [marching
suited to holding ground or fighting in close combat. Historical rate] / [hustling rate] / [charging rate].
examples of Loose Foot troops include Hellenic peltasts, Roman Formed Foot typically have a movement rate of 1/2/3, Loose
velites, and other javelineers, slingers, and bowmen of antiquity. Foot typically are 2/4/6, Formed Mounted typically 3/6/9, and
Formed Foot: Formed Foot are highly-disciplined soldiers Loose Mounted 4/8/12. Irregular Foot and Mounted movement
fighting shoulder-to-shoulder in close order, with a frontage rates can vary widely.
of one soldier every 3'. Formed Foot are sturdy defenders, Unit Armor Class (Unit AC): Unit Armor Class is a measure
usually heavily armed and armored. They are used to take or of how hard the unit is to damage. Unit AC ranges from 0 to 10
hold ground in close combat. Historical examples of Formed or more. Most light units will have an AC of 0-3, while heavier
Foot troops include Hellenic hoplites, Macedonian phalangites, troops will have a Unit AC of 4-7.
Roman legionaries, medieval men-at-arms, and other heavy
infantry. Unit Hit Dice (Unit HD): Unit Hit Dice measures the units
fighting power. Most units have around 1 Unit HD.
Irregular Mounted: Irregular Mounted include poorly-trained
and undisciplined cavalry, riders of particularly aggressive, Unit Hit Points (uhp): Unit Hit Points measures the units
unpredictable, or vicious mounts, and packs of war beasts or resilience in the face of combat. Most units have 4-8 uhp. Each
trained monsters (whether they carry riders or not). Historical uhp in Domains at War: Battles represents about 70 hp in ACKS.
examples of Irregular Mounted troops include Assyrian war A unit is destroyed and removed from battle if its uhp are
dogs, Arabian camel riders, and Hellenistic war elephants. reduced to 0.
Fantasy examples include goblin wolf riders and worg packs. Unit Attack: Unit Attack indicates how often and accurately
Loose Mounted: Loose Mounted include well-trained cavalry a unit may attack with a particular method. Unit Attack
mounted on light warhorses fighting in an extended order. A is presented in the following format: [number of attacks]
frontage of one horse per 6' to 8' is typical. Generally equipped [method of attack] [attack throw].
with bows, javelins, or other missile weapons, Loose Mounted Number of Attacks: Number of attacks is how many attacks the
units use their speed and mobility to harass and disorder enemy unit may make during its attack sequence. Most units receive
forces. Historical examples of Loose Mounted include Scythian, one to three attacks during their attack sequences. Some units
Hun, and Mongol horse archers, as well as Roman auxiliary attack less than once per combat round. If so, the number of
12 Units
attacks will be listed as a fraction. For instance, if number of Unit AC, shock rolls, and morale rolls, and cost 1
attacks is 1/3, the unit may attack only once every three combat additional activation point to activate. A disordered
rounds. unit is marked by placing a disordered token on it.
The disordered token is removed the next time the
Method of Attack: The method of attack might be a weapon
unit is activated.
(e.g. longbow), fighting style (e.g. weapon and shield) or attack
Ready: A ready unit may make a reaction attack
routine (e.g. claw/bite). If a unit has multiple methods of attack,
(see p. 21) on enemy units that target it or its
it will have a separate Unit Attack characteristic for its primary
Basic Rules
adjacent allies. A ready unit is marked by placing a
and secondary methods.
ready token on it. The ready token is removed if the
Attack Throw: The number listed is the target value required to unit moves, attacks, or becomes disordered.
hit an AC of 0 on a roll of 1d20. Any successful attack will inflict 1 Shielded: A shielded unit has adopted a defensive
point of damage. There is no separate damage roll in Domains formation such as a shield wall, testudo, or hedgehog.
at War: Battles because each attack throw actually represents Shielded units are marked by placing a shielded token
the outcome of dozens of attacks. Units with the potential to on the unit. While the shielded token is present, its
do more than 50 points of damage in a combat round are given Unit AC is increased by +2 versus melee and thrown
additional attacks. attacks and +4 versus bow, crossbow, and sling
attacks. It receives a +2 bonus on morale rolls. The
EXAMPLE: A unit of spear-equipped Heavy Infantry has shielded token is removed if the unit attacks, moves,
the Melee Attack characteristic of 2 spear & shield 11+. The or becomes disordered.
unit may attack twice per round. The target value for the unit
to hit an AC of 0 with a roll of 1d20 is 11+. An assortment of 1" condition tokens is included with the
Complete Domains at War Set. When playing with miniatures,
Certain types of troops (e.g. heavy cavalry) are eligible for we recommend making a set of custom tokens in the same scale
special bonus attacks whenever they charge. If so, the attack as your figures (15mm or 25mm). For damage tokens, use a
characteristics of the bonus attacks will be noted on the units single-figure base mounted with blood-soaked bodies (one
roster beneath its melee attack, in the format Charge: [number per point of damage). For depleted tokens, use a single-figure
of attacks] [method of attack] [attack throw] base with a pile of dropped bows. For disordered tokens, try a
Unit Morale: Unit Morale measures how likely the unit is to single-figure base with piles of dropped weapons and shields.
retreat (p. 23) when it takes casualties. It ranges from -6 to Ready tokens can be represented using a standard and emblem
+4, with most units having morale scores of between -1 to +1. mounted on a single-figure base, while shielded tokens can be
Certain units (such as clerical followers) may have much higher made with a row of upright shields on a double-figure base. If
morale. Unit Morale modifies shock rolls (made when the unit you dont have counters, you can just jot down the condition of
loses 50% or more of its uhp) and morale rolls (made when the units on a piece of scratch paper.
army loses its general or 33% or more of its starting units). Note
that if you are using Domains at War: Campaigns, Unit Morale
would also modify loyalty rolls made when the unit suffers a
calamity.
UNIT CONDITIONS
Conditions are circumstances that modify the characteristics or
available actions of a unit. Conditions are marked with tokens.
When the token is removed, the condition ends, and vice versa.
The following conditions are referenced throughout the rules:
Damaged: Damage to a unit is marked by placing
one or more damage tokens on the unit. A unit is
destroyed and removed from the battle when it has
taken damage equal to its unit hit points. Damage
tokens are not normally removed, but rather
accumulate until the unit is destroyed.
Depleted: A depleted token indicates the unit
is depleting its store of arrows, bolts, stones, or
thrown weapons. Each depleted token reduces the Illus. 1-2: UNIT FACING
units number of attacks per attack sequence when
using that weapon by one. Depleted tokens are not
normally removed. UNIT FACING
Disordered: A disordered unit has had its formation On the battlemap, each unit occupies one hex and faces one of
disrupted by rapid movement, casualties, etc. A unit that hexs six vertices. The two hexes in front of the units current
becomes disordered if it charges, withdraws, or takes hex are called its front hexes. The hexes to the left and right of
damage. Disordered units suffer a -2 penalty to their the units current hex are its flank hexes. The two hexes to the
rear of the units current hex are its rear hexes.
Units 13
A units facing impacts its ability to move and fight on the there are three types of officers: generals, commanders, and
battlemap: lieutenants. In a standalone scenario, the scenario designer will
select the generals, commanders, and lieutenants participating
A unit which is hustling or charging is restricted to
in the battle.
moving forward into its front hexes (see p. 18).
A unit entering the front hexes of an enemy unit In a campaign battle, the officers are usually PCs and/or major
becomes threatened by that unit (see p. 19). NPCs and monsters drawn from the campaign. However, not
Once threatened, a units activities become highly every character can serve as an officer:
restricted.
A PC or NPC must be at least 7th level to serve as a
A unit can only make melee attacks against enemies
general or commander in a campaign battle, while
in its front hexes (which is to say, against enemies it
a monster must have at least four or more Hit Dice
is threatening).
than is average for the creatures it commands.
A unit that is attacked from its flank or rear hexes is
A PC or NPC must be of at least 5th level to serve as
subject to penalties to AC and morale.
a lieutenant in a campaign battle, while a monster
See Movement Sequence (p. 18) and Attack Sequence (p. 20) must have at least two more Hit Dice than average
for additional details on the impact of unit facing. for the creatures it commands.
A beastman chieftain can always serve as a
ORGANIZATION OF UNITS INTO DIVISIONS commander for units of its own race, regardless of its
All of an armys units must be organized into divisions. HD. Likewise, a beastman sub-chieftain can always
(Remember, a division is simply a group of units under one serve as a lieutenant for a unit of its race.
commander.) An army might have just one division, to which The officer requirements may be waived by the Judge if he feels
all of its units belong, but it will likely have several divisions. The a particular PC, NPC, or monster is in a position to command
maximum number of divisions permitted to the army is equal units despite not meeting these qualifications.
to its generals leadership ability (see below).
Each division must include at least one unit. There is no OFFICER CHARACTERISTICS
maximum limit to the number of units in a division, but large All officers posses four officer characteristics: leadership ability,
divisions are harder to control. Most generals aim to have three zone of control, strategic ability, and morale modifier. In a
to eight divisions of three to eight units each in their armies. standalone scenario, the scenario designer will assign the officer
characteristics of the generals, commanders, and lieutenants
In a one-off scenario, the scenario designer will specify how each
participating in the battle based on his design. In a campaign
sides units are organized into divisions. In a campaign battle,
battle, these characteristics will be derived from the ACKS
the players controlling the armies will divide the units of the
ability scores and proficiencies of the characters, as explained in
armies into divisions based on their generals leadership and the
Domains at War: Campaigns, p. 20.
available commanders. A lack of suitable commanders might
prevent an army from having an optimal number of divisions. Leadership Ability: This rates the characters capability to give
orders and have them obeyed. Leadership ability determines the
Wise generals will make sure their divisions incorporate units
number of activation points (AP) that a commander receives. It
with a variety of weapons but similar movement rates. For
also determines the number of divisions a general may have in
instance, putting heavy infantry and bowmen together into a
his army. Leadership ability ranges from 1 to 8.
division would work well, but putting heavy infantry and light
horse into a division together would not, because of the vast Zone of Control (ZOC): This is the radius, in hexes, within
difference in movement rates. which a commander may activate units in his division without
penalty. ZOC is always equal to one-half the commanders
EXAMPLE: Marcus has a leadership ability of 7. He is the leadership ability, rounded up. ZOC is measured by counting
general of an army with 12 heavy infantry units, 6 bowmen the number of hexes from the commanders hex to the unit in
units, 6 light infantry units, and 8 cataphract cavalry units. question (excluding the commanders hex, but including the
Because he has a leadership ability of 7, he can have seven hex of the unit to be ordered).
divisions in his army. Since he has access to six competent
henchmen who can serve as commanders in his army, he Strategic Ability: This rates the characters military puissance
decides to organize his armys units into the maximum and effectiveness. Strategic ability modifies an officers initiative
number of divisions. He goes with four divisions of 3 heavy roll each combat round. (Strategic ability also plays a significant
infantry, 1 bowmen, and 1 light infantry unit each; one role in certain mechanics in Domains at War: Campaigns.)
division of 2 bowmen units and 2 light infantry units; and Strategic ability ranges from -3 to +6.
two divisions of 4 cataphract units each. As army general, he
leads one division, while his six henchmen each command Morale Modifier: This is the characters ability to inspire loyalty
one of the remaining divisions. and courage. A generals morale modifier modifies the morale
rolls of every unit in his army. A commander or lieutenants
morale modifier modifies the shock rolls and morale rolls of the
OFFICERS unit he is attached to. Morale modifier ranges from -3 to +7.
Now lets take a closer look at officers, the most important
characters on the battlefield. As explained under Core Concepts,
14 Officers
OFFICERS ON THE BATTLEMAP In campaign battles, the loss of an army

Each officer is represented on the I M P O R TA N T N O T E : general should count as a calamity that
battlemap with an officer counter. triggers a roll on the Mercenary Loyalty
At the start of the battle, the general It normally costs one AP to activate a unit table for each mercenary officer. This
and each other commander must be from the commanders division, but if the may result in some of the mercenary
attached to one of the units in their unit is disordered or out of its commanders officers deserting to the opposing side
respective divisions. Each lieutenants zone of control this cost is increased. It is or fleeing the battlefield. Divisions
counter must be attached to whichever and/or units under the command of
Basic Rules
therefore a good idea to make sure each
unit he is in charge of. Place the officers commander has a leadership ability at least the mercenary officer will generally
counter on the units counter to indicate obey the officer. See Domains at War:
equal to the number of units in his division.
he is attached to that unit. Campaigns for more information on
Otherwise he will not be able to activate all
mercenary officers and mercenary
During the battle, officers move with of his units during his command phase. loyalty.
the unit they are attached to. They do
not move or attack independent of their It is often helpful for the commanders Lieutenants: Lieutenants lead units.
unit, and do not directly affect combat. leadership ability to be higher than the The presence of many lieutenants is
(For rules allowing officers to move number of units in his division, so that the mark of a highly trained legion
and attack independent of units, see he can activate all of his units even if rather than a disorganized warband.
Chapter 4, Heroes). they become disordered or go outside his Units with lieutenants are more capable
zone of control. This requirement can be of surviving the chaos of battle and
FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS carrying out long-range missions
mitigated if the units of the division are led
Each type of officer has a particular beyond their commanders zone of
by lieutenants.
function in Domains at War: Battles. The control. Rather than receive command
functions of each type are summarized phases and activate units, they perform
below. the following functions:
Commanders: Commanders lead divisions, ordering their The lieutenant reduces the cost to activate his unit by
units to move and fight on the battlefield. The quantity and one AP (to a minimum of one).
quality of an armys commanders is central to its command and The lieutenants morale modifier is added to
control. Their functions are: the morale rolls and shock rolls of the unit he is
attached to.
The commanders initiative score (p. 17), modified If a commander is lost, a lieutenant may be promoted
by his strategic ability, determines when the units of to take command of his division.
his division may act.
On his initiative number, each commander gets See Sequence of Play (p. 17), Initiative Phase (p. 17), Command
a command phase during which he spends his Phase (p. 18), and Morale Phase (p. 25) for more details.
activation points (AP) to activate the units of his
division. A commander receives a number of AP LOSS OF AN OFFICER
equal to his leadership ability. Thus, the commanders If an officers unit is destroyed or routed (p. 23), the officer is
leadership ability determines how many of his lost. He is assumed to be killed if the unit was destroyed, and
divisions units are able to act each round. captured if the unit was routed. (If using the Heroic Character
The commanders morale modifier modifies rules in Chapter 4, an officer might survive the destruction or
the shock rolls and morale rolls of the unit he is rout of his unit.)
attached to.
If the lost officer was a division commander, none of the units
Generals: Generals lead armies. A skilled general can maintain of his division can be activated until the lost commander is
control of a large and complex army, and keep its troops fighting replaced. A lost commander may be replaced by the armys
despite heavy casualties and setbacks. The generals importance general at the start of the next combat round.
is reflected in the following mechanics:
The general has two ways to replace a commander:
The generals leadership ability determines the
Any existing commander may be assigned the
maximum number of divisions permitted in the
former commanders units. The units are simply
army.
added to their new commanders division and may
The generals morale modifier modifies the morale
be activated in his upcoming command phase. (This
rolls of every unit in his army.
can create large, unwieldy divisions, of course.)
The general may appoint new commanders to
A lieutenant from a unit in the division that lost
replace those lost during a battle.
its commander may be promoted to become that
The general has all the functions of a division
divisions commander. In this way, lower level PCs
commander.
and NPCs can have command thrust upon them.
In an ongoing campaign, the army general has even more The newly appointed commander rolls for initiative
functions. See Domains at War: Campaigns for more in the initiative phase of that round, and may begin
information on the role of the army general in strategic initiative, activating the newly-assigned units in his subsequent
reconnaissance, and other operations. command phase.
Officers 15
If the lost officer was the army general, his loss will trigger a DEPLOYMENT ZONES
morale roll by every unit of the army during the subsequent At the start of a battle, each army deploys (sets up) its units
morale phase of that round. See Morale (p. 25) for a further within a deployment zone on the battlemap. Each deployment
discussion. If the army does not rout, the commander with the zone is divided into five areas: Center, Left Flank, Right Flank,
next highest leadership ability becomes Left Wing, and Right Wing.
the new army general at the start of the
The Deployment Zone illustration below
next combat round. If one or more I M P O R TA N T N O T E : shows the five areas of the deployment
commanders leadership ability scores
The Deployment Zone table assumes a 24 zone for opposing armies A and B.
are tied, resolve the tie in favor of the
hex wide by 18 hex deep battlemap. If using Note that As Left Wing is equivalent to
commanders strategic ability scores. If
multiple battlemaps side by side, increase Bs Right Wing, and vice versa.
the results are still tied, roll randomly
to break the tie. the width of each area proportionately.
DEPLOYMENT RESTRICTIONS
If an army is so unfortunate as to When being set up, units must obey the
lose both its general and one or more deployment restrictions noted below:
commanders during a combat round, first determine which
commander becomes the new general, then allow the new No more than one unit may be deployed in any hex.
general to appoint any new commanders. If an army loses all of Units may only be set up in whole hexes, not in half-
its commanders and has no lieutenants to replace them, none hexes on the edge of the battlemap or deployment
of its units can be activated, and it will probably be routed or zone. However, whole hexes which overlap two
destroyed very quickly. deployment areas, such as between the Left Wing
and Left Flank, are considered to be part of both
deployment areas.
SET UP Formed Foot may not be deployed in the Flank
In the basic rules, we assume that the opposing armies are areas.
meeting each other face-to-face for a straightforward battle. Foot units and Formed Mounted units may not be
Set-up for the more complex strategic situations that might deployed in the Wing areas.
arise under the Domains at War: Campaigns rules is explained
in Chapter 3, Strategic Situations. For now, read on.
Illus. 1-3: DEPLOYMENT
16 Set Up
ORDER OF DEPLOYMENT When the outcome of the active commanders command

Unless special circumstances dictate otherwise, each side phase is fully resolved, his command phase ends and the next
deploys its units simultaneously and in secret. Place a screen on commanders command phase begins. After all command
the battlemap between the two sides. Both armies then reveal phases have been resolved, a morale phase (p. 25) is held, during
their deployment at the start of the first combat round. which the morale of each army is assessed. Play then proceeds
to the next combat round, continuing until all units on one side
DEPLOYING INTO PHALANX have been destroyed, routed (p. 23), or have voluntarily exited
Basic Rules
Under certain circumstances, a commander can merge two from the battlefield (p. 19).
Formed Foot units to form one Phalanx unit. In order to be
merged into a Phalanx, both Formed Foot units must belong to Sequence of Play
the commanders division and both must be identically equipped Phase Activities
with spears or polearms. Once merged, the unit characteristics Initiative Phase Each commander rolls initiative.
of the Phalanx unit are identical to those of its constituent units, First Command Phase Commander with highest initiative
except as follows: score becomes active commander.
The Phalanx units uhp are equal to the sum of its Active commander activates his
divisions units one at a time, until he
two constituent units uhp.
has spent all of his AP.
The Phalanx units AC is equal to the average of its
Second Command Phase Commander with second highest
two constituent units AC. initiative score becomes active
The Phalanx units number of attacks are equal to the commander.
sum of its two constituent units number of attacks.
Active commander activates his
The Phalanx unit cannot charge. divisions units one at a time, until he
The Phalanx units morale score is increased by 1. has spent all of his AP.
A Phalanx unit is treated as one unit for the purposes of Third Command Phase (etc.) Commander with third highest
initiative score becomes active
activation, but if destroyed or routed counts as the loss of both commander.
units. Deployment as a Phalanx is permanent for the duration
of the battle. Phalanx units are otherwise normal Formed Foot Active commander activates his
divisions units one at a time, until he
units. To represent a Phalanx on the battlefield, stack two unit has spent all of his AP.
counters on top of each other, or place the miniatures in two Morale Phase Each side conducts any required
ranks. morale rolls.
If either army has entirely routed,
EXAMPLE: Seanan, a commander, is deploying Formed
retreated, or been destroyed, the
Foot units A, B, C, and D, each with unit characteristics battle is over.
of AC 6, uhp 6, #AT 2 spear & shield 11+, ML 0. During
deployment, he stacks Formed Foot units A and B together Otherwise advance to next combat
in one hex and the Formed Foot units C and D together in round!
another hex. He now has two Phalanx units, unit AB and
unit CD. The unit characteristics of each Phalanx unit are
AC 6, uhp 12, #AT 4 spear & shield 11+, ML +1. These units INITIATIVE PHASE
are thus very formidable and tough. During the initiative phase of each combat round, each
However, Seanan has sacrificed the flexibility of having four commander calculates his initiative score by rolling 1d6 and
units to maneuver, and will be more easily flanked. adding his strategic ability. Starting with the commander with
the highest initiative score and counting downward from there,
each commander takes his command phase in turn.
SEQUENCE OF PLAY
Battles are fought in a series of combat rounds. Each round TIE BREAKING
begins with an initiative phase during which each commander If one or more commanders have equal initiative scores, resolve
rolls initiative. the tie in order of the commanders strategic ability score. If
Starting with the commander with highest initiative, each the commanders strategic ability scores are tied, resolve the tie
commander takes a command phase. When it is a commanders randomly.
command phase, the commander is said to be active. When a
commander becomes active, he receives a number of activation EXAMPLE: Quintus, a commander with a strategic ability
score of +2, has an initiative score of 6. This result is tied by
points (AP) equal to his leadership ability. The commander
an enemy commander, Gorgan. Gorgan only has a strategic
spends these AP to activate the units of his division. ability score of +1, so Quintuss command phase will come
Units are activated one at a time, each taking a movement before Gorgans.
sequence (p. 18) followed by an attack sequence (p. 20) when
activated. The active commander chooses the exact order in
which to activate his divisions units, as well as the exact nature
of each units actions.
Sequence of Play 17
DELAYING If a lieutenant is leading the unit, the cost to activate the
If desired, a commander can choose to delay his command lieutenants unit is decreased by one. If the commander himself
phase until later in the round. If a commander states that he is attached to the unit, the cost to activate the unit is decreased
is delaying his command phase, he can take his phase at any by one. The cost cannot be reduced to zero.
later initiative score, down to the negative value of his initiative
Units are activated one at a time. When activated, a unit becomes
score. A delaying commander must take his command phase
the active unit. The units disordered token, if any, is removed
by the time the initiative count reaches the negative value of his
when it is activated. The active unit first takes a movement
initiative score.
sequence (see below) and then takes an attack sequence (p.
A delaying commander can begin his command phase 20). The active commander chooses the exact order in which
immediately before or immediately after another commanders to activate his divisions units. Each units activation must be
phase, but cannot interrupt a command phase once it has completed before the next units activation is begun; a units
begun. If two commanders are both trying to simultaneously movement sequence and attack sequence may not be split up
take their initiative, the commander with the higher initiative between two activations or saved for later use in the same
score dictates who goes first. command phase. A unit may not be activated more than once
each combat round.
EXAMPLE: Marcus has an initiative score of 7. He can delay
his initiative down to as low as -7 if desired. Quintus, his A commander might not have enough AP to activate all of his
ally, has an initiative score of 5, while Gorgan, an opposing units. An AP shortage might occur if the commanders division
commander, has an initiative score of 6. Marcus would has more units than his leadership ability, if the units are outside
secretly like to go after Quintus but before Gorgan. Gorgan of his zone of control, or if many of the units are disordered.
would secretly like to go after Quintus, but before Marcus. Units which are not activated do not move or attack during their
On initiative count 7, Marcus announces he is delaying. divisions command phase. Unactivated units are assumed to be
On initiative count 6, Gorgan announces he is delaying. awaiting orders, catching their breath, trading insults and battle
On initiative count 5, Quintus takes his command phase. cries with nearby foes, bandaging wounds, and otherwise doing
Gorgan and Marcus now both want to take their command anything but risking life and limb.
phases. Marcus has the higher initiative score, and he decides
that he will go before Gorgan. A commander does not have to spend all of his AP (and
sometimes may not be able to), but any unspent AP are lost at
the end of the command phase.
COMMAND PHASE
When it is a commanders command phase, the commander
is said to be active. When he becomes active, the commander MOVEMENT SEQUENCE
receives a number of activation points (AP) equal to his During its movement sequence, the active unit may stand fast,
leadership ability. He spends these AP to activate units from his march, hustle, or charge. The units commander determines its
division. exact movement.
It takes one AP to activate a unit. If the unit is outside of the Stand Fast: A unit standing fast remains stationary, e.g. it does
commanders zone of control, the cost to activate the unit is not move or change facing. During its attack sequence (p. 20),
increased by one. If the unit is disordered, the cost to activate a stationary unit can attack with melee weapons, attack with
it is increased by one. If a unit is both disordered and out of its missile weapons, defend (p. 24), or ready to attack (p. 25).
commanders zone of control, the cost to activate it is increased March: A marching unit can move a number of hexes up to its
by two. marching movement rate. The unit can move in any direction
regardless of facing, and can change its facing at no cost before,
Situation AP Cost
during, and/or while marching. During its attack sequence, a
Activate unit in division 1 AP
marching unit can attack with melee weapons, attack with most
Unit is outside commanders zone of control +1 AP
missile weapons, defend, or ready to attack.
Unit is disordered +1 AP
Unit is led by a lieutenant -1 AP* Hustle: A hustling unit can change its facing in any direction
Unit has commander attached -1 AP* prior to moving, and then move a number of hexes up to its
*Minimum AP cost of 1 hustling movement rate. Each hex of movement must be into
one of its front hexes. The unit can change its facing while
Movement Option Max Movement Facing Changes? Disordered? Attack Sequence Options
Stand Fast None No No Melee attack, missile attack, defend, ready
March Up to Marching rate Free No Melee attack, missile attack, defend, ready
Hustle Up to Hustling rate Free prior to hustle No None
1 hex/face during hustle
Charge Up to Charging rate No Yes Melee attack (charge)
18 Command Phase
hustling, but each 60-degree facing change counts as one hex of Units can move outside of the commanders zone of
movement. A hustling unit cannot take an attack sequence. control if desired. However, the units will cost one
additional AP to activate next combat round if they
Charge: A charging unit can move a number of hexes up to
are still outside of the commanders zone of control.
its charging movement rate. Each hex of movement must be
Units cannot normally move through other units, or
into one of the units front hexes. The unit cannot change its
end their movement in the same hex as another unit.
facing before, during, or after charging. A unit which charges
However, Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, and Flyers
immediately becomes disordered. During its attack sequence,
Basic Rules
can march or hustle through friendly units, and be
a charging unit can attack with melee weapons. However, a
marched or hustled through by friendly units.
charging unit does not have to attack; a unit can charge simply
Units may not move through two consecutive hexes
to move across the battlemap quickly if desired.
that are adjacent to enemy units.
Units can voluntarily exit the battlemap along their
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-4, Heavy Infantry A, B, and C
each conduct a movement sequence. own map edge. Units which voluntarily exit are
removed from play and may not return during the
Heavy Infantry A marches. It moves into its left rear hex, battle.
and then changes facing by 180 degrees. Terrain (p. 29) may impact the movement of some
Heavy Infantry B hustles. It changes its facing by 180 units.
degrees, then moves into its right front hex, then into its
Outside of the movement sequence, a unit may also choose, or
left front hex.
be forced, to move as a result of combat. See Withdrawals (p.
Heavy Infantry C charges. It moves into its left front hex, 22) and Retreats (p. 23).
then its right front hex, then its left front hex. It cannot
change facing.
THREATENING
When a unit occupies either of the two front hexes of an enemy
GENERAL MOVEMENT RULES unit, it is said to be threatened by the enemy unit. The enemy
All movement is governed by the following general rules: unit is, conversely, said to be threatening it.
Units can only move into whole hexes. Half-hexes
on the edge of a battlemap are considered to be
impassable.
Illus. 1-4: MOVEMENT
Movement Sequence 19
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-5, Infantry A is threatening and ATTACK SEQUENCE
threatened by Orc D. Infantry B is threatening Orc D and After completing its movement sequence, the active unit may
Orc E, and is threatened by Wolf Rider C, Orc D, and Orc conduct an attack sequence (unless it hustled). A unit can
E. Orc D is threatening and threatened by Infantry A and only conduct one attack sequence per activation. Most attack
B. Orc E is threatening and threatened by Infantry B. Wolf sequences consist of multiple attacks, however. A Formed or
Rider C is threatening Infantry B, and not threatened by any Loose unit does not have to conduct an attack sequence, but an
enemy. Irregular unit must attack if able.
A Flyer unit can only be threatened by an enemy Flyer or by
an enemy unit conducting a reaction attack (p. 21) against the STEPS OF AN ATTACK SEQUENCE
Flyer. A units attack sequence is resolved by following the steps listed
below:
If a unit becomes threatened while moving (usually by entering
an enemy units front hexes), its move immediately ends. If a 1. Declare Method of Attack
unit starts its movement sequence threatened, it cannot move 2. Declare Target
during its movement sequence, other than to change facing 3. Resolve Reaction Attack Sequence
towards a threatening enemy, unless it first disengages.
4. Check for Flanking
5. Make Attack Throws
6. Deal Damage
7. Determine Degree of Shock
DECLARE METHOD OF ATTACK

There are two basic methods of attack: melee and missile. Some
units may have one method of attack, others may have one
attack of each method, and some may have several different
methods of each type. A unit capable of different methods of
attack may only utilize one method of attack in any given attack
sequence, however.
A unit may only declare a melee attack if it meets the following
criteria:
Illus. 1-5: THREATENING The attacker must not have hustled or disengaged
during its movement sequence.
To conduct a disengagement, the units commander announces The attacker must be threatening one or more enemy
that the unit is disengaging. The disengagement triggers one units.
free melee attack sequence (see below) from each threatening A unit may only declare a missile attack if it meets the following
enemy unit which is not disordered. However, a disengaging criteria:
Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, or Flyer unit does not trigger
attacks from threatening units that have a slower marching If using arbalest or crossbows, the attacker must
movement rate than it. have stood fast during its movement sequence.
Otherwise, the attacker must have either stood fast
If an attack sequence is triggered by disengagement, the attacker or marched during its movement sequence. Units
applies a special +2 bonus to hit the disengaging unit. If multiple that hustled or charged during their movement
attack sequences are triggered, the disengaging unit chooses sequence may never declare missile attacks.
the order in which the threatening units attack sequences are The attacker must not be threatened by any enemy
resolved. units. Threatened units may not conduct missile
Assuming the disengaging unit is not eliminated by the attacks.
disengagement attack sequence(s), it may then conduct a The units attack characteristics will determine the number of
marching movement. The first hex into which the disengaging attacks it will receive during the attack sequence. The number of
unit moves must not be a threatened hex and must not be attacks may vary depending on the method of attack.
adjacent to any of the enemy unit(s) which had threatened it. A
unit which cannot move into any such hexes may not disengage. Charge: If the attacker charged during its movement sequence,
its melee attack will be a charge. Charging grants a +2 bonus to
Irregular Foot and Irregular Mounted units may not disengage, attack throws. Flyer, Formed Foot, and any Mounted units, if
due to lack of discipline. War Machinery units may not equipped with spears, polearms, or lances, deal one extra point
disengage due to inability to maneuver. of damage during charges if they hit with at least one attack
with these weapons. Formed and Irregular Mounted units also
receive bonus attacks when they charge, based on the mounts
attack characteristics. A unit that makes a charge attack always
becomes disordered if it was not already.
20 Attack Sequence
of the attackers hex to the center of the targets hex

EXAMPLE: A unit of heavy cavalry has an enemy bowmen
would exit the attackers hex through the attackers
unit to its front, two hexes away. It makes a charging
movement of one hex, adjacent to the enemy bowmen unit, front hexes. When the imaginary line exits at the
and declares a melee attack. Because the heavy cavalry unit vertex between the attackers front hex and flank hex,
charged, it receives a disordered token. However, each of it counts as within the firing arc.
the heavy cavalrys attacks will be made with a +2 bonus for The target must not be threatening or threatened by
charging, it will get three bonus hoof attacks, and if it hits the attacker or a unit on the attackers side. Firing
Basic Rules
with at least one of its lance attacks it will deal one extra point into a melee is too risky to the attackers allies.
of damage. Being disordered seems a small price to pay! The target must be the closest enemy unit that meets
the three requirements above, or one of the closest if
Note that units that began their activation already threatened
multiple enemy units are equidistant.
can never charge - a charge requires a charging movement,
and threatened units cannot move except to change facing or
EXAMPLE: A unit of horse archers equipped with composite
disengage. bows has declared a missile attack. There is a unit of orcs
seven hexes to its front, a unit of skeletons five hexes to its
DECLARE TARGET front, a unit of goblins four hexes to its front, and a unit
After choosing its method of attack, the attacker designates of bugbears three hexes to its rear. None of the enemy are
an enemy unit to be its target. All attacks during the attack threatening or threatened by the horse archers side.
sequence will be against the designated target. The orcs are not an eligible target because they are not within
In order to be an eligible target of a melee attack, the target must range. The bugbears are not an eligible target because they
meet the following requirements: are not within firing arc. Both the skeletons and the goblins
are in range and firing arc, but the horse archers target must
The target must be threatened by the attacker. be the goblins because they are closer.
The target must be a unit that has not already been
attacked this command phase, if possible. RESOLVE REACTION ATTACK SEQUENCE
Sometimes an attacker might attack into a bristling hedge
EXAMPLE: A unit of heavy cavalry is threatening a unit of spears, or a withering fire of arrows, damaging and
of orcs and a unit of goblins. A heavy infantry unit from possibly repulsing it before it can make its own attack. These
the same division attacked the orcs already this command circumstances are addressed with the reaction attack sequence
phase. The heavy cavalrys only eligible target is therefore mechanics.
the goblins. Had the goblin unit not been threatened by the
heavy cavalry, the heavy cavalry could have attacked the After the target of an attack sequence is declared, the target or an
orcs, because it would not have been possible for the heavy adjacent unit on its side may be eligible to make a reaction attack
cavalry to target a unit that had not already been attacked. sequence. To be eligible to conduct a reaction attack sequence, a
unit must meet the following criteria:
Missile Ranges It must either be the target of the attack or be adjacent
Attackers Weapon Range v. Foot Range v. Mounted to the target of the attack. A unit may not react to
Arbalest 7 8 attacks taking place across the battlemap.
Crossbow 6 7 It must have a ready token, indicating it is ready to
Composite Bow 5 6 attack.
Longbow 5 6 Even if eligible, a unit is not required to make a reaction attack
Shortbow 4 5 sequence. Only one reaction attack sequence may occur for each
Sling 3 4 attack sequence, and if multiple units could react to an attack,
Spear/Javelin 2 2 the controlling commander decides which one, if any, reacts.
Other Thrown 2 2
When a reaction attack sequence occurs, the reacting unit may
immediately change its facing so that the attacker is to its front, if it
In order to be an eligible target of a missile attack, the target
is not already. It then interrupts the attackers attack sequence and
must meet the following requirements:
conducts its own attack sequence against the attacking enemy.
The target must be within range of the attackers A reaction attack sequence may be made with either melee or
missile weapon. Range is measured by counting missile attacks. A reaction attack with missiles is permitted even
the number of hexes from the attacker to the target if the attacker and target are threatening each other.
(excluding the attackers hex, but including the The reaction attack sequence is resolved prior to resolving
targets hex). To find the range, cross reference the the next step of the attackers interrupted attack sequence. A
attackers weapon with the targets formation type on reaction attack sequence follows the standard steps for an attack
the Missile Ranges table. Units that include creatures sequence, starting with Declare Method of Attack (p. 20),
of ogre size or larger should be treated as Mounted. except that the target is always the original attacker, and this step
The target must be within the firing arc of the is ignored (i.e. there are no nested reactions to reactions).
attacker. A target is within the attackers firing arc
A reaction attack sequence may, but does not have to be, a
if an imaginary line drawn straight from the center
charge if the attack it is responding to was a charge. A reaction
Attack Sequence 21
attack by spear- or pole arm-equipped Formed Foot units deals Line of Sight (LOS): When conducting missile attacks, check if
one extra point of damage when the attacker is charging if the the attacker has line of sight to the target. An attacker has line of
reacting unit does not charge. (This represents the fact that sight if it can trace an imaginary line from the center of its hex to
spear and pole arms units set for charge deal extra damage to the center of the targets hex without crossing a hex containing
charging opponents.) an obstacle. If the imaginary line touches the border of the hex
containing the obstacle, but does not actually cross the hex
If the attacker is not eliminated by the reaction attack against it,
containing the obstacle, line of sight is not blocked. Obstacles
resolve the remaining steps of its attack. However, it must attack
include friendly units, enemy units, and certain types of terrain
the reacting unit instead of its original target, if the reacting unit
(p. 29). Units conducting missile attacks may still fire without
is an eligible target. If, because of the reaction attack, neither the
line of sight, but do so at a penalty of -4 on their attack throw.
original target nor the reacting unit is an eligible target for the
This is known as volleying overhead.
attacker, then the attackers attack sequence is cancelled.
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-6, Wolf Rider A, equipped with
CHECK FOR FLANKING shortbows, is at a range of three hexes from Infantry C and
A melee attack is flanking whenever the attacker is threatening Infantry D.
the target, while the target is not threatening the attacker. This
If Wolf Rider A were to attack Infantry C, it would have
normally occurs when the attacker is conducting a melee attack
to volley overhead, as the imaginary line from the center
from a targets flank or rear hexes. It can also occur in unusual of its hex to the center of Infantry Cs hex crosses through
situations due to flying creatures, incorporeal monsters, and an obstacle, in this case, friendly Orc B. It would be at -4 to
other situations discussed in later chapters. attack Infantry C.
A missile attack is flanking if an imaginary line drawn from the If Wolf Rider A were to attack Infantry D, this would be a
center of the attackers hex to the center of the targets hex would flanking attack because an imaginary line drawn from the
enter the targets hex through the targets flank or rear hexes. center of its hex to the center of Infantry Ds hex enters
When the imaginary line enters at the vertex between a target's through one of Ds rear hexes. It would be at +2 to attack
front hex and flank hex, it counts as flanking. Infantry D.
Ammunition Depletion: A unit that rolls a natural 1 during

MAKE ATTACK THROWS a missile attack throw receives a depleted token. This indicates
All attacks, both missile and melee, are resolved using the attack the unit is depleting its store of arrows, bolts, stones, or thrown
throw mechanics of Adventurer Conqueror King. The attacker weapons. Each depleted token reduces the units number of
calculates the attack throw value required to hit from its base attacks with that weapon by one per attack sequence.
attack throw, the targets Unit AC, and any situational modifiers.
A D20 roll is then made for each of the attackers attacks. For
DEAL DAMAGE
each result equal to or greater than the modified attack throw
For each successful attack by the attacker, one point of
value, a hit has been scored.
damage is dealt to the targets uhp. Damage can be recorded
on scratch paper or indicated by placing a damage token on
EXAMPLE: A unit of heavy infantry (2 sword & shield
the unit. Damage from all of the attackers attacks is applied
11+) is attacking a unit of light infantry (AC 3). The heavy
infantry will need to roll (11 + 3) 14+ with each attack in simultaneously. A unit is destroyed (removed from the battle)
order to score a hit. when it has taken damage equal to its uhp. A unit becomes
disordered as soon as damage is dealt to it.
Charging Attackers: A charging attacker gains a +2 bonus to
Withdrawal: When a Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, or Flyer
attack throws against the charged target.
unit takes damage, it may reduce damage dealt by one or more
Flanking Attackers: A flanking attacker gains a +2 bonus to points by withdrawing one or more hexes, up to a maximum of
attack throws against the flanked target. its marching movement.
To be eligible to withdraw from a missile attack, the unit must
not have been disordered at the time the attack occurred. To be
eligible to withdraw from a melee attack, the unit must not have
been disordered at the time the attack occurred, and must have
a faster marching movement rate than its attacker.
The withdrawal must be directly away from the attacker. If a unit
is eligible to withdraw into two or more hexes, the commander
controlling the target decides which of the eligible hexes his unit
withdraws into.
The unit cannot withdraw into impassable terrain (p. 30). The
unit cannot withdraw into a hex already containing an enemy
unit, but may withdraw through friendly units, moving up to
one additional hex if necessary to avoid ending its withdrawal in
Illus. 1-6: MISSILE FIRE
the same hex as a friendly unit. A units facing does not change
22 Attack Sequence
when it withdraws. If the unit cannot withdraw, it must take the (Note that in the absence of magic, the very conditions which
damage. trigger a shock roll will cause the unit to suffer the -2 penalty
from being disordered and the -2 penalty from having taken
A unit which withdraws becomes disordered, even if the
damage equal to 50% or more of its maximum uhp. Shock rolls
withdrawal reduces damage dealt to zero.
are nasty!)
Rout: The unit immediately routs off the battlemap and is
removed from play.
Basic Rules
Flee: The unit changes its facing towards its own battlemap
edge and immediately retreats a number of hexes equal to its
hustling movement rate in that direction. If a fleeing unit cannot
complete its retreat, it is considered routed and removed from
play.
Illus. 1-7: WITHDRAWAL
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-7, Infantry A has dealt two

points of damage to Light Cavalry B. Because it is Loose
Mounted, Light Cavalry B may reduce damage dealt by
two points (to zero) by withdrawing two hexes away from
Infantry A. The withdrawal must be directly away from
Infantry A, along the axis shown by the arrow. Light Cavalry
B is free to withdraw through friendly Orc C. If Orc C were
an enemy unit, Light Cavalry B could not withdraw.
RESOLVE SHOCK Illus. 1-8: FLEEING

Anytime a unit is damaged by magic, and/or each time an attack
reduces a unit to or less of its maximum uhp, a shock roll Recoil: The unit retreats one hex directly away from the attacker
is required to see if the unit retreats without changing facing. If a recoiling unit cannot complete its
Unit Shock or routs. To make a shock roll, the retreat, it flees (as above).
Adjusted units commander rolls 2d6, adds the
Die Roll Result units morale score, and consults the Stand Firm: The unit remains steady. No effect.
2- Rout Unit Shock table. The die roll should Retreating: If the target must retreat, resolve the retreat using
3-5 Flee be modified based on the modifiers the following rules:
6-8 Recoil listed on the Shock Modifiers table
below. If a unit is eligible to retreat into two or more hexes,
9+ Stand Firm
the commander controlling the target decides which
Shock Modifiers of the eligible hexes his unit retreats into.
Officer attached to unit* + Morale Modifier A unit can retreat into any terrain (p. 29) except
Unit is disordered -2 impassable terrain (p. 30).
Unit has taken damage equal to 50% or -2 A unit cannot retreat into, or through, a hex already
more of its maximum uhp containing a unit (except for loose units, see below).
Unit is threatened by enemy in its flank or -2 If a units retreat would cause it to exit the battlemap
rear hexes it is considered routed and removed from play.
Unit is Formed Foot or Formed Mounted and +2
If the target of a melee attack routs, retreats, or withdraws, the
adjacent to at least two friendly units
attacker may advance into the just-vacated hex. If the attacker
*If multiple characters are attached to a unit, only the best morale
modifier applies.
is an Irregular unit, it must advance if possible. (The attacker
Attack Sequence 23
may advance only one hex, regardless of the number of hexes Unpredictable Creatures: Normal troops tend to retreat when
the target retreated or withdrew.) heavily damaged. Units including unpredictable creatures such
as war dogs or elephants might instead go berserk, attacking
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-8, Orc B has suffered a Flee friend and foe alike.
result on a shock roll. It changes facing towards its own
battlemap edge and retreats a number of hexes in that When an unpredictable units recoils, it normally retreats one
direction equal to its hustling movement rate of 4. It cannot hex directly away from the attacker without changing facing.
retreat into the hexes containing Orc C and Orc D. Once the However, if it cannot complete its retreat due to an intervening
retreating Orc B clears Orc D, its commander can choose unit, the unpredictable unit immediately turns to face the unit
which of the two eligible hexes the unit retreats into. The which is blocking its retreat and conducts an immediate attack
four available lines of retreat and three possible destination sequence against it (regardless of whether the unit is friend or
hexes are shown. enemy). This attack will be a trample (p. 51) if possible, and a
charge if not. The unit will advance if possible after its attack
Loose Units: Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, and Flyer units adopt
sequence. If an unpredictable unit cannot complete its recoil
a flexible, open formation that enables easy passage of lines.
due to impassable terrain (p. 30), it will flee instead.
These units may retreat through any friendly units, and friendly
units may retreat through them. They may still not retreat When an unpredictable unit flees, it changes its facing towards
through enemy units, nor end their retreat in the same hex as its own battlemap edge and immediately retreats a number of
another unit. Loose and Flyer units may retreat one additional hexes equal to its hustling movement rate. For each hex of its
hex if doing so is the only way to retreat without ending their retreat, randomly determine which of the two eligible front
movement in the same hex as another unit. hexes the unit retreats into the units commander does not
get to choose! If the unpredictable unit cannot complete its
Magic: Note that there will not be any magic in a battle unless
randomly-determined retreat due to an intervening unit, it
you are using the rules in Chapter 4, Heroes.
conducts an immediate attack sequence against it (regardless
Voluntary Retreat: A Loose Mounted or Flyer unit which of whether the unit is friend or enemy). This attack will be a
conducts a missile attack after standing fast may make a trample if possible, and a charge if not. After its attack sequence
voluntary retreat of up to its marching move at the conclusion of is resolved, the unit is considered routed and removed from
its attack sequence. Each hex moved must take the unit directly play. If the unpredictable unit cannot complete its randomly-
away from its target, e.g. the Loose Mounted unit cannot determined retreat due to impassable terrain, it is simply routed
retreat parallel to or towards the target. The Loose Mounted and removed from play.
units facing does not change when it voluntarily retreats.
EXAMPLE: A unit of Loose Mounted with a movement rate ACTIONS IN LIEU OF ATTACKING
of 4/8/12 stands fast during its movement sequence. It then Not every movement sequence ends in combat. In the moments
conducts a missile attack against an enemy heavy cavalry before an engagement, units on the battlemap might form a
unit five hexes away. The attack misses. The Loose Mounted shield wall, set for a charge with spears, or ready to unleash a
unit does not want to risk remaining within the range of the volley of arrows. These are known as actions in lieu of attacking
heavy cavalrys movement (eight hexes), so it voluntarily and take the place of a units attack sequence. Knowing when to
retreats four hexes.
attack, when to defend, and when to ready to attack is one of
the most important skills that commanders must master to be
successful in Domains at War: Battles.
DEFEND
Historically, densely-packed armored infantry could protect
themselves against attacks by forming their shields into an
armored shell the most famous
example being the Roman testudo
or tortoise formation. To reflect
24 Actions in Lieu of Attacking

this tactic, a Formed Foot unit that either stood fast or marched,
EXAMPLE: Marcus began the battle with an army of 12
and is not threatened by any enemy, may defend in lieu of units. The armys break point is (1/3 x 12) 4. During the
attacking. Place a shielded token on the unit. While the shielded preceding combat round, Marcuss army lost its fourth unit.
token is present, its Unit AC is increased by +2 versus melee and Since at least one unit was lost during the preceding combat
thrown attacks and +4 versus bow, crossbow, and sling attacks. round, and the total number of units destroyed (4) is equal
It receives a +2 bonus on morale rolls. The shielded token is to the armys break point, every unit in Marcuss army must
removed if the unit moves, attacks, or becomes disordered. make a morale roll.
Basic Rules
Unlike shock rolls, which can occur several times per combat
READY TO ATTACK
round (e.g. if a unit takes damage reducing it to hp or less
In lieu of attacking, a unit that either stood fast or marched, and
from several different attacks), a unit only ever makes one
is not threatened by any enemy, may ready to attack. Place a
morale roll per combat round. For instance, if the armys general
ready token on the unit to mark its status. A ready unit may
is destroyed and the army reaches its break point in the same
conduct a reaction attack when it, or a friendly unit adjacent
combat round, the armys units still only make one morale roll.
to it, is declared to be the target of an attack. The ready token is
removed if the unit moves, attacks, or becomes disordered.
Unit Morale MORALE ROLLS
Irregular units may not ready to attack, as they lack the discipline To make a morale roll, the units
required to wait for enemy. Adjusted commander rolls 2d6, adds the units
Die Roll Result
morale score, and consults the Unit
2- Rout Morale table. The die roll should be
MORALE PHASE 3-5 Flee modified based on the army and
Armies do not, as a rule, fight to the last man (or elf, or 6-8 Waver unit modifiers listed on the Morale
orc). Instead they suffer a gradual loss of morale, becoming 9-11 Stand Firm Modifiers table below.
increasingly disordered as casualties mount, until eventually the 12+ Rally
army is swept away in a rout. These effects are simulated with Rout: The unit immediately routs
morale rolls. off the battlemap and is removed from play.
During the Morale Phase, every unit in the entire army must Flee: The unit immediately becomes disordered (if not
make a morale roll if: already), changes its facing towards its own battlemap edge, and
immediately retreats a number of hexes equal to its hustling
The armys general was destroyed, routed, or movement rate in that direction. If a fleeing unit cannot
voluntarily exited from the battle during the complete its retreat, it is considered routed and removed from
preceding combat round; or play.
One or more units in the army were lost (destroyed
or routed) during the preceding combat round, and Waver: The unit immediately becomes disordered, if not
the total number of units lost is now equal to or already. If already disordered, it retreats one hex towards its own
greater than the armys break point. An armys break battlemap edge. If the unit cannot complete its retreat, it flees
point is always 1/3 of the armys starting number of (as above).
units, rounded up.
Morale Modifiers Modifier

Army Modifiers (apply to all units)
Army general present on battlemap + 1/2 Morale Modifier (round up)
Army has lost /2 or more of its starting units, but less than /3
1 2
-2
Army has lost 2/3 or more of its starting units -5
Army has destroyed or routed more units than opposing army has destroyed or routed +2
Army has lost more units than opposing army has lost -2
Army cannot retreat (surrounded, trapped, etc.) +2
Army defending homeland / sacred ground Judges Discretion
Unit Modifiers
Officer attached to unit* + Morale Modifier
Unit is disordered -2
Unit has taken damage of 50% or more of its uhp -2
Unit is threatened by enemy in its flank or rear hexes -2
Unit is Formed Foot or Formed Mounted and adjacent to at least two friendly units +2
Unit is shielded +2
*If multiple characters are attached to a unit, only the best morale modifier applies. When a general is attached to a unit, the generals morale
modifier applies at both the army and unit level.
Morale Phase 25
Stand Firm: The unit remains steady. No effect. Pursuit Eligibility: Determine which units from the victorious
army are eligible to pursue as follows.
Rally: The unit rallies under the pressure of battle. If the unit is
disordered, the disordered token is removed. If the unit is not 1. Did the defeated army end the battle without any
disordered, it recovers one lost uhp and, if unthreatened, may Mounted or Flyer units (e.g. all such units were
advance one hex towards an enemy unit. routed or destroyed)? If yes, then all units in the
victorious army are eligible to pursue.
Retreats, where necessary, follow the same rules as those caused
by shock rolls. 2. In all other cases, only Mounted and Flyer units in
the victorious army are eligible to pursue.
EXAMPLE: Since a unit was destroyed during the preceding
combat round, and the total number of units destroyed is EXAMPLE #1: A battle between Army A and Army B ended
equal to or greater than his armys break point, every unit in when all of Army Bs units were destroyed or routed. Army
Marcuss army must make a morale roll. A had eight heavy infantry and four light cavalry units
remaining when the battle ended. Army B had two light
Marcuss morale modifier is a confident +5. His army gains cavalry and four light infantry remaining, but all routed.
a bonus of that, or +3. His army has lost 1/3 of its starting Because Army B ended the battle with all of its Mounted
units, which imposes no modifier. However, his army has units routed, Army A is eligible to pursue with all of its units.
lost more units than the opposing army, which imposes a -2
penalty. The total army modifier is therefore +1.
EXAMPLE #2: A battle between Army A and Army B ended
The first unit is a unit of heavy infantry (morale score 0) in when Army B voluntarily withdrew from the battle. Army
bad shape. It is disordered (-2 penalty) and has lost 4 of its 6 A had eight heavy infantry and four light cavalry units
uhp (-2 penalty). The units modifiers are -4; combined with remaining when the battle ended. Army B had two light
the army modifier, the total modifier is -3. Marcus rolls 2d6 cavalry and four light infantry remaining. Because Army
and gets a 5, modified to a 2. The unit immediately routs off B still has unrouted Mounted units in its army, Army A is
the battlemap! eligible to pursue with only its four light cavalry.
The armys general determines the order in which his units will
make morale rolls. The effects of each morale roll are resolved Pursuing Unit Pursuit Throw
before rolling for the next unit. It is possible for the results Loose Mounted or Flyer 11+
of earlier morale rolls to impact those of later rolls, causing a Other Mounted 14+
cascade of flight off the battlefield. Loose Foot 14+
Other Foot 18+
EXAMPLE: In a string of bad luck, the first two morale
rolls that Marcus makes result in the units routing off the For each eligible pursuing unit, the victorious armys
battlemap. That means that Marcuss army has now lost half commander makes a pursuit throw against the appropriate
of its original twelve units the four he had lost at the start of value from the table above. Add +4 to each pursuit throw if all of
the morale phase, plus the two lost to rout. That means when the defeated armys Mounted and Flyer units were destroyed or
Marcus makes the next morale roll he now has to factor routed. Each successful throw eliminates one enemy unit. If the
in the -2 for having lost between and 2/3 of his armys defeated army ended the battle without any Mounted or Flyer
starting units. units, the victorious army general may choose which unit(s) are
If both sides must make morale rolls during the same combat eliminated. Otherwise the defeated armys general may choose
round, the side whose general has the lower leadership ability which unit(s) are eliminated.
must make all of its morale rolls first. In the event of a tie,
EXAMPLE: Army B routed off the battlemap. Army A is
determine the order of the morale rolls randomly.
pursuing with four light cavalry units (Loose Mounted).
As commander makes four pursuit throws against 11+. He
rolls a modified 6, 9, 12 and a 16, so two units of Army B
ENDING BATTLES are eliminated. Since all of Army Bs Mounted units were
A battle ends when all of the units of one army have been destroyed or routed off the battlemap, Army As general
destroyed, routed, or have voluntarily exited from the chooses which units are eliminated. He elects to destroy
battlemap. When a battle ends, the victorious army will have both of Bs light cavalry.
the opportunity to pursue the defeated army. After pursuit is
resolved, each army will determine Pursuit against Evading Armies: Certain strategic situations,
casualties. including rear guard actions, rear guard
I M P O R TA N T N O T E : envelopments, and skirmishes, involve
PURSUIT offensive armies fighting evading armies.
If the battle is part of a campaign, each (See Chapter 3, Strategic Situations,
A victorious army is eligible to
army will also gather spoils of war and for more details). The longer it takes to
pursue its defeated opponent. Pursuit
is handled with a series of pursuit
calculate experience points for its defeat an evading army, the harder it is
throws. The victorious army receives officers and troops. These rules are found for the offensive army to pursue. Each
one pursuit throw per eligible pursuing in the Aftermath of Battles section of combat round of the battle imposes a
unit. Domains at War: Campaigns. cumulative -1 penalty to pursuit throws
26 Ending Battles
against a defeated evading army. (A natural roll of 20 always

EXAMPLE: A unit of 120 orcs (8 uhp) took 2 points of
eliminates a unit, regardless of any modifiers.) damage, so 25% of the troops became casualties. Of the
(25% x 120) 30 casualties, 15 are crippled or dead, while 15
EXAMPLE: Army A confronts Army B in a rear guard are wounded. If the orcs army won the battle, it will recover
action. After six combat rounds, Army Bs rear guard units its wounded and become a unit of 105 orcs in one week. If
have all been defeated. Army A is now eligible to pursue the orcs army lost the battle, 8 of its 15 wounded become
Army B but all its pursuing units suffer a -6 penalty to their prisoners, and the unit is reduced to 97 orcs.
pursuit throws.
Basic Rules
Routed Units: Routed units will suffer casualties in proportion
CASUALTIES to their loss of uhp, as per a damaged unit. However, fewer of
After pursuit, each armys commander will determine his armys the units wounded return to the unit. Half of a victorious armys
casualties. Units that were destroyed or dealt damage will have routed, wounded troops become deserters (round up). Half of
lost some or all of their troops. the defeated armys routed, wounded troops become prisoners
(round up), and the rest become deserters.
Destroyed Units: Half of the troops (rounded up) are crippled
or dead, while the other half (rounded down) are lightly EXAMPLE: A unit of 120 orcs (8 uhp) took 4 points of
wounded. The victorious armys wounded troops return to their damage and routed. 50% of the troops became casualties.
unit in one week. The defeated armys wounded troops become Of the (50% x 120) 60 casualties, 30 are crippled or dead,
prisoners. while 30 are wounded. If the orcs army won the battle, 15
of its wounded become deserters while the remaining 15
EXAMPLE: A unit of 120 orcs was destroyed. 60 of the orcs rejoin the unit, leaving it at 75 orcs. If the orcs army lost the
are crippled or dead, while 60 are lightly wounded. If the battle, 15 of its wounded become prisoners and 15 become
orcs army won the battle, it will recover its wounded; it will deserters. The unit is reduced to just 60 orcs.
be able to field a unit of 60 orcs in one week. If the orcs army
lost the battle, the wounded orcs become prisoners of the Half-strength units may be consolidated to form a smaller
victorious army. number of full-strength units, if desired.
Damaged Units: Damaged units will suffer casualties in

proportion to their loss of uhp. Divide the amount of damage
taken by the units starting uhp (round up). This is the
percentage of the troops that became casualties. Half of these
casualties (rounded up) are crippled or dead, while the other
half (rounded down) are wounded. The victorious armys
wounded troops return to their unit in one week. Half (rounded
up) of the defeated armys wounded troops become prisoners
and half return to their unit in one week.
Ending Battles 27
Chapter 2: Terrain
The commander who relies on his cavalry, especially

lancers, should seek out broad plains favorable to such troops
and force the battle there. If, on the other hand, he relies more on
his infantry, he should take care to choose uneven, thick,
and rugged terrain for the fighting.
The basic rules assume that the battlefield is a flat, level plain rest. If this would result in the terrain extending off
of grass or hard ground. While that is true of some battlefields, the battlemap, re-roll. (See Terrain Types, p. 32, for
battles which take place in wild forests, mountainous passes, or instructions on how to randomly place streams and
barren deserts should have a very different topography. trenches.)
To represent geographical features such as hills, streams, groves 4. Any remaining hexes without a terrain piece are
of trees, patches of mud, and the like, terrain pieces can be considered clear terrain.
placed on the battlemap. There are three sizes of terrain pieces: When placing pieces, the Judge may substitute three small
small (one hex), medium (three hexes), and large (seven hexes). pieces for one medium piece, or one large piece for two medium
Each terrain piece is of a particular terrain type with certain pieces. Re-drop any dice that place terrain in half hexes that are
terrain characteristics. unconnected to another map sheet. The Judge may re-drop dice
An assortment of terrain pieces of various sizes and types is that stack terrain pieces of the same type on top of each other, or
included with the Complete Domains at War Set. You may substitute a larger piece in place of the smaller pieces.
Terrain
substitute other terrain pieces of your own devising as desired.
TERRAIN CHARACTERISTICS
If the battle is being fought at a mapped location within the There are four general characteristics that terrain may possess:
Judges campaign setting, terrain pieces should be placed on the elevated, impassable, obscuring, and/or rough.
tabletop battlemap to replicate that location. Otherwise, terrain
placement should be determined randomly based on the size of ELEVATED
the battlemap (p. 10) and the terrain of the 6-mile hex where Elevated terrain includes cliffs/mountains and hills. Elevated
the battle is taking place. terrain blocks line of sight (LOS) (p. 22) in some cases, but in
other cases it allows units to see over obstacles (p. 22). The LOS
Stoppage table, below, shows the impact of elevation and line
RANDOM TERRAIN GENERATION of sight. Units on elevated terrain receive +1 to attack throws
Use the Random Battlemap Terrain table to randomly generate against units on a lower elevation. Units on a lower elevation
terrain according to the following steps. can only conduct missile attacks on targets on elevated terrain
1. For each battlemap, roll once on the Terrain Pieces using volleying overhead (p. 22), even if line of sight can be
per Battlemap column using the dice appropriate drawn.
to the terrain of the 6-mile hex where the battle is
LOS Stoppage
taking place. This will tell you how many medium
terrain pieces to place. Elevated Hex Unelevated Hex
2. For each of the terrain pieces, roll 1d20 and cross- LOS blocked by hex of LOS blocked by hex of
Unelevated Hex Elevated Hex
index the result with the appropriate row of the elevated obscuring terrain elevated terrain
Random Battlemap Terrain table to determine the LOS blocked by obstacle on LOS blocked if terminus hex
Origin of LOS
type of terrain to be placed. elevated terrain is obscuring terrain

3. Place each terrain piece one at a time on the
battlemap. Terrain pieces may be placed deliberately LOS blocked by hex of
LOS blocked by hex of elevated terrain
by the Judge or placed randomly. To randomly
elevated terrain
place terrain other than streams and trenches, drop LOS blocked by hex of
1d20 from a height of 1 above the center of the obscuring terrain
battlemap. Place the terrain piece so that at least one
of its hexes lies on the hex where the die comes to
Random Battlemap Terrain

6-Mile Hex Terrain Pieces Cliff/ Forest/ Impenet. Pond/
Terrain Type Per Battlemap Broken Mountain Jungle Hills Forest Mud Lake Stream Swamp Trench
Clear or Grass 2d4 1-4 5-6 7-8 9-14 - 15-16 17-18 19 20 -
Barren 3d4 1-7 8-12 - 13-18 - 19 - - - 20
Desert 3d4 1-5 6-10 - 11-16 - 17- - - - 19-20
18*
Hills 4d4 1-2 3-4 5-6 7-16 - - 17-18 19-20 - -
Scrub 4d4 1-2 3-4 5-8 9-16 17 - 18 19 - 20
Woods 4d6 1-2 3-4 5-12 13-14 15-17 - 18 19 20 -
Mountains 4d8 1-4 5-10 11-12 13-14 15-16 - 17-18 19 - 20
Jungle 4d8 - 1-2 3-10 11-12 13-15 16 17 18-19 20 -
Swamp 4d8 - - 1-4 - 5-8 9-10 11 12-13 14-20 -
*In desert hexes, mud is actually soft sand.
Random Terrain Generation 29

EXAMPLE: A large seven hex hill has a small one hex hill on
top of it. The small hills hex is elevated relative to the large
hills hexes, while the large hills hexes are unelevated relative
to the small hills hex. Both the small hill and the large hill
are elevated relative to surrounding hexes without any hill or
mountain terrain at all.
Flyers (p. 12) may move and attack as if elevated one or more
levels above the surrounding hex if desired.
IMPASSABLE
Impassable terrain includes cliffs, impenetrable forests, and
bodies of water. When terrain is impassable, it may not be
moved into or through by any unit without special capabilities.
Flyers may fly over impassable terrain if desired, and are treated
as elevated when doing so.
Illus. 1-9: ELEVATION
ROUGH
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-9, Horse Archer A does not Rough terrain includes broken ground, forests, jungles, mud,
have line of sight on Orc C because line of sight from an and swamps. When terrain is rough, it means that each hex
unelevated hex is blocked by a hex of elevated terrain. Horse moved through the terrain counts as two hexes of movement
Archer B, on the hill, has line of sight on Orc D, despite the (units may always march a minimum of one hex in rough terrain,
obscuring terrain, because line of sight from elevated terrain however). Mounted units (p. 12) may not charge into, through,
to unelevated terrain is only blocked by other elevated terrain or from rough terrain. Flyers may choose to fly above rough
or when the LOS terminates in obscuring terrain. (If Orc D
terrain if desired, and are treated as elevated when doing so.
were in the forest hex, then Horse Archer B would not have
line of sight. Essentially the tree canopy would be concealing
them.) Horse Archer B does not have line of sight on Orc OBSCURING
C, because line of sight from elevated terrain to unelevated Obscuring terrain includes forests, jungles, and swamps. Line
terrain is blocked by a hex of elevated terrain. of sight may be traced to and from the edge of an obscuring
hex, but may not be traced through a complete hex of obscuring
In some cases, terrain may exist at multiple levels of elevation. terrain. Units in obscuring terrain receive a +2 bonus to Unit AC
Where this occurs, elevated and unelevated terrain should against missiles and may not be targeted by volleying overhead.
be understood as relative to the different levels of terrain. Flyers may choose to fly above obscuring terrain if desired, and
are treated as elevated when doing so.
Illus. 1-10: OBSCURING
30 Random Terrain Generation

can transform one hex of broken ground into clear terrain, or

EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-10, Light Cavalry A, in a hex
vice versa, or add or remove a hill to broken ground.
of obscuring terrain, does not have line of sight to Orc B.
Line of sight may not be traced through a complete hex of Clear: Clear terrain is any terrain without a terrain piece. Most
obscuring terrain. Light Cavalry A does have line of sight to hexes are clear terrain.
Orc C, because line of sight may be traced from the edge of
an obscuring hex. Orc B does not have line of sight to Light Cliffs/Mountains: Cliffs/mountains are elevated terrain. Cliffs/
Cavalry A, and may not use volleying overhead to target mountains are also impassable, except at designated passes up
it without LOS (the forest canopy prevents it). Orc C may the cliff/mountain. Small cliff/mountain terrain pieces have no
missile attack Light Cavalry A, but Light Cavalry A receives passes. Medium cliff/mountain terrain piece have 1d2-1 passes,
a +2 bonus to its AC. while large cliff/mountain pieces have 1d3-1 passes. Each pass
is the width of one hex edge. Passes may connect one hex of
Terrain may have multiple characteristics, in which case the
cliff/mountain to another hex of cliff/mountain, or connect the
effects stack.
cliff/mountain hex to another type of terrain. Cliffs/mountains
Terrain
EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-11, Light Cavalry A is in a hex may be placed overlapping with forest terrain pieces, in which
of obscuring and elevated terrain (e.g. a forested hill). Orc C case the effects stack. They may also be placed overlapping with
would like to conduct a missile attack on the Light Cavalry. other cliffs/mountains or hills to create multi-level terrain. The
Because Light Cavalry A is on elevated terrain while Orc C spell move earth can transform one hex of cliff/mountain into a
is not, Orc C can only conduct a missile attack against Light pass (hill), or one hex of hill into a cliff/mountain.
Cavalry A by volleying overhead. Because Light Cavalry A
is in obscuring terrain, it may not be targeted by volleying Forest/Jungle: Forests/jungles are rough and obscuring terrain.
overhead. As a result, Orc C cannot make a missile attack Forest/jungle may be placed overlapping with both cliffs/
against Light Cavalry A! mountains and hills, and vice versa. A one hex piece of forest/
jungle can be destroyed with a fireball, breath weapon, or
In addition to the general terrain characteristics above, certain similar effect.
terrain types have characteristics that are unique to that type.
These are noted in the description for that terrain type. Hills: Hills are elevated terrain. Hills may be placed overlapping
with both broken ground and forest/jungle, and vice versa. Hills
may also be placed overlapping with cliffs/mountains or other
TERRAIN TYPES hills to create multi-level terrain. A move earth spell can add or
remove a one hex hill, or transform an existing hill into a cliff/
NATURAL TERRAIN mountain, or add or remove broken ground to or from a hill.
Broken Ground: Broken ground is rough terrain. Loose Foot
units (p. 12) in broken ground gain a +2 bonus to Unit AC. Impenetrable Forest: Impenetrable forests are impassable
Broken ground may be placed overlapping with hill terrain and and obscuring. A one hex piece of impenetrable forest can be
vice versa, in which case the effects stack. The spell move earth destroyed with a fireball, breath weapon, or similar effect. A one
hex piece of impenetrable forest can be created with growth of
plants.
Illus. 1-11: ELEVATED OBSCURING
Terrain Types 31
Mud: Mud is rough terrain. Units in mud suffer a -1 Unit AC 2. Roll 1d6 to determine the streams width. On a 1-3,
penalty against missile fire as they are such slow-moving targets. the stream is narrow (a brook); on 4-5, medium; on
War Machinery (p. 12) treats mud terrain as impassable. One 6, wide (a river).
hex of mud can be created with the spell transmute rock to A narrow stream can be crossed in one combat round at a cost
mud or control weather (rain or snow); one hex of mud can be of one extra hex of movement. Foot units may march, hustle,
transformed into clear terrain with transmute mud to rock or or charge (p. 18 p. 19) across a narrow stream as desired.
control weather (intense heat). Mounted units may not charge into, across, or out of a narrow
Pond/Lake: Ponds/lakes are impassable. Huge rivers (such as stream.
the Rhine or Nile) which are multiple hexes wide should be A medium stream can be crossed in three combat rounds. On
treated as long lakes. The spell lower water can be used to create the first combat round, the unit must move adjacent to the
a three hex by two hex ford through a pond/lake. Fords are medium stream and halt. On the second combat round, the unit
treated as mud terrain. may march into the stream at a cost of its entire movement. On
Streams: Unlike other terrain pieces, which are placed as the third combat round, the unit may march out of the stream
clusters of one hex, three hexes, or seven hexes, streams are at a cost of one hex of movement.
placed as lines of varying length. A stream can be of any length, A wide stream cannot be crossed except at designated fords.
but on each end it must either exit the battlemap, connect to Fords are treated as mud terrain. Lower water can be used to
another stream, or terminate in a cliff/mountain (a waterfall), a create a three hex wide ford through a stream.
hill (a spring), or a pond/lake. Streams can be narrow (brooks),
medium, or wide (rivers) in width. If a unit is adjacent to a stream, it receives a +2 bonus to its AC
against melee attacks coming from units in the stream. Units
To randomly determine a streams characteristics, follow these that are crossing a stream suffer a -2 penalty to their AC until
steps: they reach the other bank.
1. Drop 2d20 from a height of 1 above the center of Flyers may treat streams as clear hexes if desired. War Machinery
the battlemap. Mark the two hexes where the dice cannot cross, enter, or move along streams.
come to a rest. The stream will follow a line that
crosses through the two hexes rolled and extends in Swamp: Swamps are rough and obscuring terrain. War
each direction until it reaches a map edge, another Machinery treats swamp terrain as impassable. A one hex piece
stream, a cliff/mountain, a hill, or a pond/lake. of swamp can be destroyed with a fireball, breath weapon, or
similar effect.
32 Terrain Types
Trench: Trenches are placed as lines and come in narrow,

medium, and wide varieties. When placing trenches, use the
rules for streams, but each end of the trench must either exit
the battlemap, connect to another trench, or terminate in a
depression. Move earth can transform one hex of trench into
clear or broken ground, or vice versa, or expand the size of a
trench by one category.
Trenches are crossed like streams. If a unit is adjacent to a
trench, it receives a +2 bonus to its AC against melee attacks
coming from units in the trench. Units that are crossing a trench
suffer a -2 penalty to their AC until they reach the other side.
Units that enter a wide trench may move along its length,
Terrain
treating it as rough terrain. Units moving along a trench are
below the line of sight of attackers which are not on elevated
terrain.
Flyers may treat trenches as clear hexes if desired. War
Machinery cannot cross, enter, or move along trenches.
MAN-MADE TERRAIN
Some battlemaps may feature minor man-made terrain pieces,
such as ditches, earthen ramparts, moats, or walls. These can be
handled using the mechanics below. However, major fortified
structures such as keeps and towers will be described in
Chapter 5, Assaults.
Ditch: Ditches are narrow, medium, or wide trenches,
depending on their size. If a unit is adjacent to a medium wall, it receives a +2 bonus to
Unit AC against all attacks coming from the other side of the
Earthen Rampart: Earthen ramparts are cliffs/mountains, hills, wall. However, units on elevated terrain can fire at units adjacent
or walls, depending on the size and shape of the ramparts. to the medium wall without penalty. A medium wall does not
Moat: Moats are small, medium, or large streams, depending block line of sight.
on their size. High walls are obscuring, impassable terrain. For high walls
Walls: Walls can be either high (taller than 6'), medium (4' to with battlements, wall-walks, and arrow slits, see Chapter 5,
6'), or low (3' or less). Low walls are treated as broken ground. Fortified Structures (p. 53).
Medium walls may be crossed by Mounted units at a cost of One hex of wall can be reduced to broken ground with
one additional hex of movement, as the wall is low enough to disintegrate, move earth, or transmute rock to mud. (A low
leap over. Foot units may cross the wall as if crossing a medium wall stays broken ground, only now it is rubble.)
stream. War Machinery cannot cross walls.
TERRAIN TYPES SUMMARIZED

Terrain Type Terrain Characteristics Special Rules
Broken Ground Rough Loose Foot gain +2 bonus to Unit AC
Clear - -
Cliffs/Mountains Elevated, Impassable Passable at Passes
Ditch By Width See above
Earthen Rampart Varies, see above Varies, see above
Forest/Jungle Obscuring, Rough -
Hills Elevated -
Impenetrable Forest Impassable, Obscuring -
Moat By Width See above
Mud Rough Unit AC -1 v. missile fire, Impassable to WM
Pond/Lake Impassable -
Stream By Width See above
Swamp Obscuring, Rough Impassable to WM
Trench By Width See above
Wall By Height See above
Terrain Types 33
Chapter 3: Strategic Situations
A wise commander will not engage the enemy in a

pitched battle unless a truly exceptional opportunity
or advantage presents itself.
When fighting campaign battles (p. 7) PITCHED BATTLE

based on the rules in Domains at War: I M P O R TA N T N O T E : Deployment Restrictions: Units in
Campaigns, several strategic situations each armys vanguard may only deploy
Historically, an armys column of march
may emerge that are more complex than in the Right Wing, Right Flank, and
the default battle described in Chapter 1 was vanguard, main body, and rear guard.
Center of their map edge. Units in each
under Set Up (p. 16). The vanguard, arriving at the battlefield armys main body may only deploy in
first, would take up a position on the the Center of their map edge. Units in
The eight strategic situations detailed in right flank. The main body held the main the armys rear guard may only deploy
Domains at War: Campaigns are:
battle line. The rear guard then filled in the in the Left Wing, Left Flank, and Center
Pitched Battle: A pitched battle left flank. The vanguard and rear guard of their map edge.
occurs when the two armies meet usually held the armys cavalry and faster-
on a mutually agreed battlefield, moving troops. The set-up for a pitched MEETING ENGAGEMENT
fully deployed. Every division battle reflects this historical pattern. The Deployment Restrictions: Only
from each army may participate Judge should feel free to vary the set-up divisions assigned to each armys
in the battle. vanguard may deploy for the battle.
where appropriate to the battle!
Meeting Engagement: A meeting These must deploy in the Center of
Strategic Situations
engagement pits the vanguard their respective map edge. Divisions in
divisions (see below) of one army against the the armies main guards and rear guards do not participate in a
vanguard divisions of the other army. meeting engagement unless the optional reinforcements rule
Rear Guard Action: A rear guard action pits every is used.
division of an offensive army against the rear guard
divisions (see below) of an evading army. Reinforcements (Optional Rule): This optional rule allows for
Skirmish: A skirmish pits the vanguard divisions of the slow arrival of units from distant divisions onto the battlemap.
an offensive army against the rear guard divisions of Starting on the second combat round, each commander (p. 15)
an evading army. who has not yet arrived may make a reinforcement throw of
Ambush: An ambush occurs when an unaware 16+ to join the battle with his division. Modify the throw by
army on the march is surprised by a fully deployed the commanders strategic ability (p. 14), and apply any other
and ready army. Every division from each army appropriate modifiers from the Reinforcement Modifiers table
participates in the battle. to this throw. An unmodified throw of 20 always succeeds,
Envelopment: An envelopment occurs when an regardless of modifiers. Reinforcements enter anywhere along
army deployed for defense is surprised by an attack the Center of their table edge.
by an offensive army on its front and flank. Every
Situation Modifier
division from each army participates in the battle.
Coming from rear guard of offensive army -4
Deep Envelopment: A deep envelopment occurs
Coming from vanguard of evading army -4
when an offensive army is surprised by an attack
by an opposing army on its front and rear. Every Marching on rough ground -4
division from each army participates in the battle. Marching on road or trail +4
Rear Guard Envelopment: A rear guard Exclusively LF, FM, LM, or FLY units +2
envelopment occurs when an armys rear guard Exclusively LM and FLY units +4
divisions, deployed to cover an evasion, are surprised Exclusively FLY units +8
by an attack by an opposing army on its front and
flank. EXAMPLE: Marcuss army is fighting a meeting engagement.
Peristo (strategic ability +2) is commanding a division of
When one of these strategic situations occurs in a campaign 2 units of light infantry (Loose Foot) and 2 units of light
battle, use the rules in this chapter. You can also use the strategic cavalry (Loose Mounted), assigned to the rear guard. He is
situation rules in standalone scenarios if desired. Just pick marching up the road to join the battle. Each combat round
a strategic situation, and divide the scenarios armies into a he must roll (16 -2 -2 +4 -4) 12+ to arrive.
vanguard, rear guard, and main body where these are called
for. One-quarter to one-third of an armys divisions are usually REAR GUARD ACTION
in its vanguard and another one-quarter to one-third are usually Deployment Restrictions: The offensive army deploys as if
in its rear guard. The remaining divisions are in the main body. fighting a pitched battle. The evading army deploys as if fighting
a skirmish. Divisions from the vanguard and main body of the
evading army will not participate in a rear guard action unless
DEPLOYMENT BY STRATEGIC SITUATION the optional reinforcements rule is used.
Each strategic situation may modify the available divisions,
deployment zone, deployment order, and deployment
restrictions (p. 16) of one or both armies participating in the SKIRMISH
battle. Set up for each strategic situation is identical to the Deployment Restrictions: Only divisions assigned to the
default set-up except as noted. offensive armys vanguard and the evading armys rear guard
may deploy for the battle. These units must deploy in the
Center of their respective map edge. The main body and rear
Deployment by Strategic Situation 35
guard of the offensive army, and the vanguard and main body The ambushed armys vanguard divisions may only set up in the
of the evading army, do not participate in a skirmish unless the Ambushed Army Vanguard area. The ambushed armys main
optional reinforcements rule is used (see previous page). body divisions may only set up in the Ambushed Army Main
Body area. The ambushed armys rear guard divisions may only
AMBUSH set up in the Ambushed Army Rear Guard area.
Deployment Zone: Instead of the default Standard Deployment Deployment Order: The ambushed army (Army B) deploys all
Zones (p. 16), use the Ambush Deployment Zones shown in of its units in the deployment zone in plain sight before Army A
Illustration 1-12, below. The ambushing army is Army A, while sets up. The ambushing army (Army A) then sets up able to take
the ambushed army is Army B. advantage of Bs deployment.
Deployment Restrictions: The ambushing army (Army A) Special Rules: The ambushed armys commanders have no
may not have more than of its total number of units deployed activation points (p. 11, 18) in the first combat round and
in any individual area except the Ambushing Army Rear Guard their normal AP in the second combat round.
area. The ambushing army has no other deployment restrictions.
For instance, Formed Foot can be set up in Wing areas, if
desired.
Illus. 1-12: AMBUSHED
36 Deployment by Strategic Situation

ENVELOPMENT
Strategic Situations
Deployment Zone: Instead of the default Standard Deployment
Zones (p. 16), use the Envelopment Deployment Zones shown
in Illustration 1-13, below. The enveloping army is Army A,
while the enveloped army is Army B.
Deployment Restrictions: The enveloping army (Army A) may
not have more than of its total number of units deployed in
any individual area except the Center. It may deploy Formed
Foot in the Flanks, and any Mounted or Loose units in the Wings,
if desired. The enveloped army (Army B) may not have more
than 1/3 of its total number of units deployed in its Flank areas. Special Rules: The enveloped armys commanders have no
activation points in the first combat round and their normal
Deployment Order: The enveloped army (Army B) deploys all activation points in the second combat round.
of its units in the deployment zone in plain sight before Army A
sets up. The enveloping army (Army A) then sets up able to take
advantage of Bs deployment.
Illus. 1-13: ENVELOPED
Deployment by Strategic Situation 37

DEEP ENVELOPMENT Special Rules: The enveloped armys commanders have no
Deployment Zone: Instead of the default Standard Deployment activation points in the first combat round and their normal
Zones (p. 16), use the Deep Envelopment Deployment Zones activation points in the second combat round.
shown in Illustration 1-14, below. The enveloping army is Army
A, while the enveloped army is Army B. REAR GUARD ENVELOPMENT
Deployment Restrictions: The enveloping army (Army A) may Deployment Zone: Use the Envelopment Deployment Zones,
not have more than of its total number of units deployed in above.
any individual area except the Center. It may deploy Formed Deployment Restrictions: Use the deployment restrictions
Foot in the Flanks, and any Mounted or Loose units in the for envelopment, above. The enveloped rear guard (Army B)
Wings, if desired. The enveloped army (Army B) may not have may only deploy in the Center area. Divisions assigned to the
more than 1/3 of its total number of units deployed in its Flank enveloped armys vanguard and main body will not participate
areas. in a rear guard action unless the optional reinforcements rule
Deployment Order: The enveloped army (Army B) deploys all is used.
of its units in the deployment zone in plain sight before Army A Special Rules: The enveloped armys commanders have no AP
sets up. The enveloping army (Army A) then sets up able to take in the first combat round and their normal AP in the second
advantage of Bs deployment. combat round.
Illus. 1-14: DEEP ENVELOPMENT
38 Deployment by Strategic Situation

Chapter 4: Heroes
The spirit of the commander is naturally communicated to the

troops, and it is better to have an army of deer commanded by a
lion than an army of lions commanded by a deer.
In the basic rules, officers (p. 14) are permanently attached OFFICER CHARACTERISTICS
to their units (p. 11), and do not influence the battle except A heros officer characteristics come into play if he serves
through the orders they give. These advanced rules allow your as a general, commander, or lieutenant. A heros officer
officers to move and fight independently. Use them to add epic characteristics include leadership ability, zone of control,
warriors, mighty wizards, powerful dragons, and other puissant strategic ability, and morale modifier (p. 14). A heros officer
combatants to your fantasy battlefield. characteristics should be calculated according to the rules in
Chapter 8, Conversion.
QUALIFYING AS A HERO UNIT CHARACTERISTICS

Whatever courage they may possess, most characters do not A heros unit characteristics are used when the character attacks
qualify as heroes! To qualify as a hero, a character must be: or is attacked by a unit. A heroic characters unit characteristics
A general, commander, or lieutenant (p. 15); or include unit movement rate, unit formation, unit armor class,
A PC or NPC with at least seven levels of experience; unit hit dice, unit attacks, and unit morale (p. 12-13). Note
or that heroes do not have uhp (p. 12) as explained below, attacks
A monster possessing at least nine hit dice and against heroes always deal personal hp damage.
functioning outside of a unit; or A heros unit characteristics are derived from his personal
Capable of casting third level arcane spells; or characteristics according to the rules in Chapter 8, Conversion.
Capable of casting fifth level divine spells; or
Designated as a hero for a particular standalone
scenario (p. 7). HEROES ON THE BATTLEMAP
Heroes are represented on the battlemap (p. 10) with officer
EXAMPLE: Several PCs and NPCs are present at a counters (p. 10). At the start of the battle, each heros counter
battle: Marcus (9th level fighter), army general; Theon (7th is set up within the deployment zone (p. 16) according to his
level fighter), a division commander; Zeodar (7th level
unit formation.
bladedancer); Sera (6th level thief); and Quintus (6th level
mage). Marcus qualifies because he is a general, and also Heroes may be either attached or independent. Attached
because he has at least seven levels of experience. Theon heroes move and fight with their unit, while independent heroes
qualifies as a hero because he is a division commander. move and fight virtually as units themselves. An attached heros
Although neither is a general, commander, or lieutenant, counter is placed on the counter of the unit he is attached to.
Zeodar and Quintus both qualify as heroes; Zeodar
An independent heros counter is placed in the hex he occupies,
because she can cast fifth level divine spells and Quintus
because he can cast third level arcane spells. Sera does not facing one of that hexs six vertices.
qualify. A hero that that is a general, commander or lieutenant must
begin the battle attached to a unit he leads. Place the heros
These requirements may be waived by the Judge if he feels a
counter on the units counter to indicate he is attached to that
particular character could personally influence the outcome
unit. Other heroes may begin the battle attached to units if
of the battle despite not meeting these qualifications. Th is
desired, or may begin the battle as independent heroes.
may occur if the character is well-equipped, of political
importance, etc.
EXAMPLE: Marcus, the army general, is serving as
commander of the armys first division. He must be attached to
EXAMPLE: Sera, a 6 level thief, is equipped with a ring of
th
one of the first divisions units. Theon is division commander
invisibility and an arrow of slaying. Using these items, she of the armys second division. He must be attached to one of
plans to sneak up on and kill the enemy general during the the second divisions units. Marcus and Theons counters are
battle. The Judge rules that Sera may function as a hero for placed on the units they have respectively attached to.
this battle despite not otherwise meeting the qualifications.
The other heroes may be attached or independent. Quintus
and Zeodar are deployed attached to a bowman unit on
HERO CHARACTERISTICS a hill in the armys rear, from where they can readily cast
Heroes have three sets of characteristics: personal, officer, spells. Their counters are placed on the bowman unit. Sera
is deployed as an independent hero in an empty hex in the
and unit.
left flank of the deployment zone, from where she can easily
sneak forward. Her counter is placed in the hex.
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
A heros personal characteristics are used when the hero attacks
or is attacked by another hero. A heros personal characteristics
HERO INITIATIVE
If the hero is a commander, he rolls for initiative (p. 17) applying
include movement rate, AC, HD, hp, attack throw, number
his strategic ability as a modifier. He acts in the same command
of attacks, damage, saving throws, initiative modifier, and
phase (p. 18) as the units of his division (p. 10). The heros status
special abilities. A heros personal characteristics should be
as independent or attached does not affect his initiative.
calculated according to the rules in the Adventurer Conqueror
King System core rules. If the hero is not a commander, his initiative will depend on
whether he is independent or attached. An independent
hero rolls for initiative using his personal characteristics. He
40 Qualifying as a Hero
effectively has his own command phase. An attached hero acts Detaching from a Unit: An attached hero may detach from his
in the same command phase as the unit he is attached to. unit at the start of any initiative phase (p. 17), prior to initiative
being rolled. Remove the heros counter from the units counter
HERO ACTIVATION and place it in the units hex to indicate the hero has detached.
Attached heroes are not activated (p. 18), but instead act when The newly independent hero may roll for initiative and activate
the unit they are attached to is activated. Independent heroes himself that round.
effectively activate themselves. It costs no AP (p. 18) for an
independent hero to activate himself. EXAMPLE: Marcus is attached to a heavy cavalry unit in his
division. He intends to send the heavy cavalry into a suicidal
Activation & charge this round, so he announces during the initiative
Initiative Independent Hero Attached Hero phase that he is detaching from the unit. His counter is
Commander Initiative is 1d6 + Initiative is 1d6 + removed from the heavy cavalrys counter and placed in
strategic ability strategic ability the units hex. Since Marcus is a hero-commander, he rolls
initiative using his strategic ability to determine when his
Shares command phase Shares command phase command phase will take place. During the command
with his division with his division
phase, he will be able to activate the units in his division, and
Activates himself Acts when the unit he be able to activate himself at no cost in AP.
is attached to activates
Not Commander Initiative is 1d6 + Acts simultaneously An officer who would not qualify to be hero except for his status
personal initiative with unit attached to as a commander or lieutenant may not detach from his unit.
modifier
Shares command phase
Effectively has his own with unit attached to EXAMPLE: Theon would like to follow Marcuss example and
command phase become an independent hero-commander. However, Theon
Acts when the unit he only qualifies as a hero by virtue of being a commander, so
Activates himself is attached to activates he may not detach.
Heroes
EXAMPLE: Marcus, Theon, Quintus, and Zeodar begin
the battle as attached heroes. They are not activated; they
INDEPENDENT HEROES
simply act when the unit they are attached to is activated. When activated, an independent hero receives a movement
sequence (p. 18) and an attack sequence (p. 20), as a unit
Sera is an independent hero. She will roll initiative using her would. An independent hero may not be activated more than
personal initiative modifier (from DEX, proficiencies, etc.). once per combat round.
She effectively has her own command phase in which she
activates herself. During his movement sequence, an independent hero may
move following the rules for a unit of his formation type. The
If Marcus were an independent hero-commander, he would
activate himself during own his command phase. following special rules apply:
A hero may pass through friendly heroes and
ATTACHED HEROES friendly units without penalty.
An attached hero moves with the unit he is attached to. He A hero may end his movement in the same hex as
attacks at the same time as the unit he is attached to. He will another friendly hero or friendly unit, if desired.
attack his units target (p. 21) using his own unit characteristics A hero threatens and is threatened by (p. 19)
unless one or more enemy heroes is attached to the target unit independent enemy heroes. A hero threatens enemy
and within visibility distance (p. 42); in that case, he will target units, but is not himself threatened by an enemy unit
one of the heroes using his personal characteristics. If his unit unless an enemy hero is attached to the enemy unit.
performs an action in lieu of attacking (p. 24), the attached During his attack sequence, an independent hero may attack
hero will also perform an action in lieu of attacking. (p. 20), charge (p. 20), defend (p. 24), and/or ready to attack (p.
25), based on his movement during the preceding movement
EXAMPLE: Theon is attached to a unit of light cavalry. sequence. The following special rules apply:
Theons unit attacks an enemy unit of orcs. There are no
enemy heroes attached to the orcs, so Theon attacks the unit A heros attacks can target an enemy unit or an
of orcs using his unit characteristics. enemy hero, if eligibility requirements are met.
Heroes desirous of attacking enemy heroes must be
EXAMPLE: Marcus is attached to a heavy cavalry unit. within visibility distance (p. 42) of the target.
Marcuss unit attacks an enemy unit of orcs. A powerful anti- Heroes tend to seek out the glory of man-to-man
paladin is attached to the orc unit. Since there is an enemy combat. Therefore, a hero may not target an enemy
hero attached to the heavy cavalrys target, Marcus attacks unit if there is an enemy hero available as an eligible
the enemy hero. target.
When attacking an enemy unit, a hero uses his unit
An attached hero adds his morale modifier to his units shock characteristics.
rolls (p. 23) and morale rolls (p. 25), unless another hero with When attacking an enemy hero, a hero uses his
a higher morale modifier (p. 14) is also attached to the unit. personal characteristics. Damage dealt is applied to
the targets personal hp.
Heroes on the Battlemap 41

In lieu of an attack, heroes may use any magic, class the dust and clutter of a battlefield. A hero or other officer is not
abilities, or other actions available to him. See the an eligible target of an attack, spell, or special ability unless he
Spells and Special Abilities section (below) for is within visibility distance of the unit or hero targeting him.
details. Visibility distance is determined by the size of the targeted hero.
A hero whose unit number of attacks Even if within visibility distance, a hero
(p. 12) is less than 1 cannot target who is invisible or hidden in shadows
enemy units with attacks. This may
I M P O R TA N T N O T E : is only an eligible target if the enemy
occur if the hero qualified due to officer In the basic rules it was impossible to target hero or unit targeting him has the
position or spellcasting ability rather officers, so we didnt worry about their AC means to detect him (e.g. true seeing
than high hit dice. The hero can still and hp. When using the advanced rules, or detect invisibility).
attack enemy heroes with his personal officers are heroes and youll need to know Leading from the Rear: Attached
characteristics. their personal characteristics. As a rule of heroes are assumed to be leading from
Attaching to a Unit: An independent thumb, an average officer will have the the front of their unit, where they can
hero who begins his movement minimum HD or level needed to qualify as gain glory and wade into the battle. An
sequence in the same hex as a friendly an officer, average hit points for his level or attached hero can reduce his visibility
unit may attach to the unit. Place the HD, and an AC one greater than average for distance to 0 hexes by leading from the
heros counter on the units counter to his unit. rear instead. However, a hero leading
indicate he is now attached to that unit. from the rear cannot attack or act in
The newly-attached hero completes his lieu of attacking. An attached hero
movement and attack sequence with the unit the next time it is cannot lead from the rear if he is of a larger size than that of the
activated. constituent troops of his unit! (A troll is visible among kobolds
no matter where he stands)
EXAMPLE: Marcus ends combat round 10 in the same
hex as a horse archer unit in his division. In combat round In the basic rules, all officers are assumed to be leading from
11, Marcus activates himself. At the start of his movement the rear.
sequence, he attaches himself to the horse archers. For now,
this ends Marcus activation. Later in his command phase,
Marcus activates the horse archer unit. Marcus now moves SPELLS, SPECIAL ABILITIES, AND
and fights with the horse archer unit, as an attached hero. MAGIC ITEMS
Many heroes, and some units, will possess spells, magic items,
ATTACKS ON HEROES BY UNITS and special abilities that can have a dramatic impact on the
Units never attack attached heroes. Units may not attack battlefield.
independent heroes unless the hero is visible and the unit has
no other eligible targets available. When units do attack heroes, ELIGIBILITY TO USE SPELLS, MAGIC ITEMS, AND
they use their unit characteristics. For each uhp of damage SPECIAL ABILITIES
dealt to the hero, he takes 2d6 x 10 hp of damage. A hero who Any hero capable of using spells, magic items, and special
is reduced to 0 hp or less is incapacitated, and suffers the risk abilities may do so during his attack sequence as an action in lieu
of permanent wounds or death, as per Effects of Damage in of the heros attack. (If the hero is attached to a unit, his unit may
ACKS (p. 104). still attack or take an action in lieu of attacking.) In order to cast
Withdrawal: Heroes are hard to pin down and kill with spells, or use any abilities or magic items requiring concentration,
clumsy formations of troops. Whenever a hero takes damage the hero (or his unit) must have remained stationary during their
from a unit, he may reduce the uhp of damage dealt by one or movement sequence, and the hero must not have taken damage
more points by withdrawing (p. 22) one or more hexes, up prior to his activation that combat round. Otherwise, the hero
to a maximum of his marching movement. Heroes withdraw (or his unit) must simply have remained stationary or marched
according to the same rules as Loose units, except that the hero during their movement sequence that round.
may end his withdrawal in the same hex as another friendly
hero or unit if desired. EXAMPLE: Balen, a 7th level mage, is attached to a unit of
120 heavy infantry. During an enemy activation, the unit
takes one uhp of damage from missile fire, but Balen himself
HERO AND OFFICER VISIBILITY is not hit. During their activation, Balen and the heavy
Hero Size Visibility Distance infantry remain stationary. The heavy infantry ready to
Man Sized 3 hexes attack, as an action in lieu of attacking. Since Balen and his
unit remained stationary, and Balen did not take any damage
Large Sized 6 hexes
prior to his activation, he is eligible to cast a spell.
Huge Sized 9 hexes
Gigantic Sized 15 hexes If a unit contains creatures capable of using spells, magic items,
Colossal Sized 30 hexes and special abilities, those creatures may do so during the units
attack sequence. This counts as an action in lieu of attacking for
Eliminating an armys heroes and other officers can be the key to the entire unit, even if only a few of the creatures within the
victory. However, single individuals are not easy to see through unit can or do cast spells or use abilities or items. If multiple
42 Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items
creatures within the unit act, all of them must take the same
EXAMPLE #3: A unit consists of 120 2nd level clerics. The
action, e.g. cast the same spell, use the same special ability, or unit remained stationary, and the clerics wish to cast cure
wield the same magic item. They may select different targets for light wounds on their own units membership. Since the
the effect, however, if possible to do so. spell being cast is targeted at the unit itself, the maximum
In order for its constituent creatures (p. 81) to cast spells, or simultaneous spells limit does not apply. All 120 2nd level
use any abilities or magic items requiring concentration, the clerics can cast.
unit must have stood fast during its movement sequence, and Particular spells or special abilities may impose additional
must not have taken damage prior to its activation that combat eligibility requirements or limits.
round. Otherwise, the unit must simply have stood fast or
marched during its movement sequence that round.
TARGETING AND EFFECT OF SPELLS, MAGIC ITEMS,
EXAMPLE: A mixed unit consists of 100 heavy infantry and AND SPECIAL ABILITIES
20 1st level mages. During an enemy activation, the mixed Spells, special abilities, or magic items may be used against any
unit is attacked, but dealt no damage. During the units units, visible heroes, terrain pieces (p. 29), or other relevant
activation, it remains stationary. Since the unit remained targets within range and line of sight (if line of sight is required
stationary and did not take any damage, the mages in the for the power).
unit are eligible to cast spells. If even one mage does so,
this counts as if the entire unit had taken an action in lieu If a spell, item, or ability affects the battlemap or a unit, resolve
of attacking. All of the mages must cast the same spell, but its effects using the effects listed in Mass Combat Spells.
they may target different units or creatures with the spell, if Remember that in most cases when a spell, item, or ability deals
possible to do so. damage to a unit, the unit must make a shock roll.
Using Spells, Items, and Abilities in Formation: Spellcasters If a spell, item, or ability affects a hero, resolve its effects
and monsters are best employed as individuals. Massed against him using the attackers and target heros personal
formations of spellcasters or monsters can get in the each others characteristics. A hero will be affected if he is the target of the
way, choke up the lanes of fire, block each others lines of sight spell, if he occupies a hex targeted by an area of effect spell, or if
Heroes
(p. 22), and generally make it difficult to bring a high volume of he occupies the same hex as a unit targeted by an area of effect
spells or powers to bear at once. spell (such as fireball).
To reflect these drawbacks, only a limited number of creatures

MASS COMBAT SPELLS
within a unit may use spells, special abilities, or magic items
The following spells can be used in Domains at War to affect the
in any given attack sequence. The Maximum Simultaneous
battlemap, enemy units, or enemy heroes.
Spells/Abilities table shows the maximum allowed based on the
number of troops in the unit. Bless: This spell affects one unit within 2 hexes of the caster. The
target unit must not already be in melee. The unit gains +1 on
The limit does not apply when the spell, ability, or item used
attack throws. Its morale score is increased by 1. The bless lasts
targets the unit itself (e.g. with a healing spell).
the duration of the battle or until dispelled. The reverse of this
Maximum Simultaneous spell, blight, affects one enemy unit unless a Save versus Spells
Troops In Unit Spells/Abilities is made. A blighted unit suffers -1 on its attack throws and has
61 to 120 20 its morale score reduced by 1. The reversed spell also lasts the
31 to 60 15 duration of the battle or until dispelled.
10 to 30 10 Burning Hands: This spell blasts one unit in a hex adjacent to the
5 to 10 5 caster. The damage from burning hands is equal to the casters
1 to 4 All level -1, with a minimum of 1 point and a maximum of 4 points.
Damage is doubled against cavalry units (p. 83), behemoth
EXAMPLE #1: A unit consists of 120 1st level mages. The unit cavalry units (p. 86), or chariot units (p. 89). If the unit makes a
remained stationary, and the mages wish to cast burning successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half.
hands in lieu of the units attack. Although all 120 creatures A unit may never lose more than 1/8 its maximum uhp (rounded
in the unit are spellcasters, only 20 can cast burning hands up) from burning hands.
during the attack sequence.
EXAMPLE: A unit of 120 orcs with 8 uhp is struck by
EXAMPLE #2: A unit consists of 30 1 level mages mounted
st burning hands cast by a 7th level mage. The damage from
on 5 elephants. All of the mages in the unit are equipped the spell is 4 points (the maximum). The unit makes its
with wands of fi reball. The unit made a marching move, saving throw versus Blast, reducing base damage to 2 points.
and the mages now wish to use their wands in lieu of the The unit takes the lesser of the damage (2 points, because of
units attack. Although there are 30 mages with wands, only the successful save) or 1/8 its max uhp (1 point), so it takes 1
5 mages can use their wands during the attack sequence, as point of damage.
there are 5 behemoths (see p. 81)
Call Dragon: This spell must be cast before the battle begins,
during set-up. It places a dragon hero under the casters control.
The dragons Domains at War: Battles characteristics are Move
Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items 43

4/8/12 FLY, AC 9, UHD 14, uhp 1, AT 1 melee 0+, ML +1. The Rain: All units fi re missiles at -2 to attack throws.
dragon will have a breath weapon and one other special ability. After three combat rounds, the ground will be
The dragon will serve the caster for the duration of the battle, or turned into mud (p. 32), reducing movement by
until dispelled or killed. half. The reduced movement continues for the
duration of the battle.
Call Lightning: This spell can only be used when a storm is
Snow: All missile fire and magic is limited to 1 hex
overhead. The spell control weather may be used to create such
range. After three combat rounds, the ground will
a storm! Every 60 combat rounds, the caster may target one unit
be turned into slush (mud, as above). The reduced
within 18 hexes with a bolt of lightning. The targeted unit suffers
movement continues for the duration of the battle.
8 points of damage. Damage is doubled against cavalry units,
Fog: All missile fi re and magic is limited to 1 hex
behemoth cavalry units, or chariot units. If the unit makes a
range, and movement is reduced by half, while the
successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half.
fog is present.
A unit may never lose more than 1/8 its maximum hit points
Clear: Clear weather cancels rain, fog, or snow, but
(rounded up) from call lightning.
not secondary effects such as mud.
Chimerical Force: This spell is identical to permanent illusion, Intense Heat: Movement is reduced by half. Intense
except that it may not replicate spells with a thermal or tactile heat transforms mud caused by rain, snow, or
component. Its duration is limited to the casters concentration. transmute rock to mud into clear terrain.
High Winds: No missile fire is possible, and
Cloudkill: This spell creates a cloud of poison in a hex adjacent
movement is reduced by half, while the winds are
to the caster. The cloud slowly moves away from the caster; roll
present.
1d6 during the casters command phase each round, and on a
Tornado: A Tornado unit under the casters control
roll of 1-2, the cloud moves 1 hex. Any unit or character struck
is placed on the map. It moves at 6 hexes per combat
by cloudkill must make a saving throw versus Poison each
round in any direction within 12 hexes of caster, and
combat round it is in the cloud. If it fails, it is destroyed. Even
attacks with HD 12, AT 1 Winds 2+. It cannot be
if the unit or character survives, it must retreat (p. 23) from the
hurt except by a dispel magic or control weather
hex towards its own map edge. A unit or character which cannot
(clear) effect.
retreat from the hex is destroyed. Units and officers of more
than 5 HD are immune to cloudkill. The spell lasts the duration Control Plants: This spell affects 1 hex of jungle, forest, or
of the battle or until dispelled. impenetrable forest adjacent to the caster, animating it to writhe
and wrap around creatures in the area. Any enemy units in the
Cone of Cold: This spell blasts one unit in a hex adjacent to
affected hex must make a saving throw v. Paralysis each combat
the caster. The damage from cone of cold is equal to the casters
round. If they fail their save, they take 1 uhp of damage and
level. Damage is doubled against cavalry units, behemoth
cannot move that round. The spell lasts for the duration of the
cavalry units, or chariot units. If the unit makes a successful
battle or until dispelled.
saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half. A unit may
never lose more than its maximum uhp (rounded up) from Control Wind: This spell creates a high winds effect (as per
cone of cold. control weather) in the casters hex. It lasts for the duration of
the battle or until dispelled.
Cone of Paralysis: This spell partially paralyzes one unit in a
hex adjacent to the caster. The affected unit must make a saving Conjure Elemental: An elemental hero under the casters
throw versus Spells or lose half its uhp, representing half the control is placed on the map. The elemental is an independent
troops being paralyzed. The damage is removed if the spell is hero with AC 11, UHD 16, uhp 1, AT 1 slam 2+, ML +4. It is
dispelled before the unit moves or is dealt damage by a melee immune to non-magical weapons. Movement and formation
attack. (Once the unit moves, it is assumed to have left its depend on the type of elemental:
paralyzed troops behind. Once the unit is dealt damage by a
Air: Movement rate 3/6/12 (FLY).
melee attack, paralyzed troops are assumed to have been slain.)
Earth: Movement rate 1/2/3 (FF).
Confusion: This spell disorders (p. 13) one unit within 2 hexes Fire: Movement rate 2/4/6 (LM).
of the caster. Units with 2 HD or more may avoid the effects Water: Movement rate 1/2/3 (LM). Water elementals
with a saving throw versus Spells. Otherwise, the unit remains may move over water at three times normal speed.
disordered for 12 combat rounds or until the effect is dispelled.
The elemental hero moves and attacks during the casters
The unit may not be activated during this time.
movement and attack sequences. The caster may not himself
Continual Light: This spell targets one unit within 6 hexes of move or attack while controlling the elemental. If the caster
the caster. If the unit has penalties when fighting in bright light, moves or takes damage he loses control of the elemental. If
it suffers these penalties when affected by the spell, unless the the caster loses control of the elemental, it will immediately
unit makes a Save v. Spells. The spell lasts the duration of the move towards him as fast as possible and will attack him until
battle or until dispelled. destroyed.
Control Weather: This spell creates special weather conditions Cure Wounds: The various cure spells can restore lost unit hit
within a 12 hex radius of the caster. The effects will last as long points, but only when cast in sufficient volume. Every 70hp
as the caster concentrates. Effects are: of healing from cure spells restores 1 uhp to the target unit,

rounded down. (It may speed up play to assume average results

EXAMPLE #1: A unit of 120 bugbears with 26 uhp is struck
of 3.5 per die.) by a fireball from a 6th level mage. The unit fails its saving
throw versus Blast. The unit takes the lesser of the spells
EXAMPLE: A unit consists of 120 2nd level clerics. Through damage (6 points) or 1/8 its max uhp (4 points), whichever
heavy fighting, the unit has been reduced from 12 uhp to 1 is less. The unit takes 4 points of damage. If the unit had
uhp. The unit remained stationary, and the clerics cast cure made its save, it would have taken the lesser of one-half base
light wounds on themselves. Since the spell being cast is damage (3 points) or 1/8 its max uhp (4 points), e.g. 3 points
targeted at the unit itself, the maximum simultaneous spells of damage.
limit does not apply. All 120 2nd level clerics can cast. Since
cure light wounds heals 1d6+1 hit points, the unit heals
(120 x 4.5) / 70 = 7.71 uhp, rounded down to 7. EXAMPLE #2: A unit of 120 heavy infantry with 6 uhp is led
by an attached hero-lieutenant. The unit is struck by fireball
Death Spell: This spell kills some or all of the creatures in one cast by a 7th level mage. Both the unit and the hero are
unit within 12 hexes of the caster. Roll 4d8 for the number affected and must save versus Blast. The unit fails its saving
of Hit Dice affected by the spell. Divide this total by the Unit throw. It takes the lesser of the spells damage (7 points) or 1/8
HD of the targeted unit to determine the number of creatures its max uhp (1 point); it takes 1 point of damage. The hero
killed. Calculate the ratio of the number of creatures killed succeeds in his saving throw. He takes 7d6 damage, reduced
to the original number of creatures in the unit, and apply an by half.
equivalent percentage of damage to the units uhp (based on
Fly: The caster gains the flying special ability with a movement
its starting uhp). If the unit makes a successful a saving throw
rate of 6/12/18 (FLY). The spell lasts for the duration of the
versus Death, it avoids the effect.
battle or until dispelled.
Dispel Evil: This spell affects all units within 1 hex of the
Growth of Plants: This spell creates a 1 hex growth of
caster. If the affected units are enchanted or undead creatures,
impenetrable forest (p. 31) that blocks line of sight. It may
they must make a successful saving throw versus Spells or be
be placed anywhere within 6 hexes of the caster. If placed on
destroyed. Affected enchanted or undead units may not make
top of an enemy unit, the unit may not move or attack until
Heroes
melee attacks against the casters unit. The spell lasts as long as
the growth is destroyed, unless it is a Flyer or could otherwise
the caster concentrates.
bypass the obstacle. A cloudkill, dispel magic, fireball, wall of
Dispel Magic: This spell will remove all spell effects on any one flame, or similar effect will destroy the growth. This spell can be
unit, or one terrain spell effect (such as hallucinatory terrain) cast before battle during set-up provided the casters army was
within 6 hexes of the caster. It may fail to remove spell effects of not surprised.
casters of a higher level; a proficiency throw on 1d20 of 1 + 1 per
Gust of Wind: This spell affects any one unit within 1 hex of the
level of difference is required.
caster. The unit must make a saving throw versus Blast; if it fails,
Earths Teeth: This spell affects any one unit within 6 hexes of it may not move or conduct missile attacks next combat round.
the caster. If the caster makes a successful attack throw against
Hallucinatory Terrain: The caster creates a 1 hex illusionary
the unit, it takes 1 uhp of damage with no saving throw.
terrain piece of the casters choice. It may be placed up to 12
Fear: This spell affects any one unit within 1 hex of the caster. hexes away from the caster. The spell lasts until the hallucinatory
The unit must make a saving throw versus Spells; if it fails, it terrain is touched by a unit or until dispelled. This spell can be
immediately becomes disordered (if not already), changes cast before battle during set-up, provided the casters army was
its facing towards its own battlemap edge, and retreats 1 hex. not surprised.
Thereafter, at the start of the morale phase of each combat round,
the unit must retreat a number of hexes equal to its hustling Insect Plague: This spell creates a swarm of insects 1 hex in
movement rate towards the friendly map edge. This continues size within 12 hexes of the caster. The swarm may slowly move
until the effect is dispelled, the unit leaves the battlemap, or under the casters control; roll 1d6 during the casters activation
30 combat rounds have elapsed. The unit may not be activated each round, and on a roll of 1-2, the swarm may move 1 hex.
while the spell is in effect. The swarm blocks line of sight. Any units of less than 3 HD
that are contacted by the swarm take 1 uhp of damage and
Flame Strike: This spell creates a column of fire that affects one
automatically retreat 1 hex (regardless of battle line, morale,
unit within 3 hexes. The affected unit suffers 8 points of damage.
or other modifiers). The swarm cannot move through walls of
Damage is doubled against cavalry units, behemoth cavalry
units, or chariot units. If the unit makes a successful saving fire, and is destroyed by sleep, dispel magic, flame strike, or
throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half. A unit may never fireball. The spell lasts while the caster concentrates.
lose more than 1/8 its maximum uhp (rounded up) from a flame Lightning Bolt: This spell creates a bolt of lightning that affects
strike. one unit within 6 hexes. Other than its range, its effects are
Fireball: This spell creates a missile of fire that affects one identical to fireball, above.
unit within 12 hexes. The damage from a fireball is equal to Lower Water: When cast, this spell creates a 3 hex wide ford
the casters level. Damage is doubled against cavalry units, (p. 32) anywhere within 6 hexes of the caster. It lasts for the
behemoth cavalry units, or chariot units. If the unit makes a duration of the battle, or until dispelled. This spell can be cast
successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half. before battle during set-up provided the casters army was not
A unit may never lose more than 1/8 its maximum uhp (rounded surprised.
up) from a fireball.
Massmorph: This spell will hide one unit with an illusion that it unit may never lose more than its maximum uhp (rounded
is forest/jungle terrain (p. 31). The spell ends if the unit moves, up) from scouring wind.
attacks, or casts a spell, or if it is dispelled. This spell can be cast
Sleep: This spell affects one unit of 4 Hit Dice or less within 12
before battle during set-up, provided the casters army was not
hexes. The affected unit takes 1 hit point of damage, representing
surprised.
its troops being put to sleep. The point of damage is removed if
Move Earth: When cast, this spell enables the caster to place the unit is activated before it has been dealt damage by a melee
or remove terrain features, including hills, broken ground, attack. If the unit is dealt damage by a melee attack before it
mud, trenches, and walls (p. 31-33), within 12 hexes. This spell can be activated, the sleeping troops are assumed to have been
creates a 1 hex terrain feature every 60 combat rounds. This trampled and slain.
spell may be used prior to a battle during set up to place 12
Spectral Force: Th is spell is identical to permanent illusion,
1-hex terrain features anywhere within 12 hexes of the caster.
except that its duration is limited to the casters concentration.
Surprised armies may not move earth before battle.
Stinking Cloud: This spell creates a cloud of foul-smelling
Obscuring Cloud: This spell creates a billowing cloud of vapor.
vapors in a hex adjacent to the caster. A unit within the affected
The cloud fills 1 hex if the caster is 3rd to 6th level; 2 hexes if 7th to
hex must make a successful saving throw versus Poison or be
12th level; and 3 hexes if 13th level or higher. The obscuring cloud
helpless due to nausea. The unit remains helpless for 1d4+1
is harmless, but blocks line of sight for all creatures save the
rounds +1 round per level of the caster. If the unit succeeds
caster and those creatures able to see invisible. The obscuring
on its saving throw, it immediately retreats one hex towards its
cloud lasts for the duration of the battle, or until dispelled.
own map edge. If it cannot retreat, it is helpless. A helpless unit
Panic: This spell affects all units within a 4-hex radius. Each cannot be activated. The stinking cloud blocks line of sight into
affected unit must make a saving throw versus Spells; if it fails, or through the affected hex.
it immediately becomes disordered (if not already), changes
Transmute Rock to Mud: This spell creates a 1 hex deep morass
its facing towards its own battlemap edge, and retreats 1 hex.
of mud. The mud may be placed anywhere within 6 hexes of the
Thereafter, at the start of the morale phase of each combat round,
caster. Units entering the mud are mired and may not move for
the unit must retreat a number of hexes equal to its hustling
1 combat round. The mud lasts until dried with control weather
movement rate towards the friendly map edge. This continues
or transmute mud to rock. This spell can be cast before battle,
until the effect is dispelled, the unit leaves the battlemap, or
during set-up, to place 1 hex of mud within 6 hexes of the caster.
30 combat rounds have elapsed. The unit may not be activated
Surprised armies may not transmute rock to mud before battle.
while the spell is in effect.
Wall of Corpses: This spell creates a horrific barrier of animated
Passwall: This spell creates a small hole in a wall or other stone
corpses 2 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster.
obstruction. A unit may pass through the hole at a cost of 1
Any unit moving to within 4 hexes of the wall of corpses
additional hex of movement. The passwall lasts for the duration
must make a saving throw versus Spells; if it fails, it suffers the
of the battle, or until dispelled.
effects of a fear spell. Any unit moving adjacent to the wall of
Permanent Illusion: This spell may be used to replicate the corpses suffers a reaction attack sequence as if from a unit of
effects of hallucinatory terrain, massmorph, or obscuring zombies. See Chapter 7, Rosters (p. 79), for unit characteristics
cloud. The permanent illusion will last until dispelled. The of zombies. The wall will last for the duration of the battle, or
spell may be used to replicate any other spell, but any damage until dispelled or disintegrated. The wall of corpses may also
inflicted by the permanent illusion will not be real. A successful be physically attacked or turned as if it were a unit of zombies.
saving throw versus Spells will allow targets to avoid all damage,
Wall of Fire: This spell creates an opaque wall of fire 2 hexes long
and in any event, any creatures killed or injured will realize
anywhere within 1 hex of the caster. The wall blocks line of sight
they are unharmed after 1d6 combat rounds.
normally. Units with less than 4 Hit Dice cannot break through
Phantasmal Force: This spell is identical to permanent illusion, the wall. Units of more than 4 Hit Dice can break through the
except that it may not replicate spells with an auditory, thermal, wall, but will take damage. Units of man-sized creatures will
or tactile component. Its duration is limited to the casters take 8 points of damage, while units of large creatures will take
concentration. 2 points of damage, and units of huge creatures will take 1 point
of damage. Double the damage if the unit is cavalry, undead, or
Prayer: This spell affects one unit within 3 hexes of the caster.
cold-using creatures. The wall lasts for the duration of the battle
The units attack throws and saving throws are improved by
or until dispelled.
1. Any unit which attacks the target has its attack throws and
saving throws penalized by 1. The spell lasts for 1 combat round Wall of Force: This spell creates an invisible, impenetrable wall
per level of the caster. of force 2 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster. The
wall of force is totally impenetrable and impassable. It lasts for
Scouring Wind: This spell affects any one unit within 1 hex
the duration of the battle or until disintegrated.
of the caster. The damage from scouring wind is equal to the
casters level -1. If the unit is cavalry the damage is doubled. If Wall of Ice: This spell creates a translucent wall of ice 2 hexes
the unit makes a successful saving throw versus Blast, damage long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster. It is otherwise
is reduced to half. However, if the unit fails its save, it may not identical to wall of fire except that damage is doubled against
move or use missile weapons during the next combat round. A cavalry and fire-using creatures.

Heroes
Wall of Iron: This spell creates an opaque wall of iron 2 hexes OTHER SPELLS
long anywhere within 3 hexes of the caster. The wall blocks line All other spells can only be used to affect friendly and enemy
of sight normally. It lasts until destroyed or dispelled. This spell heroes. The ranges of all spells must be translated into hexes
can be cast before battle, during set-up, provided the casters according the ground scale of 1 hex equaling 60 feet. Spells with
army was not surprised. See Chapter 2, Terrain (p. 33), and a duration of 1 turn or more last for the duration of the battle, or
Chapter 5, Assaults (p. 53) for details on walls. until dispelled. The following other notes apply:
Wall of Stone: This spell creates an opaque wall of stone 2 hexes Charms: If a hero is charmed, he falls under the control of the
long anywhere within 3 hexes of the caster. The wall blocks line opposing army until the charm is dispelled. If a unit under
of sight normally. It lasts until destroyed or dispelled. This spell the command of a charmed commander is ordered to attack
can be cast before battle, during set-up, provided the casters
its allies, make a morale roll for the unit. Add the charmed
army was not surprised. See Chapter 2, Terrain (p. 33), and
commanders morale modifier and subtract the army generals
Chapter 5, Assaults (p. 53) for details on walls.
morale modifier.
Wall of Wood: This spell creates an opaque wall of wood
2 hexes long anywhere within 1 hex of the caster. The wall is On a result of 2-, the unit will attempt to kill their charmed
permanent until dispelled or disintegrated. This spell can be commander. On a result of 3-5, the unit will attempt to capture
cast before battle, during set-up, provided the casters army was or subdue him. On a 6-8, the unit will take no action. On a 9-11,
not surprised. See Chapter 2, Terrain (p. 33), and Chapter 5, the unit will follow his commands. On a 12+, the unit will follow
Assaults (p. 53) for details on walls. his commands, and when the charm is dispelled, another
morale roll will be required to get them to stop attacking their
Teleport: When this spell is cast, roll 1d100. On a 1-95, the former comrades! (Ah, the price of fanaticism)
caster may be placed anywhere on the battlemap, as desired. On
a 96-100, the caster is removed from play.
Darkness/Light/Silence: A blinded or silenced hero cannot affected unit must also make a saving throw versus Spells or be
activate units other than himself or cast spells, and does not deafened and unable to be activated for one combat round. The
provide morale bonuses to friendly units. These effects remain horn has special effects when used against fortified structures,
until dispelled. as noted in Chapter 5, Assaults. It can be blown once per battle.
Hold: A held hero cannot activate units or be activated. If Medallion of ESP: Th is item functions as per the helm of
attached to a unit, he is immediately detached. He can be slain telepathy, but the range is only 1 hex.
by a threatening unit or hero as an action in lieu of attacking.
Summoning: When a summoning spell (such as summon SPECIAL ABILITIES
djinni or summon fantastic creature) is cast, the summoned Heroes and units may have special abilities that can affect the
creature should be treated as a hero under the control of the grand tactical battles of Domains at War. When an ability affects
caster. a unit, resolve its effects using the effects listed below. If an ability
affects a hero, resolve its effects against him using the attackers
and target heros personal characteristics.
MAGIC ITEMS
A hero that either stood fast or marched may use an item as Acid: A unit might contain creatures such as gray oozes or
an action in lieu of attacking. For items that duplicate a spell ochre jellies that inflict acid damage. Once a unit is dealt acid
effect, refer to the spell, substituting a save versus Wands where damage, it suffers ongoing effects from the acid. At the start
applicable. For other items that have special effects in mass of its command phase, the target units AC is reduced by 1
combat, see below. (cumulative) and it takes an additional uhp of damage. (This
effect occurs regardless of whether the unit is activated during
Amulet v. Crystal Balls & ESP: A commander equipped with the phase.) The acid effects can be ended during the target units
this item never suffers an initiative penalty due to the effects of activation if the unit remains stationary and cleans the acid off in
crystal balls, helms of telepathy, and medallions of ESP. lieu of attacking. A unit may not clean off acid while threatened.
Crystal Ball: Three times during the battle, a side equipped with
EXAMPLE: On initiative number 5, a unit of 5 gray oozes
a crystal ball may check to see if there are enemy units hidden
deals 1 uhp of damage to a unit of 120 heavy infantry. Later in
in a particular piece of terrain. If the terrain is hallucinatory, the combat round, on initiative number 3, the heavy infantry
use of the crystal ball will reveal this. units command phase occurs. At the start of the command
Crystal Ball with ESP: This item may be used as a normal phase, the heavy infantry units AC is reduced by 1 and it
crystal ball, or it may be used to read the mind of an opposing suffers an additional uhp of damage. The unit is activated
and withdraws so that it is no longer threatened by the gray
commander, up to a combined total of three times during the
oozes. On the next combat round, when the heavy infantry
battle. If used to read the mind of an opposing commander, units command phase occurs, its AC is reduced by another
the target must make a successful saving throw versus Spells point, and it suffers an additional uhp of damage. The unit is
or automatically roll a 1 on his next initiative roll. The loss of activated, remains stationary, and cleans off the acid, ending
initiative simulates the fact that the commanders stratagem has the acidic effects.
been revealed.
Aura: Certain creatures (e.g. some dragons, all remorhaz and
This item may also be used before battle to read the opposing salamanders) have a damaging aura. A unit of at least 1 colossal,
army generals mind. If the army general fails to make a 3 gigantic, or 10 huge creatures with damaging auras will
successful saving throw versus Spells, his army must set-up first deal one uhp of damage to all adjacent units at the start of its
(losing the benefit of secret, simultaneous set-up). If both armies command phase. (This effect occurs regardless of whether the
use a crystal ball with ESP or similar device before battle, the unit is activated during the phase.) Loose units dealt damage
effect is cancelled out. (If I know that he knows that I know) by an aura may withdraw to reduce the damage as if it were a
Drums of Panic: When used, the drums affect all creatures missile attack. Creatures with a damaging aura may not form
within a 4-hex radius. Each affected unit must make a saving a unit with other types of creatures unless those creatures are
throw versus Spells; if it fails, it is must flee as per a panic spell. immune to their aura.
Eyes of the Eagle: Characters equipped with this item can spot EXAMPLE: A unit of 20 flame salamanders is adjacent to a
enemy heroes at twice the normal visibility distance. friendly unit of 120 light infantry and an enemy unit of 120
Helm of Telepathy: In any combat round in which an enemy orcs. At the start of the flame salamander units command
phase, it deals one uhp of damage to the light infantry and
commander begins the combat round within 2 hexes of a
the orcs. The light infantry (being Loose Foot with a walking
commander equipped with this item, the enemy commander movement rate of 2) withdraw 1 hex to avoid damage,
automatically rolls a 1 on his next initiative unless he makes though they still become disordered. The orcs suffer 1 uhp
a successful saving throw versus Spells. The loss of initiative of damage and become disordered. The units commander
simulates the fact that the commanders stratagem has been then activates the flame salamanders and attacks the now-
revealed. disordered orcs!
Horn of Blasting: When blown, the horn will affect one unit Blink: Blink dogs can teleport (blink), a special ability that
within 2 hexes. The affected unit takes either 2 uhp of damage, greatly aids them in moving, disengaging, and withdrawing.
or 1/3 of its maximum uhp (rounded up), whichever is less. During its movement sequence, a unit of blink dogs can blink
Cavalry suffer double damage from a horn of blasting. The away in lieu of marching, reappearing with any desired facing
in any unoccupied, passable hex within 18 hexes. Since blinking averting their eyes; while still disordered, they suffer only -2 on
occurs in lieu of marching, the unit may conduct an attack attack rolls with no additional AC penalty.
sequence after its blink. When blinking, the unit ignores any
Chimera Breath: Chimera can breathe fire from their dragon
intervening obstacles, units, or terrain.
head. In lieu of its normal attack sequence, a unit of (or including)
When disengaging, a unit of blink dogs simply teleports to an chimeras may conduct a breath attack sequence against a unit
unoccupied, passable hex up to 18 hexes distant, arriving with it threatens. The unit receives one breath attack per chimera in
any desired facing. It is not subject to a disengagement attack the unit, subject to the Maximum Simultaneous Spells/Special
sequence, and may attack after disengaging. Abilities limits (see p. 43). Each breath attack deals 3 uhp of
damage. Damage is doubled against cavalry units, behemoth
When dealt damage, a unit of blink dogs may reduce damage
cavalry units, or chariot units. If the unit makes a successful
dealt by one or more points by blink-withdrawing one or more
saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half. A unit may
hexes directly away from the attacker, up to a maximum of 18
never lose more than its maximum uhp (rounded up) from
hexes. When blink-withdrawing it may ignore intervening units,
a particular chimera breath attack. Like magic, damage from
obstacles, and terrain, but its blink-withdraw must terminate in
chimera breath attacks always triggers a shock roll.
an unoccupied, passable hex. The unit arrives from its blink-
withdrawal disordered and facing a random vertex. A unit of Dragon Blood: Certain dragons possess poisonous blood. A
blink dogs may not blink-withdraw if already disordered. unit consisting of such dragons can be very dangerous to attack
in melee. If the dragon unit is dealt damage during a melee
Charge: Certain creatures (e.g. elephants and triceratops)
attack sequence, its attacker must make a saving throw versus
possess a fearsome charge. Creatures with this special ability
Poison. If the save fails, the attacker suffers damage equal to its
deal one extra point of damage during charges if they hit with
own Unit Hit Dice. This damage triggers a shock roll, which
at least one of their attacks. See Declare Method of Attack -
is resolved at the conclusion of the attackers attack sequence.
Charge (p. 20).
Poison-blooded dragons may not form a unit with other types
Charming Gaze: Certain creatures (e.g. demon boars and of creatures, as their blood would harm the other creatures in
vampires) possess a charming gaze. The first time a unit is their unit.
Heroes
activated while face-to-face with a unit of creatures with a
Dragon Breath: In lieu of its normal attack sequence, a unit of
charming gaze, it risks being charmed. To determine if the two
(or including) dragons may conduct a breath attack sequence
units are face-to-face, draw an imaginary line straight from the
against an opposing unit. The unit receives one breath attack
center of the activated units hex to the center of the charming
per dragon in the unit, subject to the Maximum Simultaneous
units hex. If the line exits the activated units hex through its
Spells/Special Abilities limits (p. 43). Each dragons breath attack
front hexes and enters the charming units hex through its
is resolved in a manner similar to flame strike, fireball, and
front hexes, then the units are face-to-face. The activated unit
other area of effect spells:
must make a saving throw versus Spells at -2 or be charmed. A
successful saving throw grants a unit immunity to the effects of Steam, scouring wind, fire, or freezing water breath
the gaze for the rest of the battle. If the two units are adjacent, attacks affect one unit within 2 hexes of the dragon,
the activated unit saves with no modifier. If the two units are at dealing damage equal to the dragons HD. If the unit
range, the activated unit gains a +4 bonus to its saving throw at succeeds on a saving throw versus Blast, the damage
a two-hex range, +8 at a three-hex range, and so on. (Thus units is reduced by half.
at a range of six hexes or more will automatically succeed.) This Fetid gas or poison vapor breath attacks affect one
represents the reduced chance of making eye contact with the unit within 1 hex of the dragon, dealing damage
enemy on a crowded, distracting battlefield. equal to the dragons HD. If the unit succeeds on a
saving throw versus Blast, the damage is reduced by
Charmed units fall under the control of the charming units
half.
commander until the charm is dispelled. The charmed units can
Acid or lightning breath attacks affect one unit
be activated at a cost of 2 AP each, but they are so disoriented
within 1 hex of the dragon, dealing damage equal
that the only actions they may take are to stand fast or march
to the dragons HD. If the unit succeeds on a saving
towards the charmed unit. Charmed units may not attack,
throw versus Blast, the damage is reduced by half.
and any attacks against charmed units automatically hit. The
A unit may never lose more than 1/8 its maximum
charmed units are fearless, and do not roll for shock or morale
uhp (rounded up) from a dragon breathing acid or
until the charm is dispelled.
lightning.
Units may avoid becoming charmed by averting their eyes.
Damage is doubled against cavalry units, behemoth cavalry
This decision must be made before the saving throw is made.
units, or chariot units. Damage from dragon breath always
Units which avert their eyes become disordered and suffer an
triggers a shock roll.
additional penalty of -4 on attack rolls and -2 to AC until their
next activation. Dragon Fear: Certain dragons cause fear whenever they
threaten a target unit. The dragon may affect multiple units per
If an enemy army is known (or suspected) to field units with
combat round with its fear. Units with 1 HD or less receive no
a charming gaze, then friendly units might be equipped with
saving throw against dragon fear. Units with more than 1 HD
mirrors. Units equipped with mirrors reduce the penalties from
must make a successful saving throw versus Spells or fall prey to

dragon fear. Units with more than 6 HD are immune to dragon of damage per Unit HD to the target unit. (If a unit consists only
fear. partly of hellhounds, only that portion of its Unit HD which
are from the hellhounds should be counted.) If the target unit
Any unit of less than 3 HD subject to dragon fear immediately
succeeds on a saving throw versus Blast, the damage is reduced
becomes disordered (if not already), changes facing towards
by half. Like magic, damage from hellhound breath always
its own battlemap edge, and retreats 1 hex. Thereafter, at the
triggers a shock roll.
start of the morale phase of each combat round, the unit must
retreat a number of hexes equal to its hustling movement rate Immunity to Non-Magical Weapons: If a unit is composed
towards its friendly map edge. This continues until the effect is entirely of creatures immune to non-magical weapons, it cannot
dispelled, the unit leaves the battlemap, or 30 combat rounds be damaged by missile or melee attacks from units without
have elapsed. The unit may not be activated while subject to the appropriate weapons. A unit is never considered threatened by
effects of dragon fear. Any unit with 3 HD to 6 HD subject to enemy units that are unable to damage it.
dragon fear suffers -1 to attack throws against the dragon until
Paralysis: Certain units can inflict paralysis with every attack.
the effect is dispelled.
If such a unit deals at least one uhp of damage to its target
Energy Drain: Certain units (such as wraiths or wights) can from any of its attacks, the target unit must make a saving
cause level drain with every attack. For each successful attack, throw versus Paralysis or lose troops to paralysis. This causes
the target suffers energy drain among its forces. This causes one additional damage to the target unit equal to its own Unit Hit
point of additional damage per energy level drained. Dice (rounded down).
Fearless: Certain units (e.g. golems, skeletons, and zombies)
EXAMPLE #1: A unit of 120 orcs with 1 Unit Hit Die is
have morale scores of N/A. Such units never make shock rolls damaged by a unit of ghouls. The orc unit fails its saving
or morale rolls, and are immune to any magical fear effects. throw versus Paralysis. The unit takes one point of additional
Flying: Flying creatures or units always have the Flyer (FLY) damage, because the orcs have 1 Unit Hit Die.
formation regardless of their equipment or movement rate.
Flyers can withdraw and voluntarily retreat in combat. Only EXAMPLE #2: A unit of 120 bugbears with 3+1 Unit Hit
other Flyers, and enemy units conducting a reaction attack Dice is damaged by a unit of ghouls. The bugbear unit fails
against the Flyer, can threaten a Flyer. Flyers may move and its saving throw versus Paralysis. The unit takes three points
attack as if elevated one level above the surrounding hex. They of additional damage, because the bugbears have 3+1 Unit
can fly above impassable, obscuring, or rough terrain, being Hit Dice.
treated as elevated while doing so.
Poison: Certain units (flights of wyverns, etc.) can deliver
Harpy Song: The siren singing of harpies can lull enemy units deadly poison with every attack. If such a unit deals at least one
to their doom. A unit of harpies can use its magical song in lieu uhp of damage on its target from any of its attacks, the target
of its attack sequence. All units within range of the song (both unit must make a saving throw versus Poison or lose troops to
friendly and enemy) must make a saving throw versus Spells poison. This causes additional damage to the target unit equal to
or become charmed. A successful saving throw grants a unit its own Unit Hit Dice. Like magic, damage from poison always
immunity to the effects of the song for the rest of the battle. The triggers a shock roll.
range of the harpy units magical song depends on the number
Petrifying Breath: Gorgons possess petrifying breath. In lieu
of harpies in the unit. If there are 20 or fewer harpies, the range
of its normal attack sequence, a unit of (or including) gorgons
is 1 hex. If there are 21 to 60 harpies, the range is 2 hexes. If there
may conduct a breath attack sequence against a unit it threatens.
are 61 to 120 harpies, the range is 3 hexes.
The unit receives one breath attack per gorgon in the unit,
Charmed units fall under the control of the harpy units subject to the Maximum Simultaneous Spells/Special Abilities
commander until the charm is dispelled. The charmed units can limits (p. 43). Each breath attack forces the target unit to save
be activated at a cost of 2 AP each, but they are so disoriented versus Petrification. If the unit fails, it loses its maximum
that the only actions they make take are to stand fast or march uhp (rounded up) to petrification. Damage from gorgon breath
towards the harpies. Charmed units may not attack, and any attacks always triggers a shock roll.
attacks against charmed units automatically hit. The charmed
Petrifying Gaze: Perhaps the most fearsome power on any
units are fearless, and do not roll for shock or morale while they
battlefield is the ability to petrify other creatures on sight!
are being killed and eaten!
Whenever a unit is face-to-face with a unit of creatures with a
If an enemy army is known (or suspected) to field harpies, then petrifying gaze (e.g. basilisks or medusas), it risks petrification
friendly units might be equipped with earplugs. (Armies that anytime it is activated. To determine if the two units are face-
field harpies themselves might also equip their troops with to-face, draw an imaginary line straight from the center of the
earplugs.) Units equipped with earplugs ignore the effects of activated units hex to the center of the petrifying units hex. If
harpy song, but cost one additional AP to activate due to their the line exits the activated units hex through its front hexes and
deafened state. enters the petrifying units hex through its front hexes, then the
units are face-to-face. The activated unit must make a saving
Hellhound Breath: Hellhounds possess a fiery breath that
throw versus Petrification or be destroyed! If the two units are
targets a single creature. During each melee attack sequence, a
adjacent, the activated unit saves with no modifier. If the two
hellhound unit has a 30% chance of breathing fire in lieu of its
units are at range, the activated unit gains a +4 bonus to its
normal attacks. A hellhound units breath weapon deals 1 uhp
saving throw at a two-hex range, +8 at a three-hex range, and so flown off with them. This inflicts additional damage equal to
on. (Thus units at a range of six hexes or more will automatically the target units own Hit Dice, unless the target unit makes a
succeed.) This represents the reduced chance of making eye successful saving throw versus Paralysis. A swooping unit can
contact with the enemy on a crowded, distracting battlefield. only fly off with creatures from the target unit if they are of a
smaller size than the swooping creatures, of course.
Units may avoid petrification by averting their eyes. This
decision must be made before the saving throw is made. Units Trample: Certain units can trod enemy underfoot with
which avert their eyes become disordered and suffer an particular methods of attack. In order to trample, the unit must
additional penalty of -4 on attack rolls and -2 to AC until their charge during its movement sequence or be recoiling or fleeing
next activation. due to unpredictable morale, and use its trample attack(s) in the
subsequent attack sequence. A trampling unit gains a +4 bonus
If an enemy army is known (or suspected) to field petrifying
to its attack throws if the target unit is constituted of man-sized
units, then friendly units might be equipped with mirrors.
or smaller creatures.
Units equipped with mirrors reduce the penalties from averting
their eyes; while still disordered, they suffer only -2 on attack Turning: Certain units can turn the undead. Compare the
rolls with no additional AC penalty. In lieu of attacking, a unit average level of the turning unit to the type of undead unit being
equipped with mirrors may attempt to reflect the petrifying turned on the Turning Undead in Battle table. The undead unit
units reflection upon itself. This succeeds on a roll of 1-2 on 1d6. is dealt the indicated damage. Turning undead is not subject to
If successful, the petrifying unit must save versus Petrification the Maximum Simultaneous Spells/Special Abilities limits.
or be destroyed!
For simplicity, the Turning Undead in Battle table makes two
Petrifying Touch: Certain creatures (e.g. cockatrices) possess a assumptions:
petrifying touch. If such a unit deals at least one uhp of damage
1. It assumes that the turning unit consists of 120
on its target from any of its attacks, the target unit must make a
clerics. If it has fewer clerics, reduce damage
saving throw versus Petrification or lose troops to petrification.
proportionately (round up).
This causes additional damage to the target unit equal to its own
2. It assumes the undead unit consists of one type of
Heroes
Unit Hit Dice. Like magic, damage from petrification always
triggers a shock roll. undead. If the undead unit is of mixed type, treat it
as made up of undead of a type equal in Hit Dice to
Regeneration: Units of trolls regenerate 1 uhp during each the units average Hit Dice.
morale phase. Units of throghrin regenerate 1 uhp during each
third morale phase. Neither trolls nor throghrin may regenerate EXAMPLE #1: A unit of 120 1st level Clerics turns a unit of
uhp of damage dealt by fire or acid. 120 Ghouls (Unit HD 2, uhp 16). The Ghouls take 15 points
of damage.
Swoop: Certain creatures (e.g. rocks and wyverns) can swoop
on enemy units with particular methods of attack. In order to
swoop, the attacker must charge during its movement sequence EXAMPLE #2: A unit of 30 3rd level Clerics turns a unit of
and use its swoop attack(s) in the subsequent attack sequence. 120 Zombies (Unit HD 2, uhp 16). Since the Zombies would
The swooping unit deals one additional point of damage if it hits take 41 points of damage from a 120-strong unit of 3rd level
clerics, they take (41 x 30/120, rounded up) 11 points of
with at least one of its swoop attacks. Additionally, if any of the
damage from the turn.
swoop attack throws is an unmodified 20, then the swooping
unit has grabbed creatures from among the target unit and
Turning Undead in Battle

Turning Unit Level
Undead Unit HD 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14+
1HD / Skeleton 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58
2HD / Zombie 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58
2HD / Ghoul 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58
3HD / Wight 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 58
4HD / Wraith - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58 58 58
5HD / Mummy - - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58 58
6HD / Spectre - - - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58 58
7HD / Vampire - - - - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58
8HD / Vampire - - - - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58
9HD / Vampire - - - - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58 58
10HD / Infernal - - - - - 6 15 23 32 41 44 58 58 58

Chapter 5: Assaults
Assaults should not be made recklessly or without

purpose. Some losses will occur which will only discourage
our troops and encourage the besieged.
There are three basic methods by which a besieging army story of a fortified structure. The ground story and top story are
can capture a stronghold. In a blockade, the besieging army particularly vulnerable during assaults.
encircles the besieged stronghold with its forces to deny re-
supply and escape. In a reduction, the besieging army deploys UNIT CAPACITY
bombardment and siege-mines to destroy the stronghold. In The number of units (p. 10-12) that can defend the fortified
an assault, the besieging army attacks the stronghold directly structure. Since most fortified structures consist of multiple
to capture it with force of arms. Domains at War: Campaigns stories, unit capacity is per story. Sometimes a tall, narrow
provides extensive mechanics for blockading and reducing structure may have a unit capacity of less than one unit per story.
strongholds, as well as an abstract system for resolving assaults. In this case, each unit is still assigned to a particular story, but
Here, we provide rules for resolving assaults on the tabletop. the total number of units permitted in the structure is reduced.
FORTIFIED STRUCTURES EXAMPLE: A 40' tall, 30' diameter round tower has four
In Domains at War: Battles, a stronghold is made up of one or stories and a unit capacity of one unit per two stories. The
more fortified structures, such as a keep, gatehouse, tower, defender assigns one unit to the ground story and one unit
or length of wall. Each fortified structure has the following to the top story, as these are the most vulnerable. The middle
characteristics: two stories cannot hold any units, as this would exceed the
limit (one unit per two stories allowing at most two units in
SIZE four stories).
The number of hexes (p. 10) that the fortified structure takes up
on a battlemap. When placing a stronghold on the battlemap, ARMOR CLASS
each hex can include both a wall segment and up to one hex size An indicator of how hard it is to harm the structure. Ordinary
worth of additional structures. wooden construction has AC 1. Reinforced wooden construction
Note that in D@W: Battles, walls are divided into 60' segments has AC 2. Earthen construction has AC 4. Soft stone has AC 5.
rather than the 100' segments used in ACKS and D@W: Thick, heavy stone has AC 6. Round structures gain a +1 bonus
Campaigns. Thus there are 3 hexes of wall per 200' or 5 hexes of to AC due to the increased likelihood of attacks bouncing off.
wall per 300'. This allows the structure to be more easily placed
on the battlemap. SHP
A structures ability to remain intact despite damage. A structure
STORIES reduced to its starting shp has been breached. Breaches make
The number of levels or floors in the fortified structure. Multi- it easier to assault the structure. A structure reduced to 0 shp is
story structures can be thought of as a series of one-story destroyed. When a structure is destroyed, collapsing stone and
timber deal 8 points of damage to any occupying units and 8d6
Assaults
structures stacked on top of each other. Each story has its own
unit capacity and its own structural hit points (shp). Units damage to any occupying heroes (p. 40). A saving throw versus
in each story of the structure are considered adjacent to units Blast will reduce damage to half. Structures with multiple stories
in the story above and below them. Units may move between have a separate shp per story. Each story must be breached or
stories at a rate of one story per hex of movement. In general, destroyed separately. Destroying a lower story will destroy all
there is one story per 10' - 15' of height. The ground story of upper stories, however.
a fortified structure is the story situated at the same elevation
as the surrounding ground. The top story is the uppermost
Fortified Structures
Fortified Structure Size Unit Capacity Stories AC SHP
Barbican (gatehouse, 2 small towers) 1 hex 2/story 2 6 1,250/story
Gatehouse, stone, 20' high, 30' x 20' 1
/2 hex 1/story 2 6 500/story
Keep, stone, square, 80' high, 60' square 1 hex 2/story 6 6 2,500/story
Palisade, wooden, 10' high, 60' long, 1" thick 1 hex long 1 1 2 3
Palisade, wooden, 20' high, 60' long, 1" thick 1 hex long 1/story 2* 2 6
Rampart, earth, 10' high, 60' long, 15' thick 1 hex long 1 1 4 450
Rampart, earth, 20' high, 60' long, 15' thick 1 hex long 1/story 2* 4 900
Round tower, stone, 30' high, 20' diameter 1
/3 hex /3 stories
1
3 7 250/story
Round tower, stone, 40' high, 20' diameter 1
/3 hex /3 stories
1
4 7 250/story
Round tower, stone, 40' high, 30' diameter /2 hex
1 1
/2 stories 4 7 400/story
Round tower, stone, 60' high, 30' diameter /2 hex
1 5
Square tower, stone, 40' high, 30' square /2 hex
1 1
Square tower, stone, 60' high, 30' square /2 hex
1 5
Wall, stone, 10' high, 60' long, 10' thick 1 hex long 1 1 6 450
Wall, stone, 20' high, 60' long, 10' thick 1 hex long 1/story 2* 6 450/story
*Walls have battlemented wall-walks as the top story; additional stories represent wall-walks below the battlements
Fortified Structures 53
DAMAGING AND DESTROYING FORTIFIED ARTILLERY
A unit of artillery will damage a fortified structure with a
STRUCTURES successful attack throw against the structures AC. The Artillery
The fortified structures which makes up a stronghold may only Bombardment table shows the shp of damage that a hit by an
be damaged or destroyed by artillery pieces, battering rams, artillery unit will deal to wooden and stone fortified structures.
monstrous units, or spells. Artillery units are discussed in further detail in the Artillery
Units section (p. 60)
Artillery Bombardment
Artillery Unit v. Wood v. Stone BATTERING RAMS
5 Medium Ballistas 50 - A unit equipped with battering rams will damage an adjacent
fortified structure with a successful attack throw against the
5 Heavy Ballistas 50 5
structures AC. A successful attack by a ram-equipped unit deals
5 Light Catapults 50 5 50 shp of damage to wooden structures and 10 shp of damage to
2 Medium Catapults 30 3 stone structures. Damage is usually to the first (ground) story.
1 Heavy Catapult 20 2 Battering rams are sometimes combined with movable mantlets
1 Light Trebuchets 20 2 and siege towers. See the Siege Equipment section (p. 58) for
additional details.
1 Medium Trebuchets 30 3
1 Heavy Trebuchets 40 4
54 Damaging and Destroying Fortified Structres

MONSTROUS UNITS Reduction rules (p. 79) to resolve damage to fortified structures
v. v.
from the siege, prior to using D@W: Battles to resolve the final
Monster Size Wood Stone assault on the tabletop.
Huge (adult dragon, giant, wyvern) 10 - When using D@W: Campaigns, each 1,000 shp of damage dealt
Gigantic (mastodon, old dragon, tyrannosaurus) 50 5 creates a breach that an assaulting unit can exploit. During
the Assault Set Up, allow the besieging army to allocate these
Colossal (ancient dragon, dragon turtle, giant roc) 50 10
breaches to specific fortified structures (or stories of multi-story
structures) on a one-for-one basis. Breaches from siege mining,
Monstrous units, consisting of huge, gigantic, and colossal transmute rock to mud and move earth must be allocated to
creatures, can attack fortified structures. Use their unit attack ground stories. Other breaches may be allocated as desired,
characteristics to make attack throws against the structures AC. subject to the Judges common sense review.
For each attack that hits, apply damage to the structures shp. The
Monster Size v. Wood and Stone table shows the shp of damage
each attack will deal, given the constituent creatures size and the EXAMPLE: Moruvais stronghold has been under siege for
type of structure (wood or stone). six weeks using the rules in D@W: Campaigns. His stronghold
consists of a keep (6 stories, 2,500 shp/story); 4 medium
towers (4 stories, 250 shp/story); and 6 60' lengths of 20' wall
EXAMPLE #1: A unit of 20 hill giants attacks a wooden (2 stories, 450 shp/story each). During this time, Marcus has
structure. The hill giants receive 4 attacks per round against created two breaches in Moruvais stronghold through siege
the structure; each hit will deal 10 shp of damage. If the hill mining and one breach through bombardment. In D@W:
giants were attacking a stone structure they would be unable Campaigns, these breaches are generalized to the stronghold
to harm it. as a whole.
As Marcus prepares to capture the stronghold, the Judge
EXAMPLE #2: A unit of 5 tyrannosaurs attacks a stone decides he wants to resolve the assault using D@W: Battles.
structure. The tyrannosaurs receive 6 attacks per round During the assault set-up, Marcus gets to allocate the three
against the structure; each hit will deal 5 shp of damage. If breaches to specific fortified structures. He allocates the
the tyrannosaurs were attacking a wooden structure, each two breaches from the siege mining towards breaches in
hit would deal 50 shp of damage. the ground story of two 60' lengths of wall. He allocates
the breach from bombardment to the top story of the keep.
Spell SHP Damage Moruvai then sets up his defending units to protect the
breaches, and play proceeds from there.
Cone of Cold hp damage / 5
Disintegrate 125
Assaults
Fireball hp damage / 5 ASSAULT SET UP
Flame Strike hp damage / 5 At some point, the besieging army will conclude it has reduced
Horn of Blasting 125 the stronghold enough to justify an assault. When an assault
Lightning Bolt hp damage / 5 occurs, array four battlemaps 2 x 2 to create a battlefield that is
8' x 6' (48 hexes wide and 36 hexes deep). This allows room for
Move Earth 1,500 /turn long-range artillery and lengthy castle walls to be deployed on
Searing Wind hp damage / 5 the table.
Transmute Rock to Mud 625
Place the fortified structures of the stronghold such that they are
roughly in the center of the battlemaps. If the area around the
stronghold has been mapped out by the Judge, terrain pieces
SPELLS AND MAGIC ITEMS (p. 29) should be placed on the battlemaps to replicate the area.
Certain spells and magic items can be used to damage or destroy Otherwise, terrain placement should be determined randomly
fortified structures. These spells, and the damage they deal to for each battlemap, as per Random Terrain Generation (p. 29).
structures, are shown on the adjacent table. The mechanisms by
which these spells deal damage are obvious in most cases. If the stronghold begins the assault with one or more breaches
from a siege preceding the assault, these breaches must be
Move earth and transmute rock to mud present special cases, allocated to the fortified structures at this time. See Damage
as the spells cannot directly affect worked stone. Transmute rock from Sieges Preceding the Assault (p. 55)
to mud can be used to transform the earth beneath strongholds
into mud, weakening foundations. 50% of the damage is The defending army now sets up. All defending units must be
recovered when the spell expires or is dispelled. Move earth can placed in or adjacent to the fortified structures of the besieged
shift the ground beneath strongholds, causing structural damage stronghold. No fortified structure, or story of a multi-story
much as an earthquake would. Move earth cannot be used if structure, may exceed its unit capacity.
the stronghold is built on solid rock (such as a mountain-top The assaulting army sets up after the defending units have been
fortress), unless transmute rock to mud is used first. deployed. If the lines of circumvallation (see D@W: Campaigns,
Move earth and transmute rock to mud always deal damage to p. 78) have been mapped out by the Judge in his campaign, the
the lowest intact story of a multi-story structure. All other spells circumvallation and assaulting armys units should be placed
allow the caster to choose which story is dealt damage. accordingly. Otherwise, the assaulting armys units may be
deployed anywhere within three hexes of any battlemap edge.
DAMAGE FROM SIEGES PRECEDING THE ASSAULT
While the rules herein can be used to resolve the gradual MOVEMENT DURING ASSAULTS
reduction of an enemy stronghold by artillery, rams, and magic,
it will be a slow and painstaking affair. As many as one thousand ENTERING STRONGHOLDS
shots may have to fired at the same spot before a curtain wall is Entrance and exit to a stronghold must be through one of its
breached. We strongly recommend using the D@W: Campaigns exterior fortified structures. An exterior fortified structure is
Monstrous Units 55
a structure in a hex adjacent to one or more hexes that do not Units may not move into or through a structure, or story of a
contain other fortified structures of the stronghold. multi-story structure, occupied by enemy units. They must first
destroy or retreat the enemy unit(s). Units may not move into
Defending units may enter any exterior fortified structure
or through a structure, or story of a multi-story structure, that is
through the ground floor. All exterior fortified structures are
already occupied to maximum unit capacity.
assumed to contain portcullises, sally ports, etc. unless the Judge
determines otherwise.
THREATENING DURING ASSAULTS
Assaulting units may only enter an exterior fortified structure via A unit threatens (p. 19) an enemy unit in a fortified structure
the following methods: anytime the unit could move to the enemy units position at a
A Flyer (p. 12) may enter through its top story, or cost of one hex of movement, were it not occupied. Because there
is no facing within fortified structures, threat is always mutual,
any story which has been breached. barring exceptional circumstances (e.g. units harmed only by
A unit equipped with siege ladders (p. 59) may enter magical weapons).
through its top story, or any story which has been
breached, up to a maximum height of the siege ladder EXAMPLE: Light Infantry A is on the third floor of a six-
(usually four stories). story tower. The tower connects to an adjacent three-story
A unit equipped with hoists (p. 58) may enter through wall segment. Orc B is on the second story of the tower. Orc
its top story, or any story which has been breached, up C is on the third story of the wall segment. Orc D is on the
to a maximum height of three stories. fifth story of the tower.
A unit occupying a siege tower (p. 59) may enter
through its top story, or any story which has been Light Infantry A threatens and is threatened by Orc B and
breached. However, the unit must occupy a story of Orc C. It would cost one hex of movement for Light Infantry
the same height within the siege tower. A to move from its position in the third story of the tower to
Any other unit may only enter through a breached Orc Bs position in the second story of the tower. Therefore
ground story. Light Infantry threatens and is threatened by Orc B. Similarly,
it would cost one hex of movement for Light Infantry A to
It costs one hex of movement to enter an exterior fortified move from the third story of the tower to the third story of
structure, which is inclusive of both moving into the hex the wall segment, so it threatens and is threatened by Orc C.
containing the fortified structure and entering the structure itself.
Light Infantry A does not threaten, and is not threatened by,
Units may not enter a structure, or story of a multi-story Orc D, which is two hexes of movement away.
structure, occupied by enemy units. They must first destroy or
retreat (p. 23) the enemy unit(s). Units may not enter a structure, A unit outside of a stronghold threatens an enemy unit within
or story of a multi-story structure, that is already occupied to the stronghold any time the unit could enter the stronghold by
maximum unit capacity. passing through the enemy units position, were it not occupied.
Conversely, the unit outside the stronghold will itself be
Strongholds may be exited in the same manner they are entered. threatened by the unit it threatens.
MOVEMENT DURING ASSAULTS EXAMPLE: Heavy Infantry A is on the second story of a
Once inside a stronghold, units may move from one of the three-story wall segment. This story is breached. Orc B is
strongholds fortified structures to another of its fortified equipped with siege ladders in an adjacent hex and facing
structures in the same or an adjacent hex at a cost of one hex the fortified structure. Orc B could enter the stronghold
of movement. The movement must be from the ground story of
through the breach on the second story at a cost of one hex
the first structure to the ground story of the second structure.
Alternatively, if either structure is a wall segment, it may move of movement. Therefore Orc B threatens and is threatened
from a story where the wall segment connects to the other by Heavy Infantry C.
structure. If Heavy Infantry A was on the first or third story of the wall
Units may move between stories of the fortified structure they segment, or if Orc B was not equipped with siege ladders,
occupy at a rate of one story per hex of movement. Within a Orc B would not threaten or be threatened by the Heavy
fortified structure, the ground story is considered adjacent to the Infantry.
second story, the second story is adjacent to the third story, and
so on.
COMBAT DURING ASSAULTS
EXAMPLE: Light Infantry A is on the third floor of a six- Units occupying the top story of a fortified structure are assumed
story tower. The tower connects to an adjacent three-story to be patrolling the battlements, ready to repel escalading troops
wall segment. At a cost of one hex of movement, Light and unleash arrows on besiegers. Units occupying lower stories
Infantry A may move to the towers second story; the towers are restricted to arrow slits, embrasures, murder holes, and
fourth story; or the third story of the adjacent wall segment. similar defensive works. This affords greater protection but
less offensive capability. These assumptions are reflected in the
If Light Infantry A were on the fourth story of the tower, it mechanics below.
could not move to the adjacent wall segment, because the
fourth story of the tower has no connection to the three- MISSILE ATTACKS
story wall segment. Normally, threatened units may not make missile attacks, but
units occupying a fortified structure may conduct missile attacks
Units within fortified structures do not have facing (p. 13). All even if threatened.
adjacent hexes are considered to be front hexes for the unit.
Mounted units (p. 12) within a fortified structure may not Units occupying the top story of a fortified structure can only be
hustle (p. 18) or charge (p. 19). Foot units (p. 13) within a targeted (p. 21) by missile attacks by volleying overhead (p. 22),
fortified structure may not charge. unless the story is breached. Units occupying unbreached lower
56 Movement During Assaultss

stories cannot be targeted by missile attacks at all, but during

their own missile attack sequences may make only one-half their EXAMPLE: Light Infantry A is on the third floor of a six-
normal number of attacks. story tower. The tower connects to an adjacent three-story
wall segment. Orc B is on the third story of the wall segment.
Units occupying any breached story may conduct their full Orc C is on the second story of the tower. Orc D is on the
number of missile attacks, and can themselves be targeted by fifth story of the tower. Since Light Infantry A threatens and
missile attacks. They gain a +2 bonus to AC due to the cover is threatened by Orc B and Orc C, it could attack and be
afforded by the rubble, though. attacked by them.
Units occupying the second or higher story of a fortified structure
gain a +1 to attack throws against units on a lower elevation, and Units occupying a fortified structure gain a +2 bonus to AC
count as elevated when drawing line of sight (p. 22). See the LOS when targeted in melee by units in another structure or at a
Stoppage table (p. 29) for the impact of elevation and line of sight. lower elevation in the same structure.
EXAMPLE: A six-story tower has two units occupying it. EXAMPLE: Light Infantry A is attacked by Orc C. Orc C is
Bowman A occupies the sixth (top) story and Bowmen B on the second story, while Light Infantry A is on the third
occupies the first (ground) story. Hobgoblin C is four hexes story, so Light Infantry A gains a +2 bonus to AC.
away, past a hex of forest.
Because Bowman A is elevated, it has line of sight on SAVING THROWS, SHOCK, AND MORALE
Hobgoblin C and vice versa. Bowman A gains a +1 bonus Units occupying any story of a fortified structure gain a +2 bonus
to its missile attacks against Hobgoblin C because of its to shock rolls (p. 23) and morale rolls (p. 25), and a +4 bonus
elevation. Hobgoblin C suffers a -4 penalty to its missile on saving throws versus Blast. On a successful saving throw, the
attacks against Bowman A because it must volley overhead. unit takes no damage, even if a blast effect would normally deal
partial damage. However, if the story is breached, the saving
Bowmen B and Hobgoblin C do not have line of sight on throw bonus is reduced to +2.
each other because of the intervening hex of forest. Assume
Bowmen B ascends to the second story. Bowmen B now has
RETREAT AND ADVANCEMENT
line of sight on Hobgoblin B and vice versa. Bowmen B gains When a unit in a fortified structure must retreat (e.g. from a
a +1 bonus to its missile attack throws against Hobgoblin C. failed shock roll), resolve the retreat using the following rules:
However, Bowmen Bs number of attacks is reduced from its
normal 2 to 1 because it is not on the top story. If a unit is eligible to retreat into two or more hexes,
the commander (p. 15) controlling the unit decides
Sometimes a missile attack may pass through a fortified structure which of the eligible hexes his unit retreats into.
Assaults
which neither the attacker nor target occupies. The intervening The unit can retreat from the ground story of the
fortified structures are obstacles (p. 22) to LOS up to an elevation strongholds fortified structure to the ground story
equal to their height in stories. of another of its fortified structures in the same or an
adjacent hex at a cost of one hex of movement.
EXAMPLE: Bowman A occupies the sixth story of a keep. The unit can retreat from any story of a wall segment
The keep is adjacent to a three-story wall segment. The target, to the same story of a fortified structure connected to
Orc B, is adjacent to the wall segment. The wall segment is the wall segment, or vice versa, at a cost of one hex of
between Bowman A and Orc B, so it counts as an obstacle. movement.
Since Bowman A is on the sixth story and the wall segment The unit can retreat up or down one story at a cost of
is three stories tall, Bowman A counts as elevated relative to one hex of movement.
the wall segment and may ignore it for LOS. The unit cannot retreat into a structure (or story of a
multi-story structure) which is already at its maximum
MELEE ATTACKS unit capacity or which is occupied by any enemy units.
Units may conduct melee attacks against units occupying a If a unit cannot complete its retreat, it is considered
fortified structure if they threaten the unit. Likewise, units routed (p. 23) and removed from play.
occupying a fortified structure may conduct melee attacks
against units they threaten.
Siege Equipment in Assaults

Type of Equipment No. Required Effects
Battering Ram (20') 6 Equipped unit can damage fortified structures as a colossal monster
Cauldron 4 Equipped unit can pour boiling fluid on enemy units for 2 uhp of damage (save for 1/2 )
Hoist 6 Equipped unit can assault defending structures up to three stories
Movable Gallery 6 Missile attacks v. unit at -4 penalty and equipped unit gains +4 saving throws v. Blast
Movable Mantlet 60 Missile attacks v. unit at -4 penalty and equipped unit gains +4 saving throws v. Blast
Ram Catcher 10 Successful attack throw by unit forces enemy rams to save or be destroyed
Screw (20') 6 Equipped unit can damage fortified structures as a colossal monster
Siege Hook 10 Equipped unit can deal 2 uhp of damage to defending units manning the walls
Siege Ladder 12 Equipped unit can assault defending structures up to height of siege ladder
Siege Tower, Standard 1 Mobile fortified structure that can carry units, artillery, and rams
Siege Tower, Large 1 Mobile fortified structure that can carry units, artillery, and rams
Siege Tower, Huge 1 Mobile fortified structure that can carry units, artillery, and rams
Melee Attacks 57
If all the units occupying the structure (or story of a multi-story also be equipped with movable galleries. (Hoists may also be
structure) are destroyed or retreated at the conclusion of a melee built into siege towers, discussed below.)
attack, the attacker may advance into the vacated structure or The equipped unit can assault the top story of a defending
story. This is how fortified structures are captured! structure, or any story which has been breached, up to a
maximum height of three stories. The equipped unit may ascend
SIEGE EQUIPMENT all three stories at a cost of one hex of movement. Once the
Both the assaulting and defending army will frequently employ desired story is reached, the unit may assault the structure.
siege equipment during an assault. Such devices may be as simple Missile attacks against units equipped with hoists suffer a -2
as cooking cauldrons filled with burning oil and as a complex as penalty due to the partial cover from the hoist. Alternatively,
150-foot tall siege towers (p. 59) pulled by a thousand men. missile attacks and magic may be directed against the hoists
The Siege Equipment in Assaults table, below, lists the siege instead of the unit. The hoists have AC 0 and 50 shp (total).
equipment in Domains at War. The number required column Destroying the hoists unequips the unit. A units hoists and
shows the minimum number of pieces of equipment required to galleries must be destroyed separately.
equip a unit for an assault. Except where otherwise noted, a unit A unit equipped with hoists does not move unless it is also
can only be equipped with one type of equipment. equipped with movable galleries. Such a unit moves as War
The effects column summarizes the game effect of the Machinery with a movement rate of -/1/2. A unit unequips and
equipment. Each type of siege equipment has a more detailed loses its hoist if it ever retreats.
explanation below. See D@W Campaigns, Artillery and Siege
Equipment (p. 43-47) for costs, descriptions, and additional MOVABLE GALLERIES
details about siege equipment. A Foot unit can be equipped with movable galleries to shelter
the unit from fire as it moves towards the besieged strongholds
BATTERING RAMS/SCREWS walls. It takes six movable galleries to equip a unit. Mark the
A Foot unit can be equipped with battering rams (or screws) equipped unit with a token. A unit equipped with movable
to damage fortified structures. It takes six 20' rams or two 60' galleries can also be equipped with battering rams or hoists.
rams to equip a unit. Mark the equipped unit with a token. A Missile attacks targeting an equipped unit suffer a -4 penalty,
unit equipped with battering rams may also be equipped with and the unit gains a +4 bonus to saving throws versus Blast.
movable galleries. (Battering rams may also be built into siege Alternatively, missile attacks and magic may be directed against
towers, discussed below.) the galleries instead of the unit. The galleries have AC 1 and 50
The equipped unit can attack fortified structures as if the shp (total). Destroying the galleries unequips the unit.
unit were a colossal monster. A successful attack against the Because of the encumbrance of the galleries, an equipped unit
structures AC by a ram-equipped unit deals 50 shp of damage moves as War Machinery with a movement rate of -/1/2. A unit
to wooden structures and 10 shp of damage to stone structures. unequips and loses its galleries if it ever makes a melee attack or
See Damaging and Destroying Fortified Structures (p. 54). retreats.
Damage is usually to the ground story unless the battering ram is
on the upper story of a siege tower. MOVABLE MANTLETS
Because of the encumbrance of the rams, an equipped unit A Foot unit can be equipped with movable mantlets to shelter
moves as War Machinery with a movement rate of -/1/2. A unit the unit from fire as it moves towards the besieged strongholds
unequips and loses its ram if it ever makes a melee attack (other walls. It takes 60 mantlets to equip a unit. Mark the equipped
than against a fortified structure) or retreats. unit with a token.
Screws are identical to rams, except they deal 35 shp of damage Missile attacks targeting an equipped unit suffer a -4 penalty, and
to wooden structures and 15 shp of damage to stone structures. the unit gains a +4 bonus to saving throws versus Blast. Because
of the encumbrance of the mantlets, an equipped unit moves as
CAULDRONS War Machinery with a movement rate of -/1/2.
A Foot unit can be equipped with cauldrons to pour boiling If the equipped unit is ever successfully hit by an artillery unit or
water, oil, or sand over walls or through murder holes on to by an area of effect spell (e.g. fireball), the movable mantlets are
assaulting troops. It takes four cauldrons to equip a unit. Mark destroyed and the unit is unequipped. A unit also unequips and
the equipped unit with a token. loses its mantlets if it ever makes a melee attack or retreats.
To use equipped cauldrons, a unit must occupy the second or
higher story of an exterior fortified structure. Using cauldrons RAM CATCHER
is a missile attack with a range of one hex (remember, units A Foot unit can be equipped with ram catchers to lift, break, or
occupying fortified structures can make missile attacks against dislodge battering rams or screws from the walls. It takes ten ram
units outside the structure even when threatened). No attack catchers to equip a unit. Mark the equipped unit with a token.
throw is required to use cauldrons. The cauldrons deal 2 uhp of To use equipped ram catchers, a unit must occupy the second or
damage to the target and disorders it. A successful saving throw higher story of an exterior fortified structure. Using ram catchers
versus Blast reduces damage by half and avoids disorder. is a missile attack with a range of one hex. The only eligible target
Cauldrons can only be used once per battle. As soon as an of an attack with ram catchers is a unit equipped with battering
equipped unit uses its cauldrons, the cauldron token should be rams or screws. The ram catcher equipped unit must succeed on
removed. an attack throw against the target with a -4 penalty. If the attack
hits, the target must then make a successful saving throw versus
HOIST Paralysis. If the saving throw fails, the units rams or screws are
A Foot unit can be equipped with hoists to ascend to the top destroyed.
of fortified structures. It takes six hoists to equip a unit. Mark Because of the encumbrance of the ram catchers, an equipped
the equipped unit with a token. A unit equipped with hoists may unit moves as War Machinery with a movement rate of -/1/2. A
58 Siege Equipment
unit unequips and loses its ram-catchers if it ever makes a melee Units Normal Movement Rate
attack or retreats. Movement Rate With Siege Ladders
2/4/6 2/3/4
SIEGE HOOK
2/3/4 1/2/3
A Foot unit can be equipped with siege hooks to pull defenders
from a wall during a siege. It takes ten siege hooks to equip a unit. 1/2/3 -/1/2
Mark the equipped unit with a token.
To use siege hooks, a unit must be adjacent to an exterior SIEGE TOWERS
fortified structure. Using siege hooks is a missile attack with a Siege towers are designed to protect assaulting troops during the
range of one hex. The only eligible target of an attack with siege approach to a stronghold, and then get them over the walls by
hooks is an enemy unit occupying the top story of an exterior means of a gangplank or hoist. Siege towers have characteristics
fortified structure two or three stories in height. The siege hook of both fortified structures and units. Like units, they have
equipped unit must succeed on an attack throw against the target commanders, movement rates, and facing, and are activated
with a -4 penalty. If the attack hits, the target must then make a using AP (p. 18). Like fortified structures, they have unit
successful saving throw versus Paralysis. If the saving throw fails, capacities, stories, and structural hit points. Siege towers also
the defending unit suffers 2 uhp of damage from the attack. have a unique characteristic, called crew.
A unit unequips and loses its siege hooks if it ever makes a melee Siege Tower Size: The number of hexes that the siege tower
attack or retreats. takes up on a battlemap. All siege towers take up one full hex.
However, the siege tower may share this hex with one unit of
SIEGE LADDERS crew (see below).
A Foot unit can be equipped with siege ladders to assault the Siege Tower Troop Capacity: The number of units of troops that
upper stories of fortified structures. It takes 12 siege ladders to can occupy the siege tower. Only units composed of man-sized
equip a unit. Mark the equipped unit with a token. or large creatures can occupy siege towers.
The equipped unit threatens the top story of a defending structure, Siege Tower Artillery Capacity: The number of artillery units
or any story which has been breached, up to a maximum height that can occupy the siege tower. Due to weight limitations,
of the siege ladder (usually four stories). However, units equipped standard siege towers are restricted to units of heavy ballista
with siege ladders get one fewer attack per round (minimum (p. 60) or lighter. Large siege towers are restricted to units of
one attack) and suffer a -2 penalty to melee attack throws while medium catapults (p. 60) or lighter. Huge siege towers are
equipped. restricted to units of heavy catapults (p. 60) or lighter. In lieu
Because of the encumbrance of the siege ladders, an equipped of an artillery unit occupying a particular story, the story may
hold battering rams or hoists. Any unit occupying that story is
Assaults
unit moves as War Machinery. Its movement rate is decreased
as shown on the table below. A unit unequips and loses its siege considered equipped with the rams or hoists. A battering ram
ladders if it ever retreats. on the second or higher story will deal damage to the equivalent
story of an adjacent fortified structure.
Siege Tower Size Troop Capacity Artillery Capacity Stories AC SHP Move Crew AP
Standard Siege Tower 1 hex 1 unit/ 4 stories 1 unit / 4 stories 4 0 25/story -/1/- (WM) 1 unit 1
Large Siege Tower 1 hex 1 unit / 3 stories 1 units / 3 stories 6 1 36/story -/1/- (WM) 4 units 2
Huge Siege Tower 1 hex 1 unit / story 1 unit /2 stories 9 2 66/story -/1/- (WM) 10 units 4
Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks Unit Missile Attacks

Unit Type Move Form Unit AC Unit HD Unit HP Morale & Attack Throws & Attack Throws
10 Light Ballista -/1/- WM 0 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
10 Light Repeating -/1/- WM 0 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 2 missile attacks 11+
Ballista 1 reload token
5 Medium Ballista -/1/- WM 1 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
5 Heavy Ballista -/1/- WM 1 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
5 Light Catapult -/1/- WM 0 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
2 Medium Catapult -/1/- WM 1 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Heavy Catapult -/1/- WM 1 1-1 1 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Light Trebuchet -/1/- WM 1 1-1 2 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
1 Medium Trebuchet -/1/- WM 1 1-1 4 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
1 Heavy Trebuchet -/1/- WM 2 1-1 6 0 1 short sword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
Siege Hook 59
artillery units, but does not have to be. Because of the higher
EXAMPLE: A standard four-story siege tower is adjacent
to a four-story stone wall. A unit of light infantry is on the number of AP required to activate the siege tower itself, it is
second story, which holds battering rams. Therefore, the unit often a good idea to have a separate commander for the assault
is considered equipped with battering rams. The unit can troops and artillery.
attack the fortified structures as if it were a colossal monster. Assaulting with Siege Towers: If a siege tower moves adjacent
A successful attack against the structures AC deals 10 shp of
to an exterior fortified structure, units occupying the siege tower
damage to the walls second story.
can enter the fortified structure via gangplanks. The occupying
Stories: The number of levels or fl oors in the siege tower. As units can enter the top story of the adjacent structure, or any
with structures, each story has its own unit capacity and its own story which has been breached. However, the assaulting unit
structural hit points. Units in each story of the siege tower are must occupy the story of the same height within the siege tower.
considered adjacent to units in the story above and below them. The occupying units may move between stories at a rate of one
Units may move between stories at a rate of one story per hex story per hex of movement in order to reach the desired story.
of movement.
EXAMPLE: A unit of light infantry with a movement rate
SHP: The siege towers ability to remain intact despite damage. of 2/4/6 is on the second story of a standard four-story siege
A siege towers shp functions identically to the shp of structures. tower. The siege tower is adjacent to a four-story wall. The
unit is ordered to assault the top (fourth) story of the wall.
Siege Tower Movement: Siege towers move as War Machinery
In order to do so, it must occupy the fourth story of the siege
with a movement rate of -/1/-. Note that units occupying the tower. During its movement sequence, the unit ascends
siege tower retain their full movement rate, which they can use from the second story to the fourth story (at a cost of two
to ascend or descend stories. hexes of movement). The unit can now move onto the walls
Siege Tower Crew: Siege towers all require a large number of top (fourth) story.
crew to move the tower, ranging from 1 to 10 units. Any type If the siege tower has hoists on any of its stories, units occupying
of unit may serve as crew, but it must be full-strength (e.g. 120 those stories may assault using the hoists. In this case, the
men, 60 ogres, or 5 elephants). All crew are under the command equipped units can enter the top story of an exterior fortified
of the siege towers commander. In order for a siege tower to be structure, or any story which has been breached, up to a
activated, all of its crew must be in the same hex as the tower or maximum height of the hoists story plus three. The equipped
in an adjacent hex, and must activate simultaneously with the unit may ascend all three stories with the hoist at a cost of one
siege tower (see below). Crew which violate this requirement hex of movement.
cannot contribute to moving the siege tower during the round.
A siege tower without sufficient crew cannot be activated, EXAMPLE: A unit of heavy infantry with a movement rate
although any artillery and troops carried may still be activated. of 1/2/3 is on the first story of a standard four-story siege
tower. The siege tower is adjacent to a four-story wall. The
Astute commanders will have noted that it is impossible to place
heavy infantry are ordered to assault the top (fourth) story
10 units adjacent to a siege tower! To overcome this limitation, of the wall. The heavy infantry could move up to the fourth
two identical units of any type can be merge to form one Labor story of the siege tower to do so, but this would take them
unit. This is similar to a Phalanx (p. 17). In order to be merged three combat rounds because their walking movement rate
into a Labor unit, both units must belong to the commanders is 1. Fortunately, there are hoists on this story. Using the
division. Once merged, the unit characteristics of the Labor unit hoists, the unit can ascend up to three stories at a cost of one
are identical to those of its constituent units, except as follows: hex of movement. The unit can now assault the walls top
(fourth) story!
The Labor units uhp are equal to the sum of its two
constituent units uhp. Even when using a siege tower, units may not move into or
The Labor units morale score (p. 13) is increased by 1. through a structure, or story of a multi-story structure, occupied
The Labor unit cannot conduct attacks. by enemy units. They must first destroy or retreat the enemy
A Labor unit is treated as one unit for the purposes of activation, unit(s). See Movement During Assaults (p. 55) for more details.
but counts as two units of crew. If the labor unit is destroyed or Units occupying a siege tower attack and are attacked as if
routed, this counts as the loss of both units. Deployment as a occupying a fortified structure. See Combat During Assaults
labor unit is permanent for the duration of the battle. If a siege (p. 56) for more details.
tower is crewed by units constructed from particularly strong
creatures, the Judge may use the more detailed rules found in
D@W: Campaigns (p. 47) to calculate how many units of crew ARTILLERY UNITS
are required, based on the creatures normal load. Artillery pieces are siege engines used to attack enemy
fortifications from long range. Artillery pieces detailed in
AP: This is the number of activation points required to activate Domains at War include ballista (two-armed siege weapons
the siege tower and any crew in the same or an adjacent hex. hurling bolts or small stones), catapults (one-armed stone-
When activated, the siege tower and its constituent crew may hurling siege weapons), and trebuchets (huge one-armed
hustle one hex. stone-hurling siege weapons). See D@W: Campaigns, Artillery
Siege Tower Commanders: Each siege tower must have and Siege Equipment (p. 43) for costs and details on artillery.
a commander in charge of it and its crew. A siege towers
commander may also be in charge of the siege towers troop and
60 Artillery Units
When deployed in D@W: Battles, artillery should be organized The target must be at a range equal to or greater than
into units. A unit of artillery represents a battery of between 1 the artillerys minimum range, and less than or equal
and 10 artillery pieces. The crew for a unit may range from 10 to the artillerys maximum range. Range is measured
to 120 men, depending on the size of the artillery piece. The by counting the number of hexes from the artillery
characteristics for artillery units are listed in the table below. unit to the target (excluding the artillery units hex, but
including the targets hex). The Artillery Range table
Veteran artillery crews will have attack throws of 10+. Artillery lists the minimum and maximum ranges of Artillery.
crewed by other races will use their races base attack throw, as The target must be within the firing arc of the
determined by their hit dice. attacker. A target is within the attackers firing arc if
an imaginary line drawn straight from the center
ARTILLERY MOVEMENT of the attackers hex to the center of the targets hex
would exit the attackers hex through the attackers
All artillery units move as War Machinery. They have a
front hexes. When the imaginary line exits at the
movement rate of -/1/- (so any movement by an artillery vertex between the attackers front hex and flank hex,
unit will prevent it from firing). War Machinery cannot cross it counts as within the firing arc.
swamps, streams, trenches, ditches, walls or moats, and cannot The target must not be threatening or threatened by
defend (p. 24) or charge. War Machinery can ready to attack the attacker or a unit on the attackers side. Firing into
(p. 25), however. a melee is too risky to the attackers allies.
The target must either be a fortified structure, or the
MELEE ATTACKS BY ARTILLERY closest enemy unit that meets the three requirements
Like other units, artillery units are capable of melee attacks. above, or one of the closest if multiple enemies are
An artillery units melee attacks represent the members of the equidistant.
artillery crew fighting hand-to-hand, and are handled according Armor Class: All artillery units heavier than light ballista and
to the rules for Attack Sequences (p. 20). light repeating ballista may ignore Armor Class when making
missile attacks on enemy units (characters do get their AC
MISSILE ATTACKS BY ARTILLERY benefit against artillery). Artillery units never ignore the AC of
An artillery units missile attacks are handled according to the structures.
rules for Attack Sequences. The following special rules apply:
Attacks versus Characters and Units: Catapult and trebuchet
Eligibility to Attack: In order to be eligible to make missile units have difficulty striking small, fast-moving characters.
attacks, an artillery unit must meet the following requirements:
Assaults
They suffer a penalty of -4 on attack throws against man-sized
The artillery unit must have stood fast during its heroes and -2 on attack throws against large heroes. They suffer
movement sequence. Because all artillery movement a -3 penalty on attack throws per hex that a target hero or unit
is effectively hustling, artillery cannot move and fire in moved in its last movement sequence. Ballista units do not
the same combat round. suffer these penalties.
The artillery must not have any reload tokens. Reload
tokens track the amount of time required to reload the EXAMPLE #1: A Heavy Catapult unit with a missile attack
artillery after it fires. Place the number of reloading throw of 11+ fires on an enemy Bowmen unit with an AC 2
tokens indicated for that artillery when it completes that moved two hexes during its last movement sequence.
its missile attack sequence. At the conclusion of each The Heavy Catapult unit may ignore the enemy units AC.
movement sequence in which the artillery unit stood However, the artillerys attack throw is penalized by six
fast, remove one reload token from the unit. points because the Bowmen unit moved two hexes during its
The artillery unit must not be threatened by another last movement sequence. The Heavy Catapult unit will need
unit. Threatened units may only make melee attacks. to roll 17+ to successfully hit the Bowmen unit.
Artillery Range
EXAMPLE #2: A Light Ballista unit with a missile attack
Weapon Minimum Maximum throw of 11+ fires on an enemy Bowmen unit with an AC
Ballista, Light 1 hex 8 hexes 2 that moved two hexes during its last movement sequence.
Ballista, Light Repeating 1 hex 8 hexes The Light Ballista units attack is penalized by two points by
Ballista, Medium 1 hex 8 hexes the enemy units AC. However, it does not suffer a penalty
Ballista, Heavy 1 hex 10 hexes from the Bowmen units movement, as this only applies to
Catapult, Light 5 hexes 10 hexes catapults and trebuchets. The Light Ballista unit will need to
roll 13+ to successfully hit the Bowmen unit.
Catapult, Medium 6 hexes 14 hexes
Catapult, Heavy 6 hexes 14 hexes
Trebuchet, Light 6 hexes 16 hexes
Trebuchet, Medium 6 hexes 16 hexes
Trebuchet, Heavy 6 hexes 16 hexes
Target Eligibility: In order to be an eligible target of an

artillery units missile attack, the target must meet the following
requirements:
Artillery Movement 61
EXAMPLE #3: A Medium Counterweight Trebuchet with Heavy Trebuchet Damage
a missile attack throw of 9+ fires on a visible enemy Hero Troops In 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
with an AC 6 that moved two hexes last round. The Medium Unit HD - HD HD HD HD HD HD HD+
Trebuchet units attack throw is penalized six points by the
61 to 120 4 8 12 17 20 25 29 33
enemy characters AC, four points because the Hero is man-
sized, and six more points because the Hero moved two 31 to 60 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 17
hexes last round. The Medium Trebuchet unit will need to 10 to 30 1 1 2 3 3 4 5 5
roll 25+ to successfully hit the Hero. In effect, it will hit only 5 to 10 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2
on an unmodified roll of 20. 1 to 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Attacks versus Structures: Artillery units usually fire crude

Medium Trebuchet Damage
ammunition against structures. Firing crude ammunition
imposes a -2 penalty to attack throws. Troops In
Unit 1 HD - 2 HD 3 HD 4 HD 5 HD 6 HD+
Line of Sight: Artillery units may volley over obstacles (such as 61 to 120 2 5 7 9 12 14
friendly units, enemy units, or terrain) with no penalty to their 31 to 60 1 2 4 5 6 7
attack throw. 10 to 30 1 1 1 2 2 2
Damage versus Structures: An artillery unit that successfully 5 to 10 1 1 1 1 1 1
hits a structure with its missile attack deals damage to the 1 to 4 1 1 1 1 1 1
structures shp, as explained in Damaging and Destroying
Fortified Structures (p. 54). Light Trebuchet / Heavy Catapult Damage
Troops In Unit 1 HD - 2 HD 3 HD 4 HD 5 HD +
Damage versus Units: An artillery unit that successfully hits a
unit with its missile attack deals damage to the uhp of the unit. 61 to 120 2 5 7 9 12
The damage dealt is determined by the type of artillery unit, the 31 to 60 1 2 4 5 6
HD of the target unit, and the number of troops in the target 10 to 30 1 1 1 2 2
unit. Artillery with a large blast radius deals more damage to 5 to 10 1 1 1 1 1
densely-packed units. Artillery hurling heavier projectiles deals 1 to 4 1 1 1 1 1
more damage to tougher units; a peasant will be slain instantly Medium Catapult Damage
by both a light ballista bolt and a heavy trebuchet stone, but
a giant might survive several light ballista bolts and still be Troops In Unit 1 HD 2 HD+ 3 HD +
crushed by the trebuchets 180lb stone. 61 to 120 2 4 6
31 to 60 1 2 3
To determine uhp of damage dealt by an artillery units missile
10 to 30 1 1 1
attack, consult the tables below. Cross-index the number of
5 to 10 1 1 1
troops in the target unit with its Unit HD. Deal the listed value
1 to 4 1 1 1
in uhp of damage to the target. The target may make a saving
throw versus Blast to reduce the damage by half (round down). Light Catapult / Heavy Ballista Damage
If the target is cavalry (p. 82), double the number of troops in Troops In Unit 1 HD - 2 HD 3 HD +
the unit for purposes of calculating damage dealt. 61 to 120 1 3 3
31 to 60 1 1 2
EXAMPLE #1: A unit of 120 Heavy Infantry (Unit HD 1-1) 10 to 30 1 1 1
is struck by a missile attack from a Light Trebuchet unit. 5 to 10 1 1 1
Cross-indexing the number of troops in the unit (120) by
1 to 4 1 1 1
the Unit Hit Dice (1-1), the Judge determines that the Heavy
Infantry suffers 2 uhp of damage. However, the Heavy Medium / Light Ballista Damage
Infantry make a successful saving throw versus Blast. This
reduces the damage to 1 uhp. Troops In Unit 1 HD - 2 HD +
61 to 120 1 2
31 to 60 1 1
EXAMPLE #2: A unit of 60 Goblin Wolf Riders (Unit HD
10 to 30 1 1
4+1) is struck by a missile attack from a Medium Catapult.
Because the target is a cavalry unit, it is considered to have 5 to 10 1 1
120 troops for purposes of calculating damage dealt. Cross- 1 to 4 1 1
indexing the number of troops in the unit (120, because it is
a cavalry unit) with the Unit HD (5), the Judge determines
that the Goblin Wolf Riders suffer 6 uhp of damage. However,
the Wolf Riders make a successful saving throw versus Blast.
This reduces the damage to 3 uhp.
62 Missile Attacks by Artillery

Chapter 6: Scale
Every army, whether large or of average strength, must be

divided into units and divisions of varying size.
As mentioned in Chapter One, a typical Domains at War battle
should have 10 to 25 units on each side, representing a force I M P O R TA N T N O T E :
of around 600 to 3,000 combatants. The default D@W battle
Why doesnt movement or range change? Remember that while
is perfectly sized for war-mongering barons, earls, counts, and
each hex represents a longer distance, each round represents
dukes, such as most adventuring player characters. However,
some battles will feature far larger armies. The original Auran a proportionately longer period of time, so units will still
Empire playtest campaign culminated with battles between move the correct number of hexes per round. Similarly, while
entire exarchies of the Auran Empire, with almost one hundred each hex represents a longer distance, missile weapons have
thousand troops on the field. Conversely, some campaigns might a proportionally greater effective range against massed units.
include small engagements with just a few score combatants For instance, at brigade scale, a longbows 5 hex range still
on each side. The Scale rules in this chapter can help the Judge represents only (5 x 80 yards) 400 yards, which is within the
handle such small- and large-scale clashes. maximum range of a bow fired at a huge troop formation.
SCALING UP THE GAME

Large battles are handled by using an epic scale. At epic scale, UNITS AT EPIC SCALE
each unit represents a larger body of troops, each hex represents Apart from requiring more troops per unit, units at epic scale
a larger area of ground, and each round represents a lengthier are identical to units at company scale, with two exceptions:
period of time. There are two epic scales available, each named
for the relative size of the units: battalion scale and brigade Unit Hit Points: Multiply the epic units hit points by the uhp /
scale. (Remember that the basic game is fought at company damage multiplier on the Epic Scale table.
scale, p. 10.)
EXAMPLE: A company-sized unit of light infantry has 6
uhp. A battalion-sized unit of light infantry has (2 x 6) 12
BATTALION SCALE uhp. A brigade-sized unit of light infantry has (4 x 6) 24 uhp.
Battalion-scale units are four times the size of company-size
units. Thus at battalion scale, a typical infantry unit represents Unit Damage: Multiply the damage dealt by the epic units
480 foot troops (4 company-sized units) arrayed 40 men wide melee and missile attacks (including any extra damage from
and 12 men deep. Likewise, a typical battalion-scale cavalry charging) by the uhp multiplier on the Epic Scale table. Do not
unit represents 240 mounted troops (4 company-sized units) multiply the damage dealt by heroes (p. 40) or spells.
arrayed 30 horses wide and 8 horses deep. Each battalion-scale
hex is 120' across. Each battalion-scale combat round represents EXAMPLE #1: A company-sized unit of light infantry deals
2 standard combat rounds (20 seconds). Use this scale for battles 1 point of damage per successful attack. A battalion-sized
with 3,001 to 12,000 troops on each side. unit of light infantry deals (2 x 1) 2 points of damage per
successful attack. A brigade-sized unit of light infantry deals
(4 x 1) 4 points of damage per successful attack.
BRIGADE SCALE
Brigade-scale units are sixteen times the size of company-size
units. Thus at brigade scale, a typical infantry unit represents EXAMPLE #2: A brigade-sized unit of heavy cavalry
1,920 foot troops (16 company-sized units) arrayed 80 men equipped with lances charges an enemy unit and hits twice.
At company scale, the unit would deal 3 points of damage
wide and 24 men deep. Likewise, a typical brigade-scale cavalry
1 point for each successful attack and 1 extra point because
unit represents 960 mounted troops (16 company-sized units) it hit with a lance during a charge. Since the unit is brigade-
arrayed 60 horses wide and 16 horses deep. Each brigade-scale sized, it deals ((2 + 1) x 4) 12 points of damage.
hex is 240' across. Each brigade-scale combat round represents
4 standard combat rounds (40 seconds). Use this scale for battles An epic-scale Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, or Flyer unit may
with 12,001 or more troops on each side. The various scales are reduce damage dealt by withdrawing (p. 22) one or more hexes,
summarized on the Epic Scale table below. up to a maximum of its marching movement. The reduction in
damage is multiplied by the uhp/damage multiplier on the Epic
Scale table.
Unit Scale Army Size Troops/Unit Ground Scale Time Scale Uhp/Damage
Company 601 3,000 120 infantry or 60 cavalry 1 Hex = 60' 1 Combat Round = 10 seconds x1
Battalion 3,001 12,000 480 infantry or 240 cavalry 1 Hex = 120' 1 Combat Round = 20 seconds x2
Brigade 12,001 or more 1,920 infantry or 960 cavalry 1 Hex = 240' 1 Combat Round = 40 seconds x4
Epic Scale Commander Qualification Lieutenant Qualification Independent Hero Qualification
Company NPC: 7th level; Monster: HD + 4 NPC: 5rd level; Monster: HD + 2 NPC: 7th level; Monster: 9 HD;
Caster: 3rd level arcane, 5th level divine
Battalion NPC: 9th level; Monster: HD + 6 NPC: 7th level; Monster: HD + 4 NPC: 9th level; Monster: 11 HD;
Caster: 4th level arcane, 6th level divine
Brigade NPC: 11th level; Monster: HD +8 NPC: 9th level; Monster: HD + 6 NPC: 11th level; Monster: 13 HD;
Caster: 6th level arcane, 7th level divine
64 Scaling Up the Game

EXAMPLE: If a company-sized unit of light infantry is dealt

UNIT CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EPIC SCALE HERO
3 points of damage, it can withdraw three hexes to reduce The unit characteristics (p. 40) of an epic-scale hero are
the damage by 3 points to 0. If a battalion-sized unit of identical to the characteristics of a company-scale hero.
light infantry is dealt 6 points of damage, it can withdraw However, in contrast to units, an epic-scale heros damage per
three hexes to reduce the damage by (3 x 2) 6 points to 0. attack decreases with scale divide the damage dealt by the
If a brigade-sized unit of light infantry is dealt 12 points of damage multiplier. An attack by a hero therefore does relatively
damage, it can withdraw three hexes to reduce the damage less damage to a unit as scale increases.
by (3 x 4) 12 points to 0.
EXAMPLE: Marcus attacks a battalion-sized unit of light
infantry. He hits twice, dealing 2 points of damage. Because
OFFICERS AND HEROES AT EPIC SCALE the unit is battalion scale, the damage dealt is divided by
When playing an epic scale battle, you may play either using the battalion-scale damage multiplier (2). The light infantry
the basic rules for officers (p. 14) in Chapter 1, or using the battalion therefore takes 1 point of damage.
advanced rules for heroes (p. 40) in Chapter 4. In the absence
Since each epic scale combat round represents either two or
of heroes, an epic scale game plays exactly like the basic game:
The increase in damage and uhp exactly cancel each other out. four standard combat rounds, each hero receives one or three
As such, its perfect if you want to re-fight a gigantic historical bonus attack sequences each combat round. Each hero takes
battle that didnt have larger-than-life heroes. one bonus attack sequence in order of initiative (p. 17) after the
usual command phases have occurred, repeating this process
However, when using the hero rules, certain additional until all bonus attack sequences have been taken.
complexities are introduced. At epic scale, a hero is still one
character, even as the size of the units he leads and confronts is EXAMPLE: In a brigade scale battle, Marcus confronts
scaling upward from 120 to 480 or more troops. Thus only the Moruvai. Marcus has an initiative score of 5, while Moruvai
most powerful characters can move and fight independently at has an initiative score of 4. Each acts during their command
epic scale, and even these will have a relatively smaller impact, phase. After all command phases, Marcus takes a bonus
especially at the largest scale. A single PC with a wand of attack sequence, followed by Moruvai doing the same.
fireballs can make short work of a 120-man unit. He will run Marcus then takes another bonus attack sequence, and then
out of charges before he destroys a 1,920-man unit. Moruvai takes another bonus attack sequence. Marcus then
takes a final attack sequence, and Moruvai does the same.
QUALIFYING AS AN EPIC SCALE OFFICER OR HERO Sequencing the heros actions in this manner prevents a hero
Epic scale units, being larger and more complex bodies of
from, e.g., alpha striking an enemy hero with three fireballs
troops, require more experienced officers to lead them.
in a way that would not normally be possible in an ACKS battle.
Likewise, epic scale battles have greater dangers, so characters
must be more powerful to qualify as independent heroes (p. Battalion Scale Brigade Scale
Scale
41). The requirements to be an officer or hero at epic scale are Hero Size Visibility Dist. Visibility Dist.
summarized on the Epic Scale Qualification table (p. 64). Man Sized 2 hexes 1 hex
The stricter qualification requirements serve to keep the number Large Sized 3 hexes 2 hexes
of available officers and heroes at a playable level. While there Huge Sized 4 hexes 2 hexes
are obviously still low- and mid-level characters leading smaller Gigantic Sized 8 hexes 4 hexes
sub-formations in the army, they simply lack the power to Colossal Sized 15 hexes 8 hexes
impact the fight in any meaningful way. Just as company-sized
units are subsumed into battalions and brigades, the acts of the
company-scale officers are subsumed into the deeds of the units HERO VISIBILITY AT EPIC SCALE
they are part of. Since each hex represents a wider area of ground, hero visibility
is reduced in epic scale battles. See the table above for visibility
EXAMPLE: A battle is being fought at battalion scale. distance (p. 42) at each scale.
Several PCs and NPCs are present who might qualify as
officers and heroes: Marcus (9th level fighter); Theon (7th
level fighter); Zeodar (7th level bladedancer); Sera (7th level SPELLS AND ITEMS AT EPIC SCALE
thief); and Quintus (6th level mage). Marcus qualifies to be Because the scale of units, hexes, and combat rounds changes
a commander (p. 15) and/or independent hero. Zeodar, by a factor of two to four, many spells and items have different
Theon and Sera only qualify to be lieutenants (p. 15). effects at epic scale.
Quintus does not qualify to be an officer or hero at all.
Phase Activities
Initiative Phase Each commander rolls initiative.
Command Phases Commander activates their divisions units one at a time in order of initiative.
Bonus Attack Sequence #1 Each hero receives an additional attack sequence in order of initiative.
Bonus Attack Sequence #2 Each hero receives an additional attack sequence in order of initiative (brigade scale only).
Bonus Attack Sequence #3 Each hero receives an additional attack sequence in order of initiative (brigade scale only).
Morale Phase Each side conducts any required morale rolls. If either army has entirely routed, retreated, or been destroyed, the
battle is over. Otherwise advance to next combat round.
Officers and Heroes at Epic Scale 65
EPIC SCALE SPELLS range of one hex and the target unit loses 1 uhp if, and only if, it
Except where noted below, mass combat spells have the effects fails its saving throw.
listed in Chapter 4.
Fireball: This spells range is reduced to six hexes at battalion
Bless: This spell has no effect on units at either epic scale. scale and three hexes at brigade scale. A battalion scale unit may
never lose more than 1/32 its maximum uhp from this spell, while
Burning Hands: This spell has no effect on units at either epic
a brigade scale unit may never lose more than 1/108 its maximum
scale.
uhp. Round damage down at brigade scale.
Call Lightning: This spells range is reduced to nine hexes at
Growth of Plants: If cast during a battle, this spell has no effect
battalion scale and four hexes at brigade scale. A lightning bolt
at either epic scale. If cast multiple times before battle during
may be called every 30 combat rounds at battalion scale and
set-up, it can create a one hex growth of impenetrable forest. To
every 15 rounds at brigade scale. A battalion scale unit may
have an effect at battalion scale the spell must be cast 4 times; at
never lose more than 1/32 its maximum uhp from this spell, while
brigade scale 16 times.
a brigade scale unit may never lose more than 1/108 its maximum
uhp. Gust of Wind: This spell has no effect at either epic scale.
Cloudkill: An epic-sized unit that fails its saving throw versus Hallucinatory Terrain: This spells range is reduced to six hexes
Poison takes damage instead of being destroyed. At battalion at battalion scale and three hexes at brigade scale.
scale, the unit loses of its uhp (rounded up); at brigade scale,
Insect Plague: This spells range is reduced to six hexes at
the unit loses 1/16 its uhp.
battalion scale and three hexes at brigade scale. The swarm is of
Cone of Cold: A battalion scale unit may never lose more than lower density at epic scale, and does not block line of sight. Units
/8 its maximum uhp from this spell, while a brigade scale unit
1 of less than 3 HD that are contacted by the insect swarm may
may never lose more than 1/32 its maximum uhp. Round damage take damage. Battalion scale units take 1d4-3 damage, while
down at brigade scale. brigade scale units take 1d12-11 damage (minimum 0).
Cone of Paralysis: The number of uhp lost to this spell is Lightning Bolt: This spells range is reduced to three hexes at
reduced at every epic scale. A battalion scale unit loses 1/8 its battalion scale and two hexes at brigade scale. Other than its
maximum uhp from this spell, while a brigade scale unit loses range, its effects are identical to fireball, above.
1
/32 its maximum uhp. Round damage down at brigade scale.
Lower Water: At battalion scale, this spell creates a two-hex-
Confusion: At battalion scale, this spell disorders one unit wide ford anywhere within three hexes of the caster. At brigade
adjacent to the caster. At brigade scale, this spell has no effect scale, it creates a one-hex-wide ford within two hexes of the
on units. caster.
Continual Light: This spell has no effect on units at either epic Massmorph: If cast during a battle, this spell has no effect at
scale. either epic scale. If cast multiple times before battle during set-
up, this spell can hide one unit. At battalion scale the spell must
Control Plants: This spell has no effect on units at either epic
be cast 4 times; at brigade scale 16 times.
scale.
Move Earth: If cast during a battle, this spell has no effect at
Control Weather: The radius of this spells special weather
either epic scale. If used prior to a battle, it allows the caster
conditions extends six hexes at battalion scale and three hexes
to place terrain hex features. At battalion scale, three one-hex
at brigade scale.
terrain features can be placed within six hexes of the caster. At
Death Spell: At battalion scale, this spell has a range of six hexes, brigade scale, a single one-hex terrain feature can be placed
while at brigade scale it has a range of three hexes. within two hexes of the caster.
Dispel Evil: This spell has no effect on units at either epic scale. Obscuring Cloud: If cast by a 13th level or higher caster, this
spell creates one hex of billowing vapor at battalion scale. It has
Dispel Magic: This spells range is reduced to three hexes at
no effect at brigade scale.
battalion scale, and two hexes at brigade scale.
Panic: At battalion scale, this spell affects all units within a two-
Earths Teeth: This spell has no effect on units at either epic scale.
hex radius. At brigade scale, this spell affects one unit within
Fear: At battalion scale, the unit must make a saving throw one hex.
against Spells; if it fails, it immediately becomes disordered
Prayer: This spell has no effect on units at either epic scale.
and loses 1/8 of its maximum uhp. The unit remains disordered
until the effect is dispelled, the unit leaves the battlemap, or 15 Scouring Wind: A battalion scale unit may never lose more
combat rounds have elapsed. If the effect is dispelled within one than 1/8 its maximum uhp from this spell, while a brigade scale
combat round, the unit regains its lost uhp (the fleeing troops unit may never lose more than 1/32 its maximum uhp from it.
rejoin their unit). At brigade scale, this spell has no effect on
Sleep: This spell has no effect on units at either epic scale.
units.
Stinking Cloud: This spell creates a cloud of foul-smelling
Flame Strike: At battalion scale, this spell has a range of two
vapors in a hex adjacent to the caster. A unit within the affected
hexes and the target unit may never lose more than 1/32 of its
hex must make a successful saving throw versus Poison or be
maximum uhp (rounded up). At brigade scale, the spell has a
66 Spells and Items at Epic Scale
disordered. Whether it makes its saving throw or not, it must to be 360' long and only 2.75' high and counts as a low wall (p.
retreat one hex towards its own map edge. The stinking cloud is 33).
too small to block line of sight at epic scale.
Wall of Stone: This spell creates an opaque wall of stone one
Transmute Rock to Mud: If cast during a battle, this spell has hex long anywhere within one hex of the caster. Except for the
no effect at epic scale. If cast multiple times before battle during material of the wall, it is otherwise identical to wall of force.
set-up, it can create a one-hex area of mud. To have an effect at
Wall of Wood: This spell creates an opaque wall of wood one
battalion scale the spell must be cast 4 times; at brigade scale 16
hex long anywhere within one hex of the caster. Except for the
times.
material of the wall, it is otherwise identical to wall of force.
Wall of Corpses: At either epic scale, this spell creates a one-
hex-long barrier of animated corpses anywhere within one hex EPIC SCALE ITEMS
of the caster. At battalion scale, any unit moving to within two Except where noted below, items have the effects listed in
hexes of the wall of corpses must make a saving throw versus Chapter 4.
Spells. At brigade scale, any unit moving adjacent to the wall
of corpses must make the saving throw. A failed saving throw Drums of Panic: At battalion scale, this item affects all units
causes the unit to suffer the effects of a panic spell. within a two-hex radius. At brigade scale, this item affects one
unit within one hex.
Units which do not fail the save may enter the walls hex if
desired. The wall may be physically attacked by targets in its Helm of Telepathy: At either epic scale, this items range is
hex, or turned or attacked with missiles by units within range. reduced to one hex.
Any unit conducting a melee attack sequence against a wall of Horn of Blasting: At either epic scale, this items range is
corpses suffers a reaction attack sequence. For combat purposes, reduced to one hex. A battalion scale unit may never lose more
treat the wall as a unit of zombies. than 1/8 its maximum uhp from this item, while a brigade scale
Wall of Fire: At either epic scale, this spell creates an opaque unit may never lose more than 1/32 its maximum uhp from it.
wall of fire one hex long anywhere within one hex of the caster.
At battalion scale, the wall is assumed to be 120' long and 10' ASSAULTS AT EPIC SCALE
high. If a unit is adjacent to the wall, line of sight to the unit is Most assaults are small affairs between a few hundred to a few
blocked against all units on the other side. Otherwise, units on thousand troops. These can be readily handled using the rules
elevated terrain can trace line of sight through the wall, but in Chapter 5, Assaults (p. 53), in conjunction with Domains
units at the same elevation cannot. Units with less than 4 Hit at War: Campaigns. However, assaults of fortified cities can
Dice cannot move through the wall. Units of more than 4 Hit be far larger. Judges who wish to play out assaults with tens of
Dice can move through the wall, but will take damage. Units of thousands of troops can use these rules. Be prepared to set aside
man-sized creatures will take 16 points of damage, while units a full day for the battle!
Scale
of ogre-sized creatures will take 4 points of damage and units of
giant-sized creatures will take 2 points of damage. Double the FORTIFIED STRUCTURES
damage if the unit consists of cavalry, undead, or cold-using At epic scales, it becomes impossible to represent the stronghold
creatures. The wall lasts for the duration of the battle or until (p. 53) on the battlemap with any physical accuracy a more
dispelled. abstract method is required. The Judge will need to know the
At brigade scale, the wall is assumed to be 360' long and only 3.5' total shp (p. 53) value of the stronghold. If there is no map
high. The wall does not block line of sight, and any units may for the stronghold, estimate the strongholds shp by dividing
move through it at a cost of one additional hex of movement. the strongholds gp value by 8 and rounding up. (For urban
settlements, use the settlements gp value.)
Wall of Force: At either epic scale, this spell creates an invisible,
impenetrable wall of force one hex long anywhere within one Use the strongholds total shp to determine the size and unit
hex of the caster. At battalion scale, the wall is assumed to be capacity of the stronghold using the Epic Scale Fortified
120' long and 10' high and counts as a high wall. At brigade Structures table, below. Round fractions to the nearest whole
scale, the wall is assumed to be 360' long and only 3.5' high, and number, rounding 0.5 up if odd and down if even. Note that
counts as a low wall (p. 33). hexes and units are in the appropriate scale.
Wall of Ice: Th is spell is identical to wall of fi re except that Once the overall size and unit capacity of the stronghold is known,
damage is doubled against cavalry and fire-using creatures. the Judge should then divide the stronghold into a series of epic
fortified structures of varying size and unit capacity that loosely
Wall of Iron: At either epic scale, this spell creates an opaque approximates the actual structures physical layout. AC should
wall of iron one hex long anywhere within one hex of the caster. be approximately equal to the average AC of the strongholds
At battalion scale, the wall is assumed to be 120' long and 8' high structures. Shp should be allocated in relative proportion, then
and counts as a high wall. At brigade scale, the wall is assumed divided by the SHP Adjustment shown on the table.
SHP Damage Height
Epic Scale Size Unit Capacity Adjustment Adjustment Adjustment
Battalion 1 hex or story / 4,000 shp 1 battalion-sized unit / 4,000 shp 2 x2 x2
Brigade 1 hex or story / 16,000 shp 1 brigade-sized unit / 16,000 shp 4 x4 x4
Assaults at Epic Scale 67
EXAMPLE: A stronghold consists of a keep (6 stories with EXAMPLE #2: A disintegrate spell hits the epic keep.
2,500 shp each) surrounded by six 60' wall segments (each At company scale, the spell deals 125 shp of damage. This
with 2 stories with 450 shp each). Total shp are therefore becomes 62 shp of damage at battalion scale. (Because of
[(6 x 2,500) + 6 x (2 x 450)] 20,400. At battalion scale, the the SHP adjustment applied earlier, the epic keep had its
stronghold has a size of (20,400 / 4,000) 5.1 hexes or stories, shp reduced to , so to keep the disintegrate spells damage
rounded to 5, and a unit capacity of 5 battalion-sized units. proportional, it has to be reduced by half.)
The Judge decides to divide the stronghold into three epic
scale structures. The first structure he designates as the epic SIEGE EQUIPMENT
keep and assigns it three stories occupying one hex, with At epic scales, more equipment is required to equip epic scale
12,250 shp, divided by 2 to yield 6,125 shp. The second and units. The Epic Scale Equipment Requirement table shows the
third structures are adjacent one story wall segments with number of pieces of equipment required at epic scale. Multiply
4,075 shp each, divided by 2 to yield 2,038 shp each. damage dealt by siege equipment (p. 58) to heroes, units,
Note that epic scales larger hexes will compress strongholds on and structures by the appropriate shp adjustment for the scale
the vertical as well as the horizontal dimension. In the example (x2 or x4).
above, the stronghold ended up with a three story keep and one
No. Required - No. Required
story wall segments, even though the original structures were Type of Equipment Battalion Brigade
six stories and two stories tall respectively. This can create
Battering Ram (20') 24 96
anomalies where siege ladders (p. 59) can escalade to structures
that are higher than they could reach, etc. If such situations Cauldron 16 64
arise, use the height adjustment column of the Epic Scale Hoist 24 96
Fortified Structures table to take this into account. Movable Gallery 24 96
Movable Mantlet 240 960
EXAMPLE: During an epic scale assault, orc units equipped Ram Catcher 40 160
with siege ladders wish to enter the top story of the epic keep. Screw (20') 24 96
The epic keep is a three story structure, and siege ladders Siege Hook 40 160
normally allow units to enter up to four story structures. Siege Ladder 48 192
The Judge remembers that the epic keeps height has been
Siege Tower See Below See Below
compressed and applies the multiplier from the height
adjustment column to determine that the epic keep is
Siege towers require special rules when scaling upward. At
actually six stories high. The orcs cannot reach its top story
with their ladders. company scale, each siege tower is represented on the battlemap
individually. However, at battalion scale, four standard or two
Damaging Epic-Scale Structures: When damaging epic-scale large towers are treated as one unit. At brigade scale, sixteen
fortified structures, multiply shp of damage dealt by artillery standard, eight large, or four huge towers are treated as one unit.
bombardment, monstrous units, and siege equipment by the See the Battalion Scale Siege Towers and Brigade Scale Siege
damage adjustment on the Epic Scale Fortified Structures table. Towers tables, below.
When damaging epic scale structures with magic, divide the shp
of damage dealt by the shp adjustment listed on the table. ARTILLERY UNITS
An artillery unit at epic scale requires more artillery pieces.
EXAMPLE #1: A unit of heavy trebuchets hits the epic keep. Artillery units only scale up by a factor of x2 (at battalion scale)
At company scale, a heavy trebuchet unit deals 4 shp of and x4 (at brigade scale) rather than x4 and x16 for other units.
damage. This becomes 8 shp of damage at battalion scale. For this reason, the uhp of epic-scale artillery units are actually
(A battalion-scale unit of heavy trebuchets consists of twice
reduced relative to the uhp of artillery units at company scale.
as many trebuchets firing for twice as long, so the effective
damage from the hit is being increased fourfold. But weve The Epic Scale Artillery Unit Size table shows the number of
already halved the keeps shp, so damage is instead doubled.) artillery required at epic scale and the uhp of each unit. Multiply
Battalion Scale Siege Towers

Siege Tower Size Troop Capacity Artillery Capacity Stories* AC SHP Move Crew AP
4 Standard Siege Towers 1 hex 1 unit 1 unit 4 0 50/story -/1/- (WM) 1 unit 1
2 Large Siege Towers 1 hex 1 unit 1 unit 6 1 36/story -/1/- (WM) 2 units 1
1 Huge Siege Tower 1 hex 2 units 1 unit 9 2 33/story -/1/- (WM) 3 units 1
Brigade Scale Siege Towers

Siege Tower Size Troop Capacity Artillery Capacity Stories* AC SHP Move Crew AP
16 Standard Siege Towers 1 hex 1 unit 1 unit 4 0 100/story -/1/- (WM) 1 unit 1
8 Large Siege Towers 1 hex 1 unit 1 unit 6 1 72/story -/1/- (WM) 2 units 1
4 Huge Siege Towers 1 hex 2 units 1 unit 9 2 66/story -/1/- (WM) 3 units 1
*The listed heights (in stories) for the towers are correct and should not be adjusted by a Height Adjustment multiplier (e.g., brigade-scale huge siege
towers do not reach 36 stories).
68 Assaults at Epic Scale
damage dealt by artillery to heroes, units, and structures by the

EXAMPLE: A company-sized unit of light infantry armed
damage adjustment for the scale (x2 or x4). with javelins can make a missile attack with a range of two
No. Required Battalion No. Required Brigade hexes. A platoon-sized unit of light infantry can therefore
Unit Type Battalion uhp Brigade uhp make a missile attack with a range of four hexes.
Light 20 1 40 1
Ballista
Light 20 1 40 1
Repeating
Ballista
Medium 10 1 20 1
Ballista
Heavy 10 1 20 1
Ballista
Light 10 1 20 1 Illus. 1-16: DRAGON PLATOON
Catapult
Medium 4 1 8 1
Catapult
Heavy 2 1 4 1
Catapult
Light 2 1 4 1
Trebuchet
Medium 2 1 4 1
Trebuchet
Heavy 2 2 4 1
Trebuchet Colossal Creature Units: At company scale, a solitary colossal
creature constitutes a complete unit and occupies one full hex on
SCALING DOWN THE GAME the battlemap. At platoon scale, a solitary colossal creature still
Small-scale battles are handled by using platoon scale. Platoon- constitutes a complete unit, but it occupies three adjacent hexes
scale units are the size of company-size units. A typical on the battlemap. A platoon-scale colossal creature unit must
platoon-scale infantry unit represents 30 foot troops (one- have one of three facings such that it has three front hexes, four
fourth of a company-sized unit) arrayed 5 men wide and 6 men flank hexes, and two rear hexes (see Illustration 1-16). Use three
deep. Likewise, a typical platoon-scale cavalry unit represents unit counters to represent the unit on the battlemap. Multiply
15 mounted troops (one-fourth of a company-sized unit) the units uhp and number of attacks by four (its effectiveness is
arrayed 3-4 horses wide and 4 horses deep. Each platoon-scale quadrupled).
Scale
hex is 30' across. Platoon-scale combat rounds are the same
When a platoon-scale colossal creature units counter occupies
length as standard company-scale combat rounds (10 seconds).
two or more different terrain types, treat it as being in whichever
Use this scale for battles with 120 to 600 troops on each side. A
terrain the majority of its counter is occupying. If each hex of its
comparison of platoon and company scale is shown on the table
counter is in a different terrain type, the commander chooses.
below.
A platoon-scale colossal creature unit
UNITS AT PLATOON SCALE I M P O R TA N T N O T E : may not conduct movement (including
Apart from requiring fewer troops per retreats or withdrawals) which would
If space is an issue at your gaming table,
unit, units at platoon scale are virtually cause any of its hexes to pass through
you might want to play platoon-scale battles
identical to units at company scale, or end in a hex containing another unit
using 1" hexes. You can represent each unit or obstacle unless the unit would be
with three exceptions:
with one 15mm or 25mm figure, or print the entitled to do so anyway (e.g. a Flyer
Unit Movement Rate: Multiply the unit counters at 50% size. above impassable forest). Attacks and
platoon-scale units movement rate effects can be targeted against any of
by two. the platoon-scale colossal creature units hexes.
EXAMPLE: A company-sized unit of light infantry has
a movement rate of 2/4/6. A platoon-sized unit of light BATTLEMAPS AND DEPLOYMENT AT PLATOON SCALE
infantry therefore has a movement rate of 4/8/12. At platoon scale, each hex represents 30' (10 yards). Since each
round is the same length as at company scale, platoon-scale units
Unit Missile Attack Ranges: If a platoon-scale unit has any are able to move and shoot twice as far. Therefore, when fighting
missile attacks, multiply the maximum range of these attacks battles at platoon scale, you must use multiple battlemaps and
by two.
Unit Scale Army Size Troops/Unit Ground Scale Time Scale Movement Ranges
Platoon 120 600 30 infantry or 15 cavalry 1 Hex = 30' 1 Combat Round = 10 seconds x2 x2
Company 601 3,000 120 infantry or 60 cavalry 1 Hex = 60' 1 Combat Round = 10 seconds x1 x1
Assaults at Epic Scale 69

adjust the deployment zones. This will ensure that the armies ATTACKS ON HEROES BY UNITS
have sufficient frontage to maneuver. Platoon-scale units are less of a threat to heroes. For each uhp of
damage dealt to a hero, he takes only 5d6 hp of damage.
Set up four battlemaps in a two by two pattern to create a
battlefield that is 8' x 6' (48 hexes wide and 36 hexes deep). Since Withdrawal: Whenever a hero takes damage from a unit, he
the Deployment Zone tables assume a 24-hex wide by 18-hex may reduce uhp of damage dealt by one or more points by
deep battlemap, you should double the width and depth of each withdrawing two or more hexes (two hexes per point), up to
deployment zone. a maximum of his marching movement. Heroes withdraw
according to the same rules as Loose units, except that the hero
COMBAT AT PLATOON SCALE may end his withdrawal in the same hex as another friendly
Combat at platoon scale is identical to combat at standard hero or unit if desired.
(company) scale, except as noted below.
Withdrawal: A platoon-sized Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, or
HERO VISIBILITY AT PLATOON SCALE
Since each hex represents a smaller area of ground, hero visibility
Flyer unit may reduce damage dealt by withdrawing two or
is increased in platoon scale battles. See the adjoining table for
more hexes, up to a maximum of its marching movement. Every
visibility distance at platoon scale.
two hexes withdrawn reduces damage by one point.
Hero Size Platoon Scale Visibility Distance
EXAMPLE: If a company-sized unit of light infantry is dealt
Man Sized 8 hexes
three points of damage, it can withdraw three hexes to reduce
the damage by three points to zero. If a platoon-sized unit of Large Sized 12 hexes
light infantry is dealt three points of damage, it can withdraw Huge Sized 18 hexes
six hexes to reduce the damage by three points to zero. Gigantic Sized 30 hexes
Colossal Sized 60 hexes
OFFICERS AND HEROES AT

PLATOON SCALE SPELLS AND ITEMS AT PLATOON SCALE
When playing a platoon-scale battle, you may play either using Because the scale of units and hexes changes by a factor of two,
the basic rules for officers in Chapter 1, or using the advanced many spells and items have different effects at platoon scale.
rules for heroes in Chapter 4. When using the hero rules, you
will find that their power will be magnified by the smaller size PLATOON SCALE SPELLS
of the units. Except where noted below, mass combat spells have the effects
listed in Chapter 4.
QUALIFYING AS A PLATOON SCALE OFFICER OR HERO Bless: This spell affects one unit within four hexes of the caster.
Platoon-sized units require less experienced officers. Low- and
mid-level characters can serve as important commanders (p. Burning Hands: This spell blasts one unit in a hex adjacent to the
15) and lieutenants (p. 15) in battles of this scale. The table caster. The damage from burning hands is equal to the casters
below compares the qualifications for commanders, lieutenants, level -1, with a minimum of one point and a maximum of four
and heroes at platoon and standard (company) scale. points. If the unit is mounted, the damage is doubled. If the unit
makes a successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced
to half. A unit may never lose more than its maximum uhp
UNIT CHARACTERISTICS FOR HEROES AT
(rounded up) from burning hands.
PLATOON SCALE
Like units at platoon scale, heroes at platoon scale have their unit Call Lightning: Every 60 combat rounds, the caster may target
movement rates and missile attack ranges doubled. In addition, one unit within 36 hexes with a bolt of lightning. The targeted
heroes at platoon scale are more effective when attacking enemy unit suffers eight points of damage. Damage is doubled against
units. When determining a heros unit number of attacks, cavalry units (p. 82), behemoth cavalry units (p. 86), or chariot
multiply the total by four. units (p. 89). If the unit makes a successful saving throw versus
Blast, damage is reduced to half. A unit may never lose more
Technically the platoon-scale formula is (No. of Attacks + Cleave
than its maximum uhp (rounded up) from call lightning.
Factor x (Average Damage) / 11. See Chapter 8, Using ACKS
Characters with Domains at War (p. 91), for more information Cloudkill: At platoon scale, the cloud moves relatively quicker
on calculating a heros unit characteristics! (due to the smaller hexes). Roll 1d6 during the casters command
phase each round, and on a roll of 1-4, the cloud moves one hex.
Small Scale Commander Qualification Lieutenant Qualification Independent Hero Qualification

Platoon NPC: 5th level; Monster: HD + 2* NPC: 3rd level; Monster: HD + 1* NPC: 5th level; Monster: 7 HD;
Caster: 2nd level arcane, 3rd level divine
Company NPC: 7 level; Monster: HD + 4
th
NPC: 5 level; Monster: HD + 2
rd
NPC: 7th level; Monster: 9 HD;
Caster: 3rd level arcane, 5th level divine
*A beastman chief or sub-chief can always serve as a commander or lieutenant for platoons of its race, regardless of its HD.
70 Officers and Heroes at Platoon Scale

Continual Light: This spell targets one unit within 12 hexes of Flame Strike: At platoon scale, this spell creates a column of fire
the caster. that affects one unit within six hexes. The affected unit suffers
eight points of damage. Damage is doubled against cavalry
Cone of Cold: At platoon scale, this spells area of effect extends
units, behemoth cavalry units, or chariot units. If the unit makes
into two hexes. To find the area of effect, draw an imaginary
a successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half.
line exiting the casters hex through one of his front hexes and
A unit may never lose more than its maximum uhp (rounded
extended straight to the center of a target hex, two hexes away.
up) from a flame strike.
Units in both affected hexes take damage from the cone of cold.
The damage is equal to the casters level. Damage is doubled Fireball: At platoon scale, this spell creates a missile of fire that
against cavalry units, behemoth cavalry units, or chariot units. affects one unit within 24 hexes. The damage from a fireball
If the unit makes a successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is equal to the casters level. Damage is doubled against cavalry
is reduced to half. A unit in the hex closest to the caster may units, behemoth cavalry units, or chariot units. If the unit makes
not lose more than its maximum uhp (rounded up) from the a successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half.
spell. A unit in the hex furthest from the caster gets no cap on A unit may never lose more than its maximum uhp (rounded
the damage dealt by cone of cold (the cone is at its maximum up) from a fireball.
width).
Fly: The caster gains the flying special ability with a movement
Cone of Paralysis: At platoon scale, this spells area of effect rate of 12/24/36. The spell lasts for the duration of the battle or
extends into two hexes, as per cone of cold above. A unit in the until dispelled.
hex closest to the caster must make a saving throw versus Spells Growth of Plants: This spell creates a 3-hex growth of
or lose its uhp, representing one-quarter of the troops being impenetrable forest that blocks line of sight. It may be placed
paralyzed. A unit in the hex furthest from the caster must make anywhere within 12 hexes of the caster.
a saving throw versus Spells or lose all of its uhp, representing
the entire unit being paralyzed. The damage is removed if the Gust of Wind: At platoon scale, this spells area of effect extends
spell is dispelled before the unit moves or is dealt damage by into two hexes, as per cone of cold above. A unit in an affected
a melee attack. (Once the unit moves, it is assumed to have left hex must make a saving throw versus Blast; if it fails, it may not
its paralyzed troops behind. Once the unit is dealt damage by a move or use missile weapons next combat round.
melee attack, paralyzed troops are assumed to have been slain.) Hallucinatory Terrain: The caster creates a 3-hex illusionary
terrain piece of the casters choice. It may be placed up to 24
Confusion: At platoon scale, this spell disorders one unit within
hexes away from the caster.
four hexes of the caster.
Insect Plague: This spell creates a swarm of insects within 24
Control Plants: At platoon scale, this spell affects one hex of hexes of the caster. The swarm occupies 4 hexes on the battlemap.
jungle, forest, or impenetrable forest within two hexes of the The swarm must be placed such that each of its constituent
caster. hexes is adjacent to at least one other constituent hex (e.g. the
Scale
Control Weather: The radius of this spells special weather swarm fills a contiguous area). The swarm may slowly move
conditions extends 24 hexes at platoon scale. If a tornado is under the casters control; roll 1d6 during the casters activation
summoned, the tornado moves 12 hexes per combat round in each round, and on a roll of 1-4, the swarm may move one hex.
any direction within 24 hexes of the caster. The swarm blocks line of sight. Any units of less than 3 HD
that are contacted by the swarm take one uhp of damage and
Control Wind: Th is spell creates a high winds effect (as per automatically retreat 2 hexes (regardless of battle line, morale,
control weather) in the casters hex and each adjacent hex. It or other modifiers). The swarm cannot move through walls of
lasts for the duration of the battle or until dispelled. fire, and is destroyed by sleep, dispel magic, flame strike, or
fireball. The spell lasts while the caster concentrates.
Death Spell: At platoon scale, this spell has a range of 24 hexes.
Lightning Bolt: At platoon scale, this spell affects 2 adjacent
Dispel Magic: At platoon scale, this spell has a range of 12 hexes. hexes within 12 hexes of the caster. Units within the hexes
Earths Teeth: This spell affects any one unit within 12 hexes of suffer damage from the lightning bolt equal to the casters level.
the caster. If the caster makes a successful attack throw against Damage is doubled against cavalry units, behemoth cavalry
the unit, it takes two points of damage with no saving throw. units, or chariot units. If the unit makes a successful saving
throw versus Blast, damage is reduced to half. A unit may
Fear: At platoon scale, this spells area of effect extends into never lose more than 1/8 its maximum uhp (rounded up) from
two hexes, as per cone of cold above. Units in either of the a lightning bolt.
affected hexes must make saving throws versus Spells. If a
Lower Water: At platoon scale, this spell creates a 6-hex-wide
unit fails, it immediately becomes disordered (if not already),
ford anywhere within 12 hexes of the caster.
changes its facing towards its own battlemap edge, and retreats
two hexes. Thereafter, at the start of the morale phase of each Massmorph: At platoon scale, this spell will hide up to three
combat round, the unit must retreat a number of hexes equal units with an illusion that they are a three-hex piece of Forest/
to its hustling movement rate towards the friendly map edge. Jungle terrain.
This continues until the effect is dispelled, the unit leaves the Move Earth: When cast, this spell enables the caster to place or
battlemap, or 30 combat rounds have elapsed. The unit may not remove terrain features, including hills, broken ground, mud,
be activated while the spell is in effect. trenches, and walls, within 24 hexes. This spell creates a 1-hex
terrain feature every 15 combat rounds. This spell may be used
Spells and Items at Platoon Scale 71
prior to a battle, during set up, to place 16 3-hex terrain features (or unit of zombies (see Chapter 7, Rosters, for unit characteristics
48 1-hex terrain features) anywhere within 24 hexes of the caster. of zombies). The wall will last for the duration of the battle, or
until dispelled or disintegrated. The wall of corpses may also be
Obscuring Cloud: At platoon scale, the cloud fills one hex if the physically attacked or turned as if it were a unit of zombies.
caster is 2nd to 4th level; two hexes if 5th to 7th level; three hexes if
8th to 10th level; and four hexes if 11th level or higher. Wall of Fire: At platoon scale, this spell creates an opaque wall
of fire 4 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster.
Panic: At platoon scale, this spell affects all units within an
eight-hex radius. Wall of Force: At platoon scale, this spell creates an invisible,
impenetrable wall of force 4 hexes long anywhere within 4
Prayer: At platoon scale, this spell affects one unit within six hexes of the caster.
hexes of the caster.
Wall of Ice: At platoon scale, this spell creates an opaque wall of
Scouring Wind: At platoon scale, this spells area of effect ice 4 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster.
extends into two hexes, as per cone of cold above. The damage
is equal to the casters level -1. Damage is doubled against Wall of Iron: At platoon scale, this spell creates an opaque wall
cavalry units, behemoth cavalry units, or chariot units. If the if iron 3 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster.
unit makes a successful saving throw versus Blast, damage is Wall of Stone: At platoon scale, this spell creates an opaque wall
reduced to half. . However, if the unit fails its save, it may not of stone 3 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster.
move or use missile weapons during the next combat round.
A unit in the hex closest to the caster may not lose more than Wall of Wood: At platoon scale, this spell creates an opaque
its maximum uhp (rounded up) from the spell. A unit in the wall of wood 4 hexes long anywhere within 2 hexes of the caster.
hex furthest from the caster gets no cap on the damage dealt by
scouring wind (the cone is at its maximum width). PLATOON SCALE ITEMS
Sleep: At platoon scale, this spell affects one unit of 4 Hit Dice or Except where noted below, items have the effects listed in
less within 24 hexes. Chapter 4.
Transmute Rock to Mud: At platoon scale, this spell creates Drums of Panic: At platoon scale, this item affects all units
a deep morass of mud filling 4 hexes on the battlemap. The within an 8-hex radius.
mud must be placed such that each of its constituent hexes is Helm of Telepathy: At platoon scale, this items range is
adjacent to at least one other constituent hex (e.g. the mud fills increased to 4 hexes.
a contiguous area). The mud may be placed anywhere within 12
hexes of the caster. Horn of Blasting: At platoon scale, this items area of effect
is increased to 3 hexes. To find the area of effect, draw an
Wall of Corpses: At platoon scale, this spell creates a horrific imaginary line exiting the casters hex through one of his front
barrier of animated corpses 4 hexes long anywhere within 4 hexes and extended straight to the center of a target hex, three
hexes of the caster. Any unit moving to within 8 hexes of the hexes away. Units in each affected hex take damage from the
wall of corpses must make a saving throw versus Spells; if it fails, horn of blasting. The unit in the two hexes closest to the horn
it suffers the effects of a fear spell. Any unit moving adjacent to takes 1 point of damage. The unit in the third hex, furthest
the wall of corpses suffers a reaction attack sequence as if from a from the horn, takes 2 points of damage. Cavalry suffer double
Fortified Structures at Platoon Scale

Fortified Structure Size Unit Capacity Stories AC SHP
Barbican (gatehouse, 2 small towers) Treat as three separate structures one gatehouse and two small towers
Gatehouse, stone, 20' high, 30' x 20' 1 hex 3/2 stories 2 6 500/story
Keep, stone, square, 80' high, 60' square 4 hexes (2 x 2) 2/hex/story 6 6 625/hex/story
Palisade, wooden, 10' high, 30' long, 1" thick 1 hex long 1 1 2 2
Palisade, wooden, 20' high, 30' long, 1" thick 1 hex long 2/story 2* 2 3
Rampart, earth, 10' high, 30' long, 15' thick 1 hex long 1 1 4 225
Rampart, earth, 20' high, 30' long, 15' thick 1 hex long 2/story 2* 4 450
Round tower, stone, 30' high, 20' diameter 1 hex 2/3 stories 3 7 250/story
Round tower, stone, 40' high, 20' diameter 1 hex 1/story 4 7 250/story
Round tower, stone, 40' high, 30' diameter 1 hex 2/story 4 7 400/story
Round tower, stone, 60' high, 30' diameter 1 hex 3/ story 6 7 400/story
Square tower, stone, 40' high, 30' square 1 hex 2/story 4 6 400/story
Square tower, stone, 60' high, 30' square 1 hex 3/story 6 6 400/story
Wall, stone, 10' high, 30' long, 10' thick 1 hex long 1 1 6 225
*Walls have battlemented wall-walks as the top story; additional stories represent wall-walks below the battlements
72 Spells and Items at Platoon Scale
damage from a horn of blasting. The affected unit must also DAMAGE FROM SIEGES PRECEDING THE ASSAULT AT
make a saving throw versus Spells or be deafened and unable to PLATOON SCALE
be activated for one combat round. The targeted unit gets no cap When using D@W: Campaigns to reduce a stronghold prior to an
on the damage dealt by the horn. assault, each 1,000 shp of damage dealt before the battle creates
a breach (p. 53) that an assaulting unit can exploit. At platoon
scale, allow the besieging army to allocate these breaches to
ASSAULTS AT PLATOON SCALE specific fortified structures (or stories of multi-story structures)
Platoon scale can be used to resolve assaults on remote towers,
on a 2:1 basis. Since the fortified structures are represented at a
small keeps, isolated homesteads, and other fortified structures
more granular level, each breach actually represent two smaller
(p. 53) that do not necessarily demand an army of hundreds or
thousands to capture. (30') holes.
EXAMPLE: A 4-story square tower (400 shp/story, 1,600shp

FORTIFIED STRUCTURES total) has been under siege for days and has suffered 1,000
At platoon scale, fortified structures occupy a relatively greater shp of damage. A final assault is underway. A besieger
footprint on the battlemap and can hold more units. Use the dealing 1,000 shp of damage would normally create one
Fortified Structures at Platoon Scale table, above, to determine breach. However, because of the small size of the stronghold
the structure's size, unit capacity, and other characteristics. (just one tower), the Judge decides to resolve the assault
at platoon scale. The besieger can therefore allocate two
breaches.
DAMAGING AND DESTROYING FORTIFIED
STRUCTURES AT PLATOON SCALE
The damage dealt to structures from artillery, battering rams, SIEGE EQUIPMENT
and monstrous units (p. 54-55) will vary at platoon scale. At the company scale, it generally requires 6 or 10 pieces of siege
equipment to equip a unit. Since platoon-scale units are the
Artillery: At platoon scale, artillery units are much smaller size of company-scale units, this means it usually takes 1.5 and
those capable of damaging structures consist of just one artillery 2.5 pieces of siege equipment to equip a platoon-scale unit. The
piece each. The Artillery Bombardment at Platoon Scale table Platoon-Scale Equipment Requirement table, below, shows the
shows the shp of damage that a hit by an artillery unit will deal number of pieces of equipment required at platoon scale.
to wooden and stone fortified structures.
Platoon-Scale Equipment Requirement
Artillery Bombardment at Platoon Scale
Type of Equipment No. Required at Platoon Scale
Artillery Unit v. Wood v. Stone
Battering Ram (20') 3 per 2 units (minimum 2)
1 Medium Ballista 10 -
Cauldron 1
1 Heavy Ballista 10 1
Hoist 3 per 2 units (minimum 2)
Scale
1 Light Catapult 10 1
Movable Gallery 5 per 2 units (minimum 2)
1 Medium Catapult 15 1d2
Movable Mantlet 5 per 2 units (minimum 3)
1 Heavy Catapult 20 2
Ram Catcher 5 per 2 units (minimum 3)
1 Light Trebuchet 20 2
Screw (20') 3 per 2 units (minimum 2)
1 Medium Trebuchet 30 3
Siege Hook 5 per 2 units (minimum 3)
1 Heavy Trebuchet 40 4
Siege Ladder 3
Siege Tower, Standard 1 (see below)
Battering Rams: At platoon scale, a successful attack by a ram-
Siege Tower, Large N/A
equipped unit deals 5d4 shp of damage to wooden structures
and 1d4 shp of damage to stone structures. Siege Tower, Huge N/A
Monstrous Units: Because they include fewer creatures, platoon- EXAMPLE: Marcus has four platoon-scale units of heavy
scale monstrous units deal less damage to fortified structures. infantry. He wishes to equip two units with battering rams,
The Platoon-Scale Monster Size v. Wood and Stone table shows one unit with movable mantlets, and one unit with hoists.
the shp of damage each attack will deal, given the constituent It takes three 20' battering rams to equip two units. It takes
three movable mantlets to equip one unit. (It would only
creatures size and the type of structure (wood or stone).
take two more mantlets to equip a second unit.) It takes two
Platoon-Scale Monster Size v. Wood v. Stone hoists to equip one unit. (It would take one more hoist to
equip a second unit.)
Huge 1d4 -
(adult dragon, giant, wyvern) Siege Towers: Only standard-sized siege towers may be used in
Gigantic 5d4 1d4 platoon-scale assaults. The table below gives the platoon-scale
(mastodon, old dragon, tyrannosaurus)
characteristics of the tower.
Colossal 5d4 2d4
(ancient dragon, dragon turtle, giant roc)
Siege Tower Size Troop Capacity Artillery Capacity Stories AC SHP Move Crew AP
Standard 1 hex 1 unit / 2 stories 1 unit / story 4 0 25/story -/1/- (WM) 4 units 4
Assaults at Platoon Scale 73

Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks Unit Missile Attacks
Unit Type Move Form AC HD HP Morale & Attack Throws & Attack Throws
2 Light Ballista 0/1 WM 0 1 1 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
2 Light Repeating Ballista 0/1 WM 0 1 1 0 1 shortsword 11+ 2 missile attacks 11+
1 reload token
1 Medium Ballista 0/1 WM 1 1 2 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Heavy Ballista 0/1 WM 1 1 3 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Light Catapult 0/1 WM 0 1 2 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Medium Catapult 0/1 WM 1 1 2 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Heavy Catapult 0/1 WM 1 1 3 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
1 Light Trebuchet 0/1 WM 1 1 3 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
1 Medium Trebuchet 0/1 WM 1 1 6 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
1 Heavy Trebuchet 0/1 WM 2 1 8 0 1 shortsword 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
2 reload tokens
ARTILLERY UNITS
When deployed at platoon scale, artillery units are much smaller,
consisting of just two light ballista or one piece of greater size.
The characteristics for artillery units are as shown in the table
above.
Missile Attacks by Platoon-Scale Artillery: When platoon-
scale artillery deals uhp of damage to platoon-scale units,
consult the tables below. These tables replace those in Chapter 5.
Heavy Trebuchet Damage to Platoon-Scale Units Medium Catapult Damage to Platoon-Scale Units
Troops In 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Troops In Unit 1 HD 2 HD+ 3 HD +
Unit HD - HD HD HD HD HD HD HD+ 31 to 60 2 4 6
31 to 60 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 11 to 30 1 2 3
11 to 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 8 5 to 10 1 1 1
5 to 10 1 1 2 3 3 4 5 5 1 to 4 1 1 1
1 to 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 1
Medium Trebuchet Damage to Platoon-Scale Units Light Catapult / Heavy Ballista Damage
Troops In to Platoon-Scale Units
Unit 1 HD - 2 HD 3 HD 4 HD 5 HD 6 HD+ Troops In Unit 1 HD - 2 HD 3 HD +
31 to 60 2 4 6 8 10 12 31 to 60 1 3 3
11 to 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 11 to 30 1 1 2
5 to 10 1 1 1 2 2 2 5 to 10 1 1 1
1 to 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 to 4 1 1 1
Lt. Trebuchet / Hvy. Catapult Dmg. to Platoon-Scale Units Medium / Light Ballista Damage to Platoon-Scale Units
Troops In Unit 1 HD - 2 HD 3 HD 4 HD 5 HD + Troops In Unit 1 HD - 2 HD +
31 to 60 2 5 7 9 12 31 to 60 1 2
11 to 30 1 2 4 5 6 11 to 30 1 1
5 to 10 1 1 1 2 2 5 to 10 1 1
1 to 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 to 4 1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1
74 Assaults at Platoon Scale

Chapter 7: Rosters
Having discussed the principles of organizing and commanding

troopswe must now discuss the tactics and characteristics of
each race which may cause trouble to our realm.
The tables in this chapter provide the Domains at War: Battles are described. The order in which the troops are presented is
characteristics for a variety of demi-human, human, beastman, identical to that used in the Troop Characteristics Summary
and exotic units. All mercenaries and followers presented in in D@W: Campaigns so that you can easily find D@W: Battles
the Adventurer Conqueror King System core rules and Players characteristics for your troops.
Companion and Domains at War: Campaigns supplement
DEMI-HUMAN UNITS
Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks & Unit Missile Attacks &
Unit Type Move Form AC HD HP Morale Attack Throws Attack Throws
Dwarven Units
120 Heavy Infantry A 1/2/3 FF 6 1 8 0 3 spear & shield 10+ or 3 spear 10+
3 hand axe & shield 10+
120 Heavy Infantry B 1/2/3 FF 6 1 8 0 4 great axe 10+ -
120 Heavy Infantry C 2/3/4 FF 6 1 8 0 3 war hammer & shield 10+ -
120 Heavy Infantry D 2/3/4 FF 5 1 8 0 3 battle axe & shield 10+ -

120 Crossbow 2/3/4 FF 4 1 8 0 2 dagger 10+ 3 arbalest 10+
120 Mounted Crossbow 2/4/6 FM 3 1 8 +1 3 hand axe 10+ 2 crossbow 10+
Charge: 1 kick 9+
Elven Units
120 Light Infantry 2/4/6 FF 3 1+1 10 -1 3 spear & shield 9+ or 3 spear 9+
3 short sword & shield 9+
120 Heavy Infantry A 2/3/4 FF 5 1+1 10 0 3 spear & shield 9+ or 3 spear 9+
3 sword & shield 9+
120 Heavy Infantry B 1/2/3 FF 6 1+1 10 0 3 spear & shield 9+ or 3 spear 9+
3 sword & shield 9+
120 Bowmen 2/4/6 LF 2 1+1 10 -1 2 dagger 9+ 3 shortbow 9+
120 Longbowmen 2/3/4 LF 4 1+1 10 0 3 sword 9+ 3 longbow 9+
60 Light Cavalry 4/8/12 FM 3 1+1 10 +1 3 lance & shield 9+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 9+
60 Horse Archers 4/8/12 LM 3 1+1 10 +1 3 scimitar & shield 9+ 3 composite bow 9+
60 Cataphract Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 7 1+1 10 +2 3 lance & shield 9+ 3 composite bow 9+
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
Notes: Units that receive bonus attacks when charging have the bonus attack characteristics noted
below their primary method of attack.
76 Demi-Human Units
HUMAN UNITS
Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks Unit Missile Attacks
120 Conscripts/Militia 2/4/6 IF 0 1-1 6 -2 2 spear 11+ 2 spear 11+
120 Light Infantry A 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 javelins 11+
120 Light Infantry B 2/4/6 FF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
2 scimitar or battleaxe & shield 11+
120 Light Infantry C 2/4/6 FF / LF 2 1-1 6 -1 3 great axe 11+ -
120 Light Infantry D 2/4/6 FF / LF 2 1-1 6 -1 2 paired swords 10+ -
120 Light Infantry E 2/4/6 FF 2 1-1 6 -1 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+ or
2 hand axe & shield 11+ 2 hand axe 11+
120 Light Infantry F 2/4/6 LF 2 1-1 6 -1 2 hand axe 11+ 2 javelins 11+
120 Light Infantry G 2/4/6 LF 2 1-1 6 -1 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
2 club & shield 11+
120 Light Infantry H 2/4/6 LF 1 1-1 6 -1 2 hand axe 11+ 2 darts 11+
120 Heavy Infantry A 1/2/3 FF 6 1-1 6 0 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
2 sword & shield 11+
120 Heavy Infantry B 1/2/3 FF 5 or 6 1-1 6 0 3 pole arm 11+ or -
120 Heavy Infantry C 2/3/4 FF 5 1-1 6 0 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
120 Heavy Infantry D 2/3/4 FF 4 1-1 6 0 3 two-handed sword 11+ -
120 Slingers 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 sling 11+
120 Bowmen 2/4/6 LF 2 1-1 6 -1 2 short sword or hand axe 11+ 2 shortbow 11+
120 Crossbowmen 2/3/4 LF 4 1-1 6 0 2 short sword 11+ 2 arbalest 11+
120 Longbowmen A 2/3/4 LF 4 1-1 6 0 2 sword 11+ 2 longbow 11+
120 Longbowmen B 2/4/6 LF 2 or 3 1-1 6 0 2 scimitar & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
60 Light Cavalry A 4/8/12 LM 3 1-1 6 +1 2 sword & shield 11+ 2 javelin 11+
60 Light Cavalry B 4/8/12 LM 2 1-1 6 +1 2 paired swords 10+ 2 javelin 11+
60 Light Cavalry C 4/8/12 FM 3 1-1 6 +1 2 lance & shield 11+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 9+
60 Horse Archers 4/8/12 LM 3 1-1 6 +1 2 scimitar & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
60 Medium Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 4 1-1 6 +1 2 lance & shield 11+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
60 Heavy Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 6 1-1 6 +2 2 lance & shield 11+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
Rosters
60 Cataphract Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 7 1-1 6 +2 2 lance & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
60 Camel Archers 2/5/7 IM 3 1-1 6 +1 2 scimitar & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
60 Camel Lancers 2/5/7 IM 4 1-1 6 +2 2 lance & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
5 War Elephant 2/4/6 FM 7 13+2 4 +2 (U) 4 lance & tusk 8+ 2 composite bow 11+
Charge: 3 trample 3+
Notes: 25% of human units will be veterans (1st level fighters). Veteran
human units have HD 1, 8 uhp, +1 Unit Morale, and +1 to Unit Attack
Throws. Infantry Veterans get +1 to Number of Attacks, while Cavalry
Veterans get +1 to Number of Melee Attacks only. Units that receive
bonus attacks when charging have the bonus attack characteristics
noted below their primary method of attack. Where unit formation
shows two types separated by a slash, the commander chooses which
formation the unit learns when the unit is trained.
Human Units 77
BEASTMAN UNITS
Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks Unit Missile Attacks
Unit Type Move Form Unit AC HD Unit HP Morale & Attack Throws & Attack Throws
Kobold Units
120 Light Infantry 1/2/3 IF 2 4 -2 2 spiked club 10+ or 2 javelins 10+
2 hand axe 10+
Goblin Units
120 Light Infantry 1/2/3 IF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 spear & shield 10+ or 2 spear 10+
2 short sword & shield 10+
120 Slingers 1/2/3 IF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 short sword & shield 10+ 2 sling 10+
120 Bowmen 1/2/3 IF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 short sword & shield 10+ 2 short bow 10+
60 Wolf Riders 2/5/7 IM 3 5 20 +2 2 spear and shield 10+ -
Charge: 4 bite 6+
Orc Units
120 Light Infantry 2/4/6 IF 3 1 8 0 2 spear & shield 10+ or 2 spear 10+
120 Heavy Infantry 2/4/6 IF 3 1 8 0 3 pole arm 10+ -
120 Bowmen 2/4/6 IF 3 1 8 0 2 scimitar 10+ 2 short bow 10+
120 Crossbowmen 2/4/6 IF 3 1 8 0 2 scimitar 10+ 2 crossbow 10+
60 Boar Riders 2/4/6 IM 4 6 24 +2 2 spear and shield 9+ -
Charge: 5 bite 6+
Hobgoblin Units
120 Light Infantry 2/3/4 FF 3 1+1 10 0 2 spear and shield 9+ or 2 spear 9+
2 sword and shield 9+
120 Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 FF 3 1+1 10 0 3 pole arm 9+ -
120 Longbowmen 2/3/4 LF 3 1+1 10 0 2 sword 9+ 2 composite bow 9+
60 Light Cavalry 4/8/12 LM 3 1+1 10 +1 2 sword & shield 9+ 2 javelins 9+
Charge: 3 hooves 9+
60 Horse Archers 4/8/12 LM 3 1+1 10 +1 2 sword & shield 9+ 2 composite bow 9+
60 Medium Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 4 1+1 10 +1 2 lance & shield 9+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
Gnoll Units
120 Light Infantry 2/3/4 IF 4 2 16 0 3 spear and shield 9+ 3 spear 9+
120 Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 IF 4 2 16 0 4 pole arm 9+ -
120 Longbowmen 2/3/4 IF 4 2 16 0 3 battle axe 9+ 3 composite bow 9+
Lizardman Units
120 Light Infantry 1/2/3 IF 3 or 4 2+1 18 +2 5 claws/bite 8+ or 3 barbed darts 8+
3 spiked club and shield 8+
120 Heavy Infantry 1/2/3 IF 5 or 6 2+1 18 +2 5 claws/bite 8+ or 3 javelins 8+
3 spiked club and shield 8+
Bugbear Units
120 Light Infantry 2/3/4 IF 4 3+1 26 +2 4 spear and shield 7+ 4 spear 7+
120 Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 IF 4 3+1 26 +2 5 morning star 7+ 4 hand axe 7+
Ogre Units
60 Light Infantry 2/3/4 IF 4 4+1 17 +2 4 large club 6+ -
60 Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 IF 6 4+1 17 +2 5 great axe 6+ -
78 Beastman Units
EXOTIC UNITS
Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Number of Attacks Unit Missile Attacks
Man-sized Monsters
120 Skeletons 2/4/6 IF 2 1 8 N/A 2 sword & shield 10+ -
120 Zombies 1/2/3 IF 1 2 16 N/A 2 slams 9+ -
120 Ghouls 2/3/4 IF 3 2 16 +1 3 claws/bite 9+ (paralysis) -
Large Monsters
60 Centaurs 3/6/9 FM 4 4 16 0 4 oaken club/hoof 7+ 2 composite bow 7+
60 Dire Wolves 2/5/7 IM 3 4+1 17 0 4 bite 6+ -
60 Griffons 6/12/18 FLY 4 7 28 0 7 claws/bite 4+ -
60 Trolls 2/4/6 IF 5 6+3 27 +2 7 claws/bite 4+ -
Huge Monsters
20 Treants 1/2/3 IF 7 8 11 -2 4 limbs 3+ -
20 Hill Giants 2/4/6 IF 5 8 11 0 4 giant clubs 3+ 3 boulders 3+
20 Stone Giants 2/4/6 IF 5 9 12 +1 6 giant club 3+ 3 boulders 3+
20 Ettins 2/4/6 IF 6 10 13 +1 8 club 2+ -
20 Frost Giants 2/4/6 IF 5 10 13 +1 9 giant weapon 2+ 4 boulders 2+
20 Fire Giants 2/4/6 IF 5 11 15 +1 13 giant weapon 2+ 5 boulders 2+
20 Cloud Giants 2/4/6 IF 5 12 16 +2 16 giant weapon 1+ 5 boulders 1+
20 Cyclopes 2/3/4 IF 4 13 17 +1 13 giant club 1+ -
20 Wyverns 4/8/12 FLY 6 7 9 +1 5 bite/tail 4+ (poison) or -
5 talons 4+ (swoop)
Gigantic Monsters
5 Large Rocs 8/16/24 FLY 7 12 4 +1 3 talons/bite 1+ -
5 Dragons (Adult) 4/8/12 FLY 7 10 3 +1 2 claws/bite 2+ Breath weapon
5 Dragons (Mature) 4/8/12 FLY 8 12 4 +1 3 claws/bite 1+ Breath weapon
5 Dragons (Old) 4/8/12 FLY 9 14 5 +1 4 claws/bite 0+ Breath weapon
5 Mastodons 2/4/6 IM 6 15 5 +2 2 tusks 0+ (charge) or -
5 trample 0+ (trample)
5 Tyrannosaurus Rex 2/4/6 IM 7 20 7 +2 6 bite -3+ -
Colossal Monsters
1 Purple Worm 1/2/3 IM 3 15 1 +2 1 bite (swallow whole) 0+ or -
1 tail sting (poison) 0+
Rosters
1 Dragon (Very Old) 4/8/12 FLY 10 16 1 +2 2 claws/bite -1+ Breath weapon
1 Dragon (Ancient) 4/8/12 FLY 11 18 1 +2 2 claws/bite -3+ Breath weapon
1 Dragon (Venerable) 4/8/12 FLY 12 20 1 +3 2 claws/bite -2+ Breath weapon
1 Giant Roc 8/16/24 FLY 9 36 2 +2 3 talons/bite -4+ (swoop) -
Notes: Units that receive bonus attacks when charging have the bonus attack characteristics noted below their primary method of attack.
Parenthetical notation indicates special attacks; see the special abilities section (p. 48). Dragons may have additional special abilities based on age.
Exotic Units 79
Chapter 8: Conversion
Nature produces but few brave men, whereas care

and training make efficient soldiers.
Domains at War: Battles is designed to be played with characters goblins), HD (bugbears and orcs), armament (pike and bow),
and monsters from Adventurer Conqueror King System or other variances. Mixed units can be quite complex to build,
Campaigns. This chapter explains how to build units constituted as the characteristics of a mixed unit must be derived from the
from a wide variety of ACKS creatures. It also explains how to characteristics of the constituent creatures weighted relative to
use ACKS characters as generals, commanders, lieutenants, and the contribution of each creature type in the unit.
heroes in your battles. Finally, it shows how to determine D@W:
Behemoth cavalry units are a special type of unit in which
Campaigns battle ratings and wages for units created with these
multiple smaller creatures (the riders) are seated on huge,
rules.
gigantic, or colossal creatures (the behemoth mounts).
Chariot units are another special unit type; chariot units have
BASICS OF BUILDING UNITS two to four man-sized creatures (the charioteers) seated on
You have wide latitude when building units for Domains at War chariots each pulled by two to four large creatures.
campaigns. Units may be up to 120 man-sized creatures, and
may include constituent creatures of different size (e.g. giants
and goblins), HD (bugbears and orcs), armament (pike and BUILDING STANDARD UNITS
bow), or other combinations, as desired. However, there are Standard units are homogenous, being made up exclusively of
certain limits: creatures of the same race, class, level, Hit Dice, and equipment.
To build a standard unit, select a creature to serve as the
1. Each unit must have a minimum of 20 men (or other
constituent creature, and write down its ACKS characteristics.
man-sized creatures) and may not have more than
Then use the table below to derive its Domains at War
120 men.
characteristics.
a. Large creatures (such as ogres, centaurs, or
human cavalry) count as 2 men. Standard Unit
Characteristics Derivation from ACKS Characteristics
b. Huge creatures (such as giants or wyverns)
Unit Movement Rate/ Determined by movement and weapons
count as 6 men. Formation carried (see below)
c. Gigantic creatures (such as elephants or old Unit AC Creatures Armor Class
dragons) count as 24 men. Unit Hit Dice Creatures Hit Dice
d. Colossal creatures (such as ancient Unit Hit Points* (Creatures Hit Dice) x (number of
dragons) count as 120 men (i.e. the full creatures) / 15
unit). Unit Attack Throw** Creatures Attack throw
Unit Number of Attacks (No. of creatures) x (no. of attacks + cleave
2. Undead and living creatures may not be part of the factor) x (average damage) / (size factor
same unit. x 4.5)
3. Infantry and cavalry may not be part of the same Unit Morale Creatures morale
unit. *Treat each +/-1 to HD as +/- 0.25 for purposes of multiplying by
number of troops
The simplest types of units to build are standard units, which **Calculate separately for missile attacks and melee attacks.
consist exclusively of creatures of the same race, class, level, Hit
Dice, and equipment (known as the constituent creatures).
MOVEMENT RATE AND FORMATION
Cavalry units are units in which one class of creatures (the
A standard units movement rate and formation is determined by
Conversion
riders) is seated on another class of creatures (the mounts). This
cross-indexing the constituent creatures encounter movement
combination of rider and mount packs more fighting power
rate with its weapons on the Standard Unit Movement Rate and
within a given area, and increases mobility, but increases the
Formations table, below. If the unit carries multiple weapons,
risk from area of effect attacks.
start at the top and work downward, stopping when a weapon
Mixed units are those made up of a variable number of different carried by the unit is reached. If the constituent creatures are
types of creatures. Mixed units may be of any size, and may quadrupedal, the unit will have a Mounted formation type; see
include constituent creatures of different size (e.g. giants and Cavalry Unit Movement (p. 83).
Standard Unit Movement Rate and Formation

Weapons Carried Encounter Movement Rate
60' 90' 120'
Spear and shield; or pole arm 1/2/3 (FF) 2/3/4 (FF) 2/4/6 (FF)
Weapon and shield; spear without shield; or two-handed weapon 1/2/3 (FF) 2/3/4 (FF or LF)* 2/4/6 (FF or LF)*
Dual wielding one-handed weapons 1/2/3 (FF) 2/3/4 (FF or LF)* 2/4/6 (LF)
Bow, crossbow, darts, javelins, or sling; or one-handed weapon without shield 1/2/3 (LF) 2/3/4 (LF) 2/4/6 (LF)
Natural weapons 1/2/3 (IF) 2/3/4 (IF) 2/4/6 (IF)
*Choose when the unit is created.
Basics of Building Units 81

EXAMPLE #1: Normal men equipped with banded plate EXAMPLE: The number of attacks of a unit of 120 normal
armor, spear, sword, and shield have an encumbrance of 7 men (1-1 HD) armed with spears (1d6 damage) is calculated
1
/6, giving them an encounter movement rate of 60'. A unit as (120) x (1 + 0.35) x (3.5) / (60 x 4.5) = 2.1, which rounds to 2.
of these men would be Formed Foot with a movement rate
of 1/2/3.
MORALE
Unit morale (p. 13) for standard units equals the constituent
EXAMPLE #2: Normal men equipped with chain mail creatures morale score. If the unit is composed of guard or
armor, scimitar, and shield have an encumbrance of 5 1/6, hunting creatures of animal intelligence (see D@W: Campaigns,
giving them an encounter movement rate of 90'. A unit p. 32), the unit will be unpredictable (see p. 24).
of these men could be organized as either Loose Foot or
Formed Foot. In either formation the unit would have a
movement rate of 2/3/4. EXAMPLES OF BUILDING STANDARD UNITS
EXAMPLE #1: Lets build a standard unit of man-sized
Irregular Foot: Regardless of how they are equipped, the creatures, consisting of 120 heavy infantry armed with spear
following troops are always Irregular Foot (IF): untrained and shield. Heavy infantry have an encounter movement
conscripts, untrained militia, undead, and beastmen other than of 60'. Cross-indexing their 60' movement rate with their
hobgoblins. armament of spear and shield, we see that the unit is Formed
Foot (FF) with a movement rate of 1/2/3.
HIT DICE AND HIT POINTS Heavy infantry have AC 6, so Unit AC is 6. Heavy infantry
Sometimes the constituent creature will have a bonus or penalty have 1-1 HD, so Unit Hit Dice is 1-1. For the purposes of
to its Hit Dice. For instance, a goblin has 1-1 HD, while a troll Unit Hit Points, heavy infantry have 0.75 Hit Dice. Unit Hit
has 6+3 HD. Where this occurs, treat each +/-1 to HD as +/- Points are therefore [(0.75 x 120) / 15], or 6 uhp.
0.25 for purposes of calculating uhp. If the constituent creatures
As normal men, heavy infantry have an attack throw of 11+,
roll d6 per hit die, each d6 HD counts as 0.75 Unit HD. Likewise, so Unit Attack Throw is 11+. Heavy infantry have 1 attack
each d4 HD counts as 0.5 Unit HD. and deal an average of 3.5 points of damage with their spears.
When calculating uhp, round the final value to the nearest As 1-1 HD creatures, their cleave factor is 0.35. As man-sized
whole number. Round .5 down if even, up if odd. creatures, their size factor is 60. Therefore Unit Number of
Attacks is [ (120) x (1 + 0.35) x (3.5) / (60 x 4.5) ] 2.1, rounded
to 2.
EXAMPLE: Normal men have 1-1 HD. A unit of 120 normal
men would have [(0.75 x 120)/ 15] 6 uhp. Heavy infantry have morale 0, so Unit Morale is 0.
ATTACK THROWS EXAMPLE #2: Lets build a standard unit of large creatures,
Some units may have attack throws that differ for their melee and specifically, 60 trolls. Trolls have an encounter movement
missile attacks. In this case, note the attack throws separately. of 120'. Cross-indexing their movement rate with their
armament of natural weapons, we see the unit is Irregular
Foot (IF) with a movement rate of 2/4/6.
NUMBER OF ATTACKS
The formula for calculating the units number of attacks is: Trolls have AC 5, so Unit AC is 5. Trolls have 6+3 HD, so
Unit Hit Dice is 6+3. For the purposes of Unit Hit Points,
(number of creatures) x (creatures number of attacks + creatures trolls have 6.75 Hit Dice. Unit Hit Points are therefore
cleave factor) x (average damage) / (size factor x 4.5) (6.75 x 60) / 15, or 27.
When calculating number of attacks, round the final value to As 6+3 HD monsters, trolls have an attack throw of 4+,
the nearest whole number. Round .5 down if even, up if odd. so Unit Attack Throw is 4+. Trolls have 3 attacks and deal
1d6/1d6/1d10. Average damage per attack is therefore
Cleave Factor: The cleave factor is added to the creatures (3.5 + 3.5 + 5.5) / (3), or 4.2. As 6+3 HD monsters, trolls
number of attacks to take into account the possibility for have a cleave factor of 1.75. As large-sized creatures, trolls
additional attacks when opponents are incapacitated. High HD have a size modifier of 40. Unit Number of Attacks is thus
creatures have correspondingly high cleave factors. Cleave [ (60) x (3 + 1.75) x (4.2) / (40 x 4.5) ] 6.65, rounded to 7.
factor is limited to 2 with arbalest or crossbow, 3 with longbow, Brutal!
and 4 with composite bow, shortbow, sling, or thrown weapons. Trolls have morale +2, so Unit Morale is +2.
Size Factor: The size factor simulates the need for smaller
creatures to form up in greater mass and depth to have the same
impact on the battlefield. BUILDING CAVALRY UNITS
Cavalry units are units of man-sized creatures (the riders)
seated on large-sized creatures (the mounts). This combination
Unit Hit Dice 1 or less 1+ to 2 2+ to 3 3+ to 4 4+ to 5 5+ to 6 6+ to 7 7+ to 8 8+ to 9 9+ to 10 10+
Cleave Factor 0.35 0.50 0.65 0.85 1.10 1.40 1.75 2.15 2.70 3.33 4.15
Unit Consists of Man-sized Creatures Large Creatures Huge Creatures Gigantic Creatures Colossal Creatures
Size Factor 60 40 30 20 10
82 Building Cavalry Units
of rider and mount is called cavalry. Cavalry packs more

EXAMPLE #2: A cavalry unit of 60 normal men on medium
fighting power within a given area, and increases mobility, but is warhorses (180' movement rate) has a unit movement rate of
at increased risk from area of effect attacks. 3/6/9. The unit is equipped with spears, so it adopts Formed
Cavalry units must include a minimum of 15 cavalry. They may Mounted formation.
include a maximum of 60 cavalry. To calculate characteristics Flyers: Regardless of movement rate, equipment, or intelligence,
for cavalry units, pick a rider and mount and write down each if the mount is capable of flying, the unit is always a Flyer (FLY)
creatures ACKS characteristics. Then use the table below to formation.
derive the cavalry units Domains at War characteristics.
These rules are only for units of man-sized creatures seated CAVALRY UNIT ARMOR CLASS
on large-sized creatures. Units mounted on huge, gigantic, or In a mass combat, attacks tend to be evenly distributed against
colossal creatures are behemoth cavalry units, discussed later. riders and mounts. Therefore a cavalry units Unit Armor Class
is equal to the average of the rider and mounts AC. Round the
CAVALRY UNIT MOVEMENT AND FORMATION final AC to the nearest whole number. Round .5 towards the
A cavalry units movement rate and formation is determined by riders AC.
cross-indexing the mounts encounter movement rate with the
riders and/or mounts weapons on the Cavalry Unit Movement CAVALRY UNIT HIT DICE
Rate and Formations table, below. If the unit carries multiple If the mount will fight on after the rider is dead, a cavalry units
weapons, start at the top and work downward, stopping when a Unit Hit Dice are equal to the sum of the rider and mounts
weapon carried by the unit is reached. Hit Dice. If the mount will flee if the rider is dead, a cavalry
Irregular Mounted: Beastmen (other than hobgoblins) are units Hit Dice are equal to the riders Hit Dice. A mount will
always Irregular Mounted (IM) because the riders are ill- fight on after the rider is dead if it is sentient (e.g. rocs), or if it
disciplined. Units with mounts of animal intelligence that can could be trained as a guard or hunter (e.g. dire wolves). In both
be trained as guards or hunters (e.g. dire wolves) are always cases, treat any +/- to HD as +/- 0.25. Round the result off to the
Irregular Mounted because the mounts are difficult to control. nearest 0.25.
Likewise, units with mounts that are not trained as war mounts
EXAMPLE #1: A cavalry unit of 60 goblins (1-1 HD) on dire
(such as riding horses) are always Irregular Mounted. For details
wolves (4+1 HD) has Unit HD of [(.75) + (4.25)] 5.
on animal intelligence and training, see D@W: Campaigns, p. 32.
EXAMPLE #1: A cavalry unit of 60 goblins on dire wolves EXAMPLE #2: A cavalry unit of 60 normal men (1-1 HD)
(150' movement rate) has a unit movement rate of 2/5/8. on medium warhorses (3 HD) has Unit HD of 1-1.
Because the riders are beastmen and the mounts are difficult
to control, the unit adopts Irregular Mounted formation.
CAVALRY UNIT HIT POINTS
When calculating Unit Hit Points, use the unrounded value
for Hit Dice from the calculation above. Then round the final
Cavalry Unit Characteristic Derivation from ACKS Characteristics

Unit Movement Rate/Formation Determined by movement and weapons carried (see below)
Unit AC Average of rider and mounts AC
Conversion
Unit Hit Dice Mount will fight without its rider: Sum of rider and mounts HD
Mount will flee without its rider: Riders HD
Unit Hit Points* Mount will fight without its rider: (Unit HD) x (number of cavalry) / 15
Mount will flee without its rider: 2 x (Unit HD) x (number of cavalry) / 15
Unit Attack Throw** Use either riders or mounts attack throw, based on method of attack
Unit Number of Attacks** Primary: (no. of cavalry) x (riders number of attacks + cleave factor) x (riders average damage) / (180)
Charge: (no. of cavalry) x (mounts number of attacks + cleave factor) x (mounts average damage) / (180)
Unit Morale Mount will fight without rider: Greater of mounts morale and riders morale
Mount will flee without rider: Riders morale
*Treat each +/-1 to HD as +/- 0.25 for purposes of multiplying by number of cavalry
**Calculate separately for each of the rider and mounts missile attacks and melee attacks.
Cavalry Unit Movement Rate and Formation

Weapons Carried 60' 90' 120' 150' 180' 240'
Lance or spear 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (IM) 2/4/6 (FM) 2/5/8 (FM) 3/6/9 (FM ) 4/8/12 (FM)
Bow, crossbow, darts, 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (IM) 2/4/6 (FM) 2/5/8 3/6/9 4/8/12
javelins, sling (FM or LM)* (FM or LM)* (FM or LM)*
Other melee weapons 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (IM) 2/4/6 (FM) 2/5/8 3/6/9 4/8/12
(FM or LM)* (FM or LM)* (FM or LM)*
Natural weapons 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (IM) 2/4/6 (IM) 2/5/8 (IM) 3/6/9 (IM) 4/8/12 (IM)
*Choose when the unit is created
Building Cavalry Units 83
Hit Point value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 down if Mounted units do not receive bonus attacks when charging.
even, up if odd. Flyer units receive bonus attacks when charging only if the
mount possesses a swoop attack.
EXAMPLE #1: A cavalry unit of 60 goblins on dire wolves
has (60 x 5 / 15) 20 uhp. EXAMPLE #1: An Irregular Mounted unit of 60 goblins
riding dire wolves receives bonus attacks based on the dire
wolves attack characteristics. Dire wolves are 4+1 HD, with
EXAMPLE #2: A cavalry unit of 60 normal men on medium an attack throw of 6+, a cleave factor of 1.1, and one attack
warhorses has (2 x 60 x 0.75 / 15) 6 uhp. dealing on average 5 damage. The dire wolves number of
attacks would be (60 x 2.1 x 5) / (180) = 3.5, which rounds
CAVALRY UNIT ATTACK CHARACTERISTICS to 4. The dire wolves therefore have an attack characteristic
The attack characteristics will need to be calculated for each of 4 bite 6+. This becomes the units bonus attack when it
of the riders and mounts methods of attack. Cavalry units charges.
normally use their riders attack characteristics when attacking,
except for their special charge (p. 20) attacks. Charge attacks use EXAMPLE #2: A Formed Mounted unit of 60 normal men
the mounts attack characteristics. riding medium warhorses receives bonus attacks based on
the medium warhorses attack characteristics. Medium
Attack Throws: Calculate the attack throws for the riders and warhorses are 3 HD, with an attack throw of 8+, a cleave
mounts methods of attack separately based on the Hit Dice of factor of 0.65, and two attacks dealing on average 3.5 damage
the rider or mount. The Unit Hit Dice do not determine the each. The warhorses number of attacks would be (60 x 2.65
units attack throws. x 3.5) / (180) = 3.09, rounded to 3. The warhorses therefore
have an attack characteristic of 3 hooves 8+. This becomes
EXAMPLE #1: 60 goblins (1-1 HD), equipped with spear the units bonus attack when it charges.
and shield, are mounted on dire wolves (4 HD). When the
units method of attack is spear and shield, the unit has the Missile Armed Riders: Dont forget to calculate the units attack
goblins attack throw of 10+. When the units method of characteristics with missile weapons if the riders are carrying
attack is bite, the unit has the dire wolves attack throw of 6+. bows, crossbows, or similar weapons.
Number of Attacks: Calculate the number of attacks for the EXAMPLE: A cavalry unit consists of 60 normal men on
riders and mounts attacks separately based on the cleave factor medium warhorses. The men are equipped with composite
of the rider or mount. The units primary method of attack is bows. The riders attack characteristics are used for this
based on the riders. The mounts method of attack may only be method of attack. Th e units number of attacks with its
used during charges (see below). composite bows is (60 x 1.35 x 3.5) / (180) = 1.57, rounded
to 2. The missile attack characteristics for the unit are 2
The formula used to calculate the number of attacks is: composite bow 11+.
Primary:
(no. of cavalry) x (riders no. of attacks + riders cleave CAVALRY UNIT MORALE
factor ) x (riders average damage / (180) If the mount will fight on after the rider is dead, the cavalry
units Unit Morale is equal to the greater of the rider and mounts
Charge: morale score. If the mount will flee after the rider is dead, a
(no. of cavalry) x (mounts no. of attacks + mounts cleave cavalry units Unit Morale is equal to the riders morale score.
factor) x (mounts average damage) / (180)
EXAMPLE #1: A cavalry unit consists of 60 goblins with BUILDING MIXED UNITS
spears riding dire wolves. Goblins are 1-1 HD, with an attack Mixed units are constituted of a variable number of different
throw of 10+, a cleave factor of 0.35, and one attack dealing types of creatures (each a constituent creature). Mixed units
on average 3.5 damage. The goblins number of attacks would may include constituent creatures of different size (e.g. giants
be ( 60 x 1.35 x 3.5) / (180) = 1.57, rounded to 2. The goblins and goblins), HD (bugbears and orcs), armament (pike and
therefore have an attack characteristic of 2 spear & shield
bow), or other variances.
10+. This becomes the units primary method of attack.
As with all units, a mixed unit must have a minimum of 20 men
EXAMPLE #2: A cavalry unit consists of 60 normal men (or other man-sized creatures) and may not have more than 120
with lances on medium warhorses. The men are 1-1 HD, men. Large creatures (such as ogres, centaurs, or human cavalry
with an attack throw of 11+, a cleave factor of 0.35, and one on horses) count as 2 men. Huge creatures (such as giants or
attack dealing on average 5.5 damage. The mens number of wyverns) count as 6 men. Gigantic creatures (such as elephants)
attacks would be (60 x 1.35 x 5.5) / (180) = 2.47, rounded to count as 24 men. Colossal creatures (such as ancient dragons)
2. The men therefore have an attack characteristic of 2 lance count as 120 men (e.g. the full unit). Undead and living creatures
& shield 11+. This becomes the units primary method of may not be part of the same unit, nor may infantry and cavalry.
attack.
Bonus Attacks: A Formed or Irregular Mounted unit will

receive bonus attacks (p. 20) whenever it charges. The bonus
attacks are based on the mounts attack characteristics. Loose
84 Building Mixed Units
EXAMPLE: Lets build a mixed unit of dwarves and centaurs. EXAMPLE: A mixed unit of 60 dwarves (1 HD each) and 30
Dwarves are man-sized creatures, while centaurs are large centaurs (4 HD each) has unit HD of [(60 x 1) + (30 x 4)] /
creatures. We want the unit to have 30 centaurs. Each (60+30) 2.
centaur counts as 2 men. Since a unit can have a maximum
of 120 man-sized creatures, the unit has room for 120 (30 x
2) 60 more. Therefore the unit can include 60 dwarves. MIXED UNIT HIT POINTS
A mixed unit has a number of uhp equal to its Unit Hit Dice,
multiplied by the number of creatures in the unit, and divided
MIXED UNIT CHARACTERISTICS OVERVIEW by 15. When calculating uhp, use the unrounded value for Unit
To build a mixed unit, select a set of creatures to serve as the Hit Dice from the calculation above. Then round the final uhp
constituent creatures, and write down each creatures ACKS value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 down if even, up
characteristics. Then use the tables below to derive the mixed if odd.
units Domains at War characteristics.
EXAMPLE: The mixed unit of 60 dwarves and 30 centaurs,
Mixed Unit Derivation from ACKS
above, has 2 HD. Therefore it has [(2) x 90 / 15] 12 uhp.
Characteristic Characteristics
Unit Movement (hexes) Determined by movement of slowest
constituent and weapons carried MIXED UNIT NUMBER OF ATTACKS
Unit AC Weighted average AC of constituent Calculating a mixed units number of attacks is a multi-step
creatures process. First, calculate the number of attacks contributed by
Unit Hit Dice Weighted average Hit Dice of constituent each constituent creature. Then add these values together to
creatures find the number of attacks for the unit as a whole. Round the
Unit Hit Points (Unit Hit Dice x number of creatures) / 15 final value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 down if even,
Unit Number of Attacks Sum of number of attacks contributed by up if odd.
constituent creatures
Unit Attack Throw Weighted average attack throw of EXAMPLE: A mixed unit consists of 60 dwarves and 30
constituent creatures centaurs. Each dwarf has HD 1, #AT 1, Dmg 1d8. As 1 HD
Unit Morale Weighted average morale of constituent creatures, their cleave factor is 0.35. As man-sized creatures,
creatures their size factor is 60. The dwarves contribute [(60) x (1 +
0.35) x (4.5)] / (60 x 4.5) 1.35 attacks.
MIXED UNIT MOVEMENT Each centaur has HD 4, #AT 3, Dmg 1d6/1d6/1d6. As 4 HD
A mixed units movement rate and formation is determined creatures, their cleave factor is 0.85. As large creatures, their
by cross-indexing the slowest constituent creatures encounter size factor is 40. The centaurs contribute [(30) x (3 + 0.85) x
movement rate with the units weapons on the Standard Unit (3.5)] / (40 x 4.5) 2.24 attacks.
Movement Rate and Formations. If the unit carries multiple The mixed unit has (1.35) + (2.24) 3.59 attacks, which
types of weapons, start at the top and work downward. rounds to 4 attacks.
EXAMPLE: A mixed unit consists of 60 dwarves with

crossbows and 30 centaurs with spears. Dwarves have MIXED UNIT ATTACK THROW
an encounter moment rate of 60', while centaurs have an A mixed units attack throw with its attacks is equal to the average
encounter movement rate of 240'. The units movement rate attack throw of its constituent creatures, weighted relative to the
is based on the dwarves movement rate, giving the unit a number of attacks contributed by each creature type in the unit.
Conversion
movement rate of 1/2/3. The formation is Formed Foot, Round the final value to the nearest whole number. Round .5
because the centaurs are using spears. down if even, up if odd.
MIXED UNIT ARMOR CLASS EXAMPLE: A mixed unit consists of 60 dwarves and 30
centaurs. The dwarves contribute 1.35 attacks to the unit,
A mixed units Unit Morale is equal to the average AC of the
while the centaurs contribute 2.24 attacks. Dwarves have an
constituent creatures, weighted relative to the number of each attack throw of 10+, while centaurs have an attack throw of
creature type in the unit. Round to the nearest whole number, 7+.
rounding .5 down if even, up if odd.
The mixed units attack throw is therefore [(10 x 1.35) +
EXAMPLE: A mixed unit of 60 dwarves (AC 5) and 30 (7 x 2.24)] / (1.35 + 2.24) 8.1. The mixed units final attack
centaurs (AC 4) has a weighted average AC of [(60 x 5) + (30 characteristic is therefore 4 attacks at 8+.
x 4)] / (60+30) 4.67, rounded to 5.
MIXED UNIT MORALE
MIXED UNIT HIT DICE A mixed units Unit Morale is equal to the average morale of the
A mixed units Unit Hit Dice are equal to the average Hit Dice constituent creatures, weighted relative to the number of each
of its constituent creatures, weighted relative to the number of creature type in the unit. Round to the nearest whole number,
each creature type in the unit. Treat each +/-1 as +/-0.25 for rounding .5 down if even, up if odd.
these purposes. Round the result to the nearest 0.25 and convert
it back into +/-.
Building Mixed Units 85

man-sized rider as weighing 16 stone, including gear. If the
EXAMPLE: A mixed unit of 60 dwarves (ML 0) and 30
centaurs (ML 0) has a weighted average ML of 0. behemoth ends up over its normal load, its movement rate will
be halved.
If 25% or more of the creatures making up a mixed unit are
Irregular Mounted: Beastmen (other than hobgoblins) are
guard or hunting creatures of animal intelligence (see D@W:
always Irregular Mounted (IM) because the riders are ill-
Campaigns, p. 32), the unit will be unpredictable (see p. 24).
disciplined. Behemoths of animal intelligence that can be
trained as guard or hunters are always Irregular Mounted
EXAMPLE: A mixed unit of 60 hobgoblins (ML 0) and 30
because the behemoths are difficult to control. Likewise, units
guard-trained white apes (ML +1) has a weighted average
ML of 0. Because more than 25% of the creatures making up with behemoths that are not trained as war mounts are always
the unit are guard creatures of animal intelligence, the unit Irregular Mounted.
is unpredictable.
BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT ARMOR CLASS
The threat posed by a behemoth tends to draw fire onto the
BUILDING BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNITS monster and away from the riders, so the units AC is weighted
Behemoth No. of Man- Behemoth cavalry units are a in favor of the behemoth. The Unit AC is [(2 x AC of behemoth)
Size Sized Riders special type of unit in which + (AC of rider)] / 3.
Huge 2 multiple smaller creatures (the
If the behemoth is carrying a war howdah, increase the riders
Gigantic 6 riders) are seated on huge,
AC by the AC bonus of the howdah when calculating the Unit
Colossal 20 gigantic, or colossal creatures
AC.
(the behemoth mount). When
building behemoth cavalry units, the maximum number of
EXAMPLE: A behemoth cavalry unit consists of 5 elephants
creatures in the unit is determined by the number of behemoths. and 30 riders. The elephants are protected by lamellar
Each behemoth can carry the number of man-sized riders barding, increasing their base AC from 4 to 8. The riders
shown on the table above. The riders themselves do not count wear leather (AC 2) and are occupying a gigantic war
against the number of creatures in the unit. howdah (+4 AC bonus), giving them AC 6. The Unit AC is
[(2 x 8) + (6)] / (3) = 7.33, which rounds to 7.
EXAMPLE: Lets build a behemoth cavalry unit of elephants
and riders. Elephants are gigantic creatures. A unit cannot
have more than 120 man-sized creatures, and gigantic BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT HIT DICE
creatures count as 24 men, so the unit is limited to 5 A behemoth cavalry units Unit Hit Dice are equal to the sum
elephants. Each elephant can carry 6 man-sized riders, for of the behemoths HD plus its riders HD. Treat each +/-1 as +/-
a total of 30 riders. The unit thus consists of 30 man-sized 0.25 for these purposes. Round the result to the nearest 0.25 and
riders seated on 5 gigantic behemoths. convert it back into +/-.
Behemoth cavalry units have some of the characteristics of

mixed and cavalry units. EXAMPLE: A behemoth cavalry unit consists of 5 elephants
(9 HD) and 30 riders (1-1 HD). Each behemoth carries six
Behemoth Unit riders. The units Unit Hit Dice are [(9) + (6 x 0.75)] 13.5, or
Characteristic Derivation from ACKS Characteristics 13+2 UHD.
Unit Movement Determined by behemoths movement and
(hexes) units weapons carried (see below) BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT HIT POINTS
Unit AC (2 x AC of behemoth) + (AC of rider) / 3 A behemoth cavalry unit has a number of uhp equal to its Unit
Unit Hit Dice Sum of riders HD and behemoths HD Hit Dice, multiplied by the number of behemoths in the unit,
Unit Hit Points (Unit Hit Dice x number of behemoths) / 15 and divided by 15. When calculating uhp, use the unrounded
Unit Number of Sum of number of attacks contributed by value for Unit Hit Dice from the calculation above. Then round
Attacks constituent creatures the final uhp value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 down
Unit Attack Throw Weighted average attack throw of constituent if even, up if odd.
creatures
Unit Morale (2 x ML of behemoth) + (ML of rider) / 3 EXAMPLE: The unit of 5 elephants and 30 riders, above, has
13+2 HD. Therefore it has [(13.5) x 5 / 15] 4.5 uhp, rounded
to 4.
BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT MOVEMENT AND
FORMATION
BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT NUMBER OF ATTACKS
A behemoth cavalry units movement rate and formation
Calculating a behemoth cavalry units number of attacks is
is determined by cross-indexing the behemoths encounter
a multi-step process. First, calculate the number of attacks
movement rate with the riders and/or behemoths weapons on
contributed by the behemoths. Then calculate the number of
the Cavalry Unit Movement Rate and Formations. If the unit
attacks contributed by the riders. Use the behemoths size factor
carries multiple weapons, start at the top and work downward.
for both the behemoths and the riders. Add the resulting values
Encumbrance: Since behemoths often end up carrying a lot of together to find the number of attacks for the unit as a whole.
weight (troops, barding, howdah, etc.) be sure to calculate the Round the final value to the nearest whole number. Round .5
behemoths encumbrance. For simplicity, you can treat each down if even, up if odd.
86 Building Behemoth Cavalry units
EXAMPLE: A behemoth cavalry unit consists of 5 elephants EXAMPLE: The behemoth cavalry units trample attacks
and 30 riders. Each elephant has HD 9, #AT 2 tusks, Dmg use the elephants attack throw of 3+. The behemoth cavalry
2d4. As 9 HD creatures, their cleave factor is 2.7. Because units missile attacks use the riders attack throw of 11+.
elephants are gigantic creatures, the size factor is 20. The
elephants contribute [(5) x (2 + 2.7) x (5)] / (20 x 4.5) 1.30
attacks. BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT MORALE
Ancient records of fleeing elephants attest that the morale of
Each rider has HD 1-1, #AT 1, Dmg 1d10 (lances). As 1-1 the behemoth is more important than the morale of its riders!
HD creatures, their cleave factor is 0.35. Because elephants Therefore a behemoth cavalry units Unit Morale is weighted
are gigantic creatures, the size factor is 20. The riders in favor of the behemoth. The Unit Morale is [(2 x ML of
contribute [(30) x (1 + 0.35) x (5.5)] / (20 x 4.5) 2.48 attacks.
behemoth) + (ML of rider)] / 3. Round to the nearest whole
Thus the behemoth cavalry unit has (1.30) + (2.48) 3.78 number, rounding .5 down if even, up if odd.
attacks, which rounds to 4 attacks.
EXAMPLE: A behemoth cavalry unit of 5 war elephants
Trample Attacks: If the behemoths normally receive trample (ML +2) and 30 riders (ML +2) has a weighted average ML
attacks (e.g. elephants), a behemoth cavalry until will receive of +2.
bonus trample attacks whenever it charges. The bonus attacks
are based on the attack characteristics for the behemoths No matter how well-trained, behemoths are large and dangerous,
trample. and even their riders can have difficulty controlling them. If
the behemoths are creatures of animal intelligence (see D@W:
EXAMPLE: Elephants receive a trample attack dealing 4d8 Campaigns, p. 32), the unit will be unpredictable (see p. 24).
points of damage. Therefore, our behemoth cavalry unit of
5 elephants and 30 riders will receive bonus trample attacks PACKING EM IN: DOUBLING THE RIDERS ON
whenever it charges. As 9 HD creatures, the elephants have a
BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNITS
cleave factor of 2.7. As gigantic creatures, their size factor is
Those whove read D@W: Campaigns closely might have noted
20. Therefore the number of trample attacks is [(5) x (1 + 2.7)
x (18)] / (20 x 4.5) 3.27 attacks, which rounds to 3. that you can actually squeeze twice the listed number of
troops into a howdah if you want to! While doing so causes the
Missile Armed Riders: Dont forget to calculate the units riders to suffer a -4 penalty to attack throws and -2 penalty to
attack characteristics with missile weapons if the riders are AC, those who favor quantity over quality might find this an
carrying bows, crossbows, or similar weapons. Use the riders advantageous option. Indeed, during the Middle Ages, Indian
characteristics, but the behemoths size factor. kings sometimes packed 10-14 troops onto the backs of their
war elephants.
EXAMPLE: Assume the riders are equipped with composite To pack em in, simply double the number of riders per
bows. The riders attack characteristics are used for this behemoth, while imposing the appropriate penalties on the
method of attack, along with the behemoths size factor of riders characteristics. Be sure to remember encumbrance:
20. The units number of attacks with its composite bows is Unless the behemoth has a very high carrying capacity, the
(30 x 1.35 x 3.5) / (20 x 4.5) 1.57, rounded to 2. The unit has weight of the men and gear will usually push it over its normal
2 attacks with its missile weapons.
load, halving its movement rate.
BEHEMOTH CAVALRY UNIT ATTACK THROW WALKING TANKS: ARTILLERY ON BEHEMOTHS

A behemoth cavalry units attack throw with its attacks is Behemoths are large enough to hold artillery (p. 60) on their
Conversion
equal to the average attack throw of its behemoths and riders, backs. Massed into units and crewed with troops, behemoth
weighted relative to the number of attacks contributed by each. cavalry can serve as mobile artillery units. When creating such
Round the final value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 walking tanks, first build a behemoth cavalry unit following
down if even, up if odd. the usual rules. Use the standard number of riders, but calculate
their characteristics as if they are packed in (-4 penalty to
EXAMPLE: A behemoth cavalry unit consists of 5 elephants attack throws, -2 penalty to AC).
and 30 riders. The elephants contribute 1.30 attacks to the
unit, while the riders contribute 2.48 attacks. Elephants have Then determine what artillery is mounted on the behemoths
an attack throw of 3+, while the riders have an attack throw following the guidelines below.
of 11+. Huge Behemoths: A huge behemoth can carry one light ballista
The behemoth cavalry units attack throw is therefore [(3 (including light repeating ballista) on its back. One of the
x 1.30) + (11 x 2.48)] / (1.30 + 2.48) 8.24, rounded to 8. behemoths riders directs the behemoth while the other crews
The behemoth cavalry units final attack characteristic is the ballista. Since there are 20 huge behemoths per unit, and
therefore 4 attacks at 8+. 10 light ballistas make up a unit, a huge behemoth cavalry unit
can carry the equivalent of 2 light ballista units. Its firepower
If the behemoth cavalry unit has trample attacks, use the is only that of one light ballista unit, however, because serving
behemoths attack throw for these attacks. If the unit has missile each ballista with just one crew halves the rate of fire (see D@W:
attacks, use the riders attack throw for these attacks. Campaigns p. 44).
Gigantic Behemoths: A gigantic behemoth can carry two
light ballistas, one medium ballista, or one light catapult on its
Building Behemoth Cavalry units 87
back. With one rider directing the behemoth, the remaining weight per behemoth (including ammo), and missile attack
five riders are more than sufficient to crew the artillery (only characteristics for each type of artillery on each size of behemoth.
four are needed for maximum rate of fire). Since there are 5 Note that the attack throws listed are for standard human crews.
behemoths per unit, and 10 light ballistas make up a unit, the Veteran human crews will have attack throws of 10+. Artillery
gigantic behemoth cavalry unit can carry the equivalent of 1 crewed by other races will use their races base attack throw, as
light ballista unit. Similarly, with 5 medium ballistas or light determined by their hit dice.
catapults constituting a unit, a gigantic behemoth cavalry unit
Be sure to calculate encumbrance based on the artillery, riders,
can carry the equivalent of 1 medium ballista or light catapult
unit. barding, and howdahs the behemoths are carrying. Behemoths
vary widely in carrying capacity, and many behemoths will be
Colossal Behemoths: A colossal behemoth can carry 10 light over their normal load when carrying artillery.
ballista, 5 medium ballistas, 5 heavy ballistas, 5 light catapults,
4 medium catapults, or 2 heavy catapults on its back. With one A behemoth cavalry unit carrying artillery is still capable of
rider directing the behemoth, the remaining riders crew the movement based on its (encumbered) unit movement rate and
artillery (twenty are needed). Since there is 1 colossal behemoth formation. It may still attack in melee using its full unit attacks,
in the unit, the unit can carry the equivalent of 1 light ballista and/or use any special abilities it might possess.
unit, 1 medium ballista unit, 1 heavy ballista unit, 1 light Behemoth cavalry artillery can be fired when the behemoth
catapult unit, 2 medium catapult units (2 catapults / unit), or 2 conducts a marching movement, provided the artillery has no
heavy catapult units (1 catapult / unit). reload tokens. If catapults are mounted, they suffer a -3 penalty
The Behemoth Cavalry Artillery table shows the maximum on attack throws per hex the behemoth unit moved.
number carried, total cost (including 20 shots of ammo),
Behemoth Cavalry Artillery

Artillery
Artillery Type Characteristics 20 Huge Behemoths 5 Gigantic Behemoths 1 Colossal Behemoth
Light Ballista No. Carried 20 (2 units half-crewed) 10 (1 unit) 10 (1 unit)
Cost (gp) 1,200gp 600gp 600gp
Weight / Behemoth 10 stone 20 stone 200 stone
Missile Attacks 2 missile attacks 11+ 1 missile attack 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
1 reload token 2 reload tokens 2 reload tokens
Light Repeating Ballista No. Carried 20 (2 units half-crewed) 10 (1 unit) 10 (1 unit)
Cost (gp) 4,400gp 2,200gp 2,200gp
Weight / Behemoth 10 stone 20 stone 200 stone
Missile Attacks 2 missile attacks 11+ 2 missile attacks 11+ 2 missile attacks 11+
1 reload token 1 reload token 1 reload token
Medium Ballista No. Carried - 5 (1 unit) 5 (1 unit)
Cost (gp) - 600gp 600gp
Weight / Behemoth - 46 stone 430 stone
Missile Attacks - 1 missile attack 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens 5 reload tokens
Heavy Ballista No. Carried - - 5 (1 unit)
Cost (gp) - - 1,200gp
Weight / Behemoth - - 1,660 stone
Missile Attacks - - 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens
Light Catapult No. Carried - 5 (1 unit) 5 (1 unit)
Cost (gp) - 800gp 800gp
Weight / Behemoth - 132 stone 660 stone
Missile Attacks - 1 missile attack 11+ 1 missile attack 11+
5 reload tokens 5 reload tokens
Medium Catapult No. Carried - - 4 (2 units)
Cost (gp) - - 1,600gp
Weight / Behemoth - - 960 stone
5 reload tokens
Heavy Catapult No. Carried - - 2 ( 2 units)
Cost (gp) - - 2,000gp
Weight / Behemoth - - 1,960 stone
5 reload tokens
88 Building Behemoth Cavalry units

EXAMPLE: A behemoth cavalry unit consists of 5 elephants BUILDING CHARIOT UNITS

with scale barding and 30 riders in a war howdah. It will Chariot units are a special type of unit in which two to four
carry artillery, so the riders are considered squeezed. The man-sized creatures (the charioteers) are seated on a chariot
elephants contribute (as per the earlier example) 1.30 attacks. pulled by two to four large creatures (the steeds). The maximum
Meanwhile, the riders contribute (per the earlier example) number of chariots per unit can vary from 15 to 30, depending
2.48 attacks. The behemoth cavalry unit has (1.30) + (2.48) on the type of chariot employed.
3.78 attacks, which rounds to 4 attacks.
Chariot units have some of the characteristics of cavalry units
Elephants have an attack throw of 3+, while the riders have and some of the characteristics of behemoth cavalry units.
a squeezed attack throw of (11+4) 15+. The behemoth
cavalry units attack throw is therefore [(3 x 1.30) + (15 x
2.48)] / (1.30 + 2.48) 10.87, rounded to 11. The behemoth CHARIOT UNIT MOVEMENT AND FORMATION
cavalry units final attack characteristic is therefore 4 attacks A chariot units movement rate and formation is determined by
at 11+. cross-indexing the chariots movement rate and the weapons
carried by its riders on the Chariot Unit Movement Rate and
Each elephant is now assigned one light repeating ballista.
Formations table, below. If the unit carries multiple weapons,
This adds 20 stone of weight to its encumbrance. Each
elephants encumbrance is (96 stone from 6 riders) + (24 start at the top and work downward, stopping when a weapon
stone from gigantic scale barding) + (36 stone from the carried by the unit is reached.
gigantic war howdah) + (20 stone from the light ballista), Because of fragile frame and wheels, chariots treat all rough
for a total of 176 stone. Despite the artillery, the unit retains terrain as impassable and all elevated terrain as rough (p. 29-
its full movement rate of 2/4/6 FM. Had the elephant worn
31). Chariots are otherwise treated as normal Loose Mounted,
chain or heavier barding (as do the war elephants in the
earlier example), it would be above its normal load of 180 Formed Mounted, or Irregular Mounted units.
stone.
EXAMPLE: A chariot unit of 30 light chariots has a unit
The behemoth cavalry unit gains a missile attack sequence of movement rate of 3/6/9. The unit is equipped with composite
2 light repeating ballista 11+ (1 reload token), equivalent to bows, so it adopts Loose Mounted formation.
one light repeating ballista unit. Unlike traditional artillery
units, which lack a marching movement rate, the behemoth Irregular Mounted: Beastmen charioteers (other than
cavalry artillery can fire when the behemoth marches. hobgoblins) are always Irregular Mounted (IM) because they
No. of Man-Sized Chariot with Steeds Maximum Chariots

Chariot Type Charioteers No. of Large Steeds Counts As Per Unit
Light Chariot 2 1-2 4 men 30
Medium Chariot 3 23 6 men 20
Heavy Chariot 4 3-4 8 men 15
Chariot Unit
Characteristic Derivation
Unit Movement (hexes) Determined by movement rate of the chariot type
Unit AC Light chariot: (AC of each steed) + (AC of each charioteer) / (total no. of charioteers and steeds)
Medium chariot: (AC of each steed) + (AC of each charioteer) / (total no. of charioteers and steeds)
Heavy chariot: (AC of each steed) + (AC of each charioteer) / (total no. of charioteers and steeds)
Conversion
Unit Hit Dice Steeds will fight without charioteers: Sum of charioteers and steeds HD
Steeds will flee without charioteers: Sum of charioteers HD
Unit Hit Points* Mount will fight without charioteers: (Unit HD) x (number of chariots) / 15
Mount will flee without its rider: 2 x (Unit HD) x (number of chariots) / 15
Unit Number of Attacks** Primary: (no. of charioteers per chariot -1) x (no. of chariots) x (charioteers no. of attacks + cleave factor) x
(charioteers avg. dmg.) / (135)
Charge: (no. of steeds) x no. of chariots) x (steeds number of attacks + cleave factor) x (mounts average damage) /
(135)
Unit Attack Throw Use either charioteers or steeds attack throw, based on method of attack
Unit Morale Steeds will fight without rider: Greater of steeds morale and charioteers morale
Steeds will flee without rider: Charioteers morale
*Treat each +/-1 to HD as +/- 0.25 for purposes of multiplying by number of cavalry
**Calculate separately for each of the rider and mounts missile attacks and melee attacks.
Chariot Unit Movement Rate and Formation

Weapons Carried 60' 90' 120' 150' 180'
Bow, crossbow, darts, javelins, or sling 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (FM) 2/4/6 (LM) 2/5/8 (LM) 3/6/9 (LM)
Lance or spear 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (FM) 2/4/6 (FM) 2/5/8 (FM) 3/6/9 (FM )
Other melee weapons 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (IM) 2/4/6 (FM) 2/5/8 (FM) 3/6/9 (FM)
Natural weapons 1/2/3 (IM) 2/3/4 (IM) 2/4/6 (IM) 2/5/8 (IM) 3/6/9 (IM)
*Choose when the unit is created
Building Chariot Units 89
are ill-disciplined. Chariots with steeds of animal intelligence
EXAMPLE #3: The elven chariot unit of 15 heavy chariots
that can be trained as guards or hunters (e.g. dire wolves) are each drawn by 4 sabre-tooth tigers (8 HD) and each carrying
always Irregular Mounted because the steeds are difficult to 4 elven charioteers (1+1 HD) has Unit HD of (8 + 8 + 8 + 8
control. Unlike cavalry, chariots do not become Irregular just + 1.25 + 1.25 + 1.25 + 1.25) 37.
because draft or riding animals are used.
CHARIOT UNIT HIT POINTS
CHARIOT UNIT AC When calculating Unit Hit Points, use the unrounded value
In a mass combat, attacks tend to be evenly distributed against for Hit Dice from the calculation above. Then round the final
charioteers and steeds. Therefore a chariot units Unit Armor Hit Point value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 down if
Class is equal to sum of the AC of the charioteers and steeds, even, up if odd.
divided by their total number. Note that medium chariots
increase the charioteers AC by +1 and heavy chariots increase EXAMPLE #1: The Egyptian-style chariot unit of 30 light
the charioteers AC by +2. Round the final AC to the nearest chariots each drawn by 2 light horses and each carrying 2
whole number. Round .5 down if even, up if odd. charioteers has (2 x 1.5 x 30) / 15 = 6 uhp.
EXAMPLE #1: A New Kingdom Egyptian-style chariot unit

consists of 30 light chariots each drawn by 2 light horses and EXAMPLE #2: The Hittite-style chariot unit of 20 medium
each carrying 2 charioteers. The horses have leather barding, chariots each drawn by 2 medium horses and each carrying
making them AC 3. One charioteer wears lamellar armor 3 charioteers has (2 x 2.25 x 30) / 15 = 9 uhp.
(AC 5) while the other has no armor but carries a shield (AC
1). The Unit AC is [(3 + 3) + (5 + 1)]/4 = 3. EXAMPLE #3: The elven chariot unit of 15 heavy chariots
each drawn by 4 sabre-tooth tigers and each carrying 4 elven
EXAMPLE #2: A Hittite-style chariot consists of 20 medium charioteers has (15 x 37) / 15 = 37 uhp.
chariots each drawn by 2 medium horses and each carrying
3 charioteers. The horses have scale barding, making them CHARIOT ATTACK CHARACTERISTICS
AC 4. One charioteer wears lamellar armor (AC 5), one The attack characteristics will need to be calculated for each
charioteer wears leather and carries a shield (AC 3), and the of the charioteers and steeds methods of attack. Chariot units
third just wears leather (AC 2). All three are protected by the
normally use their charioteers attack characteristics when
medium chariot (+1). The Unit AC is [(4 + 4) + (6 + 4 + 3)/5
= 4.2, rounded to 4. attacking, except for their bonus charge attacks. These use the
mounts attack characteristics.
EXAMPLE #3: A fantasy Elven chariot unit consists of 15 Attack Throws: Calculate the attack throws for the charioteers
heavy chariots each drawn by 4 sabre-tooth tigers and each and steeds methods of attack separately based on the Hit Dice
carrying 4 elven charioteers. The sabre-tooth tigers have of the rider or mount. The Unit Hit Dice do not determine the
leather barding, and are AC 4. One charioteer wears plate units attack throws.
armor (AC 6) while the other three wear chain mail (AC 4).
Number of Attacks: Calculate the number of attacks for the
All are protected by the heavy chariot (+2). The Unit AC is
[(4 + 4 + 4 + 4) + (8 + 6 + 6 +6)]/8 = 5.25, rounded to AC 5. charioteers and steeds attacks separately based on the cleave
factor of the charioteer or steed. The units primary method of
attack is based on the charioteers. The steeds method of attack
CHARIOT UNIT HIT DICE may only be used during charges (see below).
If the steeds will fight on after charioteers are dead, a chariot
units Unit Hit Dice are equal to the sum of the charioteers and The formula used to calculate the number of attacks is:
steeds Hit Dice. If the steeds will flee if the charioteers are dead, Primary:
a chariot units Hit Dice are equal to the riders Hit Dice. A steed
(no. of charioteers per chariot -1) x (no. of chariots) x
will fight on after the rider is dead if it is sentient (e.g. rocs), or
(charioteers no. of attacks + cleave factor ) x (charioteers avg.
if it could be trained as a guard or hunter (e.g. dire wolves). In
both cases, treat any +/- to HD as +/- 0.25. Round the result off dmg.) / (135)
to the nearest 0.25. Charge:
(no. of steeds) x (no. of chariots) x (steeds no. of attacks + steeds
EXAMPLE #1: The Egyptian-style chariot unit of 30 light
cleave factor) x (steeds average damage) / (135)
chariots each drawn by 2 light horses (2 HD) and each
carrying 2 charioteers (1-1 HD) has Unit HD of (0.75 + 0.75)
1.5, or 1+2. EXAMPLE #1: The Egyptian-style chariot unit consists
of 30 light chariots each drawn by 2 light horses and each
carrying 2 charioteers equipped with short swords. The
EXAMPLE #2: The Hittite-style chariot unit of 20 medium charioteers are 1-1 HD, with an attack throw of 11+, a cleave
chariots each drawn by 2 medium horses (3 HD) and each factor of 0.35, and one attack dealing on average 3.5 damage.
carrying 3 charioteers (1-1 HD) has Unit HD of (0.75 + 0.75 The charioteers number of attacks would be (2-1) x (30 x
+ 0.75) 2.25, or 2+1. 1.35 x 3.5) / (135) 1.05, which rounds to 1. The charioteers
therefore have an attack characteristic of 1 short sword 11+.
This becomes the units primary method of attack.
90 Building Chariot Units

Missile Armed Riders: Dont forget to calculate the units

EXAMPLE #2: The Hittite-style chariot unit consists of 20
attack characteristics with missile weapons if the charioteers are
medium chariots each drawn by 2 medium horses and each
carrying 3 charioteers equipped with spears, which they carrying bows, crossbows, or similar weapons.
wield two-handed. The charioteers are 1-1 HD, with an attack
throw of 11+, a cleave factor of 0.35, and one attack dealing EXAMPLE #1: The Egyptian-style chariot unit consists of
on average 4.5 damage. The charioteers number of attacks 30 light chariots each carrying 2 charioteers equipped with
would be (3-1) x (20 x 1.35 x 4.5) / (135) 1.8, which rounds composite bows. They will receive missile attacks. The units
to 2. The charioteers therefore have an attack characteristic number of attacks with its composite bows is (2-1) x (30
of 2 spear 11+. This becomes the units primary method of x 1.35 x 3.5) / (135) 1.05, rounded to 1. The missile attack
attack. characteristics for the unit are 1 composite bow 11+.
EXAMPLE #3: The elven chariot unit consists of 15 heavy CHARIOT UNIT MORALE
chariots each drawn by 4 sabre-tooth tigers and each If the steeds will fight on after the charioteers are dead,
carrying 4 elven charioteers equipped with spears, which the chariot units Unit Morale is equal to the greater of the
they wield two-handed. The charioteers are 1+1 HD, with charioteers and steeds morale score. If the steeds will flee after
an attack throw of 9+, a cleave factor of 0.5, and one attack the charioteers are dead, the units Unit Morale is equal to the
dealing an average 5.5 damage. The charioteers number of charioteers morale score.
attacks would be (4 -1) x (15 x 1.5 x 5.5) / (135) 2.75, which
rounds to 3. The charioteers have an attack characteristic of 3
spear 9+. This becomes the units primary method of attack. USING ACKS CHARACTERS WITH
Bonus Attacks: A chariot unit that fights in Formed or Irregular DOMAINS AT WAR
Mounted formation will receive bonus attacks whenever it ACKS characters will frequently serve as officers in Domains
charges. The bonus attacks are based on the steeds attack at War: Battles, taking on the role of generals, commanders,
characteristics. Chariots in Loose Mounted formation do not lieutenants, and heroes. In order to use ACKS characters with
receive bonus attacks when charging. D@W, you need to know the characters personal characteristics
including movement rate, AC, HD, hp, attack throw, number
EXAMPLE #1: The Egyptian-style chariot unit consists of 30 of attacks, damage, saving throws, initiative modifier, and
light chariots each drawn by 2 light horses and each carrying special abilities. A characters personal characteristics should be
2 charioteers. The charioteers are equipped with composite calculated according to the rules in the Adventurer Conqueror
bows and short swords, so the chariot unit fights in Loose King System core rules or similar RPG.
Mounted formation. The chariot unit receives no bonus
attacks when charging. If the character will be functioning as a general, commander, or
lieutenant, you will need to calculate his officer characteristics.
If the character will be functioning as a hero, you will also need
EXAMPLE #2: The Hittite-style chariot unit consists of to calculate his unit characteristics.
20 medium chariots each drawn by 2 medium horses and
each carrying 3 charioteers. The charioteers are equipped
with spears, so the chariot unit fights in Formed Mounted OFFICER CHARACTERISTICS
formation. The chariot unit receives bonus attacks based on A heros officer characteristics come into play if he serves as a
the medium horses attack characteristics. Medium horses general, commander, or lieutenant. A heros officer characteristics
have 3 HD, with an attack throw of 8+, a cleave factor of include leadership ability, zone of control, strategic ability, and
0.65, and one hoof attack dealing on average 2.5 damage.
Conversion
morale modifier.
The horses number of attacks would be (40 x 1.65 x 2.5) /
(135) 1.22, which rounds to 1. The medium horses therefore Leadership Ability: A characters leadership ability is equal
have an attack characteristic of 1 hoof 8+. This becomes the to the number of henchmen the character may retain, e.g.
units bonus attack when it charges. 4 plus the Charisma bonus or penalty. If the commander has
Leadership proficiency, the commanders leadership ability is
increased by 1. The maximum leadership ability is 8.
EXAMPLE #3: The elven chariot unit consists of 15 heavy
chariots each drawn by 4 sabre-tooth tigers and each
carrying 4 elven charioteers. The sabre-tooth tigers, as steeds EXAMPLE: Marcus has CHA 16 (+2) and Leadership
that will fight without charioteers, make the unit Irregular proficiency. His leadership ability is (4 + 2 + 1) 7.
Mounted. The chariot unit therefore receives bonus attacks For monstrous officers without Charisma scores, calculate
based on the sabre-tooth tigers attack characteristics. Sabre-
leadership ability as 3 + 1 per 4 HD, rounded down, to a
tooth tigers are 8 HD, with an attack throw of 3+, a cleave
factor of 2.15, and three attacks dealing on average 6 damage maximum value of 8.
each. The tigers number of attacks would be (15 x 4 x 5.15
x 6) / (135) 13.7, rounded to 14. The sabre-tooth tigers EXAMPLE: An orc chieftain has 4 HD, so it will have a
therefore have an attack characteristic of 14 claw/bite 3+. leadership ability of (3 + 4/4) 4. A venerable red dragon has
This becomes the units bonus attack when it charges. 20 HD, so it will have a leadership ability of (3 + 20/4) 8.
Zone of Control (ZOC): This is the radius, in hexes, within

which a commander may activate units in his division without
Using ACKS Characters with Domains at War 91

penalty. ZOC is always equal to one-half the commanders UNIT CHARACTERISTICS
leadership ability, rounded up. A heros unit characteristics are used when the character attacks
or is attacked by a unit. A heroic characters unit characteristics
EXAMPLE: Marcus has a leadership ability of 7, so his ZOC include movement rate, formation, AC, HD, attack throw,
is (7/2) 3.5, rounded to 4. number of attacks, and morale. Note that heroes do not have
uhp attacks against heroes always deal personal hp of damage.
Strategic Ability: Great strategic ability demands either great
A heros unit characteristics are derived from his personal
cunning or keen intuition, and no officer can afford to be
characteristics as shown on the table below.
lacking in either. An officers strategic ability score equals his
bonus from either high Intelligence or Wisdom (whichever is Derivation from ACKS
better, minimum 0), less his penalty from low Intelligence or Heros Unit Characteristics Characteristics
Wisdom (whichever is worse, maximum 0). For each rank of Unit Movement and Formation Determined by mount (if any),
Military Strategy proficiency the officer possesses, his strategic movement, and weapons carried
ability is increased by 1. The minimum strategic ability is -3 and Unit AC Heros Armor Class
the maximum strategic ability is +6. Unit Hit Dice Heros Hit Dice
Unit Attack Throw Heros Attack Throw
EXAMPLE: Marcus has INT 14 (+1), WIS 11 (0), and 2 Unit Number of Attacks* (No. of Attacks + Cleave Factor) x
ranks of Military Strategy. His strategic ability is (1 - 0 + 2) (Average Damage ) / 45
+3. Unit Morale Heros Charisma Modifier (PC or
NPC) or Morale (Monster)
EXAMPLE: Seanan has INT 16 (+2), WIS 7 (-1), and 2 ranks *Round the final value to the nearest whole number. Round .5 down
of Military Strategy. His strategic ability is (+2 -1 + 2) +3. if even, up if odd.
For monstrous officers without Intelligence or Wisdoms scores, Hero Unit Movement: If the hero is dismounted, his movement
their strategic ability is 0 + 1 per 5 HD, rounded down. If the rate and formation are determined by cross-indexing the heros
monster is of generally sub-human intelligence (e.g., beastmen) encounter movement rate with his weapons on the Standard
strategic ability is reduced by 1. If the monster is of generally Unit Movement Rate and Formations. If the hero is fighting
high intelligence (e.g. medusas or vampires), strategic ability is mounted, his movement rate and formation are determined
increased by 1. If the monster is of super-human intelligence by cross-indexing his mounts encounter movement rate with
(e.g., venerable dragons), it is increased by 2. The Judge may the heros weapons on the Mounted Unit Movement Rate and
adjust the strategic ability score based on his assessment of the Formations.
monsters experience and tactical knowledge.
EXAMPLE: Marcus is serving as a hero. As a 9th level fighter,
EXAMPLE: An orc chieftain has a strategic ability of (4/5, he has Unit HD 9. He is wearing plate armor +3, giving him
rounded down, -1) -1. A venerable red dragon (20 HD) has AC 9 and a movement rate of 90'. He therefore has Unit
a strategic ability of (20/5 + 2) +6. Movement 2/3/4 (FF) and Unit AC 9. He attacks with a two-
handed sword +3, dealing 1d10+10 damage. According to
Morale Modifier (MM): Morale modifier is equal to the the Cleave Factor table in Chapter 8, his Cleave Factor is 2.7.
characters Charisma bonus or penalty. If the character is Therefore his Unit Number of Attacks is [(1 + 2.7) x (5.5 +
a barbarian, bard, explorer, fi ghter, or paladin of 5th level 10) / 45] 1.27, rounded to 1. His Unit Morale is equal to his
or higher, his morale modifier is increased by +1 (from his CHA modifier, +2.
battlefield prowess class power or equivalent). If a character
has Command proficiency, his morale modifier is increased by
+2. If a character is a legendary leader (see D@W: Campaigns, CALCULATING BATTLE RATINGS AND COST
p. 91) his morale modifier is increased by +1. This section provides an in-depth explanation of how a units
battle ratings (BR) and monthly wages can be precisely derived
EXAMPLE: Marcus is a 9th level fighter with CHA 16 (+2) from the units D@W: Battles characteristics. This material
and the Command proficiency. His morale modifier is (2 + is some of the most mathematically complex in these rules.
1 + 2) +5. Calculating BRs using this formula is not a process intended
to be undertaken during play, and is best done using an
For monstrous officers without Charisma scores, their morale appropriately-programmed Excel spreadsheet. We offer it
modifier is usually 0. However, whenever the monster entry in primarily for Judges who like to see how the sausage got made.
ACKS notes that as long as [monstrous commander] is alive, In the future, if the popularity of D@W merits, Autarch may
the [monsters of a given type] will gain a [bonus] to morale release an online tool to assist in calculating unit characteristics
rolls, use the listed bonus as the monsters morale modifier. and battle ratings.
EXAMPLE: As long as an orc chieftain is alive, orcs gain a
+2 to morale rolls. An orc chieftains morale modifier is +2. CALCULATING UNIT BATTLE RATINGS
In D@W: Campaigns we offered a simplified formula based just
on a creatures AC, HD, and special abilities. The actual formula
is much more robust. To calculate BR, you need to know the
following for the unit:
92 Calculating Battle Ratings and Cost

Unit Armor Class (unrounded) just one spear and no other missile weapons have a Missile Value
Unit Hit Points (unrounded) of 0 (because the spear is not typically thrown by such units).
Movement Rate - Walking and Charging
Once Missile Value and Melee Value are known, Combat
Formation Type
Modifier can be calculated.
Number of Melee Attacks (unrounded)
Maximum Damage when Charging If Melee Value equals or exceeds Missile Value,
Number of Missile Attacks (unrounded) Combat Modifier is (Melee Value) + (0.2 x Missile
Missile Range Value).
Unit Morale If Missile Value exceeds Melee Value, Combat
Modifier is (Missile Value) + (0.05 x Melee Value).
With that information in hand, the formula for calculating a
units battle rating is: Once you have calculated all of the modifiers, enter the values
into the formula. Round the final total to the nearest 0.5. If the
BR = (Unit AC) x (uhp/8) x (Morale Multiplier) x (Speed
unit consists of guard or hunter creatures rather than sentient
Multiplier) x (Formation Multiplier) x (Combat Multiplier) / 6 troops, divide the BR by .
The modifiers are all derived from the units D@W: Battles
characteristics, as noted below. EXAMPLE: Lets calculate the BR of a unit of 120 Heavy
Infantry (AC 6, 6 uhp, Movement Rate 1/2/3, Formation
Morale Multiplier: Add 7 to Unit Morale, and divide the sum FF, 2 Spear & Shield 11+ or 2 Thrown Spear 11+ with
by 7. Take the square root. E.g. [(Morale+7)/7]1/2. Range 2, ML 0). The formula is (Unit AC) x (uhp/8)
x (Morale Modifier) x (Speed Modifier) x (Formation
Speed Multiplier: For FM, IM, LM, or FLY units, speed Modifier) x (Combat Modifier) / 6. We calculate:
modifier is equal to (Charging Movement / 9). For other units,
speed modifier is equal to (Charging Movement / 7.5)0.33. Armor Class is 6.
Formation Multiplier: Use the value listed below the Uhp/8 is (6/8), or 0.75.
appropriate column on the table below. Morale Modifier is [(0+7)/7]1/2, or 1.
FF FLY FM IF IM LF LM Speed Modifier is (3 / 7.5)0.33, or 0.74.
1.15 2.0 1 0.675 0.62 1 1.3 Formation Modifier is 1.15.
Combat Multiplier: Combat modifier is a combination of the Melee Value is equal to the units unrounded number
units Melee and Missile Values. Melee Value is calculated as of attacks (2.1) divided by its rounded number of
attacks (2) times the maximum damage the unit can
follows:
deal in a charge (3), or 3.15. As a FF unit, Missile
MeV = (unrounded number of melee attacks / rounded number Value is equal to (number of missile attacks) x
of melee attacks) x (maximum damage during a charge)
[(walking movement/3) + missile range] / 2. For this
unit, that is (2) x [1/3 + 2] /2, or 2.33. However, since
the Heavy Infantry just carry spears and no other
EXAMPLE: The number of attacks of a unit of 120 heavy missile weapons, Missile Value is set to 0.
infantry armed with spears (1d6 damage) is calculated
as (120) x (1 + 0.35) x (3.5) / (60 x 4.5) = 2.1, rounded to Since Melee Value of 3 is greater than Missile Value
2. Because the unit is equipped with spears, it can do a of 0, Combat Modifier is [3 + (0.2 x 0)], or 3.
maximum of 3 damage during a charge, reflecting two
Conversion
Therefore the units BR is (6 x 0.75 x 1 x 0.74 x 1.15 x
successful attacks plus one bonus point from charging with a
3.15) / 6 = 2.01, which rounds to 2.
spear. The units melee value is therefore (2.1/2) x (3) = 3.15.
Missile Value depends on unit type. For LF, LM, and FLY units, FACTORING SPECIAL ABILITIES INTO BATTLE RATINGS
the formula for Missile Value is: Despite its robustness, the formula above is still incomplete.
MiV= (unrounded number of missile attacks) x (walking It undervalues creatures with powerful spell-like powers or
movement + missile range) / 2
spellcasters. If some or all of a units constituent creatures have
spell-like special abilities, a few extra steps are required.
For other types of units, the formula for Missile Value is:
Special Attacks: If any creatures in the unit possesses special
MiV = (unrounded number of missile attacks) x [(walking attacks, find the attack on the BR Bonus from Special Attacks
movement/3) + missile range] / 2 table below and calculate the bonus to the units BR according
to the formula listed. The theory behind this table is that the
EXAMPLE: The number of attacks of a unit of 120 slingers value of a creature with special attacks is similar to the value of
(1d4 damage) is calculated as (120) x (1 + 0.35) x (2.5) / (60 a wand generating the creatures special attack, with a number
x 4.5) = 1.5, rounded to 2. Slingers are LF with a walking of charges equal to the creatures HD. The abilities to charge,
movement of 2, and slings have a range of 3. Therefore the swoop, swallow whole, or trample do not increase BR.
units missile value is [(1.5) x (2 + 3)]/2 = 3.75.
The tactical modifier is a factor of how effective the creature is
Units equipped with arbalests and crossbows calculate Missile at using its special abilities. The lower the modifier, the less
Value as if they have a walking movement of 0. Units that carry effective the creature is. This value was hand-set for every
Calculating Battle Ratings and Cost 93

creature in ACKS based on an estimate of its relative level of
EXAMPLE: A lammasu has the spellcasting abilities of a 7th
intelligence. The Tactical Modifier table of benchmarks can help level cleric. As such it can cast 2 1st, 2 2nd, 2 3rd, 1 4th, and 1
the Judge decide what tactical modifier to use. 5th level spell per day, for a combined (2+4+6+4+5) 21 spell
levels per day. A unit of 20 lammasu gains a BR bonus of
EXAMPLE: A giant tarantula (4 HD) has a delayed poisonous (500) x (21) x (20) / 24,000 = 8.75 points from its spellcasting
bite. Tarantulas are smart animals, so the tactical modifier is ability.
0.75. A unit of 60 giant tarantulas gains a BR bonus of (500)
x (60) x (4) x (0.75) / 24,000 = 3.75 from its poison.
Creature Size Movement Rate per Turn
Special Defenses: If any creatures in the unit possess special 480' 360' 240' 180'
defenses, find the defense on the BR Bonus from Special Colossal 13.33 10 6.67 5
Defenses table below and calculate the bonus to the units BR Gigantic 4 3 2 1.5
according to the formula listed. The battle rating bonus from Huge 1.33 1 0.67 0.5
special defenses does not depend on the creatures HD or Large 0.67 0.5 0.33 0.25
tactical modifier.
Flight: Flying creatures of large size or greater receive a BR
EXAMPLE: A lammasu has a magic resistance of 7+. A unit bonus. Consult the BR Bonus from Flight table, above, and
of 20 lammasu gains a BR bonus of [(21-7)/20] x (20) = 14 cross-reference the creatures size with its flying movement rate.
points from its magic resistance. The value listed is the flight bonus for that creature.
Spellcasting Ability: If any creatures in the unit can cast spells, The actual BR bonus is (flight bonus) x (no. of creatures) x
the unit will gain a BR bonus. Calculate the combined spell (tactical modifier). Tactical modifiers are the same as those for
levels the creature can cast in one day. special abilities, above.
The actual BR bonus is 500 x (combined spell levels per day) x
(no. of creatures) / 24,000.
Special Defense Examples BR Bonus
Ability Drain Lamia, Shadow 500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Breath Weapon, Lesser Hellhound 500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Breath Weapon, Moderate Chimera 1000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Breath Weapon, Greater Dragon 4000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Charming Gaze Demon Boar, Vampire 2000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Charming Song Harpy 3000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Damaging Aura Salamander 2500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Energy Drain Various undead 500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Fear Dragon 2000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Paralyzing Touch Ghoul, Carcass Scavenger 1000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Petrifying Breath Gorgon 7000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Petrifying Gaze Basilisk, Medusa 3500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Petrifying Touch Basilisk, Cockatrice 1500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Poisonous Bite, Delayed Various snakes and spiders 500 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) /x tactical modifier / 24,000
Poisonous Bite, Instantaneous Purple Worm, Wyvern 1000 x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x tactical modifier / 24,000
Other Various (cost of one-charge item) x (no. of creatures) x (creatures HD) x T.M. / 24,000
Level of Intelligence Examples Tactical Modifier
Sentient Dragons, giants, humanoids 1
Near-Sentient Apes, baboons, elephants, owlbears 1
Smart Animal Dogs, giant spider, horses, whales 0.75
Above Average Animal Bats, bears, cats, hawks, squids 0.66
Average Animal Basilisks, gorgons, rhinos, varmints 0.55
Below Average Animal Boars, dinosaurs, herd animals 0.33
Nearly Instinctual Crocodiles, giant beetles, giant lizards 0.25
Purely Instinctual Caecilians, fish, sharks, snakes 0.1
Special Attack Examples BR Bonus
Damage Reduction Mummy 0.5 x (no. of creatures)
Magic Resistance Lammasu [(21 Magic Resistance Throw)/20] x (no. of creatures)
Protection from Normal Weapons Gargoyle, Vampire 0.229 x (no. of creatures)
Protection from Normal Missiles Spell 0.125 x (no. of creatures)
Protection from Iron and Wood Weapons Lycanthrope 0.125 x (no. of creatures)
Other Various (cost of indefinite duration protection) x (no. of creatures) / 24,000
94 Calculating Battle Ratings and Cost
EXAMPLE: A giant roc is a colossal creature with a flying EXAMPLE: A heavy infantry soldiers wage is (.017) x (720)
movement rate of 480'. Being sentient, it has a tactical 12.24, rounded to 12gp per month.
modifier of 1. Therefore a giant roc gains a BR bonus of
(13.33) x (1) x (1) 13.33 from its flight.
EXAMPLE: An ettins individual BR of 0.265 implies a wage
Once you have calculated the BR bonus from special abilities, of (0.265) x (720) 190.8gp per month. The ettins supply cost
add it to the units base BR. If the unit consists of guard or hunter is 12gp per week, so the wage is reduced by [(12x4) -2] 46gp
creatures rather than sentient troops, add the BR bonus from to 144.8gp per month. This rounds to 145gp per month.
special abilities to the base BR. Round the final total to the Overpriced Creatures and Minimum Wages: Some creatures,
nearest 0.5. by reason of scarcity, exoticness, or prestige value, cost more
than their utility in battle would otherwise indicate. Such
EXAMPLE: A giant rocs base BR (from its D@W: Battles overpriced creatures will demand a higher wage (or be leased
characteristics) is 2.5. It gains a BR bonus of (13.33) x (1)
out for a higher wage) than their BR justifies. The minimum
x (1) 13.33 from its flight. Its BR is therefore (2.5 + 13.33)
15.83, which rounds to 16. wage for a creature is always 1/33 its price in gp. A minimum wage
is still reduced by excessive supply cost (as above).
CALCULATING INDIVIDUAL CREATURES BATTLE EXAMPLE: Based on its BR 0.009, a wood golem should
RATING command (.009 x 720) 6.48 or 6gp per month. However,
Standard Units: To calculate the BR of an individual creature on the Exotic Creatures Roster, a wood golem has a price
in a standard unit, just divide the final (rounded) battle rating of 10,000gp. Therefore the wage of a wood golem (e.g. the
of the unit by the number of creatures in the unit. Round to 3 fee paid to the mage who controls it) would be (10,000 / 33)
significant digits. 303.03, which rounds to 300gp. A wood golem is quite an
uneconomical soldier, in other words.
EXAMPLE: Since a heavy infantry unit (BR 2) has 120 In some cases, overpriced creatures may be used as part of a
troops, the individual BR of a heavy infantry soldier is (2 /
cavalry unit, behemoth cavalry unit, or chariot unit. Where this
120) or 0.0166, which rounds to 0.017.
occurs, calculate the minimum wage of the riders or charioteers
Other Units: When the unit in question is a cavalry unit, and sum them together. If the riders or charioteers are standard
behemoth cavalry unit, or chariot unit, the individual BR will troops (e.g. horse archers), use the wage for troops of their race
actually be the BR of one set of creatures. That is, it will be the BR and type. If the riders or charioteers are exotic creatures, use
of a rider and mount for a cavalry unit; of a behemoth mount 1
/33 of the price. Add this to the minimum wage of the mount,
with its riders for a behemoth cavalry unit; or of a chariot with behemoth, or steeds to find the minimum wage for a set. If the
its charioteers and steeds for a chariot unit. To find this value, minimum wage of a set is greater than the BR-based wage of a
divide the battle rating of the unit by the number of mounts, set, use the minimum wage.
behemoths, or chariots, and round to 3 significant digits.
FINAL NOTES
EXAMPLE: Since a war elephant unit (BR 4) has 5 war No formula can account for all of the interplay of different
elephants with 6 riders each, the individual BR of 1 war factors. At best, it provides a useful benchmark. The Judge
elephant with 6 riders is (4/5) 0.800. should freely adjust the calculated battle ratings whenever
magical abilities, special circumstances, or the experience of
actual play suggests an adjustment is appropriate. Several of the
Conversion
CALCULATING WAGES
Individual BR can be used to estimate an appropriate wage. BRs for standard units were adjusted after play testing, mostly
For most creatures, monthly wages approximately equal their by less than 5% but in a few cases (notably human light cavalry)
individual battle rating multiplied by 720. However, creatures by as much as 30%.
which demand expensive supplies are paid less; decrease
We hope that between the formula in this chapter and
monthly wage by 1gp for each gp by which the creatures
the hundreds of examples in the D@W: Campaigns Troop
monthly supply cost is in excess of 2gp. You may round values
Characteristic Summaries and Exotic Creature Roster that we
below 40gp to the nearest 3gp, and round values above 40gp to
have provided sufficient information for Judges to create and
the nearest 5gp.
customize units for their own campaigns.
Calculating Battle Ratings and Cost 95

Chapter 9: Scenarios
Never lead soldiers into combat before having

made sufficient trial of their courage.
The two scenarios in this chapter are intended to help you SCENARIO NOTES
learn the rules and get comfortable with the game mechanics Side A, the Auran Empire, has 12 units divided into three
and sequence of play. We have included a mix of unit types to divisions, all of which are normal men of various types. Side
help you familiarize yourself with the possibilities of Domains B, the Beastmen, has 16 units divided into three divisions,
at War: Battles. and these forces have better attack throws, number of attacks,
movement rates, and hit points than the Auran infantry. The
The first scenario, Peril at the Fangs, is designed to highlight
Aurans are thus both quantitatively and qualitatively over-
D@W: Battles command system and allow you to see how the
matched at the unit level!
differences in unit type (p. 12) and formation (p. 12) create rich
tactical choices. Only the Basic Rules in Chapter 1 are used, so How can the Aurans have a chance of victory? The Auran forces
Peril at the Fangs makes a great introduction to the game. are well-led with an excellent general, and an ample number
of lieutenants. In comparison, the Beastmen forces have only
The second scenario, Battle of Zidium, is an epic-scale battle
one competent commander (Khazay), and no lieutenants. Their
(p. 64) that incorporates the advanced rules for terrain (p. 29) as
forces are also entirely composed of Irregular units. This is a
well as heroes and magic (p. 40 - p. 51). You should familiarize
huge disadvantage, as Irregular troops must attack if able (p.
yourself with all of Chapter 1, as well as Chapter 2, 4, and 6
20), must advance after an attack if able (p. 23), cannot conduct
before playing the battle. As an epic-scale battle, the Battle of
actions in lieu of attacking (p. 24), cannot disengage (p. 20),
Zidium demonstrates how you can use D@W: Battles to decide
cannot pass through each other (p. 19), and do not gain morale
the fates of kingdoms and empires.
bonuses from battle lines (p. 23).
If you are playing the Aurans, you must rely on your superior
BASIC SCENARIO: PERIL AT THE FANGS command and control to out-maneuver and destroy the
For centuries the Fangs of Chrios has been guarded by the beastmen troops. Your cavalry division combines high mobility,
legionaries of the Auran Empire. The wide, low mountain pass, ranged striking capability, and powerful charges; what you do
topped on either end by vast 5,000-foot pillars, is the most with them will determine whether you win or lose the battle.
effective path from the Waste through the Meniri Mountains Kill Khazay and the ogres and youve probably won.
and into Krysea. Since the fall of Zahar, beastmen raiders have
crossed the Fangs to strike at the farms and homesteads that If you are playing the Beastmen, your battle plan is simpler:
dot the hills on the far side of the mountains. In good years, Smash! Your orcs are very, very fast compared to the Auran
the Auran legions are strong and the border forts well-manned. heavy infantry, so you can close in quickly and begin to tear
In bad years, the legions are weak, the border forts are under- them up with your superior attacks. The main question for
manned, and the beastmen hordes are large and savage. you is what to do with your ogres. If you lead with them, their
slower movement rate can drag down the entire battle line. If
This year is a particularly bad one. The great ogre warchief you separate them from the faster-moving orcs, you risk them
Khazay has assembled a host of nearly two thousand ogres and being flanked and destroyed by the Auran cavalry.
orcs, and aims to cross the Fangs. Khazay is no mere raider; he
is a would-be conqueror who plans to make the arable Krysean SET UP / SPECIAL RULES
hills a permanent home for his bestial minions. Use the basic set-up rules. No special rules apply to this scenario.
Palatine Komnaurius, military ruler of the region, has barely The battle is at company-scale (p. 10), so each infantry unit
a thousand troops on hand to stop the invasion. Grimly represents 120 infantry and each cavalry unit represents 60
determined, he marches forth. Behind him, at his stronghold cavalry.
of Drusutem, fires are lit in prayers to Ammonar and the Sisters
of Mourning gather in their grey robes knowing tomorrow will
hold many burials.
Scenarios
Basic Scenario: Peril at the Fangs 97

ORDER OF BATTLE AURAN EMPIRE
Side A: Auran Empire
Army General: Palatine Komnaurius
Divisions: 1st Division 2nd Division 3rd Division
Division Commander: Palatine Komnaurius Legate Damanos Legate Ulrand
Division Units: Cataphract Cavalry #1 (Komnaurius) Heavy Infantry #1 (Damanos) Heavy Infantry #4 (Ulrand)
Cataphract Cavalry #2 Heavy Infantry #2 Heavy Infantry #5
Light Cavalry #1 (Narmir) Heavy Infantry #3 Heavy Infantry #6
Light Cavalry #2 (Ionnic) Composite Bowmen #1 (Ellus) Comp. Bowmen #2 (Eanar)
Leadership Strategic Morale

Name Rank Ability ZOC Ability Modifier Attached To
Palatine Komnaurius General 6 3 +4 +4 Cataphract Cavalry #1
Legate Damanos Commander 4 2 +2 +3 Heavy Infantry #1
Legate Ulrand Commander 4 2 +2 +3 Heavy Infantry #4
Tribune Narmir Lieutenant 4 2 +1 +3 Light Cavalry #1
Tribune Ionnic Lieutenant 4 2 +1 +3 Light Cavalry #2
Tribune Ellus Lieutenant 4 2 +1 +3 Bowmen #1
Tribune Eanar Lieutenant 4 2 +1 +3 Bowmen #2
Heavy Infantry A 1/2/3 FF 6 1-1 6 0 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
Longbowmen B 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 6 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
Light Cavalry A 4/8/12 LM 3 1-1 6 +1 2 sword & shield 11+ 2 javelin 11+
Cataphract Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 7 1-1 6 +2 2 lance & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
ORDER OF BATTLE - BEASTMEN

Side B: Beastmen Horde
Army General: Warchief Khazay
Divisions: 1st Division 2nd Division 3rd Division
Division Commander: Warchief Khazay Chief Awitar Chief Zraqua
Units: Ogre Heavy Infantry #1 (Khazay) Orc Heavy Infantry #5 (Awitar) Orc Heavy Infantry #8 (Zraqua)
Ogre Heavy Infantry #2 Orc Heavy Infantry #6 Orc Heavy Infantry #9
Orc Heavy Infantry #1 Orc Heavy Infantry #7 Orc Heavy Infantry #10
Orc Heavy Infantry #2 Orc Crossbowmen #1 Orc Crossbowmen #3
Orc Heavy Infantry #3 Orc Crossbowmen #2 Orc Crossbowmen #4
Orc Heavy Infantry #4

Warchief Khazay General 5 3 +2 +3 Ogre Heavy Infantry #1
Chief Awitar Commander 4 2 -1 +2 Orc Heavy Infantry #5
Chief Zraqua Commander 4 2 -1 +2 Orc Heavy Infantry #8
Ogre Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 IF 6 4+1 17 +2 5 great axe 6+ -
Orc Heavy Infantry 2/4/6 IF 3 1 8 0 3 pole arm 10+ -
Orc Crossbowmen 2/4/6 IF 3 1 8 0 2 scimitar 10+ 2 crossbow 10+
98 Basic Scenario: Peril at the Fangs

ADVANCED SCENARIO: BATTLE OF Side A, the Auran Empire, has a balanced and symmetrical
force consisting of heavy infantry, javelin-armed light infantry,
ZIDIUM composite bowmen, and lance-armed cavalry. The general,
In 18 B.E., angered at the Auran Leagues interference in the
Audarius Tarkaun, is a military genius. His other commanders
millennia-old slave trade, Celdorea declared war on Aura,
are highly competent, with Valanna nearly as good a leader
beginning the Second Celdorean War (18 B.E. 1 B.E.). The one-
and Mennic as good a strategist (albeit not much loved by his
eyed Celdorean general, Baal the Terrible, landed in mainland
troops). The Aurans also have eight lieutenants to help lead their
Tirenea, and quickly established a reputation for invincibility in
troops.
a series of pitched battles. After almost two decades of defeat,
Aura finally found a match for Baal the Terrible in a brilliant Side B, the Celdorean Thalassocracy, features a diverse mix
young commander named Audarius Valerian. In 1 B.E., of well-equipped Celdorean regulars, light but hard-hitting
Audarius forced Baal to retreat from Auran soil at the Battle Jutlandic troops, highly mobile Skysos cavalry, and armored war
of the Eagles. A year later, Audarius, now dubbed Tarkaun elephants. Baal is as masterful as Audarius, but his subordinate
(eagle), pursued Baal across the Ammas Aur to Celdorea commanders are not as able. He also has fewer lieutenants with
itself. A few miles from the Celdorean capital of Zidium, the which to supplement his command and control. However,
two masters of war met in a pitched battle to determine whether because Baals army has been winning battles for a decade, half
Aura or Celdorea would hold dominion over the known world. of his units are veterans.
The Aurans have one major advantage in Mennic, the mage,
SET UP / SPECIAL RULES whose arcane casting ability is unmatched by the Celdoreans.
Use the basic set-up rules. The rules for Terrain (p. 29) and The Celdoreans should seek to eliminate Mennic quickly,
Heroes (p. 40) apply to this battle. Place terrain on the battlemap probably with the hero Jagatai, whose eyes of the eagle, poison
as shown on the accompanying illustration. The Auran Empire arrows, and precise shot proficiency make him a matchless
is Side A, and the Celdorean Thalassocracy is Side B. Note that murderer of any enemy commanders.
the Battle of Zidium is a brigade-scale battle (p. 64), so each
infantry unit represents 1,920 infantry and each cavalry unit Overall, the two forces are closely matched and victory will be
represents 960 cavalry. determined by the skill of the commanders and the will of Fate!
SCENARIO NOTES
The Battle of Zidium is loosely based on the historical Battle of
Zama, where Roman forces led by Scipio Africanus confronted
Carthaginian forces led by Hannibal of Carthage.
Scenarios
Illus. 1-15: ZIDIUM
Advanced Scenario: Battle of Zidium 99

HEROES AURAN EMPIRE HEROES CELDOREAN THALASSOCRACY
Audarius Tarkaun: 13th level Fighter; AC 15, Move 90' / 180', Baal the Terrible: 13th level Anti-Paladin; AC 12, Move 90', hp
hp 67, #AT 1 sword -4+, Dmg 1d6+11; STR 16, INT 18, WIS 11, 60, #AT 1 two-handed sword -3+, Dmg 1d10+10; STR 16, INT
DEX 14, CON 13, CHA 18; Alignment Lawful; Proficiencies: 13, WIS 18, DEX 10, CON 16, CHA 18; Alignment Chaotic;
Combat Reflexes, Command, Diplomacy, Fighting Style Proficiencies: Ambushing, Berserkergang, Command, Combat
(Weapon & Shield), Leadership, Military Strategy 3, Manual of Reflexes, Divine Blessing, Leadership, Military Strategy 3,
Arms, Riding, Siege Engineering 2; Equipment: sword +3, plate Riding; Equipment: life-drinking two-handed sword +3, plate
armor +2, shield +2, ring of protection +2, gauntlets of ogre armor +3, elven cloak and boots, ring of protection +2, ring
power, potion of extra-healing of spell turning (4 charges), scarab of protection (7 charges),
potion of extra-healing
Valanna: 11th level Bladedancer; AC 12, Move* 120'/360', hp 40,
AT* 2 pair of swords -1+ Dmg* 2d6+3; STR 13, INT 9, WIS 16, Peyman: 11th level Cleric; AC 11, Move 90', hp 43, #AT 1
DEX 16, CON 13, CHA 17; Alignment Lawful; Proficiencies: warhammer 2+, Dmg* 2d6+3; STR 13, INT 13, WIS 16, DEX
Battle Magic, Leadership, Military Strategy 2, Swashbuckling, 10, CON 9, CHA 13; Alignment Chaotic; Proficiencies: Battle
Weapon Finesse; Equipment: sword +2, sword +1, leather Magic, Command, Leadership, Military Strategy 2, Theology,
armor +3, cloak of protection +1, ring of fire resistance, ring Unflappable Casting; Equipment: warhammer +2, plate armor
of water walking, potion of extra-healing; *Valanna casts +2, shield +2, staff of withering (11 charges), potion of extra-
invulnerability to evil, swift sword, striking, and winged healing; *Peyman casts striking and strength of mind on
flight on herself himself
Danir: 11th level Fighter; AC 9, Move 90', hp 46, #AT 1 spear -2+, Jagatai: 11th level Skysostan Barbarian; AC 10, Move 120', hp
Dmg 1d6+9; STR 18, INT 11, WIS 13, DEX 9, CON 12, CHA 58, #AT 1 composite bow -2+ or scimitar 0+, Dmg 1d6+6 (bow)
14; Alignment Lawful; Proficiencies: Command, Leadership, or 1d6+3 (scimitar); STR 13, INT 11, WIS 13, DEX 17, CON
Military Strategy 3, Riding; Equipment: spear +2, sword +1, 15, CHA 14; Alignment Neutral; Proficiencies: Ambushing,
plate armor +2, shield +1, ring of regeneration, potion of Command, Leadership, Military Strategy 2, Precise Shooting,
extra-healing Riding, Sniping; Precise Shooting; Equipment: composite bow
+3, 9 arrows +2, scimitar +2, chainmail armor +2, displacer
Mennic: 11th level Mage; AC 6, Move* 90'/360', hp 44, #AT
cloak, eyes of the eagle, wyvern poison (sufficient for 20
1 staff 7+, Dmg 1d6; STR 10, INT 18, WIS 11, DEX 12,
arrows), potion of extra-healing
CON 16, CHA 9; Alignment Neutral; Proficiencies: Battle
Magic, Elementalism (Fire), Collegiate Wizardry, Haakon: 11th level Jutland Barbarian; AC 6, Move 120',
Knowledge (History), Leadership, Mapping, hp 73, #AT 1 great axe -2+, Dmg 2d10+9; STR 18, INT
Military Strategy 3; Spells Known: 1st burning 8, WIS 14, DEX 12, CON 16, CHA 16; Alignment
hands, detect magic, magic missile, sharpness, Neutral; Proficiencies: Berserkergang, Combat Reflexes,
slipperiness, summon berserkers, wall of smoke / Command, Climbing, Leadership, Military Strategy 2,
2nd hallucinatory pattern, levitate, mirror image, Weapon Focus (axes); Equipment: great axe +2,
summon hero, stinking cloud, uncanny gyration chainmail armor +2, girdle of giant strength,
/ 3rd dispel magic, earths teeth, fireball, fly, boots of traveling and springing, potion of
growth, protection from normal missiles / 4th extra-healing
dimension door, polymorph self, polymorph
Four Mercenary Colonels: 9th level Fighter;
other, scry, summon fantastic creature, wall of
AC 9, Move 90', hp 44, AT 1 sword 3+, Dmg
fire / 5th cone of cold, panic, protection from
1d6+6; Alignment Neutral; Proficiencies:
normal weapons, scouring wind, teleport
Command, Combat Reflexes, Leadership,
/ 6th control weather, disintegrate, lower
Manual of Arms, Military Strategy 2,
water, move earth; Equipment: staff of power
Riding; Equipment: sword +1, plate armor
(10 charges), bracers of armor +4, ring of
+1, shield +1, potion of healing
protection +2, medallion of ESP 90', potion
of extra-healing; *Mennic casts fly, protection
from normal missiles, and protection from
normal weapons on himself
Eight Palatines: 9th level Fighter; AC 9,
Move 90', hp 44, AT 1 sword 3+, Dmg 1d6+6;
Alignment Lawful; Proficiencies: Command,
Combat Reflexes, Leadership, Manual
of Arms, Military Strategy 2, Riding;
Equipment: sword +1, plate armor +1,
shield +1, potion of healing
100 Advanced Scenario: Battle of Zidium

ORDER OF BATTLE AURAN EMPIRE

Side A: Auran Empire
Army General: Exarch Audarius Tarkaun
Divisions: 1st Division 2nd Division
Division Commander: Exarch Audarius Tarkaun Prefect Valanna
Division Units: Veteran Heavy Cavalry #1 (Tarkaun) Light Infantry #1 (Valanna)
Veteran Heavy Cavalry #2 Light Infantry #2
Medium Cavalry #1 Light Infantry #3
Medium Cavalry #2 Light Infantry #4
Light Cavalry #1 Composite Bowmen #1
Light Cavalry #2 Composite Bowmen #2
Divisions: 3rd Division 4th Division
Division Commander: Prefect Danir Prefect Mennic
Division Units: Veteran Heavy Infantry #1 (Danir) Heavy Infantry #5 (Mennic)
Veteran Heavy Infantry #2 Heavy Infantry #6
Heavy Infantry #3 Heavy Infantry #7
Heavy Infantry #4 Heavy Infantry #8
Composite Bowmen #3 Composite Bowmen #4

Audarius Tarkaun General 8 4 +6 +7 Veteran Heavy Cavalry #1
Valanna Commander 7 4 +4 +2 Light Infantry #1
Danir Commander 6 3 +4 +4 Veteran Heavy Infantry #1
Mennic Commander 5 3 +6 +0 Heavy Infantry #5
Palatines (various) Lieutenant 5 3 +2 +3 Choice of any 8 units
Unit Melee Attacks & Unit Missile Attacks
Name Unit Move Unit Form Unit AC Unit Morale Attack Throws & Attack Throws
Audarius Tarkaun 3/6/9 FM 15 +3 2 sword -4+ -
Valanna 6/12/18 FLY 12 +2 1 pair of swords -1+ -
Danir 2/3/4 FF 9 +1 1 spear -2+ 1 spear -2
Mennic 6/12/18 FLY 6 +0 - -
Palatines (various) 2/3/4 or FF or FM 9 +0 1 sword 3+ -
3/6/9
Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks & Unit Missile Attacks
Unit Type Move Form AC HD HP Morale Attack Throws & Attack Throws
Veteran Heavy Infantry 1/2/3 FF 6 1 32 +1 3 spear & shield 10+ or 3 spear 10+
Heavy Infantry A 1/2/3 FF 6 1-1 24 0 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
Light Infantry A 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 24 -1 2 swords 11+ 2 javelin 11+
Longbowmen B 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 24 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
Light Cavalry A 4/8/12 LM 3 1-1 24 +1 2 sword & shield 11+ 2 javelin 11+
Scenarios
Medium Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 4 1-1 24 +1 2 lance & shield 11+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
Veteran Heavy Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 6 1 32 +3 3 lance & shield 10+ -
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
Advanced Scenario: Battle of Zidium 101

ORDER OF BATTLE CELDOREAN THALASSOCRACY
Side B: Celdorean Thalassocracy
Army General: Baal the Terrible
Divisions: 1st Division 2nd Division
Division Commander: Baal the Terrible Peyman
Division Units: Veteran Celdorean Heavy Infantry #1 (Baal) Celdorean Heavy Infantry #5 (Peyman)
Veteran Celdorean Heavy Infantry #2 Celdorean Heavy Infantry #6
Veteran Celdorean Heavy Infantry #3 Celdorean Light Infantry #1
Veteran Celdorean Heavy Infantry #4 Celdorean Light Infantry #2
Veteran Celdorean Composite Bowmen #1 Celdorean Slingers #1
Veteran Celdorean Composite Bowmen #2 Celdorean Slingers #2
Divisions: 3rd Division 4th Division
Division Commander: Jagatai Haakon
Division Units: Veteran Skysos Horse Archers #1 (Jagatai) Jutlandic Heavy Infantry #1 (Haakon)
Veteran Skysos Light Cavalry #1 Jutlandic Heavy Infantry #2
Veteran Celdorean Medium Cavalry #1 Jutlandic Heavy Infantry #3
Celdorean War Elephant #1 Jutlandic Light Infantry #1
Jutlandic Light Infantry #2
Jutlandic Light Infantry #3

Baal the Terrible General 8 4 +6 +7 Veteran Celdorean Heavy Infantry #1
Peyman Commander 6 3 +4 +4 Celdorean Heavy Infantry #5
Jagatai Commander 6 3 +3 +4 Skysos Horse Archers #1
Haakon Commander 7 4 +1 +5 Jutlandic Heavy Infantry #1
Mercenary Colonels Lieutenant 5 3 +2 +3 Choice of any 4 units
Unit Melee Attacks & Unit Missile Attacks
Name Unit Move Unit Form Unit AC Unit Morale Attack Throws & Attack Throws
Baal the Terrible 2/3/4 FF 12 +3 2 two-handed sword -3+ -
Peyman 6/12/18 12 +2 1 warhammer -1+ -
Jagatai 4/8/12 LM 10 +1 1 scimitar 0+ 1 composite bow -2+
Haakon 6/12/18 6 +0 2 great axe -2+ -
Mercenary Colonels 2/3/4 or FF or FM 9 +0 1 sword 3+ -
(various) 3/6/9
Jutlandic Light Infantry 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 24 -1 3 great axe 11+ -
Jutlandic Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 FF 4 1-1 24 0 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
2 sword 11+
Celdorean Light Infantry 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 24 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 javelin 11+
Veteran Celdorean 1/2/3 FF 6 1 32 +1 3 spear & shield 10+ or 3 spear 10+
Heavy Infantry 3 sword & shield 10+
Celdorean Heavy 1/2/3 FF 6 1-1 24 0 2 spear & shield 11+ or 2 spear 11+
Infantry 2 sword & shield 11+
Celdorean Slingers 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 24 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 sling 11+
Veteran Celdorean Cmp. 2/4/6 LF 3 1 32 0 3 short sword & shield 10+ 3 composite bow 10+
Bowmen
Veteran Skysos Light 4/8/12 LM 3 1 32 +2 3 sword & shield 10+ 2 javelin 10+
Cavalry
Veteran Skysos Horse 4/8/12 LM 3 1 32 +2 3 scimitar & shield 10+ 2 composite bow 10+
Archers
Veteran Celdorean Med. 3/6/9 FM 4 1 32 +2 3 lance & shield 10+ -
Cavalry Charge: 3 hooves 8+
Celdorean War 2/4/6 FM 7 13+2 16 +2 4 lance & tusk 8+ 2 composite bow 11+
Elephants Charge: 3 trample 3+
102 Advanced Scenario: Battle of Zidium

Chapter 10: Armies
Courage and discipline are able to accomplish more

than a large number of warriors.
The development of Domains at War was made possible with on p. 32 of Domains at War: Campaigns, as well as the rules for
the generous support of our 554 Kickstarter backers, a full list Heroes (p. 40), Special Abilities (p. 48), Artillery Units (p.
of whom can be found on p. 3. A half-dozen of these backers 60), Mixed Units (p. 84), Behemoth Cavalry Units (p. 86), and
supported the game at the Caesar and Legate level, which Chariot Units (p. 89) in this volume.
entitled them to work with Autarch to develop a custom army
or custom units respectively. This section details the armies,
units, and heroes which were the result of this collaboration. THE HOBGOBLIN HORDE OF YSGRE
Since the fall of Zahar, beastmen have dwelled in the Wastes
Because our backers are as fiendish as they were supportive, beyond the Meniri Mountains, growing in strength and hatred
the armies and units that follow make substantial use of exotic for mankind. From time to time, this hatred erupts into an
creatures such as giant bats, triceratops, and hellhounds, as well invasion of Aurpos by a horde united under a formidable
as rare unit types such as chariots and behemoth-mounted warlord. One such is Ysgre, the Hate Mother, Warlord Queen
artillery. One would not be wrong to think that many of the of Molg, a hobgoblin shaman of prodigious cunning and utter
more esoteric rules in Domains at War were written to meet ruthlessness. Clothed in black, blood red, rust, and ochre, her
these backer requests! Before introducing these units into your horde brings death, disease, filth, and ruin to every realm it
game, you might wish to re-read the rules for Exotic Creatures crosses. (Caesar: Jeff Binder)
ORDER OF BATTLE
Army: The Hobgoblin Horde of Ysgre
Army General Ysgre, the Hate Mother, Warlord Queen of Molg
Scale Battalion scale (1 unit = 480 infantry, 240 cavalry, or 20 giants)
1st Division Cost (troops)
Commander Ysgre the Hate Mother
Units 1st Battalion of 4 Hellhound Companies (Ysgre, Chieftain) 16,320gp
1st Battalion of 4 Goblin Bat Riders (Chieftain) 63,720gp
1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Horse Archer Companies (Chieftain) 22,200gp
1st Battalion of 4 War Mastodon Companies (Chieftain) 22,120gp
2nd Division Cost (troops)
Commander Iritak
Units 1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin and White Ape Companies (Iritak, Chieftain) 12,760gp
1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Heavy Infantry Companies (Chieftain) 8,680gp
2nd Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Heavy Infantry Companies (Chieftain) 8,680gp
3rd Division Cost (troops)
Commander Vulg
Units 1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Longbowmen Companies (Vulg, Chieftain) 13,000gp
1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Light Infantry Companies (Chieftain) 7,240gp
2nd Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Light Infantry Companies (Chieftain) 7,240gp
Total Cost per Month: 181,960gp
COMMANDER CHARACTERISTICS
Ysgre the Hate Mother General 7 4 +3 +6 1st Battalion of 4 Hellhound Companies
Iritak Commander 6 3 +2 +3 1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin & White Apes
Vulg Commander 5 3 +2 +0 1st Battalion of 4 Hobgoblin Longbowmen
Hobgoblin Chieftains Lieutenant 4 2 -1 +1 Various
HERO CHARACTERISTICS
Capable of Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks & Unit Missile Attacks &
Name Independence? Move Form AC Morale Attack Throws Attack Throws
Ysgre the Hate Mother Yes 2/4/6 IM 9 +2 2 spear -4+ Hellhound breath
(Biletongue)
Iritak No 2/3/4 IF 7 +2 1 great axe 2+ -
Vulg No 2/3/4 IF 9 +2 1 claw/bite 1+, paralyzes -
Hobgoblin Chieftains No By unit By unit 7 +1 - -
104 The Hobgoblin Horde of Ysgre

UNIT CHARACTERISTICS (BATTLES) BATTALION SCALE

240 Goblin Bat Riders 3/6/9 FLY 3 2+3 22 +1 2 spear 10+ 1 sling 10+
Charge: 2 bite 9+
20 War Mastodons 2/4/6 FM 6 22+2 16 +2 (U) 4 tusks and spear 4+ 2 crossbow 9+

240 Hobgoblin Horse Archers 4/8/12 LM 3 1+1 20 +1 2 sword & shield 9+ 2 composite bow 9+
240 Hellhounds 2/4/6 IM 5 3 24 +1 2 bite 8+ -
Hellhound breath
480 Hobgoblin Longbowmen 2/3/4 LF 3 1+1 20 0 2 sword 9+ 2 composite bow 9+
240 Hobgoblin Pike 2/3/4 IF 3 2 42 0 (U) 3 pole arm and claw 8+ 1 rock 7+
& 60 White Apes
480 Hobgoblin Light Infantry 2/3/4 FF 3 1+1 20 0 2 spear and shield 9+ or 2 spear 9+
2 sword and shield 9+
480 Hobgoblin Heavy Infantry 2/3/4 FF 3 1+1 20 0 3 pole arm 9+ -
UNIT CHARACTERISTICS (CAMPAIGNS) COMPANY SCALE

Daily Move Weekly Move Monthly Wage Supply Cost Specialist Cost Total Cost Battle
Unit Type (Miles) (Miles) (GP/Month) (GP/Week) (GP/Month) (GP/Month) Rating
60 Goblin Bat Riders 72 288 12,000 960 90 15,930 22
5 War Mastodons 24 96 4,500 240 70 5,530 7.5
60 Hobgoblin Horse Archers 48 192 4,500 240 90 5,550 7.5
60 Hellhounds 24 96 3,600 120 50 4,080 5
120 Hobgoblin Longbowmen 18 72 2,880 60 130 3,250 4
60 Hob. Pike & 60 White Apes 18 72 2,520 60 430 3,190 3.5
120 Hobgoblin Heavy Infantry 18 72 1,800 60 130 2,170 2.5
120 Hobgoblin Light Infantry 18 72 1,440 60 130 1,810 2
CUSTOM UNIT DESCRIPTIONS

War Mastodons: Ysgre tramples the thrones of mankind attacks. The units breath weapon deals 3 uhp of damage to
beneath her mammoth tread with this behemoth cavalry unit. the target unit (6 at battalion scale). If the target succeeds on
It is composed of 5 mighty mastodons trained as war mounts a saving throw versus Blast, the damage is reduced by half.
(+2 ML). Each mastodon carries a war howdah holding 6 Damage from hellhound breath always triggers a shock roll. The
hobgoblins equipped with spear, crossbow, 20 bolts, and scale unit is supported by a quartermaster (50gp).
armor. When charging, the unit deals 1 extra uhp of damage if it
Hobgoblin Pike and Albino Apes: Th is mixed unit (p.
hits with at least one of its tusk and spear attacks, and it gains +4
84) consists of 60 hobgoblins and
bonus to its trample attack throws if the
60 guard-trained albino apes. The
target unit is constituted of man-sized
hobgoblins are equipped with pole
or smaller creatures. A quartermaster I M P O R TA N T N O T E :
arms and scale armor, while the albino
(50gp/month) and armorers (20gp/ The heroes of Ysgres horde are all monsters apes carry rocks. Supporting the unit
month) support the unit.
of one sort or another. are a quartermaster (50gp/month),
Goblin Bat Riders: Ysgres goblin Ysgre herself was built with a unique custom armorers (80gp), and two creature
bat riders are the terror of the skies. handlers (150gp/month each) to
class, which we called Hobgoblin Warchanter.
Each unit is composed of 60 goblins manage the apes.
As a Hobgoblin Warchanter, she has the
mounted on giant bats. Each goblin
special abilities noted in her description, the
is armed with a spear, a sling, 20 sling HEROES
stones, a shield, and leather armor. The most important of which is her ability to cast
Ysgre the Hate Mother: 12th level
giant bats have all been trained as a war spells as an 8th level shaman.
Armies
Hobgoblin Warchanter*; AC 9, Move

mounts (giving them +2 ML). The unit The other monstrous heroes in this section 90' / 120', HD 9+7, hp 64, #AT 1 spear
is supported by a quartermaster (50gp/ were built as ACKS monsters with advanced -4+, Dmg 1d6+14; STR 16, INT 9,
month) and armorers (40gp/month). hit dice. We then used the rules for Ability WIS 13, DEX 10, CON 12, CHA 16;
Hellhounds: Composed of 60 Scores for Monsters and Proficiencies Alignment Chaotic; Abilities: Dark
hellhounds (3 HD each), this unit for Monsters from the upcoming ACKS Blessing (+2 saving throws), Fighter
will bring fire and death against any supplement Lairs and Encounters to assign
bonus (+5 damage), Fearsome Size
who face it. During each melee attack (+4 damage, +1 morale modifier),
some improved scores and interesting
sequence, the unit has a 30% chance Mystic Aura (+2 reaction rolls), Mystic
proficiencies to Iritak and Vul.
of breathing fire in lieu of its normal Path (cast spells as 8th level Shaman),
The Hobgoblin Horde of Ysgre 105

Unholy Fanaticism (+1 morale modifier); Proficiencies: Beast Weapon Finesse; Equipment: chainmail armor, ring of fire
Friendship, Black Lore of Zahar, Command, Leadership, resistance
Manual of Arms, Military Strategy 2, Riding, Siege Engineering;
Hobgoblin Chieftains: AC 7, Move 90', HD 5, hp 21, #AT
Equipment: spear +2, chainmail armor +2, shield +1, gauntlets
1 weapon 6+, Dmg by weapon +3, Alignment: Chaotic;
of ogre power, ring of spell storing (call lightning, skinchange,
Equipment: spear, sword, plate armor, shield
summon weather), ring of protection +1, potion of extra-
healing, potion of fire resistance, mounted on Biletongue
(Greater Hellhound; AC 8, Move 120', HD 7*, hp 38, #AT 1 bite THE WATCHFUL LEGION OF
3+ or breath, Dmg 1d6 or 7d6; Alignment Chaotic; Equipment:
chain barding, war saddle and tack) ARTASHUMARA
For a generation, the legion of the Nobiran wonderworker
Iritak: Ogre Chieftain; AC 7, Move 90', HD 8+2, hp53, #AT Artashumara has served as a bulwark between civilization and
1 great axe 2+, Dmg 2d6+2; CON 15; Alignment: Chaotic; the Chthonic hordes that threaten it. From his mountain citadel
Proficiencies: Command, Combat Reflexes, Leadership, of Shemal-Ulitu, high in the peaks of the Meniri, Artashumara
Military Strategy; Equipment: great axe +1, chainmail armor, stands sentinel over the Wastes to the south. When a warlord
shield, potion of healing of particular cunning arises, Artashumara sallies forth to
Vulg: Advanced Ghoul; AC 9, Move 90', HD 8, hp 41, #AT 2 destroy the foe before it can unify the tribes into a grand horde.
claws/1 bite 1+, Dmg 1d3+3/1d3+3/1d3+3; DEX 16; Alignment: Countless chieftains of the beastmen tribes have been destroyed
Chaotic; Proficiencies: Combat Reflexes, Military Strategy 2, by the blue and bronze legion. It is against the hobgoblin
tyrant Ysgre that Artashumara now turns his watchful eye
(Caesar: Cain Gillespie)
ORDER OF BATTLE
Army: The Watchful Legion
Army General Artashumara the Watchful
1st Division Cost (troops)
Commander Artashumara the Watchful
Units 1st Company of Under-Wizards of Shemal-Ulitu (Artashumara, Lieutenant) 48,450gp
1st Battalion of 4 Cataphract Cavalry Companies (Lieutenant) 22,200gp
1st Battalion of 4 Camel Lancer Companies (Lieutenant) 15,000gp
1st Battalion of 4 Camel Archer Companies (Lieutenant) 11,400gp
2nd Division Cost (troops)
Commander Azar el-Zardez
Units 1st Battalion of 4 Stormstalker Chariot Companies (Azar, Lieutenant) 66,280gp
1st Battalion of 4 Light Infantry (Lieutenant) 4,360gp
2nd Battalion of 4 Light Infantry (Lieutenant) 4,360gp
1st Battalion of 4 War Elephant Companies (Lieutenant) 11,320gp
3rd Division Cost (troops)
Commander Hameed Hadassah
Units 1st Battalion of 4 Longbowmen B (Hameed Hadassah, Lieutenant) 10,120gp
2nd Battalion of 4 Longbowmen B (Lieutenant) 10,120gp
3rd Battalion of 4 Longbowmen B (Lieutenant) 10,120gp
Total Cost per Month: 213,730gp
Artashumara General 5 3 +4 +1 1st Company of Under-Wizards
Azar el-Zardez Commander 7 4 +4 +5 1st Company of Stormstalker Chariots
Hameed Hadassah Commander 6 3 +1 +2 1st Battalion of 4 Longbowmen Companies
Lieutenants (various) Lieutenant 4 2 +1 +3 Various
106 The Watchful Legion of Artashumara

Capable of Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks Unit Missile Attacks
Name Independence Move Form AC Morale & Attack Throws & Attack Throws
Artashumara Yes 6/12/18 FLY 5 0 - Spells or Wand
Azar el-Zardez No 2/3/4 IM 9 (10) +2 1 scimitar 0+ -
Hameed Hadassah No 2/3/4 LF 5 +1 1 pair of scimitars -1+ 1 composite bow 0+
Lieutenants (various) No By unit By unit By unit +1 +0 1 sword 3+ -
UNIT CHARACTERISTICS (BATTLES BATTALION SCALE)

Unit Unit Unit
Unit Unit Unit Unit Melee Attacks & Unit Missile Attacks &
Unit Type Move Form ACHD HP Morale Attack Throws Attack Throws
60 Under-Wizards * 6/12/18 FLY 24+3 19 +2 1 staff 10+ 1 dart 10+
Charge: 5 talon/bite 7+
80 Stormstalker Chariots 2/3/4 IM 7 15 40 +1 2 scimitar 10+ 2 composite bow 10+
Charge: 10 claw/bite/tail 5+ Lightning breath
240 Cataphract Cavalry 3/6/9 FM 7 1-1 12 +2 2 lance & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
Charge: 3 hooves 8+
20 War Elephants 2/4/6 FM 7 13+2 8 +2 (U) 4 spear & tusk 8+ 2 composite bow 11+
240 Camel Lancers 2/5/7 IM 4 1-1 12 +2 2 lance & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
240 Camel Archers 2/5/7 IM 3 1-1 12 +1 2 scimitar & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
480 Longbowmen B 2/4/6 LF 2 / 3 1-1 12 0 2 scimitar & shield 11+ 2 composite bow 11+
480 Light Infantry A 2/4/6 LF 3 1-1 12 -1 2 short sword & shield 11+ 2 javelins 11+
*The Under-Wizards are a company-sized unit. As such they deal 1 uhp of damage per successful attack, rather than 4.
UNIT CHARACTERISTICS (CAMPAIGNS COMPANY SCALE)

60 Under-Wizards 192 768 47,400 240 90 48,450 67
20 Stormstalker Chariots 24 96 13,800 670 90 16,570 23
60 Cataphract Cavalry 36 144 4,500 240 90 5,550 7.5
60 Camel Lancers 30 120 2,700 240 90 3,750 4
60 Camel Archers 30 120 1,800 240 90 2,850 2.5
5 War Elephants 24 96 1,800 240 70 2,830 4
120 Longbowmen B 24 96 2,160 60 130 2,530 3
120 Light Infantry A 24 96 720 60 130 1,090 1
CUSTOM UNIT DESCRIPTIONS

Under-Wizards of Shemal-Ulitu: During his long watch, cast spells, the unit must have remained stationary during its
Artashumara has taken many apprentices. Promising candidates movement sequence, and must not have taken damage prior
with suitable courage and fitness are trained for battle magic and to its activation that combat round. Casting spells counts as an
aerial combat. Those who complete the training are recruited action in lieu of attacking for the entire unit, even if only a few of
into the Under-Wizards of Shemal-Ulitu, a cavalry unit of 60 3rd the mages cast spells. If multiple mages within the unit cast spells
level mages on hippogriffs. As Flyers, the Under-Wizards can all of them must cast the same spell. They may select different
withdraw and voluntarily retreat in combat. Only other Flyers, targets for the effect, however, if possible to do so. The Under-
and enemy units conducting a reaction attack against them, Wizards typically cast burning hands, sleep, and phantasmal
can threaten the Under-Wizards. The Under-Wizards can fly force. In certain battles, some of the mages might be equipped
above impassable, obscuring, or rough terrain, being treated as with scrolls of fireball.
elevated while doing so.
Stormstalker Chariots: The wonderworker Artashumara
Armies
When charging, the Under-Wizards deal one additional point crossbred blue dragons and dire wolves to create the
of damage if the unit hits with at least one of its talon/bite stormstalkers. Each the size of a large horse, the lightning-
attacks. Additionally, if any of the talon/bite attack throws is an breathing creatures form Artashumaras primary weapon in the
unmodified 20, then the unit has grabbed creatures from among battle against chaos.
the target unit and flown off with them. This inflicts additional
This chariot unit is composed of 20 medium chariots, each
damage equal to the target units own HD, unless the target unit
drawn by 2 stormstalkers and carrying 3 veteran charioteers.
makes a successful saving throw versus Paralysis.
The driver is equipped with scimitar, shield, and lamellar armor,
Up to 15 of the mages in the unit can cast spells during the while the other two charioteers are equipped with composite
units attack sequence. In order for any of the units mages to bows, scimitars, and lamellar armor. The unit has the hitting
The Watchful Legion of Artashumara 107
power of a longbow unit and more than twice the staying power stone / 6th control weather, detect ritual magic, lower water,
of veteran heavy infantry! move earth; Equipment: dagger +2, +3 v. beastmen, bracers
of armor +5, wand of polymorph (13 charges), elven cloak
In lieu of its normal attack sequence, a unit of stormstalker
and boots, medallion of ESP (90'), ring of invisibility, ring of
chariots may conduct a lightning breath attack sequence against
fire resistance, ring of water walking, potion of clairaudience,
an opposing unit within 1 hex. The stormstalker chariot unit
potions of ESP, potion of longevity, scroll (ESP, invisibility,
receives 10 breath attacks during its attack sequence. Each
invisibility 10' radius, wall of stone), scroll (hallucinatory
breath attack automatically hits and deals 6 uhp of damage to
terrain, massmorph), scroll (smite undead, restore life and
the target unit (12 uhp at battalion scale). Damage is doubled
limb), and military kit, mounted on hippogriff with war saddle
against cavalry units, behemoth cavalry units, and chariot units.
and tack
The target unit may make a saving throw versus Blast for each
attack; if successful, the damage from that attack is reduced Azar el-Zardez: 9th level Paladin; AC 9 (10 v. evil), Move 90' /
by half. A unit may not lose more than 1/8 its maximum uhp 90', hp 55, #AT 1 scimitar 0+, Dmg 1d6+9; STR 16, INT 9, WIS
(rounded up) from each attack. Damage from the stormstalkers 14, DEX 10, CON 13, CHA 16; Alignment Lawful; Proficiencies:
breath attack sequence always triggers a shock roll. Command, Leadership, Military Strategy 3, Riding; Equipment:
scimitar +3 (Lawful sentient, INT 9, EGO 1, Will 10, detect
Stormstalker: AC 7, Move 150', HD 6, #AT 2 claws, 1 bite, 1 tail
evil, detect invisible, detect secret doors), lamellar armor +1,
lash or 1 breath weapon, Dmg 2d6/1d8/2d6 or 6d6, Save F6, ML
shield +1, ring of protection +1, ring of regeneration, potion
+1, AL L; Type Sentient Fantastic Creature, Size Large, Role War
of giant strength, potion of healing, potion of heroism,
Mount, Normal Load 30, Price 17,000gp, Monthly Wages 540gp;
potion of invulnerability, and military kit, riding medium
Weekly Supplies 16gp, Total Cost 604gp/month, BR 0.750
chariot drawn by 2 stormstalkers and carrying two charioteers
with composite bows, scimitars, and lamellar armor.
HEROES
Artashumara the Watchful: 12th level Nobiran Wonderworker; Hameed Hadassah: 9th level Explorer; AC 5, Move 120' / 150',
AC 5, Move 120' / 180', hp 30, #AT 1 dagger 5+ (4+ v. beastmen), hp 54, #AT composite bow 0+ or pair of scimitars -1+, Dmg
Dmg 1d4+2 (+3 v. beastmen); STR 11, INT 17, WIS 15, DEX 1d6+4 (bow) or 1d6+7 (scimitars); STR 13, INT 9, WIS 9,
11, CON 11, CHA 11; Alignment Lawful; Proficiencies: Battle DEX 17, CON 16, CHA 13; Alignment: Lawful; Proficiencies:
Magic, Collegiate Wizard, Military Strategy 2, Leadership, Alertness, Military Strategy, Leadership, Precise Shot, Riding,
Theology, Transmogrification; Arcane Spells Known: 1st Survival, Weapon Finesse; Equipment: shortsword +2, short
burning hands, detect magic, magic missile, read languages, sword +1, composite bow +1, 20 arrows, leather armor +1,
sleep, summon berserkers / 2nd alter self, hallucinatory potion of giant strength, and military kit
pattern, invisibility, mirror image, stinking cloud, uncanny Lieutenants: 7th level Fighters; AC By unit +1, Move By unit,
gyration / 3rd dispel magic, fireball, lightning bolt, protection hp 40, #AT 1 melee weapon 4+ or ranged weapon 5+, Dmg
from normal missiles, skinchange / 4th growth of plants, By weapon +3; STR 13, INT 11, WIS 11, DEX 10, CON 10,
polymorph self, polymorph other, scry, summon fantastic CHA 12; Proficiencies: Combat Reflexes, Leadership, Military
creature / 5th panic, protection from normal weapons, Strategy, Precise Shot, Riding; Equipment: By unit; weapons and
scouring wind, teleport, transmute rock to mud, wall of armor will be magical +1
ADDITIONAL CUSTOM UNITS

DOMAINS AT WAR: BATTLES CHARACTERISTICS
1 Thrassian Dragon Turtle 1/2/3 IM 13 75 5 +2 7 bite/claw and spear 3+ 2 medium catapults 8+
1 steaming breath attack 5 reload tokens
5 Barbarian Triceratops 2/3/4 IM 7 17 6 +1 (U) 5 gore and spear 5+ 1 sling 10+
60 Knights of the Wing. Sun 2/4/6 FM 7 1+2 12 +4 3 lance 10+ -
Charge: 4 hooves 7+
120 Tin Soldiers 1/2/3 FF 7 1 8 0 4 pole arm 10+ -
DOMAINS AT WAR: CAMPAIGNS CHARACTERISTICS

1 Thrassian Dragon Turtle 6 24 2,485 960 63 6,388 9.0
5 Barbarian Triceratops 18 72 480 240 70 1,510 2.0
60 Knights of the W. Sun 24 96 8,700 240 90 9,750 12.0
120 Tin Soldiers 12 48 2,880 0 160 3,040 4.0
108 The Watchful Legion of Artashumara

UNIT DESCRIPTIONS plate-barded heavy warhorses, have all taken Martial Training
Thrassian Dragon Turtle: The paltry elephants of mankinds proficiency and are each equipped with a lance, a sword, a
armies would seem insignificant next to this reptilian shield, and a suit of plate armor. When charging, a Knights unit
dreadnaught from the ancient Thrassian Empire. A behemoth deals 1 extra uhp of damage if it hits with at least one of its lance
cavalry unit, it is composed of a dragon turtle in plate barding attacks.
carrying a war howdah holding 20 lizardman heavy infantry.
Since it consists of 60 2nd level clerics, a Knight unit can turn
Each lizardman is equipped with a spear, a shield, and leather
undead on the battlefield and cast spells. In order for any of
armor, but their primary purpose is to crew the four medium
the units clerics to cast spells, the unit must have remained
catapults that are mounted on the dragon turtles back. A total
stationary during its movement sequence, and must not have
of 80 shots of 30lb ballistic ammunition is kept for the artillery.
taken damage prior to its activation that combat round. Casting
If the catapults do not suffice, the dragon turtle may conduct
spells counts as an action in lieu of attacking for the entire unit,
a steaming breath attack sequence against an opposing unit in
even if only a few of the clerics cast spells. If multiple clerics
lieu of the units normal attack. The dragon turtles steaming
within the unit cast spells all of them must cast the same spell.
breath affects one unit within 2 hexes of the unit, dealing 30 uhp
They may select different targets for the effect, however, if
of damage. If the unit succeeds on a saving throw versus Blast,
possible to do so. The Knights of the Winged Sun typically cast
the damage is reduced by half. Damage from the dragon turtles
cure light wounds. Every 20 clerics which cast will heal 1 uhp
breath attack is doubled against cavalry units. Damage from
of damage. All 60 clerics can cast in the same combat round,
the dragon turtles breath always triggers a shock roll (if theres
healing the unit 3 uhp. Each individual Knight of the Winged
anything left to shock). To protect this valuable military asset,
Sun costs 145gp per month in wages, and the unit as a whole
the dragon turtle has been permanently hasted and protected
costs 9,750gp per month total. (Legate: Jon Zeigler)
from normal missiles. The dragon turtle unit costs 6,388gp per
month total. (Legate: Scott Boston) Tin Soldiers: Tin soldiers are living constructs designed for
war. Like automatons and golems, they have no need for sleep,
Barbarian Triceratops: Jutland traders often tell stories of
food, or water; but unlike those constructs, they possess the
terrible juggernauts from prehistoric times that still wander
intelligence, will, and drive of living creatures. Who constructed
in the northlands beyond the Jutting Mountains. The truth
the first tin soldiers, and to what purpose, remains unknown to
behind the legend is this behemoth cavalry unit composed of 5
even the wisest loremasters of the Auran Empire. Some believe
triceratops. Each triceratops carries a bone war howdah holding
they are not even from the world of Cybele at all, but instead
six 1st-level barbarians equipped with spears, shortbows, 20
are the spearhead of an invasion from some advanced sphere
arrows, and hide armor. When charging, the unit deals 1 extra
of existence. Whatever the case, they can seemingly forge more
uhp of damage if it hits with at least one of its gore and spear
of their own kind, creating fears that a tin army may one day
attacks, and it gains +4 bonus to its trample attack throws if the
threaten the Empire.
target unit is constituted of man-sized or smaller creatures. If
they could be hired as mercenaries, a barbarian triceratops with A tin soldier unit is similar in most respects to a dwarven or
its six riders would cost 288gp per month in wages. The unit as human heavy infantry unit. However, because of its constructed
a whole costs 15,10gp per month total. (Legate: Casey Garske) nature, the units troops are immune to poison, and gain a
+1 bonus to saving throw versus Spells. The unit also has no
Knights of the Winged Sun: An order of militant clerics based
supply cost, does not have to maintain lines of supply, and is
in the monastery atop holy Mt. Audarammas, the Knights of
never considered out of supply. However, they require twice the
the Winged Sun fight Chaos and defend holy places across the
normal number of armorers to maintain their tin bodies. Each
Auran Empire. The elite units of the Knights of the Winged Sun
individual tin soldier costs 24gp per month in wages, and the
are their four armored cavalry companies, each composed of 60
unit as a whole costs 3,040gp total. (Legate: Charles Meyers)
2nd level clerics with fanatical morale. These clerics, mounted on
Armies
The Watchful Legion of Artashumara 109

Glossary
In war, opportunity is fleeting, and cannot be put off at all.

action in lieu of attacking: an action, such as defending, battalion scale: a scale used for battles between 3,001 and
readying to attack, or casting a spell, which takes the place of a 12,000 combatants. Each battalion-scale unit represents four
units attacks during its attack sequence. company-scale units. Each battalion-scale hex is 120' across.
Each battalion-scale combat round represents 2 standard
activate: to expend activation points on a unit in order to allow
combat rounds (20 seconds).
it to move and attack.
battering ram/screw: a siege engine designed to batter down
activation points (AP): activation points are used by
the walls and gates of strongholds.
commanders to activate units of their divisions during their
command phase. A commander receives a number of activation battle: (a) a confrontation between two armies in the same
points each combat round equal to his leadership ability. 6-mile hex; (b) a game of Domains at War: Battles.
active commander: the term for a commander during that battlemap: a paper or game-board surface divided into six-
commanders command phase. When a commander becomes sided hexes which represents the region of the battlefield, upon
active, he receives a number of activation points (AP) equal to which battles are resolved.
his leadership ability.
behemoth cavalry unit: a special type of cavalry unit in which
active unit: a unit which has been activated. An active unit takes multiple smaller riders are seated on huge, gigantic, or colossal
a movement sequence and then an attack sequence. mounts. A behemoth cavalry unit will always have either
Formed Mounted, Irregular Mounted, Loose Mounted, or Flyer
advance: a movement into a newly-vacated hex by an attacker
formation.
which triggered a rout, retreat, or withdrawal.
besieging army: an army laying a siege.
adventurer: a character played by a player.
blockade: a method of capturing a stronghold in which the
ambush: a strategic situation in which an unaware army on the
besieging army encircles the besieged stronghold with its forces
march is surprised by a fully deployed and ready army. Every
to deny re-supply and escape.
division from each army participates in the battle.
bonus attacks: attacks available to certain types of troops, such
army: (a) in Domains at War: Campaigns, a body of troops
as cavalry, whenever they charge.
raised by a domain or realm leader. It is made up of all the
soldiers from all sources that are under the command of a breach: an entry into a fortified structure created by reducing
particular leader. (b) In Domains at War: Battles, all of the forces it to its starting shp. Breaches make it easier to assault a
controlled by one side during a battle. An army may be thought structure.
of as a group of divisions under one general. An army typically
break point: 1/3 of an armys starting number of units, rounded
has three to eight divisions.
up.
artillery: a siege weapon designed to bombard and destroy
brigade scale: a scale used for battles with 12,001 combatants
enemy ships and structures.
or more. Each brigade-scale unit represents 16 company-scale
assault: a method of capturing a stronghold in which the units. Each battalion-scale hex is 240' across. Each battalion-
besieging army attacks the stronghold directly to capture it with scale combat round represents 4 standard combat rounds (40
force of arms. seconds).
attach: (a) in the Basic Rules, each officer counter must be campaign battle: battles fought in the context of an ongoing
placed on a unit counter. The officer is said to be attached to role-playing game campaign.
that unit. During the battle, officers move with the unit they are
casualties: a loss of troops due to units being destroyed or dealt
attached to. They do not move or attack independent of their
damage.
unit, and do not directly affect combat. (b) When using Heroes,
a hero may be placed on a unit counter. The hero is said to be catapult: a one-armed tension- or torsion-powered siege engine
attached to that unit. During the battle, attached heroes move which hurls rocks, burning pitch, or other projectiles from a
with the unit they are attached to. They may attack with their sling or spoon attached to its throwing arm. All catapults can
unit, receiving their own attack throw(s). damage creatures, wood, and stone. Catapults have difficulty
striking small, fast-moving creatures.
attack sequence: a sequence of attacks conducted by an active
unit subsequent to its movement sequence. cauldron: a pot used by defending units during an assault to
pour boiling water, oil, or sand over walls or through murder
attack throw: the target value required to hit an AC of 0 on a
holes onto assault troops.
roll of 1d20.
cavalry: troops that fight mounted on other creatures or from
ballista: a two-armed siege weapon, powered either by tension
Glossary
vehicles. The combination of rider and mount or vehicle packs

(composite bow) or torsion spring mechanisms. Light ballista
more fighting power within a given area, and increases mobility,
cannot damage structures. Medium ballista can damage
but increases the risk from area of effect attacks. Cavalry will
creatures or wood structures, but not stone structures. Heavy
always have either Formed Mounted, Irregular Mounted, Loose
ballista can damage creatures, wood, and stone.
Mounted, or Flyer formation.
Glossary 111
cavalry unit: a unit in which man-sized riders are seated on large- identical. In a mixed unit, there may be a variety of different
sized mounts. (In contrast, man-sized riders seated on huge, constituent creatures.
gigantic, or colossal creatures form behemoth cavalry units;
damaged: a condition indicating a unit has taken damage in
while man-sized troops fighting from vehicles form chariots.) A
combat. A unit is destroyed and removed from a battle when it
cavalry unit will always have either Formed Mounted, Irregular
has taken damage equal to its unit hit points.
Mounted, Loose Mounted, or Flyer formation.
deep envelopment: a strategic situation in which an offensive
character: an individual within the game-world.
army is surprised by an attack by an opposing army on its front
charge (attack): any melee attack made by an attacker that and rear. Every division from each army participates in the
charged during its movement sequence. Charging grants a +2 battle.
bonus to attack throws. Formed Foot units and any Mounted
defend: an action in lieu of attacking which grants the unit the
units equipped with spears, polearms, or lances deal one extra
shielded condition.
point of damage during charges if they hit with at least one attack
with these weapons. Mounted units also receive bonus attacks delay: when a commander takes his command phase at a lower
when they charge, based on the mounts attack characteristics. initiative score than he rolled. A commander may delay his
A unit that makes a charge attack always becomes disordered if command phase until the negative value of his initiative score,
it was not already. but must take his command phase then.
charge (movement): to move a number of hexes up to a units depleted: a condition indicating a unit has depleted its store of
charging movement rate. Each hex of movement must be ammunition. Each depleted token reduces the units number of
into one of the units front hexes. The unit cannot change its attacks per attack sequence when using that weapon by one.
facing before, during, or after charging. A unit which charges
deployment: the initial placement of an armys units on the
immediately becomes disordered. During its attack sequence,
battlemap. In most strategic situations, each side deploys its
a charging unit can attack with melee weapons. However, a
units simultaneously and in secret.
charging unit does not have to attack; a unit can charge simply
to move across the battlemap quickly if desired. deployment restriction: the rules that units must obey when
being set up in the deployment zone. Some strategic situations
chariot unit: a special type of cavalry unit in which two to four
impose additional deployment restrictions.
man-sized charioteers are seated on chariots each pulled by
two to four large steeds. A chariot unit will always have either deployment zone: the area on the battlemap in which an army
Formed Mounted, Irregular Mounted, Loose Mounted, or Flyer may be deployed during set up.
formation.
detach: an attached hero may detach from his unit at the start of
cleave factor: a factor added to a creatures number of attacks any initiative phase, prior to initiative being rolled. Remove the
to take into account the possibility for additional attacks when heros counter from the units counter and place it in the units
opponents are incapacitated. hex to indicate the hero has detached. The newly independent
hero may roll for initiative and activate himself that round. An
combat round: a segment of a battle lasting 10 seconds. Each
officer who would not qualify to be a hero except for his status
round begins with an initiative phase, includes several command
as a commander or lieutenant may not detach from his unit.
phases, then ends with a morale phase.
disengagement: A disengagement enables a unit that starts
command phase: the phase of the combat round during which
its movement sequence threatened to move away from the
a commander receives activation points and spends them to
unit which is threatening it. A disengagement triggers one
move and attack with his units.
free melee attack sequence from each threatening enemy unit
commander: an officer in charge of a division. A division can which is not disordered. However, a disengaging Loose Foot,
be thought of as a group of units under one commander. The Loose Mounted, or Flyer unit does not trigger attacks from
maximum number of units in a division that can move and fight threatening units that have a slower marching movement rate
is determined by its commanders leadership ability. than it. If an attack sequence is triggered by disengagement,
the attacker applies a special +2 bonus to hit the disengaging
company scale: the standard scale of Domains at War, used
unit. If multiple attack sequences are triggered, the disengaging
for battles of 601 to 3,000 combatants. A company-scale unit
unit chooses the order in which the threatening units attack
represents 120 infantry, 60 cavalry, or an equivalent number
sequences are resolved.
of larger creatures. Each company-scale hex is 60' across. Each
company-scale combat round is 10 seconds long. disordered: a condition indicating a unit has had its formation
disrupted by rapid movement, casualties, etc. A unit becomes
condition: a circumstance that modifies the characteristics or
disordered if it charges, withdraws, or takes damage. Disordered
available actions of a unit. Conditions are marked with tokens.
units suffer a -2 penalty to their Unit AC, shock rolls, and
condition token: a 1" x 1" marker used to indicate a unit has a morale rolls, and cost 1 additional activation point to activate.
particular condition. A disordered unit is marked by placing a disordered token on
it. The disordered token is removed the next time the unit is
constituent creature: one of the individual creatures within
activated.
a unit. In a standard unit, the constituent creatures are all
112 Glossary
division: a group of units positioned in proximity to each other retreat one additional hex if doing so is the only way to retreat
in an armys line of battle and supervised by a commander without ending their movement in the same hex as another
reporting to the armys leader. A division typically consists of unit. A Flyer which conducts a missile attack after remaining
three to eight units. stationary may make a voluntary retreat of up to its marching
move at the conclusion of its attack sequence. As an action in
domain: an area of land secured by a stronghold.
lieu of attacking, Flyers may ready to attack. Flyers may choose
envelopment: a strategic situation in which an army deployed to fly above rough, impassable, or obscuring terrain if desired,
for defense is surprised by an attack by an offensive army on its and are treated as elevated when doing so. Flyers may move and
front and flank. Every division from each army participates in attack as if elevated one or more levels above the surrounding
the battle. hex if desired.
epic fortified structure: a structure, used in an epic scale battle, foot unit: a unit with a unit formation of either FF (Formed
abstracted from a standard scale structures physical layout. Foot), IF (Irregular Foot), or LF (Loose Foot). Foot units are
always infantry, but infantry are not always Foot units. For
epic scale: a means of handling large battles. At epic scale, each
example, a company of 60 hellhounds without riders would
unit represents a larger body of troops, each hex represents a
technically be infantry, but it would be a Mounted unit, not a
larger area of ground, and each round represents a lengthier
Foot unit, because of its Irregular Mounted formation.
period of time. There are two epic scales available, each named
for the relative size of the units: battalion scale and brigade scale. formed foot (FF): highly-disciplined soldiers fighting shoulder-
to-shoulder in close order, with a frontage of one soldier every
exterior fortified structure: an exterior fortified structure is a
3'. Formed Foot are sturdy defenders, usually heavily armed
structure in a hex adjacent to one or more hexes that do not
and armored. They are used to take or hold ground in close
contain other fortified structures of the stronghold.
combat. During deployment, Formed Foot may form a phalanx
facing: the hex vertex towards which a units counter is oriented. with another similarly-equipped FF unit. FF units equipped
A units facing impacts its ability to move and fight on the with spears, polearms, or lances deal one extra point of damage
battlemap. during charges if they hit with at least one attack. As actions in
lieu of attacking, FF may defend or ready to attack. A reaction
flank hexes: the two hexes to the left and right of a units current
attack by spear- or polearm-equipped FF units deals one extra
hex.
point of damage when the attacker is charging if the reacting
flanking attack: (a) a melee attack wherein the attacker is unit does not charge. FF adjacent to at least two friendly units
threatening the target, while the target is not threatening the gain +2 to morale rolls.
attacker. (b) A missile attack wherein an imaginary line drawn
formed mounted (FM): highly-disciplined cavalry mounted
from the center of the attackers hex to the center of the targets
on medium or heavy warhorses fighting in close order (knee
hex would enter the targets hex through the targets flank or rear
to knee). A frontage of one horse per 4' is typical. Formed
hexes. A flanking attacker gains a +2 bonus to attack throws
Mounted are generally shock troops equipped with lances, but
against the flanked target.
some (cataphracts) may carry and use composite bows, which
flee: a possible result of a shock roll or morale roll. A fleeing they use to disorder their foes before finishing them off with a
unit changes its facing towards its own battlemap edge and charge. FM units equipped with spears, polearms, or lances deal
immediately retreats a number of hexes equal to its hustling one extra point of damage during charges if they hit with at least
movement rate in that direction. If a fleeing unit cannot one attack. FM units might also receive bonus attacks when they
complete its retreat, it is considered routed and removed from charge, based on the mounts attack characteristics. As actions
play. in lieu of attacking, FM may ready to attack. FM adjacent to at
least two friendly units gain +2 to morale rolls. FM units may
flyer (FLY): aerial monsters or cavalry. Flyers generally fly
not charge into, through, or from rough terrain.
wingtip-to-wingtip in order to maximize striking power, with
as few as 5 and as many as 60 in a unit depending on size. Some fortified structure: a keep, gatehouse, tower, length of wall, or
flyers carry riders equipped with lances or bows and serve as other building. A set of one or more fortified structures securing
highly mobile cataphracts. Other flyers rely on beak and talon. a domain is called a stronghold.
A Flyer unit can only be threatened by an enemy Flyer or by
general: an officer in charge of an army. An army can be thought
an enemy unit conducting a reaction attack against the Flyer.
of as a group of divisions under one general. The maximum
Flyers can march or hustle through friendly units, and be
number of divisions in an army is limited by its generals
marched or hustled through by friendly units. A disengaging
leadership ability.
flyer does not trigger attacks from threatening units that have a
slower marching movement rate than it. Flyers equipped with ground story: the story of a fortified structure situated at the
spears, polearms, or lances deal one extra point of damage same elevation as the surrounding ground. A breached ground
Glossary
during charges if they hit with at least one attack. Flyers might story can be entered by assaulting units without the need for
also receive bonus attacks when they charge. When a Flyer unit hoists, siege ladders, or siege towers.
is hit, it may be eligible to reduce damage dealt by one or more
hero: an officer that can move and/or fight independently
points by withdrawing one or more hexes, up to a maximum of
of a unit. In company-scale battles, a hero must be one of the
its marching movement. Flyers may retreat through any friendly
following: a general, commander, or lieutenant; a PC or NPC
units, and friendly units may retreat through them. They may
Glossary 113
of at least 7th level; a monster of at least 9 HD and functioning recoils, flees, or routs, the Irregular Foot unit must advance if
outside of a unit; or a spellcaster capable of third level arcane possible.
spells or fifth level divine spells.
irregular mounted (IM): poorly-trained and undisciplined
hero officer characteristics: a heros officer characteristics come cavalry, packs of wild beasts, and riders of particularly aggressive,
into play if he serves as a general, commander, or lieutenant. A unpredictable, or vicious mounts. Irregular Mounted units
heros officer characteristics include leadership ability, zone of may not disengage or ready to attack, due to lack of discipline.
control, strategic ability, and morale modifier. Irregular Mounted units must attack if able. IM units equipped
with spears, polearms, or lances deal one extra point of damage
hero personal characteristics: a heros personal characteristics
during charges if they hit with at least one attack. IM units
are used when the hero attacks or is attacked by another hero. A
might also receive bonus attacks when they charge, based on
heros personal characteristics include movement rate, AC, HD,
the mounts attack characteristics. If the target of an Irregular
hp, attack throw, number of attacks, damage, saving throws,
Mounted units attack recoils, flees, or routs, the IM unit must
initiative modifier, and special abilities.
advance if possible. IM units may not charge into, through, or
hero unit characteristics: a heros unit characteristics are used from rough terrain.
when the character attacks or is attacked by a unit. A heroic
judge: a participant in a game of ACKS who controls NPCs.
characters unit characteristics include unit movement rate, unit
formation, unit armor class, unit hit dice, unit attacks, and unit labor unit: a unit formed during deployment by merging two
morale. Note that heroes do not have uhp as explained below, identical units into one. Labor units count as two units of crew
attacks against heroes always deal personal hp of damage. for the purposes of moving siege towers.
hero, attached: a hero that moves and fights with a unit. An leader: a character who controls a domain or realm.
attached heros counter is placed on the counter of the unit he
leadership ability: a characters capability to give orders and
is attached to.
have them obeyed. Leadership ability determines the number
hero, independent: a hero that moves and fights virtually as a of activation points (AP) that a commander receives. It also
unit himself. An independent heros counter is placed in the hex determines the number of divisions a general may have in his
he occupies, facing one of that hexs six vertices. army. Leadership ability ranges from 1 to 8.
hex: a six-sided segment of the battlemap representing an area leading from the rear: taking up a position at the rear of a unit
of ground 60' across that regulates the movement and combat in order to reduce an attached heros visibility distance to 0
of units. hexes. A hero leading from the rear cannot attack or act in lieu
of attacking. An attached hero cannot lead from the rear if he
hoist: a siege engine used by assaulting troops to ascend to the
is of a larger size than that of the constituent troops of his unit.
top of a wall.
lieutenant: an officer in charge of an individual unit. Lieutenants
hustle: to move a number of hexes up to a units hustling
increase their units morale, make the unit easier to control, and
movement rate. A hustling unit can change its facing in any
can replace division commanders lost in battle.
direction prior to moving, but each hex of movement thereafter
must be into one of its front hexes. The unit can change its line of sight: an attacker has line of sight if it can trace an
facing while hustling, but each 60-degree facing change counts imaginary line from the center of its hex to the center of the
as one hex of movement. A hustling unit cannot take an attack targets hex without crossing a hex containing an obstacle.
sequence.
loose foot (LF): well-trained soldiers fighting in open order, with
infantry: any troop which fights on foot, without a mount or a frontage of one soldier every 5' to 6'. Their extended formation
vehicle. Infantry will usually have either Formed Foot, Irregular allows them to easily pass through or around obstacles or
Foot, or Loose Foot formation. However, quadrupedal troops friendly units, and to withdraw in the face of enemy missiles
such as dire wolves or centaurs will have a Mounted formation, or heavy troops. LF units can march or hustle through friendly
while winged troops such as harpies will have a Flyer formation, units, and be marched or hustled through by friendly units. A
even though they are technically infantry. disengaging LF unit does not trigger attacks from threatening
units that have a slower marching movement rate than it. When
initiative roll: a roll made by each commander during the
a LF unit is hit, it may be eligible to reduce damage dealt by
initiative phase of every combat round.
one or more points by withdrawing one or more hexes, up to a
initiative score: a number that determines the order in which maximum of its marching movement. LF may retreat through
a commanders command phase will occur during a combat any friendly units, and friendly units may retreat through them.
round. A commanders initiative score is calculated by rolling LF may retreat one additional hex if doing so is the only way
1d6 and adding the commanders strategic ability score. to retreat without ending their movement in the same hex as
another unit. As an action in lieu of attacking, LF may ready to
irregular foot (IM): poorly-trained and undisciplined bands of
attack.
warriors. They are incapable of any advanced tactics and must
rely on individual ferocity or sheer mass. Irregular Foot units loose mounted (LM): well-trained cavalry mounted on light
may not disengage or ready to attack, due to lack of discipline. warhorses fighting in an extended order. A frontage of one
IF units must attack if able. If the target of an IF units attack horse per 6' to 8' is typical. Generally equipped with bows,
javelins, or other missile weapons, Loose Mounted units use
114 Glossary
their speed and mobility to harass and disorder enemy forces. movable gallery: a wheeled carriage with a heavy timber frame
LM units can march or hustle through friendly units, and be used to provide cover for troops operating against a wall.
marched or hustled through by friendly units. A disengaging
movable mantlet: a thick wooden shield mounted on wheels
LM unit does not trigger attacks from threatening units that
used to shelter assaulting troops from fire as they move towards
have a slower marching movement rate than it. LM units
the besieged strongholds walls.
equipped with spears, polearms, or lances deal one extra point
of damage during charges if they hit with at least one attack. morale modifier: a characters ability to inspire loyalty and
When a LM unit is hit, it may be eligible to reduce damage dealt courage. A generals morale modifier modifies the shock rolls
by one or more points by withdrawing one or more hexes, up to of every unit in his army. A commander or lieutenants morale
a maximum of its marching movement. LM may retreat through modifier modifies the shock rolls and morale rolls of the unit he
any friendly units, and friendly units may retreat through them. is attached to. Morale modifier ranges from -3 to +7.
They may retreat one additional hex if doing so is the only way
morale phase: the phase of the combat round during which the
to retreat without ending their movement in the same hex as
morale of each army is assessed.
another unit. A LM unit which conducts a missile attack after
remaining stationary may make a voluntary retreat of up to its morale roll: a roll, modified by unit morale, required when the
marching move at the conclusion of its attack sequence. As an army loses its general or 33% or more of its starting units.
action in lieu of attacking, LM units may ready to attack. LM
movement sequence: a sequence of movement conducted by
units may not charge into, through, or from rough terrain.
an active unit prior to its attack sequence. During its movement
loss of an officer: in the Basic Rules, the removal of an officer sequence, a unit may stand fast, march, hustle, or charge.
from play due to the destruction or rout of the unit to which he
number of attacks: how many attacks a unit may make during
was attached. The officer is assumed to be killed if the unit was
its attack sequence.
destroyed, and captured if the unit was routed.
obstacle: a friendly unit, enemy unit, or type of terrain that
main body: the divisions of an army that are neither part of its
blocks line of sight.
vanguard or rear guard.
officer: an important character taking part in a battle. Officers are
map scale: the scale of hexes used on maps to chart the
represented with officer counters and rated with various officer
movement of armies.
characteristics. Officers include lieutenants, commanders,
march: to move a number of hexes up to a units marching generals, and/or heroes.
movement rate. A marching unit can move in any direction
officer characteristics: a set of characteristics which rate an
regardless of facing, and can change its facing at no cost before,
officers effectiveness on the battlefield, including leadership
during, and/or after marching. During its attack sequence, a
ability, zone of control, strategic ability, and morale modifier.
marching unit can attack with melee weapons, attack with most
missile weapons, defend, or ready to attack. officer counter: a 1" x 1" counter used to represent an officer on
the battlemap.
meeting engagement: a strategic situation in which the
vanguard divisions of one army fight the vanguard divisions of personal domain: a domain within a realm under the personal
the other army. control of the realms leader.
method of attack: the weapon, fighting style, or attack routine phalanx unit: a unit formed during deployment by merging
used by a unit. two similarly-equipped Formed Foot units from a particular
division into one.
military campaign: the strategic maneuver of armies to defend
domains or conquer new domains. pitched battle: a strategic situation in which two armies meet
on a mutually agreed battlefield, fully deployed. Every division
mixed unit: a unit made up of a variable number of different
from each army may participate in the battle.
types of creatures. Mixed units may be of any size, and may
include constituent creatures of different size (e.g. giants and platoon scale: a scale used for battles with 120 to 600 combatants.
goblins), HD (bugbears and orcs), armament (pike and bow), Each platoon-scale unit represents of a company-scale unit.
or other variances. Each company-scale hex is 30' across. Each company-scale
combat round represents a standard combat round (10 seconds).
monstrous unit: a unit consisting of huge, gigantic, and/or
colossal creatures. Monstrous units are capable of attacking player: a participant in a game of ACKS who is not the Judge.
fortified structures.
player character: a character played by a player.
mounted unit: a unit with a unit formation of FM (Formed
pursue: to inflict additional losses on an enemy army in the
Mounted), IM (Irregular Mounted), or LM (Loose Mounted).
Glossary
aftermath of its defeat in a battle.

Mounted units are usually, but not always, cavalry. For example,
a company of 60 hellhounds would be a mounted unit because pursuit throw: a roll of 1d20 against a target value set by the
of its IM formation, but since the hellhounds do not have riders type of pursuing unit. A successful throw eliminates an enemy
they are not cavalry. unit.
Glossary 115
rally: a possible result of a morale roll. If the unit is disordered, sequence of play: the order in which the phases occur during a
the disordered token is removed. If the unit is not disordered, combat round.
it recovers one lost uhp and, if unthreatened, may advance one
shielded: a condition indicating a unit has adopted a defensive
hex towards an enemy unit.
formation such a shield wall, testudo, or hedgehog. Shielded
ram catcher: a siege engine used to lift, break, or dislodge units are marked by placing a shielded token on the unit. While
battering rams, siege hooks, or screws from the walls. The the shielded token is present, its Unit AC is increased by +2
device consists of a grappling hook mounted at the end of a long versus melee and thrown attacks and +4 versus bow, crossbow,
beam or thick rope. and sling attacks. It receives a +2 bonus on morale rolls. The
shielded token is removed if the unit attacks, moves, or becomes
reacting unit: a unit which is conducting a reaction attack
disordered.
sequence.
shock roll: a roll, modified by unit morale, required when a unit
reaction attack sequence: an attack sequence that may ocur
loses 50% or more of its uhp, or is damaged by magic.
when a ready unit is the target of an attack, or is adjacent to
the target of an attack. A reaction attack sequence interrupts the side: a contesting faction, made up of one or more players,
attack sequence of the attacker who triggered the reaction. participating in a battle.
ready: a condition indicating a unit may make a reaction attack siege equipment: equipment designed to assault or defend
on enemy units that target it or its adjacent allies. A ready unit strongholds, including battering rams, cauldrons, hoists,
is marked by placing a ready token on it. The ready token is movable galleries and mantlets, ram catchers, screws, siege
removed if the unit moves, attacks, or becomes disordered. hooks, siege ladders, and siege towers.
ready to attack: an action in lieu of attacking which grants the siege hook: a siege engine designed to pull defenders from a
unit the ready condition. wall during a siege. It consists of a long wooden beam mounted
with a sickle-shaped blade.
realm: a collection of domains under the control of one
powerful leader. siege ladder: a ladder used by assaulting troops to scale a
strongholds walls or ramparts, an act known as escalade.
rear guard: divisions which cover the flank of an evading armys
other divisions, and are the most likely to fight an evasive battle. siege tower: a mobile tower designed to protect assaulting
troops during the approach to a stronghold, then get them over
rear guard action: a strategic situation in which every division
the walls by means of a gangplank or hoist.
of an offensive army fights the rear guard divisions of an evading
army. size category: a rating of a creatures mass and height or length.
There are five size categories man-size, large, huge, gigantic,
rear guard envelopment: a strategic situation in which an
or colossal. Man-size creatures are about the size of human
armys rear guard divisions, deployed to cover an evasion, are
beings. Large creatures are 8' to 12' long or tall, and weigh up
surprised by an attack by an opposing army on its front and
to 2,000lbs. Huge creatures are 12' to 20' long or tall, and weigh
flank.
up to 8,000lbs. Gigantic creatures are 20' to 32' long or tall, and
rear hexes: the two hexes to the rear of a units current hex. weigh up to 32,000lbs. Colossal creatures are more than 32' long
or tall, and weigh more than 32,000lbs.
recoil: a possible result of a shock roll. A recoiling unit retreats
one hex directly away from the attacker without changing size factor: a factor simulating the need smaller creatures have
facing. If a recoiling unit cannot complete its retreat, it flees. to form up in greater mass and depth to have the same impact
on the battlefield. Man-sized creatures have a size factor of 60,
reduction: a method of capturing a stronghold in which the
large creatures 40, huge creatures 30, gigantic creatures 20, and
besieging army deploys bombardment and siege-mines to
colossal creatures 10.
destroy the stronghold.
skirmish: a strategic situation in which the vanguard divisions
reinforcements: units from distant divisions that slowly arrive
of an offensive army fight the rear guard divisions of an evading
onto the battlemap during meeting engagements, skirmishes,
army.
rear guard actions, and rear guard envelopments.
stand fast: to remain stationary during the movement sequence.
reload token: a token which tracks the amount of time required
During its subsequent attack sequence, a stationary unit can
to reload artillery after it fires. An artillery unit with one or more
attack with melee weapons, attack with missile weapons, defend,
reload tokens cannot fire. One reload token is removed at the
or ready to attack.
conclusion of each movement sequence in which an artillery
unit remains stationary. stand firm: a possible result of a shock roll or morale roll. A unit
standing firm remains steady. There is no game effect.
retreat: a movement of one or more hexes by a unit which has
suffered a flee or recoil result on a shock roll or morale roll. standalone scenario: battles fought outside of the context of an
ongoing role-playing game campaign.
rout: a possible result of a shock roll or morale roll. A routed
unit is immediately removed from play. standard unit: a unit which consists exclusively of creatures of
the same race, class, level, Hit Dice, and equipment.
116 Glossary
story: the number of levels or floors in a fortified structure. terrain type: the nature of a terrain piece, such as broken
Multi-story structures can be thought of as a series of one-story ground, forest, or mud. Each terrain type has certain terrain
structures stacked on top of each other. Each story has its own characteristics.
unit capacity and its own structural hit points. Units in each
terrain type, broken ground: broken ground is rough terrain.
story of the structure are considered adjacent to units in the
Loose Foot units in broken ground gain a +2 bonus to AC.
story above and below them. Units may move between stories at
a rate of one story per hex of movement. In general, there is one terrain type, cliff/mountain: cliffs/mountains are elevated
story per 10' - 15' of height. terrain. Cliff/mountains are impassable except at designated
passes up them.
strategic ability: a characters military puissance and
effectiveness. Strategic ability modifies an officers initiative roll terrain type, ford: fords are hexes of mud terrain placed to
each combat round. (Strategic ability also plays a significant role allow movement across wide streams.
in certain mechanics in Domains at War: Campaigns.) Strategic
terrain type, pass: passes are one-hex wide pieces of elevated
ability ranges from -3 to +6.
terrain that provide access to cliffs/mountains.
strategic situation: the circumstances under which two
terrain type, forest/jungle: forests/jungles are rough and
opposing armies meet for battle. There are eight strategic
obscuring terrain.
situations: pitched battle, meeting engagement, rear guard
action, skirmish, ambush, envelopment, deep envelopment, and terrain type, hill: hills are elevated terrain.
rear guard envelopment.
terrain type, impenetrable forest: impenetrable forests are
stronghold: a fortified structure securing a domain. impassable and obscuring terrain.
structural hit points (shp): a structures ability to remain intact terrain type, mud: mud is rough terrain. Units in mud suffer a
despite damage. A structure reduced to its starting shp has -1 AC penalty against missile fire. War Machinery treats mud as
been breached. A structure reduced to 0 shp is destroyed. When impassable.
a structure is destroyed, collapsing stone and timber deal 8
terrain type, pond/lake: ponds/lakes are impassable.
damage to any occupying units and 8d6 damage to any occupying
heroes. A saving throw versus Blast will reduce damage to half. terrain type, stream: streams are lines of varying length
Structures with multiple stories have a separate shp per story. and width. Units adjacent to a stream receive a +2 bonus to
Each story must be breached or destroyed separately. AC against melee attacks made by units in the stream. Units
crossing a stream suffer a -2 penalty to their AC until they reach
swoop: certain creatures can swoop on enemy units with
the other bank.
particular methods of attack. In order to swoop, the attacker
must charge during its movement sequence and use its swoop terrain type, swamp: swamps are rough and obscuring terrain.
attack(s) in the subsequent attack sequence. The swooping War Machinery treats swamp as impassable.
unit deals one additional point of damage if it hits with at
terrain type, trench: trenches are lines of varying length
least one of its swoop attacks. Additionally, if any of the swoop
and width. Units adjacent to a trench receive a +2 bonus to
attack throws is an unmodified 20, then the swooping unit has
AC against melee attacks made by units in the trench. Units
grabbed creatures from among the target unit and flown off
crossing a trench suffer a -2 penalty to their AC until they reach
with them. This inflicts additional damage equal to the target
the other side. Units that enter a wide trench may move along
units own Hit Dice, unless the target unit makes a successful
its length, treating it as rough terrain. Units moving along a
saving throw versus Paralysis. A swooping unit can only fly off
trench are below the line of sight of attacks which are not on
with creatures from the target unit if they are of a smaller size
elevated terrain. War Machinery cannot cross, enter, or move
than the swooping creatures.
along trenches.
tactical modifier: a factor used in calculating a creatures battle
terrain, elevated: terrain such as cliffs/mountains and hills.
rating, representing how effective the creature is at using its
Elevated terrain blocks line of sight in some cases, but in other
special abilities.
cases it allows units to see over obstacles. Units on elevated
target: the enemy unit against which an attack sequence is terrain receive +1 to attack throws against units on a lower
directed. In order to be an eligible target for an attack, a unit elevation. Units on a lower elevation can only conduct missile
must meet certain requirements. attacks on targets on elevated terrain using volleying overhead,
even if line of sight can be drawn. Flyers may move and attack
terrain characteristic: a trait that a terrain piece may possess,
as if elevated one or more levels above the surrounding hex if
such as elevated, impassable, obscuring, and/or rough. Terrain
desired.
may have multiple characteristics, in which case the effects
stack. terrain, impassable: impassable terrain includes cliffs,
Glossary
impenetrable forests, and bodies of water. When terrain is

terrain piece: a geographical feature such as a hill, stream, grove
impassable, it may not be moved into or through by any unit
of trees, or patch of mud, placed on the battlemap. There are
without special capabilities. Flyers may fly over impassable
three sizes of terrain piece: small (one hex), medium (three
terrain if desired, and are treated as elevated when doing so.
hexes), and large (seven hexes). Each terrain piece is of a
particular terrain type with certain terrain characteristics.
Glossary 117
terrain, obscuring: obscuring terrain includes forests, jungles, unit capacity: the number of company-sized units that can
and swamps. Line of sight may be traced to and from the edge defend a fortified structure. Since most fortified structures
of an obscuring hex, but may not be traced through a complete consist of multiple stories, unit capacity is per story.
hex of obscuring terrain. Units in obscuring terrain receive a
unit counter: a 2" x 1 1/8" counter used to represent a unit on the
+2 bonus to AC against missiles and may not be targeted by
battlemap.
volleying overhead. Flyers may choose to fly above obscuring
terrain if desired, and are treated as elevated when doing so. unit formation: a classification of the sort of tactics and
maneuvers a unit is capable of. The unit formations are Formed
terrain, rough: rough terrain includes broken ground, forests,
Foot, Formed Mounted, Irregular Foot, Irregular Mounted,
jungles, mud, and swamp. When terrain is rough, it means that
Loose Foot, Loose Mounted, Flyer, and War Machinery.
each hex moved through the terrain counts as two hexes of
movement. (Units may always march a minimum of one hex unit hit dice (unit HD): a measure of a units fighting power.
in rough terrain, however.) Mounted units may not charge into, Most units have around 1 Unit HD.
through, or from rough terrain. Flyers may choose to fly above
unit hit points (uhp): a measure of a units resilience in the face
rough terrain, if desired, and are treated as elevated when doing
of combat. Most units have 4-8 uhp.
so.
unit morale: how likely a unit is to retreat when it takes
threaten: to be in a threatening position towards an enemy unit.
casualties. It ranges from -6 to +4, with most units having
threatened: a unit occupying one of the front hexes of an enemy morale scores of -1 to +1.
unit is said to be threatened by the enemy unit. The front hexes
unit movement rate: how many hexes a unit can move
of an enemy unit are said to be threatened hexes.
per round. Each unit has three separate movement rates:
threatening: a unit positioned such that an enemy unit occupies marching, hustling, and charging, presented in the format
one of its front hexes is said to be threatening the enemy unit. A [marching]/[hustling]/[charging].
unit is said to be threatening its front hexes.
unit type: a general designator of the units size, training, and
top story: the uppermost story of a fortified structure. The top equipment.
story is the most vulnerable story of a structure, as assaulting
unpredictable creature: a creature which may go berserk and
units may enter it by means of flight, siege ladders, hoists, or
attack friend and foe alike when heavily damaged. Unpredictable
siege towers, even if the top story is not breached.
creatures are indicated with a [u] after their morale score.
trample: certain units can trod enemy underfoot with particular
vanguard: divisions of an army that lead the marching order
methods of attack. In order to trample, the unit must charge
and are the most likely to fight an offensive battle. One-quarter
during its movement sequence or be recoiling or fleeing due
to one-third of an armys divisions may be in the vanguard.
to unpredictable morale, and use its trample attack(s) in the
subsequent attack sequence. A trampling unit gains a +4 bonus visibility distance: the maximum number of hexes at which
to its attack throws if the target unit is constituted of man-sized a hero or other officer may be an eligible target of an attack,
or smaller creatures. spell, or special ability by a unit or hero targeting him. Visibility
distance is determined by the size of the targeted hero.
trebuchet: a one-armed siege engine which hurls rocks,
burning pitch, and other projectiles from a sling affixed to a long volleying overhead: a unit conducting missile attacks without
throwing arm. Trebuchets can be powered by traction (via men line of sight. Volleying overhead imposes a penalty of -4 on the
pulling on the throwing arm) or by gravity (via counterweight units attack throw.
mechanisms fixed to the throwing arm). Traction trebuchets
voluntary retreat: a movement of one or more hexes directly
are simpler and less expensive but counterweight trebuchets are
away from a target by a Loose Mounted or Flyer unit which has
more precise. Trebuchets have the same benefits and drawbacks
conducted a missile attack after remaining stationary.
as catapults when targeting creatures and structures.
war machinery (WM): all types of crewed pieces of artillery
unit: a company-sized formation of troops. A unit may have
and siege equipment, including battering rams, galleries, hoists,
up to 120 infantry, 60 large (cavalry or ogre-sized) creatures, 20
mantlets, screws, siege ladders, and siege towers. As actions in
huge (giant-sized) creatures, 5 gigantic creatures, or 1 colossal
lieu of attacking, War Machinery units may ready to attack.
creature. Each unit is represented by a unit counter.
WM units treat mud and swamp terrain as impassable. WM
unit armor class (unit AC): a measure of how hard a unit is to units may not cross, enter, or move along trenches.
damage. Unit AC ranges from 0 to 10 or more. Most light units
waver: a possible result of a morale roll. The unit immediately
will have an AC of 0-3, while heavier troops will have a Unit AC
becomes disordered, if not already. If already disordered, it
of 4-7.
retreats one hex towards its own battlemap edge. If the unit
unit attack: an indicator of how often and accurately a unit may cannot complete its retreat, it flees.
attack with a particular method. Unit attack is presented in the
withdrawal: a movement of one or more hexes directly away
format [number of attacks] [method of attack] [attack throw],
from a successful attacker by a Hero, or Loose Foot, Loose
e.g. 2 spear and shield 11+.
Mounted, or Flyer unit, up to a maximum of its marching
118 Glossary
movement. Each hex withdrawn reduces damage dealt to the

withdrawing hero or unit by one point.
zone of control (ZOC): the radius, in hexes, within which a
commander may activate units in his division without penalty.
ZOC is always equal to one-half the commanders leadership
ability, rounded up. ZOC is measured by counting the number
of hexes from the commanders hex to the unit in question
(excluding the commanders hex, but including the hex of the
unit to be ordered).
Glossary
Glossary 119
ORDER OF BATTLE
Leadership Zone of Strategic Morale
Army BR
Ability Control Ability Modifier
General
Division
Commander
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
Division
Commander
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
Division
Commander
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
Division
Commander
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
Division
Commander
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
120
Name Rank ZOC Attached To
Ability Ability Modifier
Unit Melee Unit Missile
Name Unit Move Unit Form Unit AC Unit Morale Attacks & Attacks &
Attack Throws Attack Throws
121
DOMAINS AT WAR: BATTLES CHARACTERISTICS
Unit Melee Unit Missile
Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit Unit
Unit Type Source Attacks & Attacks &
Move Form AC HD HP Morale
Attack Throws Attack Throws
DOMAINS AT WAR: CAMPAIGNS CHARACTERISTICS

Weekly Monthly Specialist
Daily Move Supply Cost Total Cost
Unit Type Source Move Wage Cost BR
(Miles) (GP/Week) (GP/Month)
(Miles) (GP/Month) (GP/Month)
122
STRONGHOLD UNDER SIEGE RECORD

No. of Starting
Besieged Stronghold GP Cost Unit Capacity Max SHP
Defending Units Supplies (GP)
Besieged Strongholds Fortified Structures

Unit
Fortified Structure Size Story AC SHP Breaches
Capacity
Blockade Calculator
Strongholds Base No. of Blockading % of Strongholds Length of Completed Total No. of Blockading
x2= x - =
Unit Capacity Units Required Perimeter on Land Circumvallations / 250' Units Required
x2= x - =
The base number of blockading units required must be at least 20, even if the stronghold has a unit capacity of 10 or less.
Strongholds Base No. of % of Strongholds No. of Total No. of Blockading
x 1/2 = x - =
Unit Capacity Blockading Ships Perimeter on Water Defending Ships Ships Required
x 1/2 = x - =
The base number of blockading ships must be at least 5, even if the stronghold has a unit capacity of 10 or less.
Stronghold Total No. of Blockading Total No. of Blockading
- = Result of Blockade
Perimeter Facing Units or Ships Available Units or Ships Required
Land - =
Water - =
If the result of blockade for both land and water is 0, the stronghold is blockaded.
If required number of blocking units is reduced to 0 by circumvallations, stronghold is both blockaded and encircled (-4 to Smuggle).
123
SIEGE JOURNAL
Supplies Supply Cost
Date Siege Events Current SHP No. of Breaches
Remaining (GP/Week)
124
Unit Advantage Calculator

Besieging Army Number Modifier Effective Units Defending Army Number Modifier Effective Units
Company-sized Units x1 Company-sized Units x1=
Ballista, Light /3 Ballista, Light /3=
Ballista, Medium /2 Ballista, Medium /2=
Ballista, Heavy x1 Ballista, Heavy x1=
Battering Rams / Screws /6 Battering Rams / Screws x0=
Catapult, Light x1 Catapult, Light x1=
Catapult, Medium x2 Catapult, Medium x2=
Catapult, Heavy x3 Catapult, Heavy x3=
Hoists /10 Hoists x0=
Siege Tower, Standard x1 Siege Tower, Standard x1=
Siege Tower, Large x2 Siege Tower, Large x2=
Siege Tower, Huge x8 Siege Tower, Huge x8=
Trebuchet, Light x8 Trebuchet, Light x8=
Trebuchet, Medium x 10 Trebuchet, Medium x 10 =
Trebuchet, Heavy x 12 Trebuchet, Heavy x 12 =
Besieging Armys Total Units = Defending Armys Total Units =

Unit Advantage = Besieging Armys Total Units Defending Armys Total Units
Duration of Siege Calculator

Besieging Armys Unit Advantage
Strongholds
Structural HP 1-2 3-4 5-10 11-15 16-30 31-50 51-75 76-100 101-200 201-300 301-400 401-500 501-600 601+
1-3,000 45 23 9 6 3 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
4-6,000 90 45 18 12 6 4 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0
7-9,000 135 68 27 18 9 5 4 3 1 1 1 1 0 0
10-12,000 180 90 36 24 12 7 5 4 2 1 1 1 1 1
13-15,000 225 113 45 30 15 9 6 5 2 2 1 1 1 1
16-20,000 - 150 60 40 20 12 8 6 3 2 2 1 1 1
21-30,000 - 225 90 60 30 18 12 9 5 3 2 2 2 1
31-50,000 - - 150 100 50 30 20 15 8 5 4 3 3 2
51-75,000 - - 225 150 75 45 30 23 11 8 6 5 4 3
76-100,000 - - - 200 100 60 40 30 15 10 8 6 5 4
101-125,000 - - - 250 125 75 50 38 19 13 9 8 6 5
126-150,000 - - - - 200 120 80 60 30 20 15 12 10 9
151-200,000 - - - - 250 150 100 75 38 25 19 15 13 11
201-250,000 - - - - - 180 120 90 45 30 23 18 15 13
251-300,000 - - - - - 210 140 105 53 35 26 21 18 15
301-350,000+ - - - - - 240 160 120 60 40 30 24 20 17
Stronghold Site Duration Modifier To use the table, cross-reference the besieged strongholds structural
Mountain (Sogdian Rock, the Acropolis) x5 hit points with the besieging armys unit advantage. A numerical result
Island (Tyre, Mont. St. Michel) x4 indicates the number of days it will take the besieging army to capture
Peninsula (Constantinople) x3 the stronghold. If the strong hold is situated on a mountain, island,
Riverbank (Rhine river castles) x2 peninsula, or riverbank multiply the number of days by the duration
modifier. A result of 0" indicates the stronghold is captured without
a fight. A result of - indicates that the besieging army is not strong
enough to capture the stronghold and can hope only to starve out the
defenders with a blockade.
125
BESIEGERS SIEGE RECORD
No. of Daily Damage Total Daily Daily Ammo Total Daily Maximum Artillery Duel
Besiegers Artillery
Pieces / Piece Damage Cost / Piece Ammo Cost Range (Need 6s)
Light Ballista 0 - 200' 1d6
Medium Ballista 1,800 or 0 18gp 200' 1d6
Heavy Ballista 1,800 or 60 90gp 300' 1d6
Light Catapult 1,800 or 60 90gp 300' 1d6
Medium Catapult 2,400 or 80 90gp 400' 1d6
Heavy Catapult 3,600 or 120 90gp 400' 1d6
Light Trebuchet 9,000 or 300 225gp 500' 2d6
Medium Trebuchet 12,000 or 400 225gp 500' 2d6
Heavy Trebuchet 15,000 or 500 225gp 500' 2d6
Totals - - - -
Total Total
Besiegers Construction Construction Total
Number Wages /Month Construction Construction
Work Force Rate / Month Rate / Day Wages /Month
Rate / Month Rate / Day
Unskilled Laborers 3gp 1sp 3gp
Skilled Laborers 6gp 2sp 6gp
Apprentices 10gp/15gp 33cp/5sp 10gp
Journeymen 20gp/30g 66cp/1gp 20gp
Masters 40gp/30g 133cp/1gp 75gp
Craftsmen Teams 150gp 5gp 150gp
Siege Engineers 20gp 66cp 50gp
Engineers 40gp 1gp, 33cp 250gp

Monstrous Worker
( )
Other
( )
Other
( )
Totals - - -
Besiegers
Construct. Materials Labor Construct. Workers Construct. Time Time
Construction Notes
Cost Cost Cost Supervisor Assigned Rate / Day Required Remaining
Projects
Scavenge Ammo - 1:10 gp to ammo
Siege Mining 1,000gp - 1,000gp Engineer Max 100 workers
126
DEFENDERS SIEGE RECORD

Daily Total Daily Daily Ammo Total Daily Maximum Artillery Duel
Defenders Artillery No. of Pieces
Damage / Piece Damage Cost / Piece Ammo Cost Range (Need 6s)
Light Ballista 0 - 200' 1d6
Medium Ballista 1,800 or 0 18gp 200' 1d6
Heavy Ballista 1,800 or 60 90gp 300' 1d6
Light Catapult 1,800 or 60 90gp 300' 1d6
Medium Catapult 2,400 or 80 90gp 400' 1d6
Heavy Catapult 3,600 or 120 90gp 400' 1d6
Light Trebuchet 9,000 or 300 225gp 500' 2d6
Medium Trebuchet 12,000 or 400 225gp 500' 2d6
Heavy Trebuchet 15,000 or 500 225gp 500' 2d6
Totals - - - -
Total Total
Construction Construction Total
Defenders Work Force Number Wages /Month Construction Construction
Rate / Month Rate / Day Wages /Month
Rate / Month Rate/ Day
Unskilled Laborers 3gp 1sp 3gp
Skilled Laborers 6gp 2sp 6gp
Apprentices 10gp/15gp 33cp/5sp 10gp
Journeymen 20gp/30g 66cp/1gp 20gp
Masters 40gp/30g 133cp/1gp 75gp
Craftsmen Teams 150gp 5gp 150gp
Siege Engineers 20gp 66cp 50gp
Engineers 40gp 1gp, 33cp 250gp

Monstrous Worker
( )
Other
( )
Other
( )
Totals - - -
Defenders
Construct. Materials Labor Construct. Workers Construct. Time Time
Construction Notes
Cost Cost Cost Supervisor Assigned Rate / Day Required Remaining
Projects
Scavenge Ammo 1:10 gp to ammo
Countermining 1,000gp - 1,000gp Engineer Max 100 workers
Repair Wood 5shp/1gp
Repair Stone 1shp/1gp
127
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The following is designated as product identity: All trademarks, original material as Open Game Content, You represent that Your
registered trademarks, proper names (characters, deities, etc.), Contributions are Your original creation and/or You have sufficient
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6.Notice of License Copyright: You must update the COPYRIGHT
Autarch, Adventurer Conqueror King, Adventurer Conqueror King NOTICE portion of this License to include the exact text of the
System, ACKS, Domains at War, Domains at War: Battles, and COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any Open Game Content You are copying,
Domains at War: Campaigns are trademarks of Autarch. Auran modifying or distributing, and You must add the title, the copyright
Empire is a trademark of Alexander Macris. The Auran Empire date, and the copyright holders name to the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of
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128
Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game Copyright 2006-2008, Chris ADVENTURER CONQUEROR KING PRODUCT IDENTITY
Gonnerman. LICENSE Version 1.0
Subject to the terms of the Open Game License, above, you may
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Games; Authors Davis Chenault and Mac Golden.
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Written by ALEXANDER MACRIS

www.autarch.co Printed in the U.S.A.

FIGHTING PITCHED BATTLES WITH THE ADVENTURER CONQUEROR KING SYSTEM

Development: Tavis Allison Interior Art: Ryan Browning

Cover Art: Michael C. Hayes Webmaster: Tim Turner

Cover Design: Carrie Keymel Event Support: Tavis Allison

Table of Contents Credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chapter 6: Scale 63

Chapter 2: Terrain 28 Chapter 10: Armies 103

Chapter 3: Strategic Situations 34 Glossary 110

IMPERATOR TRIBUNE D@W RETAILER

CENTURION Joe Kushner Roger Robar Matt Shoemaker

Cody Reichenau Jacqueline Legazcue Michael Mammut Sauer Taylor Martin

ABOUT THE GAME HOW TO USE THIS BOOK

About the Game 7

We have devised a rather modest elementary handbook for

Illus. 1-1: BATTLE MAP

OFFICERS ON THE BATTLEMAP In campaign battles, the loss of an army

Illus. 1-3: DEPLOYMENT

ORDER OF DEPLOYMENT When the outcome of the active commanders command

Illus. 1-4: MOVEMENT

DECLARE METHOD OF ATTACK

of the attackers hex to the center of the targets hex

Ammunition Depletion: A unit that rolls a natural 1 during

Illus. 1-7: WITHDRAWAL

EXAMPLE: In Illustration 1-7, Infantry A has dealt two

RESOLVE SHOCK Illus. 1-8: FLEEING

24 Actions in Lieu of Attacking

Morale Modifiers Modifier

against a defeated evading army. (A natural roll of 20 always

Damaged Units: Damaged units will suffer casualties in

The commander who relies on his cavalry, especially

type of terrain to be placed. elevated terrain is obscuring terrain

Random Battlemap Terrain

Random Terrain Generation 29

Illus. 1-10: OBSCURING

30 Random Terrain Generation

can transform one hex of broken ground into clear terrain, or

Illus. 1-11: ELEVATED OBSCURING

Trench: Trenches are placed as lines and come in narrow,

TERRAIN TYPES SUMMARIZED

A wise commander will not engage the enemy in a

When fighting campaign battles (p. 7) PITCHED BATTLE

Illus. 1-12: AMBUSHED

36 Deployment by Strategic Situation

Illus. 1-13: ENVELOPED

Deployment by Strategic Situation 37

Illus. 1-14: DEEP ENVELOPMENT

38 Deployment by Strategic Situation

The spirit of the commander is naturally communicated to the

QUALIFYING AS A HERO UNIT CHARACTERISTICS

Heroes on the Battlemap 41

To reflect these drawbacks, only a limited number of creatures

Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items 43

44 Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items

rounded down. (It may speed up play to assume average results

46 Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items

Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items 49

Turning Undead in Battle

Spells, Special Abilities, and Magic Items 51

Assaults should not be made recklessly or without