Banners of War is an expansion for Runewars, Corey Konieczka’s epic board game of conquest, adventure, and fantasy empires. With
over 50 new figures and hundreds of new cards and tokens, Banners of War builds on the strategy and diplomacy of the struggle for the dragon runes.
In Banners of War, each faction gains two unique unit types to add to their forces. Using a reinforcement reference sheet that displays initiative, special abilities, and more (placed to the right of the faction sheet), a player can seamlessly supplement his existing army with compelling new choices.
Despite the dangers of the war (or perhaps because of them), Terrinoth’s greatest adventurers continue to seek fame and riches. Now, however, a select few have taken to the battlefield, leading massive armies against their enemies. The “Commanders of the Battlefield” variant allows a player to promote one of his heroes, including any of the eight new characters included in Banners of War, to the role of Commander.
Commanders are special heroes who take part in battles in their areas, conveying a special ability to the troops beneath them. These special abilities, prescribed by randomized Commander cards, offer a range of advantages in combat. “A Thorn in Their Side,” for example, is a Commander card that allows particularly agile heroes to sneak into enemy lines before the battle, using diversionary tactics to confuse and delay otherwise efficient units. Banners of War’s new hero abilities present a range of compelling strategic choices; will you continue your quest for ancient and powerful artifacts? Duel other adventurers to rob them of their wealth? Or will you place your greatest hero in command of a mighty army?
In addition to its added units, cards, and more, Banners of War presents a number of optional variants that can be included in any combination, allowing players to design the specific game they want.
“Commanders of the Battlefield,” a variant that allows heroes to accompany troops into battle, is described briefly above. But players can also include powerful Development cards, alternate city tokens, and more!
With the Development card variant, the Supremacy Bonus of the Harvest Order takes on a new importance. In addition to choosing a development (a token that attaches to your stronghold, offering additional benefits), players who earn this Supremacy Bonus can also choose from one of eight new faction-specific Development cards. These cards offer players unique strategic paths, while further differentiating each faction’s individual character and play style.
The “Rise of the Free Cities” variant replaces the game's existing city tokens with new, more valuable tokens. These exceptionally wealthy cities offer more influence, units, Tactics cards...and even dragon runes. But since the stakes are higher, you’d better be able to defend any city you claim.
With scores of possible variant combinations, you can build the game experience for you and your group. The great races of Terrinoth are raising their banners as they prepare to march. Gather your legions and decide the fate of the realm!
For more information, including rules translations, visit
BoardGameGeek.
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