RuneQuest: Warlords

I didn’t expect to get emotionally invested in a pile of spreadsheets disguised as fantasy warfare, but RuneQuest: Warlords does that in the best way. It’s like BattleTech and XCOM had a very nerdy, rune-obsessed child — heavy on tactics, heavy on lore.

Battles play out on grid maps where terrain, Zones of Control and Action Points (AP) make every move meaningful. Units are multi-model (each model has HP), so wiping out a unit feels gradual and tactical rather than binary. Heroes get extra AP and access to Cult Rune Magic, Spirit and Sorcery spells that can turn a chokepoint into a slaughterhouse — or backfire spectacularly if misused. Sentry Mode, Opportunity Attacks and counter-attacks reward clever positioning; I learned the hard way that stepping into a Shadowcat’s range is a fast way to regret your life choices. There are three distinct factions — Talastar, Chaos and the Lunar Empire — each with unique unit archetypes from centurions and cavalry to Broo shamans and monsters. The campaign follows Hahlgrim across 18 missions, mixing heroic set pieces with slower, punishing fights where attrition matters. A Competitive Arena offers replayable matchups for multiplayer bragging rights. The UI is functional and full of relevant stats, but expect a learning curve as you grok Rune affinities and manage sustained vs. instant magic. If you like slow-burn tactical depth and the satisfaction of a well-executed flank, this scratches that itch.

RuneQuest: Warlords won’t hold your hand — it asks you to learn and then rewards you richly with meaningful tactical play and a world that feels lived-in. Not for everyone, but a treat for strategy fans who like their fantasy with teeth.