Discover the Exciting Game Elements of Mage Knight

Hey there! Let’s dive into the captivating world of Mage Knight and explore its amazing game elements together. This game is full of strategic decisions, epic battles, and thrilling adventures. So, grab your sword and let’s begin!

The Mage Knight Universe

Picture a vast, fantastical realm where ancient cities, mysterious dungeons, and treacherous wildernesses await your discovery. In this universe, I am a valiant warrior, and you are too. As Mage Knights, we harness the power of magic, leading our armies to conquer new lands and defeat formidable enemies.

Hero Cards

Now, let me introduce you to our first game element: hero cards. These cards represent our unique abilities, skills, and characteristics. Each hero card has its own special attributes, such as strength, intelligence, and agility. Strategic use of these cards will be crucial during our quests and battles. So, choose your hero card wisely and let the adventure unfold!

Unit Cards

Next, we have unit cards. These cards depict the armies and followers that will fight alongside us. From fearless knights to mythical creatures, these units bring diversity and power to our forces. With careful deployment and management, we can create an unstoppable army capable of conquering any obstacle that stands in our way.

Exploring the Map

As we traverse this vast universe, we’ll encounter a magnificently detailed map, full of unexplored territories and hidden secrets. With each step we take, we’ll reveal new locations and uncover valuable resources. But be cautious – dangers lurk in every corner. Together, we’ll navigate this treacherous terrain and make choices that will shape our destiny.

Conquering Cities and Dungeons

Within the map, cities and dungeons beckon us with their riches and challenges. Cities offer opportunities for trade, recruitment, and acquiring powerful artifacts. Dungeons, on the other hand, hold perilous quests and deadly monsters guarding hidden treasures. By conquering these cities and dungeons, we can expand our influence and gain the upper hand in this unforgiving world.

Experience and Advancement

With every battle we win and quest we complete, our heroes grow stronger. Experience points will allow us to develop new skills, granting us incredible powers. Additionally, we’ll discover powerful artifacts that enhance our abilities and strengthen our armies. As our heroes advance, they become legendary figures, feared by enemies and respected by allies.

Final Thoughts

So, my fellow Mage Knight, are you ready to embark on this unforgettable journey? Together, we’ll explore a universe brimming with adventure, strategy, and magic. The fate of our lands depends on our decisions and actions. Join me as we wield our hero cards, lead our armies, and become the true legends of the Mage Knight universe.

When I’m exploring as a hero, the map tiles show me the lay of the land.

Each tile has seven hexagonal spaces. Before I start the game, I need to separate the map tiles by their reverse sides.

Starting Tile (two-sided)

The starting tile has two different sides. Each side has a magical portal and a coastline. The shape of the map for the game is defined by the coastline on each side.

The spaces in the sea cannot be occupied by me, the hero. For the first scenario, I need to use the side with a small “A” in the lower corner.

Countryside Tiles (green Back)

There are 11 tiles that represent the less developed countryside. They are not revealed randomly in the first scenario. I need to sort them by the number in the lower corner and create a face-down pile, starting with number 1 on top.

Ah, playing a board game, something I can always get behind! Now, let me walk you through the setup for this particular game, focusing on how many tiles to use, depending on the number of players.

When it’s just you and a buddy, you’re gonna want to take out three tiles from the bottom of the pile and put them back in the box. No need for those extra tiles cluttering up the game.

Now, if you have a group of three players, you’ll only need to remove two tiles from the bottom of the pile. Just a little adjustment to make the game work smoothly.

And when you’ve got a full party of four players, no need to remove any tiles. Just keep ’em all in there and let the fun begin!

Now, speaking of tiles, let me tell you about the core tiles with the brown backs. These special tiles represent the most advanced part of the land, with fancy cities and challenging tasks. There are eight of them in total. Four of them have a city right at the center, while the other four are non-city tiles. But don’t worry, they all look the same on the other side.

To get ready for this scenario, you’ll want to divide the city and non-city core tiles into two separate piles and give each one a good shuffle. Then, randomly take one city tile and two non-city tiles, and give these three a good mix as well. After that, just put the pile of countryside tiles with the green backs on top of this newly mixed pile, and you’re good to go!

Now that we’ve covered the setup for this game, I hope you’re raring to start playing. Enjoy!

So here’s the deal: you’ve got a big pile of tiles, and the city you’re searching for is hiding somewhere in the last three at the bottom. Sounds tricky, right?

The Start

Okay, first things first. Let’s take a look at the beginning. Peel off those first two tiles, 1 and 2, and place them on the starting tile A, just like in the diagram.

Note: Imagine you have a set of tiles, and each tile has symbols in six of its corners. When you place a tile correctly, the symbols on its corners connect with the same symbols on the neighboring tiles.

Hey there! I want to talk to you about something really cool – tiles! Have you ever seen those little pieces that fit together like a puzzle? Well, each one of those tiles has symbols in its corners. And when you put them in the right place, these symbols connect with the same symbols on the tiles next to them. Isn’t that neat?

So, let’s say you have some tiles in front of you. Take one of them and look at the symbols on its corners. See those little pictures? Now, try to find a tile that has the same symbols on its corners. Can you spot one? Good job!

Now, here comes the fun part. When you connect two tiles that have the same symbols on their corners, it’s like they become best friends! They fit together perfectly, just like two puzzle pieces. And when you keep adding more tiles, they all come together to create a beautiful pattern. It’s like magic!

But wait, there’s more! When you match the symbols on the corners, something amazing happens. The tiles can create all sorts of shapes and designs. It’s like a secret language that only the tiles understand. It’s like they’re whispering to each other, “Hey, let’s make something awesome!” And that’s exactly what they do.

So, whether you’re playing with tiles or just looking at them, remember that each one has symbols in its corners. And when you put them together, these symbols connect and create something incredible. It’s like a little world of its own, where imagination can run wild.

Now, go and explore the world of tiles. See what patterns you can create and what stories you can tell. Have fun!

When starting the game, make sure all tiles are oriented with their numbers pointing in the same direction as the letter A on the starting tile. This will help keep things consistent as the game progresses.

The starting area of the map consists of three tiles, featuring a magic portal, villages, and a mine. As the game unfolds, players will reveal more parts of the map by adding additional tiles.

Keep in mind that the starting tile has a coastline. Think of this coastline as extending indefinitely on both sides, forming the border of the map. No tiles should be placed behind this coastline. As a result, the map will gradually expand throughout the game, following the diagram on the right.

Remember to consider the growing size of the game map when placing the first tiles. Make sure to leave enough free space on the table in the directions where the map will expand. This will prevent crowding and allow for smoother gameplay.

Enemy and Ruin Tokens

On the map, you’ll find tokens that represent different things. There are round tokens for enemies and monsters, and hexagonal tokens that represent the ancient ruins. When starting the game, you need to sort these tokens into seven piles and shuffle them up.

The First Rampaging Enemies

During the initial setup of the map, you’ll notice two symbols called “Orc Khan.” From the pile containing those symbols, draw two tokens with the same symbol on their reverse side. Place them face up on the designated spaces.

Let’s talk about the enemies that are causing havoc in the land – the Marauding Orcs and the Draconum.

Have you ever wondered about the strange creatures that dwell in dark dungeons and hidden corners?

Monsters, known for their eerie and menacing presence, have fascinated people for centuries. But what is it about these creatures that captivate our imagination?

As I explore this mysterious realm, I discover that monsters are more than just frightful beings. They hold a certain allure, a magical quality that draws us in, despite our initial fear.

When I think of monsters, I imagine their lairs deep underground, shrouded in darkness and mystery. These creatures, with their gnarled claws and piercing eyes, exude a palpable sense of danger and intrigue.

But let’s not be quick to judge. Monsters, fascinating as they are, serve as a reminder that there is more to this world than meets the eye. They represent the unknown, the unexplored. And through our encounters with them, we gain a newfound understanding of the depths of our own courage.

As I journey through the dimly lit corridors of these dungeons, I realize that monsters are not just scary adversaries but complex beings with their own stories to tell. They exist to challenge us, to push us outside our comfort zones, and to test our mettle. In facing these creatures head-on, we uncover our own hidden strengths and abilities.

Monsters, with their varied forms and abilities, tap into our primal fears and ignite our imagination. We find ourselves in awe of their power and inquisitive about their existence. They are living embodiments of the fantastical, reminding us that the world we perceive is only a fraction of what truly lies beneath the surface.

So, the next time you find yourself delving into the dark reaches of a labyrinthine dungeon, don’t be afraid to confront the monsters that dwell within. Embrace the enigma they represent and discover the untamed spirit within yourself.

When you have units stationed in keeps, mage towers, or cities, it’s an effective defensive strategy. However, it can also be a challenge to manage and coordinate these units. That’s why it’s important to understand the benefits and considerations of garrisoning your units in different locations.

One of the key advantages of garrisoning units is that it provides additional protection to the keep, mage tower, or city where they are stationed. By having units already inside, you can quickly respond to any attacks or threats, minimizing damage and reducing the risk of losing the structure.

Additionally, garrisoned units can also regenerate their health and mana over time, making them more resilient and ready for future battles. This means that your units will be able to defend the keep, mage tower, or city for longer periods without the need for immediate reinforcement.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind when garrisoning units. For example, if you have all of your units stationed in one location, you may leave other areas vulnerable to attack. It’s crucial to strike a balance between garrisoning units for defense and leaving enough forces to cover other important areas.

Furthermore, garrisoning units in keeps, mage towers, or cities can limit their mobility and effectiveness in other parts of the battlefield. While they provide strong defense in their immediate location, they may not be able to quickly respond to other areas that require assistance. Consider the overall strategy and objectives to determine the right amount of units to garrison while still maintaining flexibility on the battlefield.

In conclusion, garrisoning units in keeps, mage towers, and cities has its benefits and challenges. It can provide additional protection and regeneration for the garrisoned units and the structures they defend. However, it should be done strategically to avoid leaving other areas vulnerable and restricting mobility. By understanding these factors and finding the right balance, you can effectively utilize garrisoned units for a powerful defense while also maintaining flexibility on the battlefield.

Are you ready to uncover what lies within the ancient ruins? Today, I want to talk to you about the mysterious tokens hidden within those ancient walls. These tokens are like hidden treasures, waiting to be discovered by the curious and adventurous.

When someone enters the ruins, they enter a world shrouded in mystery. The air is thick with a sense of anticipation, as if something incredible is about to be revealed. As you explore the ruins, you will stumble upon these tokens – symbols of a forgotten past. Each token carries its own significance and meaning, waiting for someone like you to decipher it.

It’s exciting, isn’t it? The thrill of unraveling the secrets of the past, of piecing together the puzzle that has remained unsolved for centuries. These tokens offer a glimpse into a world that was long lost and forgotten. They are windows into another time, another place.

But here’s the catch – unraveling the meaning of these tokens is no easy task. They are like riddles, challenging you to think outside the box and see the world from a different perspective. One token may represent the sun, while another may symbolize strength or wisdom. It’s up to you to uncover their true meaning.

So, how can you interpret these tokens and unravel their secrets? It’s all about observation and open-mindedness. Take a moment to really look at each token, to let it speak to you in the depths of your soul. What do you see? What emotions does it evoke? Trust your instincts and let your imagination run wild.

But remember, interpreting these tokens is not an exact science. There are no right or wrong answers. Each person may see something different in the same token, and that’s okay. It’s all part of the beauty and mystery of the ruins.

So, my friend, the next time you find yourself in the midst of ancient ruins, keep an eye out for these tokens. They may lead you on a journey of discovery and wonder. Embrace the unknown and let the tokens guide you through the hidden depths of history.

Deed Cards

When I first heard the term “deed cards,” I couldn’t help but wonder what they were all about. The concept seemed intriguing, something that I wanted to explore further. So, if you’re curious like me, let me break it down for you.

Deed cards are a fascinating concept that can have a significant impact on the way we interact with one another. They are like little tokens of appreciation or acts of kindness that we can give to someone to brighten their day or show our gratitude.

Think of it as a way to spread positivity and make someone’s day a little bit better. You can use deed cards to thank someone for their help, congratulate them on an achievement, or simply brighten their day with a kind gesture.

The best part about deed cards is that they are customizable and can be tailored to fit any situation or person. You can write a heartfelt message or choose from a variety of pre-designed cards that convey your thoughts and feelings.

Deed cards are not only a way to show appreciation, but they can also serve as a reminder to be kind and thoughtful in our daily lives. By using deed cards, we can actively participate in creating a positive and compassionate community.

So, why not give it a try? Start by thinking about someone who deserves a little extra appreciation and write them a deed card. It could be a friend, a family member, a coworker, or even a stranger who made a difference in your life.

Remember, something as simple as a kind word or gesture can have a profound impact on someone’s day. So, grab a deed card, and let the positivity flow!

Deed cards are a variety of cards that you can add to your decks when playing the game. They all have the same backs, so you can’t tell them apart when they’re shuffled together.

When the game begins, the different types of Deed cards are organized into separate piles. It’s important to arrange these piles exactly as shown in the diagram so that you can easily find the one you need, despite the cards having the same backs.

There are different categories of Deed cards, including Basic Action Cards.

Hey there! Did you know that every Hero starts out with a deck of 16 Basic Action cards? These cards have a Shield symbol in the upper right corner that represents the Hero.

Now, here’s the interesting part. Each player has the same set of Basic Action cards, but there’s a twist. One of the cards in each deck is unique and replaced with a special card that matches the Hero’s identity.

This special card features a cool picture of the Hero, sort of like a portrait. But don’t be deceived, it’s still considered a Basic Action card and works just like the rest.

Advanced Action Cards

There are 28 powerful Advanced Action cards in the game. They’re even stronger than the Basic Action cards! Throughout the game, you’ll have the opportunity to gain these Advanced Action cards and add them to your deck.

You can easily distinguish the Advanced Actions from the Basic Actions by looking for a golden frame around the text and no icon in the upper right corner.

It’s important to note that some Advanced Actions won’t be used in the first scenario. Just stick to cards numbered 1 through 16 for this initial game. Set cards 17 through 28 aside and save them for later.

Before you start playing, shuffle the cards you’ll be using and create a facedown pile. In the following scenarios, you’ll be using all of the Advanced Action cards.

Unlock the Magic with Spell Cards

Hey there! Did you know that spell cards are like mystical keys that unlock powerful spells in the game? Pretty cool, right?

Spell cards are special because they have a fancy violet frame. They’re split into two parts – the top and bottom. And get this – each part has its own name!

The top part of the spell card holds a spell you can use anytime. It’s like having a magic trick up your sleeve. But wait, there’s more! The bottom part holds something truly extraordinary. It’s the supercharged ultimate version of the spell you can only use during the mysterious Night Rounds. Talk about a double dose of enchantment!

So, grab your spell cards and let the magic flow through you. With these powerful tools, you’ll be able to conjure up spells that’ll make your opponents tremble in awe. Get ready to mesmerize and amaze!

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Artifact Cards

Artifacts are the ultimate source of power in a game. They are like precious treasures that players can obtain during their adventures. These cards have a special gold frame and an extraordinary text box. When you have an Artifact card in your possession, you gain access to two different effects that can give you a great advantage in the game.

The text box on the Artifact card is very unique. It has two portions: a lighter one and a darker one. The lighter portion represents a special power that you can use multiple times, giving you an edge over your opponents. The darker portion, on the other hand, represents an ultimate power that can only be used once. It’s an incredibly powerful ability that can change the tide of the game in your favor. However, once that ultimate power is used, the Artifact card is destroyed and cannot be used again.

Wound Cards

Hey there! I’m here to talk about wound cards with you. They’re pretty cool because they serve two purposes: marking wounded units and going into your hand when your hero gets wounded.

But here’s the thing: wound cards count towards your maximum hand limit. So if you take too many wounds, your hand will get all clogged up and it’ll be harder for you to have a good turn. Not ideal, right?

Now, all wound cards have a similar dark red front side. This means you can just place them face up in a pile on the table. Easy peasy!

Quick note:

When we mention an “action” card, we mean both basic and advanced action cards. Just a little heads up, so you’ll know what we’re talking about.

“Any” or “a” card refers to action, spell, or artifact cards, but never a wound card. Unless we say it explicitly, “discard a card” doesn’t mean discarding a wound card. It means discarding any other kind of card – a deed card, for example.

About other cards…

There are different types of cards, and you can easily tell them apart by looking at their reverse side:

Regular and Elite Unit Cards

When it comes to Unit cards, there are two types: Regular Units and Elite Units. The Regular Units have silver card backs, while the Elite Units have gold card backs.

In the first scenario, we only need the Regular Units. So, take the Regular Unit cards and shuffle them. Then, place the shuffled pile face down on the designated spot. You can leave the Elite Units in the box for now.

To create the Unit offer, we need to reveal some cards. First, reveal as many Regular Unit cards as there are players. For example, if there are 4 players, reveal 4 Regular Unit cards. But we’re not done yet! We also need to add 2 more Regular Unit cards to the offer. So, in this 4 player game, we would reveal a total of 6 Regular Unit cards. You can see how to set up the game in the Game Setup diagram.



Note: Attention! Make sure the first game you play includes at least one Unit card with the village icon on the left side. If you don’t have one, just shuffle the cards and deal them until you find a suitable card.

Welcome to the world of Tactic Cards

Hey there! Have you heard of Tactic Cards? They’re really cool! Let me explain how they work.

First things first – there are two types of Tactic cards: Day Tactics and Night Tactics. Each deck has its own unique strategies.

Now, let’s get organized. Sort the Tactic cards by their card backs. Keep the Night Tactics facedown, next to the Day/Night board. Place the Day Tactics in the center of the table where everyone can reach them.

Don’t worry about shuffling the cards just yet. No need for that.

Discover the Site Description Cards

There are seven special cards that give information about each location on the map. These cards have two sides and include a brief description of the rules for that site.

Once a new location is revealed, find the corresponding card and read about what that place means and the choices it offers to players. The card stays on the table, so whenever someone wants to visit that spot, they can easily look at the card for reference.

At the beginning of the game, find the cards for the starting locations on the map: the Village, the Magical Glade and the Crystal Mines (they are on the same card), and the Marauding Orcs. These cards will be helpful when explaining these places to everyone.

City Cards

You’ll find four City cards, one for each city. Don’t worry about using them in the first game – just put them back in the box.

Achievement Scoring Card

Let me tell you about how the game scores points in the end. It’s important that you understand this, but don’t worry, I’ll explain it after you’ve played a Round.

The Enchanted Meadow

Hey there! Let me tell you all about the Magical Glade and its amazing powers.

The Magical Glade is a special place that has two incredible effects:

1. Healing Essence

Firstly, the Glade has a Healing Essence that can make you feel better. When you enter the Glade, it’s like a burst of magic that can heal and rejuvenate you.

Imagine being surrounded by a beautiful forest with sparkling streams and colorful flowers. The air is fresh, and you can feel the energy of nature all around you. It’s truly a magical experience!

When you spend time in the Magical Glade, it’s like your body and mind are being given a warm hug. You can feel any tension or stress melt away as the Healing Essence works its magic.

2. Imbued With Magic

In addition to the Healing Essence, the Magical Glade is also imbued with pure magic. This magic can elevate your experience and make you feel like you’re in a fairytale.

As you explore the Glade, you might come across enchanted creatures or hidden treasures. You could stumble upon a sparkling crystal or a magical flower that glows in the dark. The possibilities are endless!

The magic of the Glade can ignite your imagination and fill you with wonder. It’s a place where dreams come to life, and anything is possible.

Crystal Mines

Now, let’s talk about the Crystal Mines.

Deep within the Glade, there are hidden Crystal Mines. These mines are filled with precious crystals that sparkle and shine.

Exploring the Crystal Mines is an adventure in itself. You never know what you might find. You could discover a rare crystal that has never been seen before or unearth a large cluster of beautiful gemstones.

The Crystal Mines are a treasure trove of wonders, waiting to be discovered. They are a testament to the magic and beauty that can be found within the Glade.

So, if you’re looking for a place that can heal your body and soul, and fill your heart with magic and wonder, the Magical Glade and its Crystal Mines are the perfect destination for you.

Did you know that mines are actually pretty straightforward to use? When you end your turn on a mine, you receive a crystal in your Inventory that matches its color. Right now, the mine that’s revealed will give you a green crystal. But here’s the catch – you have to wait until the next turn to use that crystal because it happens after you announce the end of your turn. So, unfortunately, you can’t use the crystal you just got right away.

But guess what? If you stay on a mine for multiple turns in a row, you can collect even more crystals! It’s like getting a bonus for hanging around.

Oh, and one more thing to keep in mind: you can’t have more than 3 crystals of the same color in your Inventory at the same time. So make sure to use them or trade them before you end up with too many!

Now, let me tell you a little secret. If you decide to announce the end of the Round, you won’t even get to play your turn. And you know what that means? No crystal for you from the mine! Sorry, no shortcuts allowed. Also, just a heads up – you can’t throw away any Wounds on a Magical Glade during this special announcement.

Let’s Talk Players

When you play the game, you’ll come across four different Heroes. Each Hero is represented by a unique Shield symbol, and all the elements related to that Hero are labeled with this symbol.

Now, when you start your very first game, you have the freedom to choose any Hero you like or simply distribute them randomly. Whichever Hero you pick, you should gather all the components that belong to that Hero.

Here’s a little suggestion for organizing your game materials: it’s a good idea to keep all the components for a specific Hero, including their deck of Basic Action cards, in one plastic bag. If you’re playing with fewer than four players, make sure to put back any unused components into the game box.

Hero Card

When you play a game, there’s a card in front of you with a picture of your Hero. This helps us know who controls each Hero.

The card also acts like your own personal storage. You can keep your Level tokens and any crystals you earn on this card. If you want to know more about Mana, you can check out the Mana section.

The Picture

Let me tell you about the game figure! It’s what represents your Hero as you play. When the game begins, the figure is in front of you on the table, like a little mini version of your Hero. But it hasn’t entered the map yet!

When it’s time for your first turn, you’ll place the figure on the portal space. That’s when the real fun begins – you get to explore the map and embark on an amazing adventure!

Round Order Token

Welcome! Let’s talk about Round Order tokens. Every Hero has one, and they’re used to determine the turn order during each round of the game. It’s pretty simple – just follow these steps:

1. Randomize the tokens.
2. Place them in a column on the left side of the Day/Night board.

That’s it! Now you’re ready to start playing. Have fun!

Level Tokens

When I play the game, I have these cool Level tokens. They’re shaped like octagons, and each one has my Hero’s symbol on the other side. Now, listen up, because this part is important. Each token has a little set of numbers on the bottom, like 1-2, 3-4, all the way up to 9-10. I sort them by these numbers and put them in a pile, with the 9-10 token on the bottom and the 1-2 token on top. I place this pile on the special area on my Hero card.

But wait, there’s more! There’s a sixth Level token that’s a bit different. It doesn’t have any numbers on the front side, just a blank space. I put this token in my Units area, with the symbol side facing up. This token is special because it’s my first Command token.

When the symbol side of a Level token is facing up, we call it a Command token. It’s like a little superhero that represents how much power you have – when the game begins, you’ll only have one Command token, meaning you can only control one Unit.

On the top token of the Level pile, you’ll find important information about your Hero. It shows that you have an Armor value of 2, which means you’re pretty well protected. Your Hand limit is 5, which means you can hold up to 5 cards in your hand at a time. These stats are for Fame levels 1 and 2, as indicated by the “1-2” on the bottom of the token.

Once you’ve gained enough Fame to reach level 3, something exciting happens! You get to take the top token from the Level pile and turn it over to reveal a symbol. This symbol represents your progression, and you’ll place it next to your first Command token.

Now that you’re at level 3, you have two Command tokens instead of just one. This means that you can command up to two Units in your army. Isn’t that cool?

But that’s not all – reaching level 3 also comes with a change in your Hero stats. You see, when you turned over the token, you revealed the tile marked “3-4”, which indicates an increase in Armor. So not only are you gaining more control over your Units, but you’re also becoming a stronger and more formidable Hero.

Shield Tokens

Let’s start by gathering all your Shield tokens together in one place. Throughout the game, you’ll use two of these tokens to track your position on the Fame and Reputations tracks. The remaining tokens will come in handy for marking your achievements on the map. Whenever you conquer a fortified site or complete an adventure, you can use a Shield token to mark your success. Later on in the game, you’ll also be able to use them to show your contribution in conquering a city.

Skill Tokens

Hey there! Let’s talk about Skill tokens in Heroes. They’re a pretty neat way to represent the different talents that each Hero possesses. Picture this: each Hero has a set of 10 Skill tokens, and each token stands for a particular skill or ability. It’s kind of like having a secret stash of superpowers!

Now, the fun part. Take those Skill tokens and give them a shuffle. Once they’re all mixed up, turn them face down and make a pile with them. This way, no one knows which skill they’re getting. It’s like a surprise waiting to be discovered!

A Closer Look at Skills

Hey there! The cool Skills description card has all the amazing Skill tokens of a Hero, and it tells you how to use them. Keep it handy because you’ll need it when you reach the second level and get your first Skill.

Deed Deck

Remember the Deed Cards section? Well, each player has their own deck of 16 cards. Shuffle them up and put them face down – ta-da! You’ve got yourself a Deed deck.

Now, draw five cards from your Deed deck. These cards make up your starting hand. Did you know that the number of cards you have in your hand is one of your Hero’s special characteristics? You can see it on your top Level token. Oh, and when you reach level 5, you get to add one more card to your hand. Awesome, right?

Player Area

Check out this nifty diagram. It shows you how your player area should look before the game gets going.

Note: The Deed deck is the pile of cards facing downwards on the left side. There is a separate area on the far right for discarding cards, so they don’t get mixed up. In the middle is the Units area, where you can place your recruited Units. The number of Units you can have depends on how many Command tokens you have.

The Play area is where you play your cards and use their effects during your turn. The Skills that are not in the game yet are placed in the Skill pile on the left side. Once you gain these Skills, you move them to the right.

Fame and Reputation Board

Fame Track

Hey there! Let me tell you about the Fame and Reputation Board. It’s a super cool feature of our game that keeps track of your fame. See, the board has this big track with rows, and each row represents a different level of fame.

When you start the game, you and your fellow players begin with a Fame level of 0. This means you put one of your Shield tokens on the 0 space of the Fame track. You’re just starting out, so you’re on the first row.

As you play the game and gain more Fame, you’ll get to move your Shield token along the track. The number of spaces you move depends on how much Fame you gain. When your token reaches the next row, your Fame level increases. To reach Fame level 2, you need to earn at least 3 Fame. For Fame level 3, you’ll need a total of 8 Fame, and so on.

Let me explain how the game works. Each row has either a Skill token or a Level token at the beginning. If you reach a row with a Skill token, you’ll get a Skill token and an Advanced Action card. If you reach a row with a Level token, you’ll flip your top octagonal Level token into a Command token. This will increase your Command limit and improve your Hero’s stats.

The rows with Skill tokens and Level tokens alternate. So, every other Fame level, you’ll gain a new Skill and Advanced Action. And on the remaining levels, your Command limit and Hero stats will increase.

Now, let’s talk about the Reputation Track.

The little track up in the right corner? That’s the Reputation track. It’s not like your Fame track – this one can go up or down, depending on how you earn your Fame. See, if you do noble things, like taking out Orc Marauders and Draconum, your token moves closer to the bright side. But if you’re all about violence and pillaging, it’ll slide towards the red side.

When the game starts, we all put one of our Shield tokens on the center of the Reputation track. The locals don’t know us yet, so they don’t have an opinion. But as we do good or bad deeds, our tokens move accordingly.

Speaking of reputation, it affects how much influence we have with the people in this land. It’s all about how they see us. They’ll be more willing to help if they think we’re noble and honorable.

The board has two sides – Day and Night – that indicate whether it is currently daytime or nighttime. The game starts with the Day side facing up and remains like this for the entire first round. When the round ends, it flips over to the Night side.

On the right side of the board, there is an empty area called the Source. We will discuss it later when we talk about mana.

The Day/Night Rules

There are two changes in the move costs related to terrain: during the Night, it becomes more difficult to travel through forests, so you should avoid getting surrounded by deep forests when a Night round starts.

On the other hand, it is easier to travel through deserts at Night. If you plan on crossing large deserts, it may be advantageous to position yourself to do so at Night.

Visibility

During the Day, you can see what is at a ruins location anywhere on the map. You can also see the enemies that defend keeps and mage towers if they are close enough (check the corresponding chapters above for more details).

At Night, ruins tokens are placed face down and remain this way until someone moves onto their space or the next Day round begins. Once the ruins token is revealed, you can still decide whether to enter them or not.

However, you do not know who or what is defending a keep or mage tower until you assault them. Sometimes it may be better to wait until Day when you will have more information. (This rule does not apply to cities. Cities are always revealed when adjacent, even at Night. But we don’t need to worry about cities right now, as we are only focused on finding them, not conquering them).

During the Night, you can still see rampaging enemies. In fact, you don’t even need to see them – you can rely on the terrified villagers to tell you about their malicious attacks.

Magic and Mana: Unraveling the Mysteries

Picture this: the Night has fallen and the realm of gold mana is veiled, rendering it unusable. Even if we stumble upon this enchanted substance, we are forbidden to harness its power. Alas, our gold dice in the Source dwindle, teasing us with their depleted forms.

But fear not, for the velvety darkness bestows upon us a gift—the ability to wield black mana with greater potency. This mystical force empowers the spells we cast, breathing life into their formidable effects. Refer to page 14 to unlock the secrets of Revealing a Mage Tower – Casting Spells. Remember, during the night, black mana forsakes its role as a wildcard, unlike its golden counterpart during the day.

The Many Colors of Mana

Within the game, we encounter four primary hues of mana, each intricately tied to a distinct element. Let’s explore their ethereal nature together, shall we?

Red is a fierce color, bursting with the energy of fire. It’s associated with flames, destruction, and intense anger.

Did you know that blue has a special connection to water? It’s like the energy that flows through rivers and lakes, bringing coolness and tranquility to our world. Blue is also the color of frost, adding a touch of magic to the winter landscape. And let’s not forget about crystals! Blue gemstones like sapphires and aquamarines are captivating, shining with a mysterious beauty.

Green is like the earth’s energy. It’s all about nature, keeping things safe, and helping them get better.

Let me tell you about the white mana. It’s the energy of wind and it represents spirit, speed, and the mind.

Mana can exist in different colors. White mana can either be in its pure form, which is unstable, or it can be crystallized into a more stable form and stored as crystals.

Special Mana Colors

There are also two special colors of magic. These colors only exist in their unstable pure form and cannot be crystallized or stored.

Gold is like the sun’s energy. I can only use it during the day, but it can be like any basic color of mana. That means it’s kind of a mana “wildcard”.

When talking about mana, we can’t ignore the importance of black mana. It’s like the energy of darkness. The thing about black mana is that it can only be used during the Night. On its own, it doesn’t have any power. But here’s the interesting part – black mana can amplify the power of other basic mana colors. That means it can make the most powerful spells possible.

Now, let’s not forget about gold mana. Gold mana is a game-changer during the Day. It makes it so much easier to cast spells. But when it comes to Night, it’s black mana that steals the show. Black mana allows for the casting of the most powerful spells imaginable.

Getting Your Hands on Mana Tokens And Crystals

Okay, let’s talk about mana tokens. They’re pretty important in the game. So, grab all those mana tokens and put them in a special spot on the table where everyone can reach them. There are 12 tokens for each of the four main colors: red, blue, green, and white. Then, there are 3 tokens for each of the special colors: gold and black.

These mana tokens are like little bits of pure magic, unless someone puts them in their inventory. Then they turn into crystals. Cool, huh?

Now, here’s the thing. Whenever a card or something else says you gain a mana token, you put it in front of you on your play area. You can use that token any time during your turn. But here’s the catch: if you don’t use it, it disappears at the end of your turn. Poof! Gone!

If a card or another thing tells you to get a crystal, you take a mana token from the bank and put it in your Inventory on your hero card. The crystals in your Inventory can be turned into mana of the same color whenever you want during your turn – you just take one out of your Inventory and you can use it as a mana token. You can’t turn mana tokens into crystals unless a card or something says you can.

Just so you know: This is why there are only a few gold and black tokens – you can keep tokens of basic colors in your Inventory for many turns or even Rounds, but gold and black mana only exist during your turn. When your turn ends, you put them back in the bank so other players can use them.

Three crystals per color: To keep things balanced, you can only have a maximum of three crystals of the same color in your Inventory at one time. If you try to collect a crystal that you already have three of, you’ll receive a mana token instead. So, in total, you can have up to 12 crystals in your Inventory – no more than three of each color.

Now let’s talk about Mana Dice!

In the game, you will find seven mana dice. Each of these dice has six sides, and each side displays one of the six mana colors. When playing, you should use a number of dice equal to the number of players, plus two. For example, in a four-player game, you would use six dice.

To begin the game, you will roll the dice and place them in the open area of the Day/Night board. This area, along with the dice in it, is known as the Source.

Before each round starts, you will need to reroll the dice and return them to the Source. When rerolling, make sure that at least half of the dice show a basic color, such as red, blue, green, or white. If this condition is not met, continue rerolling all the black and gold dice together until it is.

Any dice that are not used in the game should be kept next to the mana token bank. These dice will come into play when a card instructs you to roll one.

Hey there! Let me tell you about the dice in the Source. They represent a big pool of magical power that’s everywhere in the world. Every hero can use the magic from one of these dice each turn. When you use a mana die, you roll it again and put it back in the Source at the end of your turn so other players can use it too. Just remember, you can only use one die from the Source each turn, unless a card or something else says you can use more.

Now, here’s the cool thing: the colors of the mana in the Source change during a Round. But wait, there’s a twist! You can’t use black mana during the Day. If a mana die is rolled back into the Source and it’s black, nobody can use it, and it doesn’t get rolled again. We call this a depleted mana die. You can tell it’s depleted because we put it in the darker part of the Source area. Pretty neat, right?

I want to let you in on a little secret. You see, when you start a round in this game, there might already be some black mana dice that are empty. And here’s the thing, whenever a player rolls a black die, another one gets depleted. It’s like a never-ending cycle.

But wait, there’s more! As the day round comes to a close, there might be a situation where there are very few or even no mana dice left in the source. That’s when the night arrives, my friend.

During the night, all the dice are rerolled, creating a whole new source for the round. And here’s the catch – you can’t use gold mana during the night, so those gold dice are put aside as exhausted. It’s a price you pay, but it adds an extra layer of excitement, don’t you think?