Star Wars Legion is a tabletop game that allows you to control armies from all your favourite Star Wars factions in epic battles across iconic locations from the movies. With stunningly detailed miniatures, this game is sure to please Star Wars fans of all ages! In this article we will explore what Star Wars Legion is and how you can make the most out of the game.
What is Star Wars Legion?
Star Wars Legion is a tabletop game by Fantasy Flight Games released in 2018. It is based on the Star Wars universe. It allows you to control miniatures of the Galactic Empire, the Rebel Alliance, the Galactic Republic, and Separatists in epic battles across iconic locations from the movies.
The stunningly detailed miniatures are what set this game apart. The level of detail on the figures is incredible, and they are sure to please any Star Wars fan, young or old. This, alongside the ever-increasing line of miniatures in the series, provides a wonderland for collectors and wargamers alike.
If you are interested in Star Wars Legion, why not check out these other 10 Star Wars games that we are sure you will love as well.
How do you play Star Wars Legion?
The game is played between two players, each bringing an army of miniatures assembled and painted before play begins. The armies battle it across a battlefield, destroying the opponent’s troops or capturing strategic objectives.
Each player must construct an army with one or two command units alongside three to six core units. Star Wars Legion also allows players to bring up to three special forces, up to three support units, and up to two heavy units into the battle.
From there, play progresses with players alternating activations of one unit at a time. The Command Card determines who goes first, as well as allows their commander to issue commands to nearby units. This can give an advantage in the battle, as the right commands can turn the tide of a fight.
During a player’s turn, they may activate one unit at a time. This unit can then move and take actions, such as attacking or using abilities. When all of the unit’s actions are used up, it is considered activated for the turn and cannot act again.
On a player’s turn, they may either activate a unit they commanded with their Command Card, or they may draw a token randomly to determine which un-commanded unit they activate. If they choose to draw a token, they must then activate the unit that is represented on the token.
Activation allows a unit two actions, such as movement and attack.
This concludes the turn-based activation process, which will continue until neither side has any units left to activate. At this point, the battle is over, and one side has either been victorious or defeated.
Movement
When planning movement, a player must consider the unit’s movement value. This determines which size movement ruler to use. For example, a unit with a movement value of 1 would use the small ruler, while a unit with a movement value of 3 would use the large ruler.
The following are the basic steps for moving a unit:
- Determine the starting point for the unit’s move.
- Select the movement path for the unit.
- Place the miniature on the starting point and measure the distance moved along the chosen path.
- Record any damage or status effects incurred during movement on the miniature.
- If the unit reaches the end of its move, it may make one attack using its remaining action.
Attacking
Star Wars Legion features custom dice that are used for attacking. When a unit attacks, it will roll a number of attack dice depending on the weapon it is using and the range of the target. The defender also rolls defense dice, which can mitigate some of the damage dealt by the attack. The results of both sets of dice are then compared to see how much damage is inflicted on the target.
Aiming
When a unit aims, it receives a bonus to its attack rolls for the following turn. To aim, the unit must be within the weapon’s range and have a line of sight to the target.
Dodging
When a unit dodges, it becomes harder to hit with attacks for the following turn. To dodge, the unit must be within the weapon’s range and have a line of sight to the attacker. They may also gain more specific actions from their card, or the upgrades received.
Players must carefully consider their moves, as each decision could mean life or death for their troops. The Star Wars Legion game will provide hours of entertainment for fans of all ages!
Points System
Like more traditional tabletop wargames, Star Wars Legion works on a point system where most battles consist of 800 points. This is by no means a top limit, and points can be agreed upon between both players, with some battles consisting of squads or entire battalions.
If you want to upgrade your units or bring heavy units, these will cost significantly more than core units. So, this will depend on your play style, but you must find the right balance between core and supporting units. The point system is well-balanced, so whatever you choose, your battles are sure to be on level pegging making for an interesting battle.
Rules of Engagement
The game is turn-based, with each player taking turns to activate one unit across the battlefield and attack the enemy. Players also determine the rules of engagement before beginning play. This includes how many turns the game will last, how many points each player has, and what kind of battlefield they will be playing on.
This ensures that both players are aware of the game’s parameters before it even begins and prevents any arguments or surprises from happening during the game. This also allows players to tailor the game to their own liking, making for a more enjoyable experience.
So, how do you win in Star Wars Legion?
In Star Wars Legion, the game is won when one side either meets the scenario’s victory condition, one side has no remaining figures, or six rounds have been fully played. This means that players must be very strategic in their moves, as a single mistake could mean defeat.
The game is turn-based, so players take turns activating one unit at a time. They must also determine the rules of engagement before beginning play. This includes how many turns the game will last, how many points each player has, and what kind of battlefield they will be playing on. This ensures that both players are aware of the game’s parameters before it even begins and prevents any arguments or surprises from happening during the game.
Players can also tailor the game to their own liking, making for a more enjoyable experience. So, make sure you bring your A-game if you want to win!
Unit Types
Commander Units (max 2)
Each player has a commander unit, which gives them special abilities and commands their troops. The commanders are also crucial in strategy, as they can affect the battlefield.
You can choose from one to two commanders (such as Luke Skywalker or Darth Vader) and three to six core units (generally troopers). This gives you plenty of flexibility when building your army and allows you to create a force that reflects your playstyle.
No matter which commander you choose, they will be a vital part of your army. They have special abilities and commands that can help turn the tide of battle in your favor. Be sure to use them wisely!
Core Units (max 6)
The core units are also essential and should be chosen carefully. You’ll want to ensure they are suited for the battlefield you are playing on and complement your commander’s strengths. Mainly core units consist of basic troops such as stormtroopers and rebel soldiers. Still, these units can have unique weapons and abilities depending on the regiments you induct into your army.
You can choose from many different regiments, including the 501st Legion, the B1 Battle Droids, and the Wookie Warriors. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so pick the one that best suits your playstyle.
- The 501st Legion is a well-trained and disciplined fighting force. They are experts in urban warfare and can quickly take control of objectives.
- The B1 Battle Droids are perfect for overwhelming the enemy with numbers. They are not as individually strong as some other units, but they more than make up for it with their sheer number.
- The Wookie Warriors are incredibly tough and resilient. They are excellent front-line troops and can take a lot of punishment. However, they are not as fast as some other units, so keep that in mind when choosing them for your army.
Special Forces Units (max 3)
You may also want to include special forces units in your army. These troops have unique skills and abilities that can give you an edge in battle.
Some examples of special forces units include the Imperial Death Troopers, Scout Troopers, and Rebel Commandos.
- The Imperial Death Troopers are highly trained assassins. They are experts in stealth and can quickly take out enemy commanders.
- Scout Troopers are excellent for scouting the enemy’s position and gathering information. They are also very good at taking out isolated groups of enemies.
- The Rebel Commandos are a versatile unit that can perform a variety of tasks on the battlefield. They excel at hit-and-run tactics and can quickly take out enemy units.
No matter which special forces units you choose, they will be a valuable addition to your army. Use them wisely to give yourself the best chance of victory!
Support Units (max 3)
In addition to the core units, you can also choose from various support units. These units provide invaluable fire support and can make a big difference in the outcome of the battle.
Some available support units include AT-RT, STAP Riders, 74-Z Speeder Bikes. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose wisely!
- The AT-RT is a light assault vehicle perfect for taking out enemy infantry. It is fast and maneuverable, making it difficult for the enemy to hit.
- The STAP Riders are perfect for scouting the enemy’s position and gathering information. They are also very good at taking out isolated groups of enemies.
- The 74-Z Speeder Bikes are fast and agile recon vehicles. They are perfect for hit-and-run tactics and can quickly take out enemy units.
No matter which supports units you choose, they will be a valuable addition to your army. Be sure to use them wisely to ensure victory!
Heavy Units (max 2)
You may also want to include heavy units in your army. These units are slow but pack a huge punch. They are perfect for taking out enemy vehicles and fortifications.
Some examples of heavy units include the AT-ST, T47-Airspeeder, and X-34 Landspeeder. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose wisely!
- The AT-ST is a powerful assault vehicle perfect for taking out enemy vehicles and fortifications. It is slow and not very maneuverable, but its twin laser cannons can do much damage.
- The T47-Airspeeder is a fast and maneuverable vehicle perfect for scouting the enemy’s position and gathering information. It is not as well armed as some other units, but its speed more than makes up for it.
- The X-34 Landspeeder is a versatile vehicle that can perform a variety of tasks on the battlefield. It is fast and maneuverable, making it perfect for hit-and-run tactics.
No matter which heavy units you choose, they will be a valuable addition to your army. Be sure to use them wisely to ensure victory!
Is Star Wars Legion a good game?
There is no doubt that Star Wars Legion is a great game. It is perfect for fans of the Star Wars universe. With stunningly detailed miniatures, this game is sure to please Star Wars fans of all ages! Choose your units wisely and use them to your advantage to ensure victory!
Final Thoughts
Star Wars Legion is a great addition to the Star Wars universe. It is a great game for fans of all ages, and it is sure to provide hours of fun! Thanks for reading! I hope this has helped you understand the basics of the game. May the force be with you!
