SWORDPLAY

2018
WELCOME TO THE THW WORLD!
What: A free introduction to the Gaming System used by THW
Game Design and Two Hour Wargames.

Scale: Man-to-man sword and sorcery combat where 1 figure or

counter equals 1 man or creature.

Your Role: You lead a small group of 1 to 5 adventurers in a series of

scenarios where no two games ever play out exactly alike.

Playability: Designed with the solo gamer in mind, all THW games
can also be played with all players on the same side or head to head.

While our counterpart Chain Reaction is about modern

firearms, Swordplay is about combat with sword, spell and shield.

Swordplay gives you a chance to try out THW game mechanics,

before trying one of our period specific games.

Think of Swordplay 2018 as a preview. The nice thing is it contains

the same mechanics of all our other games and that means ....

LEARN ONE SET OF MECHANICS, PLAY MANY PERIODS.

THW GAME DESIGN – TWO HOUR WARGAMES

***************************************************
Makers of the most realistic solo game mechanics available!

2HW – SP
$10.00
Includes color counters to get you into the game ASAP!
WRITTEN BY ED TEIXEIRA

COVER ART BY KIM ALLMAN

SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Kim Allman: For a great cover picture.
Ken Hafer, Bob Minadeo and Ron “Baddawg” Strickland:
For insisting “It’s not just a gang warfare game.”
The THW Folks on the Group and Forum: For the constant
support, questions and suggestions.
And Lil…
 UNLIMITED REP IN TWO HOUR WARGAMES

UNLIMITED REP?
Yes, unlimited Rep. Here’s how we do it:
• Your Characters can roll for Increasing Rep
normally. Cash in any Increasing Rep d6,
roll 1d6 for each one and score a “6” and
your Rep goes up one point.
• Your Star Power goes up as well.
That’s the good news.

BUT…
Your Rep can go as high as you want but there are
still some things that can even the playing field with
your enemies:
• A roll of “6” is still a failure on the tables
like Action, Shooting, Melee, Will to Fight
and any of the ones that have it listed.
• New enemy generation:
• The enemies, except for their Leader, are
generated normally for the set of rules
you are using.
• When you run into enemies roll 1d6 and
read the result as rolled.
• 1, 2 or 3 = The Leader of the
enemies is 1 point lower than your
Rep.
• 4 or 5 = The Leader of the enemies is
the same Rep as you are.
• 6 = The Leader of the enemies is 2
points lower than your Rep, but
never lower than the listed Rep.
Example – Billy Pink (Rep 6) runs into a gang of
Thugs. I use the listed Reps for the Thugs and roll
1d6 for the Rep of the Leader. I score a 6 – this
makes it a Rep 4 but as he is listed as Rep 5, I use
the Rep 5.
Later Billy runs into three Xeogs. Two of them are
Rep 4. I roll for their Leader (Rep 5) and score a 4.
She is now a Rep 6.
• Enemy Leaders will always match up with
your Leader.

© ED TEIXEIRA - TWO HOUR WARGAMES 3/25/2020

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
Skeletal Undead .................................................................. 8
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Skeletal Undead (1) .......................................................... 8
When you’re ready for more… .......................................2
Trolls ................................................................................... 8
Introduction ..............................................................................3
Trolls ............................................................................... 8
Word Of Advice ..............................................................3
Attributes ................................................................................. 8
How to Play .............................................................................3
Stars ..................................................................................... 8
Needed to Play .........................................................................3
Grunts .................................................................................. 9
The Dice – D6 .....................................................................3
Attribute Types.................................................................... 9
How Many D6? ...............................................................4
Race Attributes .................................................................... 9
Characters ............................................................................4
Class Attributes ................................................................... 9
Using Counters or Figures...............................................4
Random Attributes .............................................................. 9
Using the Tables ......................................................................4
Alignment ................................................................................ 9
Defining Characters .................................................................4
Not Black or White, But Gray ........................................... 10
Stars and Grunts .......................................................................4
Star Alignment .................................................................. 10
Why Use Stars? ...................................................................4
Reputation.............................................................................. 10
Star Advantages ...................................................................5
Modified Rep .................................................................... 10
Star Power .......................................................................5
Increasing Rep d6 .............................................................. 10
Extraordinary Effort ........................................................5
Decreasing Rep d6 ............................................................ 11
Free Will .........................................................................5
Class ...................................................................................... 11
Race .........................................................................................5
Armor Class ........................................................................... 11
Race Lists ............................................................................5
Challenge ............................................................................... 12
Dwarves ...............................................................................6
NPC Challenges ................................................................ 12
Dwarves ..........................................................................6
Leaders .................................................................................. 13
Elves ....................................................................................6
Leader Function ................................................................ 13
Elves ................................................................................6
Recruiting the Band ............................................................... 13
Feral Vampires ....................................................................6
How Big of a Band? .......................................................... 13
Feral Vampires ................................................................6
Restrictions ........................................................................ 13
Ghouls .................................................................................6
Dealing with NPCs ................................................................ 13
Ghouls .............................................................................6
Interaction .............................................................................. 13
Goblins ................................................................................7
The Battle Board.................................................................... 14
Goblins ............................................................................7
Sample Battle Board.......................................................... 14
Men......................................................................................7
Turn Sequence ....................................................................... 15
Men .................................................................................7
Movement .............................................................................. 15
Your Game, Your Choice................................................7
Action .................................................................................... 15
Ogres ...................................................................................7
Casting Spells ........................................................................ 15
Ogres ...............................................................................7
Damage Spell .................................................................... 15
Orcs .....................................................................................7
Dazzle Spell ...................................................................... 16
Orcs .................................................................................7
Defend Spell ...................................................................... 16
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 SWORDPLAY 2018
Casting Spells .................................................................... 16 Forces ................................................................................ 22
Casting Damage................................................................. 16 Deployment ....................................................................... 22
NPC Spell Casting ............................................................. 16 Special Instructions ........................................................... 22
Shooting ................................................................................. 16 Loot and Destroy ............................................................... 22
Cover ................................................................................. 16 Are They Friends or Foes? ................................................ 22
How to Shoot ..................................................................... 17 Rescuing the Hostages ...................................................... 22
Shooting Damage .............................................................. 17 Character Journal .............................................................. 23
Melee ..................................................................................... 17 Character Journal .............................................................. 23
Retrieving Wounded .......................................................... 17 Character Journal .............................................................. 23
Damage .................................................................................. 18 Character Journal .............................................................. 23
Obviously Dead ................................................................. 18 Character Journal .............................................................. 23
Out of the Fight ................................................................. 18 Character Journal .............................................................. 23
-1 to Rep ............................................................................ 18
Will to Fight ........................................................................... 18
After the Encounter ................................................................ 18
Rep Adjustment ................................................................. 18
Playing the Game ................................................................... 19
PEFs ....................................................................................... 19
How Many PEFs................................................................ 19
Resolving PEFs ................................................................. 19
Who Are They? ................................................................. 19
How Many of Them?......................................................... 20
Are They Friends or Foes? ................................................ 20
Encounters ............................................................................. 20
Next Encounter .................................................................. 20
Explore ................................................................................... 21
Objective ........................................................................... 21
Forces ................................................................................ 21
Deployment ....................................................................... 21
Special Instructions ........................................................... 21
Are They Friends or Foes? ................................................ 21 WHEN YOU’RE READY FOR MORE…
Defend.................................................................................... 21
Objective ........................................................................... 21
Forces ................................................................................ 21
Deployment ....................................................................... 21
Special Instructions ........................................................... 21
Raid ........................................................................................ 22
Objective ........................................................................... 22
© 2018 ED TEIXEIRA – TWO HOUR WARGAMES 5/8/2018

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 SWORDPLAY 2018

INTRODUCTION HOW TO PLAY

Swordplay 2018 is all about the Story; your Story. It doesn’t How you play Swordplay 2018 is up to you. Here are some
take a long time to set up or play and your games won’t get suggestions:
bogged down with detailed or overcomplicated rules. The
rules are easy to learn and memorize, yet like all our THW • You can play as a loner, going on Encounters (page
games that share the similar mechanics, Swordplay 2018 gives 20) on your own.
you realistic results. • You can play as a Leader of a Band (page 13).
• You can play solo or same side against the game
When you’ve finished an Encounter (game) you’ll say, mechanics or head to head against others.
“Yeah, I could see that happening.” In Swordplay 2018 it’s • You can play it as a stand-alone game or with other
where you get to and not how you got there. THW titles such as 2 Hour Dungeon Crawl, Warrior
Casual and new gamers with little gaming experience can pick Heroes – Legends, Talomir Tales – Distant Shore or
up Swordplay 2018 really quickly. We’ve made the game Legends of Araby.
simple by using Classes to define Characters based on what • The bottom line is you can play it any way you like
they do, not what they use to do it. Casters cast Magic Spells because it’s your game.
Shooters; shoot…you get the picture.
Swordplay 2018 is perfect for playing solo or on the same side
with your friends as well as head to head. You don’t need a
Game Master, Dungeon Master, or Referee to play Swordplay
NEEDED TO PLAY
2018. It doesn’t take much time to learn, is a fun game, but
still a challenge. You will need a few things to play Swordplay 2018. They are:

No two games will ever play out the same. • Six-sided dice, referred to as d6. It is best to have
three per player.
Now let’s get started! • Counters or any combination of metal, plastic or
paper minis in a consistent scale of your choice.
WORD OF ADVICE Heck, you can even play with pen and paper.
Be sure to read the rules one section at a time and do the • An 8” x 10” flat area that we call the Battle Board.
review and easy exercises in the Stop boxes. We’ve broken the This can just be a space on the table, but we’ve
rules down into smaller pieces to make it easier to learn. Yes, I included one for your use.
know some of you may have gaming experience, but still
should use the Stop boxes as our mechanics may be a bit THE DICE – D6
different than what you’ve played before.
During the game, you will be required to roll dice in one of
If you have a question about the rules keep reading as the four ways. Here’s how we do it:
answer will be coming along shortly. But if you can’t find the
answer check out the THW Forum link below for answers to • TAKEN VERSUS REP: Roll 2d6 and compare each
questions and free downloads. score versus the Rep (page 10) of the Character. If
the d6 score is equal or less than the Rep, the d6 has
http://site.twohourwargames.com/forum/index.php been passed. You can pass 2d6, 1d6, or 0d6.
You can expect a response within 24 hours.
Example – A Shooter (Rep 4) wants to fire on the Shooting
Table (page 24). I roll 2d6 and score a 1 and 5 – passing 1d6.
• READ THE RESULT AS ROLLED. Read it just like it
says. You may be asked to add the scores together or
roll 1d6 a second time.
• ROLLING A 1/2D6. When you are asked to roll a
1/2d6 roll 1d6.
• 1 or 2 = 1.
• 3 or 4 = 2.
• 5 or 6 = 3.
• WHEN YOU SEE NUMBERS IN PARENTHESIS after a
word, that event will occur if that number is rolled.

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
Example – Haldor comes upon a rickety vine bridge. There is
a chance (1) that it is completely destroyed. I roll 1d6 and
score a 4. The bridge is intact, but Haldor must take a
USING THE TABLES
Challenge Test (page 12) to make it across safely.
The tables are easy to memorize and use. In fact, all you need
to play your games are on two pages (pages 24 & 25). Here’s
HOW MANY D6? how we do it:
The number of d6 to roll will be in the upper left-hand corner
of each table. Note that in some THW rules you may have this • Consult the appropriate table for what you are doing
number modified by Attributes and Circumstances found on – Shooting, Melee, Challenge, etc.
some tables! • Roll the number of d6 found in the upper left-hand
corner of the table – usually 1d6 or 2d6.
• Modify the number of d6 rolled by any applicable
CHARACTERS Circumstance or Attribute for that table.
Characters are used on the Battle Board (page 14). Be sure • Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
that they are based individually as each represents one for the number of d6 you have passed or result
Character or Creature. scored.
• Go across the row and carry out the result.
USING COUNTERS OR FIGURES
If you want, you can use figures instead of counters to
represent the Characters in the game. Regardless, if you do or
don’t, both are used the same way. Here’s how we do it:
DEFINING CHARACTERS
• Carry On – When Carrying On (fully functional), Swordplay 2018 is played with individual Characters that are
place the counter so its bottom edge is facing the defined in the following ways.
Battle Board edge closest to the player. Place the
figure facing the enemy. The Character can see and • Is it a Star or a Grunt?
be seen by the enemy. • What is its Race?
• Duck Back (page 15) – When Ducked Back (hidden • Does it have any Attributes?
in cover), place the counter so its bottom edge is • What is its Alignment?
facing the Battle Board edge opposite from the • What is its Reputation?
player. Place the figure with its back to the enemy. • What is its Class?
The Character cannot see or be seen by the enemy. • What is its Armor Class?
• Obviously Dead (page 18) – When Obviously Dead
flip the counter over, face down. Lay the figure face
down.
• Out of the Fight (page 18) – When Out of the Fight STARS AND GRUNTS
turn the counter sideways and face up. Lay the figure
face up. The Character can be seen by the enemy. We use two types of Characters, called Stars and Grunts.
Here’s how to read the counters we’ve included in the game.
• STARS – The Star represents you, the player. We
suggest your Star begin with a Reputation of 5.
• GRUNTS – These are the Characters that do not
represent a player. They may be friends or foes and
will come and go as your Story progresses. All
Grunts are controlled by the game mechanics. Your
Grunts will try and do the best they can in the
situations you put them in while trying to stay alive.

WHY USE STARS?

One question that may be asked is why do we use Stars in
THW? It's to give the player personal control of his
Character.
Remember that all Grunts are controlled by the game
mechanics.
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 SWORDPLAY 2018
But Stars? That's you. You will see that you have more EXTRAORDINARY EFFORT
freedom, as in real life, to do what you want, as well as some
An Extraordinary Effort is something a Star can do in difficult
distinct advantages that separates you from the Grunts.
situations. Anytime the Star rolls d6 it can choose to use an
Extraordinary Effort and roll a bonus d6. Here’s how we do it:
STAR ADVANTAGES • When the Star rolls d6 he can choose to roll another
As a Star in Swordplay 2018 you have three important d6 and add the result to the original d6 rolled.
advantages – Star Power, Extraordinary Effort and Free Will. • This can be when he is rolling the d6 or after they
have been rolled.
STAR POWER • The Star is allowed only one Extraordinary Effort per
Star Power is the ability of a Character to ignore normally Encounter.
disabling damage. Here’s how we do it: Example – Haldor (Rep 5) is in melee with a Feral Vampire
• Stars start each Encounter with 1d6 of Star Power for (Rep 4). He will roll 2d6 and the Vampire 3d6 as it has the
each point of Rep. So a Rep 5 Star starts with 5d6 Rage Attribute. Haldor rolls 2d6 and passes 2d6. The Vampire
Star Power. rolls 3d6 and passes 1d6!
• Whenever a Star takes damage it rolls its current Star Haldor now chooses to use his Extraordinary Effort and rolls
Power d6. Read each d6 as rolled. another 1d6 and passes. Added to the originally passed 2d6,
• Any result of 1, 2, or 3 reduces the damage by he has passed a total of 3d6, 2d6 more than the Vampire.
one level. Haldor has killed the Vampire.
• Any result of 4 or 5 means the damage stays and
the d6 is retained for future use. FREE WILL
• Any result of 6 means the damage stays, but the
d6 is removed from the Character’s Star Power The Star can choose to leave the Battle Board (page 14), with
for the rest of the Encounter. or without his Band, when taking the Will to Fight Test (page
25) without rolling any dice.
Damage is reduced in the following ways:
Leaving the Battle Board ends the Encounter.
• An Obviously Dead (page 18) result becomes an Out
of the Fight (page 18) result.
• An Out of the Fight result from Shooting becomes a
Duck Back (page 15) result. RACE
• An Out of the Fight in Melee becomes a -1 to Rep
(page 18) result. -1 to Rep damage cannot be Talomir is the THW fantasy world populated by a wide range
reduced. of Races. In Swordplay 2018 you can play as and meet any of
It is possible to reduce damage by multiple levels if you roll them.
several results of 1, 2, or 3.
Example: A Star with a Rep of 5 is in melee. He takes one RACE LISTS
Obviously Dead result. The player rolls 1d6 per point of the The following Race Lists are used to generate Characters.
Star’s Rep or 5d6 in this case. Here’s how we do it:
• The results are 2, 2, 4, 5, and 6. • Go to the appropriate Race List for the type of
• One 2 reduces the Obviously Dead result to an Out of the Character you need.
Fight result. • This will give you the following info:
• The other 2 reduces the Out of the Fight result to -1 to • Type.
Rep. He now has a Rep of 4 and must immediately fight • Class.
another round of melee. • Reputation.
• The 4 and 5 have no effect, but are retained. • Armor Class
• The 6 has no effect, but is discarded for the remainder of • Alignment.
the Encounter. • Gender. Roll 1d6 and apply the score to the
numbers found under the name of the list.

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
DWARVES FERAL VAMPIRES
A stout, well-muscled Race, in the old times Dwarves and There are two types of Vampires in Talomir. One is human-
Men lived in harmony. As the realms of Men expanded over like and able to move among Men almost unnoticed. The
the land the Dwarves retired to their mountains content to second type is an animalistic creature intent on satisfying their
mine ore. A few have chosen the life of Mercenary sell swords bloodlust at any time regardless of the consequences. Feral
serving those that pay the most regardless of purpose. Vampires are the second type.

DWARVES FERAL VAMPIRES

Male (1 – 6) Female (1 – 2) Male (3 – 6)
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN (1) # TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
1 Leader Soldier 4 (1 – 3) 5 (4 – 6) 4 Any 1 Leader Creature 4 (1 – 3) 5 (4 – 6) 6 BM
2 Grunt Soldier 4 (1 – 5) 5 (6) 4 Any 2 Grunt Creature 4 (1 – 5) 5 (6) 6 BM
3 Grunt Soldier 4 4 Any 3 Grunt Creature 4 4 BM
4 Grunt Shooter 4 2 Any 4 Grunt Creature 4 4 BM
5 Grunt Soldier 4 4 Any 5 Grunt Creature 3 (1 – 4) 4 (5 – 6) 4 BM
6 Grunt Soldier 4 4 Any 6 Grunt Creature 3 (1 – 4) 4 (5 – 6) 4 BM
7+ Grunt Shooter 3 (1 – 4) 4 (5 – 6) 2 Any 7+ Grunt Creature 3 4 BM
(1) Dwarves will be RS (1 – 4), N (5), or BM (6).
• Dwarves have the Resilient Race Attribute (page 9) and • Feral Vampires have the Rage Race Attribute (page 9).
the Soldier Class Attribute.
GHOULS
ELVES An Undead creature desiring only to feast upon human flesh,
The best word to describe an Elf is aloof. These wood or Elf, or Dwarf, or… Ghouls are normally associated with
dwelling folk care little for others save themselves. They dark places such as graveyards and dungeons.
prefer to observe more than participate and tend to stay hidden
in their dark woods. If pushed, the majority of Elves will align GHOULS
with the Light of the Red Sun although some have embraced Female (1) Male (2 – 6)
the Black Moon Darkness.
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
ELVES 1 Leader Creature 4 2 BM
Female (1 – 2) Male (3 – 6) 2 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM
3 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN (1) 4 Grunt Creature 3 (1 – 2) 4 (3 – 6) 2 BM
1 Leader Shooter 4 (1 – 3) 5 (4 – 6) 2 Any 5 Grunt Creature 3 (1 – 4) 4 (5 – 6) 2 BM
2 Grunt Shooter 4 (1 – 5) 5 (6) 2 Any 6 Grunt Creature 3 2 BM
3 Grunt Shooter 4 2 Any 7+ Grunt Creature 3 2 BM
4 Grunt Shooter 4 2 Any
5 Grunt Soldier 4 4 Any • Ghouls have the Lightweight Race Attribute (page 9).
6 Grunt Soldier 4 4 Any
7+ Grunt Shooter 3 (1 – 4) 4 (5 – 6) 2 Any
(1) Elves will be RS (1), N (2 – 5), or BM (6).
• Elves have the Slippery Race Attribute (page 9) and the
Shooter Class Attribute.

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
GOBLINS Example – I decide to have a Thief as my Star. I move him to
the 1st row, making him Rep 5, but keeping all his other stats.
Not the sharpest knife in the drawer, these small wiry
creatures are still to be feared. Not necessarily for their martial
prowess, but for their sheer numbers. When rolling for How OGRES
Many of Them (page 20) they will always have 2 more than The smallest of the Giants, Ogres are human-like in
the actual number generated. Usually sticking to the woods appearance, but larger. Ogres are grouped with Trolls as they
and mountains Goblins can be found as low cost sell swords as are less human in appearance. Ogres are usually found in
well as common brigands. uninhabitable places in human controlled lands. When found
in large numbers they tend to terrorize the locals. Luckily for
GOBLINS them, they are not motivated, content to waylay the careless
Male (1 – 6) traveler.
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
OGRES
1 Leader Soldier 4 4 BM Female (1) Male (2 – 6)
2 Grunt Soldier 3 (1 – 4) 4(5 – 6) 2 BM
3 Grunt Soldier 3 2 BM # TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
4 Grunt Soldier 3 2 BM 1 Leader Creature 5 4 BM
5 Grunt Shooter 3 2 BM 2 Grunt Creature 4 (1 – 4) 5 (5 – 6) 4 BM
6 Grunt Soldier 3 2 BM 3 Grunt Creature 4 4 BM
7+ Grunt Shooter 3 2 BM 4 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM
5 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM
• Goblins have the Lightweight Race Attribute (page 9) and 6 Grunt Creature 3 (1 – 4) 4 (5 – 6) 2 BM
the Soldier Class Attribute. 7+ Grunt Creature 3 2 BM

MEN • Ogres have the Slow Mover Race Attribute (page 9).
Men are the most numerous inhabitants of Talomir. They
come in many shapes, sizes, colors and alignments. ORCS
Men are handled a bit differently than the other Races. They Orcs exist to fight and it helps that they are good at it. Ranging
do not have a Race Attribute, but instead they have a Random in size from man-size to larger these muscular creatures can
Attribute (page 9). intimidate a battlefield. But what they have in martial ability
they lack in mental ability. This has caused them to die a
glorious death having been outsmarted by lesser opponents.
MEN
Male (1 – 6) The Orcs have carved out their own lands to the east, but in
Swordplay 2018 they are encountered as Black Moon sell
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN swords or as raiding bands of brigands, intent upon looting
1 Leader Knight 5 6 N and destroying the weak. Consequently they range all over the
2 Grunt Caster 4 2 N world of Talomir.
3 Grunt Soldier 4 4 N
4 Grunt Shooter 4 4 N ORCS
5 Grunt Thief 4 2 N Male (1 – 6)
6 Grunt Soldier 3 2 N
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
7+ Grunt Shooter 3 2 N
1 Leader Soldier 4 (1 – 3) 5 (4 – 6) 4 BM
• Men have a Random Attribute (page 9) and the listed 2 Grunt Soldier 4 (1 – 4) 5 (5 – 6) 4 BM
Class Attribute. 3 Grunt Soldier 4 4 BM
4 Grunt Shooter 4 2 BM
YOUR GAME, YOUR CHOICE 5 Grunt Soldier 4 2 BM
Want to play as a Caster or Thief and be the Star Leader? You 6 Grunt Shooter 3 (1 – 3) 4 (4 – 6) 2 BM
can, just move the Characters up or down the list as desired. 7+ Grunt Soldier 3 (1 – 3) 4 (4 – 6) 2 BM
Be sure to leave the Rep column as its set.
• Orcs have the Slow Mover Race Attribute (page 9) and
the Class Attribute.
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SKELETAL UNDEAD
Troubled souls that have reincarnated as animated skeletal STOP!
warriors these creatures can be found in darkness, whether this
You can play the game solo, with everyone on the same side
is above ground at night or in the depths of underground
against the game mechanics or head to head against others.
dungeons. Rumor has it that the Skeletal Undead is an
extension of an even darker evil living far to the east. You will need six-sided dice called d6 to play. Passing d6 is
scoring the Rep or less on the d6. If you are rolling 1/2d6 and
SKELETAL UNDEAD (1) score a 5, what does it convert to?
Male (1 – 6) You can use any Characters you want; paper counters, or you
can even play with pen and paper. Just play!
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
Your personal Character is a Star. You get 1d6 Star Power for
1 Leader Creature 3 2 BM
each point of Rep. Score a 1, 2 or 3 and reduce damage by one
2 Grunt Creature 3 2 BM
step. If you score a 4 or 5 the damage stays. Score a 6 the
3 Grunt Creature 3 2 BM damage stays and you lose the d6 for the rest of the game.
4 Grunt Creature 3 2 BM
5 Grunt Creature 3 2 BM What is an Extraordinary Effort?
6 Grunt Creature 3 2 BM Grunts are all the other Characters whether friends or enemies.
7+ Grunt Creature 3 2 BM
(1) Never has to take the Will to Fight Test. We use a variety of Races in Swordplay. Review how the
Race Lists provide stats for the Character or Creature.
• Skeletal Undead have the Slow Mover Race Attribute
(page 9).

TROLLS ATTRIBUTES
These creatures are human-like in appearance, but much
larger. Trolls are grouped with Hill and Mountain Giants, but Attributes further define your Characters. Using them will
are less human in appearance, much less. Trolls are usually really make your Characters unique, but if you desire a more
found in uninhabitable places in human controlled lands. vanilla game, simply do not use them.
When found in large numbers they tend to carve out their own
territory, much to the dismay of the local inhabitants. STARS
TROLLS Stars can have three total Attributes.
Female (1) Male (2 – 6) • Race Attribute – If no Race Attribute it can choose
one attribute from the Random Attribute Tables.
# TYPE CLASS REP AC ALIGN
• Class Attribute.
1 Leader Creature 5 4 BM • Random Attribute – Rolled randomly. If you roll a
2 Grunt Creature 4 (1 – 4) 5 (5 – 6) 4 BM Random Attribute that you already have, you can
3 Grunt Creature 4 4 BM choose to re-roll or decline an Attribute.
4 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM
Example – Haldor is a Rep 5 Mirholme Soldier Star. He does
5 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM
not have Race Attribute so chooses Rage from the Random
6 Grunt Creature 4 2 BM Attributes. He has the Duty Class Attribute for being a
7+ Grunt Creature 4 2 BM Soldier. He then rolls for his Random Attribute and scores
Slippery.
• Trolls have the Slow Mover Race Attribute (page 9).

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GRUNTS CLASS ATTRIBUTES
Grunts can have two total Attributes. Class Attributes are based on the Class of the Character.
• Race Attribute – If no Race Attribute it can roll for CLASS ATTRIBUTE
one Random Attribute.
CASTER CAST SPELLS: The ability to cast Damage,
• Class Attribute.
Dazzle, and Defend Spells.
Are you in a hurry when playing a game? Don’t bother giving KNIGHT SWORDSMAN: Ignores the first -1 to Rep
the Grunts Random Attributes, but be sure to use the Race and suffered when fighting on the Melee Table.
Class ones. SHOOTER SHOOT: Able to shoot Ranged Weapons.
SOLDIER DUTY: Re-roll 1 failed d6 on the Action Table.
ATTRIBUTE TYPES THIEF CLEVER: Able to take a Challenge with 3d6
when rolling to disarm a Trap or find a Secret
There are three types of Attributes used in Swordplay 2018: Room, counting the two best scores.
• RACE ATTRIBUTE – A specific Attribute for the
Character’s Race. RANDOM ATTRIBUTES
• CLASS ATTRIBUTE - A specific Attribute for the
Stars and Grunt Characters that do not have a Race Attribute
Character’s Class – what it does.
must roll for one Random Attribute. Here’s how we do it:
• RANDOM ATTRIBUTE – An Attribute gained
randomly. • Consult the Random Attributes Table.
• Roll 1d6, read the result as rolled and go to the
appropriate row.
RACE ATTRIBUTES • Go across to see the Attribute.
Race Attributes can be found at the bottom of each Race List
(page 5). Here they are for easy access. # RANDOM ATTRIBUTES TABLE

RACE ATTRIBUTE 1 COWARD: Will always be the first to Leave the Battle
Board regardless of Rep or situation.
DWARVES RESILIENT: Once during each Encounter will 2 LIGHTWEIGHT: Counts opponents AC at 1 point higher
treat its first Out of the Fight result as a Carry when winning on the Melee Table.
On result instead. 3 RAGE: Counts a +1d6 bonus when in melee.
ELVES SLIPPERY: Counts AC at 1 point higher when
4 RESILIENT: Once during each Encounter will treat its
losing on the Melee Table.
first Out of the Fight result as a Carry On result instead.
FERAL RAGE: Counts a +1d6 bonus when in melee.
5 SLIPPERY: Counts AC at 1 point higher when losing on
VAMPIRE
the Melee Table.
GHOULS LIGHTWEIGHT: Counts opponents AC at 1
6 SLOW MOVER: Must re-roll 1 passed d6 when rolling on
point higher when winning on the Melee Table.
the Action Table.
GOBLINS LIGHTWEIGHT: Counts opponents AC at 1
point higher when winning on the Melee Table.
OGRES SLOW MOVER: Must re-roll 1 passed d6 when

ORCS
rolling on the Action Table.
SLOW MOVER: Must re-roll 1 passed d6 when ALIGNMENT
rolling on the Action Table.
SKELETAL SLOW MOVER: Must re-roll 1 passed d6 when The majority of the people and creatures in Talomir – the
UNDEAD rolling on the Action Table. world where Swordplay 2018 is set –view the world in
TROLLS SLOW MOVER: Must re-roll 1 passed d6 when absolutes. It’s a world of black or white, good or evil and how
rolling on the Action Table. they view this is defined by their Alignment. Here’s how we
do it:
• Those that are traditionally viewed as good are
followers of the Red Sun (RS).
• Those that are traditionally viewed as evil are
followers of the Black Moon (BM).
• Red Sun and Black Moon aligned Characters are not
friendly with each other and could become hostile.

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• The two opposing alignments will never work
together, consequently they will never be found in the
MODIFIED REP
same Band. Note that when rolling on some tables the Rep of the
Character could be modified by an Attribute or Circumstance.
It is up to the player to decide what is good or evil, but the Be sure to check all modifiers when rolling on a table.
Races in Swordplay 2018 are assigned the Alignments as
found on their Race List (page 5).
INCREASING REP D6
NOT BLACK OR WHITE, BUT GRAY You can play Swordplay 2018 as a one off game or part of a
campaign (page 20) where your Encounters are linked
Not everyone in Talomir views life in black or white. A few together where the results of one affects the next. If you do,
can see the advantages and disadvantages of both sides and the Reps of you and your Band members could improve after
choose to walk a fine line between them. These folks are an Encounter. This is done by gaining Increasing Rep d6. You
considered to be Neutral (N). can gain them in the following ways:
Neutral Characters can be friendly with Red Sun and Black
Moon aligned Characters. They may even go as far to join X INCREASING REP D6
them.
RESULT #D6 GAINED
STAR ALIGNMENT DAMAGE: If you have Captured or caused 1
one or more Characters to go Out of the
Stars can choose their Alignment; Red Sun, Black Moon or Fight or Obviously Dead during the
Neutral. Encounter.
INTERACTION: When successfully 1
REPUTATION Interacting (page 13) with a Character.
LOOTING: When looting disabled 1
Characters – Roll 1d6 versus its Rep.
Reputation or Rep represents a combination of experience, • Pass 1d6 = Gain 1 Increasing Rep d6.
morale, and motivation and is an expression of a Character’s • Pass 0d6 = Nothing to be gained.
overall quality. Below are brief descriptions of the Reputation OBJECTIVE: When you accomplish the 1
levels used in the game. Objective of the Encounter.
• REPUTATION 7 AND BEYOND – These Reps are
reserved for incredible Creatures, Demons, and Track how many Increasing Rep d6 you gain, as you gain
Legendary Heroes. Is there a maximum Rep? No, but them. At the end of the Encounter you can test to see if the
there is “Obviously Dead”. Rep of you and/or your Band members go up. Here’s how we
• REPUTATION 6 – Characters of great renown whose do it:
exploits are spoken in awe. The Leader of the Red • Roll each Increasing Rep d6 and read the result as
Sun Brethren would be Rep 6. rolled.
• REPUTATION 5 – These are veterans of numerous • If one or more scores are higher than the current Rep
successful encounters. Knights and most Leaders of the Character or a “6”, the Rep will go up one
would have a Reputation of 5. level.
• REPUTATION 4 – These are reliable men and women • Any other result and the Rep remains the same.
of some experience that usually make up the bulk of • Rep can only increase by one level regardless of the
an army. Soldiers are usually Rep 4. number of d6 rolled.
• REPUTATION 3 – These are characters with limited • Your Character can grow to as high a Rep as desired
combat experience or desire to fight. Civilians and as there isn't a maximum. There is, however,
most Goblins would have a Reputation of 3. Obviously Dead (page 18).

Remember, Stars always start with a Rep of 5.

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DECREASING REP D6
Just as Rep can go up when you are successful it can go down
CLASS
when you are not. This is done by gaining Decreasing Rep d6.
You can gain them in the following ways: Classes help define the Character by what it does. Here are the
six Classes used in Swordplay 2018.
X DECREASING REP D6 • Caster – Called by a variety of names, Casters create
something from nothing by Casting Spells.
RESULT #D6 GAINED
• Creatures – Creatures do not fit into any of the other
DAMAGE: If you were Captured or went 1 Classes. You can Interact (page 13) with a Character,
Out of the Fight during the Encounter. but cannot with a Creature – they are always your
INTERACTION: When unsuccessfully 1 enemy – even when YOU play as a Creature!
Interacting (page 13) with a Character. • Knight – Knights represent the elite fighters of their
LEFT THE BATTLE BOARD: If you Left the 3 army. Some are armored men riding horses or similar
Battle Board, ending the Encounter. beasts while others may be large unarmored men
STAR ADVANTAGE: If you used any Star 1 swinging great two handed axes. Regardless of how
Advantage. they are armed and armored with they share one
common trait, bravery.
Track how many Decreasing Rep d6 you gain, as you gain • Shooter – Shooters are those armed with Ranged
them. At the end of the Encounter you can test to see if the Weapons with the intent to defeat their enemies from
Rep of you and/or your Band members go down. Here’s how a distance. Non – Shooter Characters can use
we do it: Ranged Weapons, but will do so at a -1 to their Rep.
• Soldier – Soldiers are characters armed with melee
• Roll each Decreasing Rep d6 and read the result as
weapons with the intent to defeat their foes in melee.
rolled.
They fight in organized units led by officers.
• If one or more “1s” are rolled the Rep will go down
• Thief – Thieves are Characters that possess a set of
one level. This can be attributed to stress, illness, or
unique skills allowing them to do specific Challenges
anything else you decide it to be.
with an advantage.
• You can never have a Rep lower than 3.
• Any other result and you are fine.
Note: After the Encounter you could have both Increasing and
Decreasing Rep d6. Subtract the smaller number from the ARMOR CLASS
larger number. This will give you all Increasing Rep d6,
Decreeing Rep d6, or none of each. Then roll to see if the Rep In Swordplay 2018 we use four different Armor Classes.
is affected. Armor comes into play on the Shooting Damage (page 24) and
Melee (page 25) Tables. Stars can choose their Armor Class.
Example – Haldor gained 3 Increasing Rep d6 and 2
Decreasing Rep d6. This leaves him with 1 Increasing Rep d6. • AC2 – Light Armor – leather or lighter armor with or
I roll it and score a 5 – the same as Haldor’s Rep so he stays without a shield.
the same. • AC4 – Medium Armor – metal or similar armor with
or without a shield.
• AC6 – Heavy Armor – heavy metal with or without a
shield.
• AC8 – Extra Heavy Armor –extra heavy organic or
structural armor. Also can be magically enhanced.
Characters can loot a disabled Character of its Armor and
replace their own. Casters wearing AC 4 count their Rep 1
point lower than actual when Casting Spells; wearing AC 6 at
2 points lower!

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Example – Haldor rolls 2d6 versus his Rep and passes 1d6.
CHALLENGE He tries again and passes 2d6. He has slipped by the Trolls.

When you want to do something out of the ordinary and not NPC CHALLENGES
covered by an existing rule, take a Challenge. Here’s how we NPCs may also be asked to take a Challenge. They may or
do it: may not. Here’s how we do it:
• Players decide on what the Challenge is. • Roll 2d6 versus the Rep of the NPC.
Example – A PEF is resolved as 3 Trolls. Haldor wants to slip • Pass 2d6 = Will take the Challenge.
by them without a fight. • Pass 1d6 = Roll again, counting a result of pass
1d6 as pass 0d6.
• Decide what a success looks like. • Pass 0d6 = Nope, won’t do it.
Example – If he is successful, he will make it by them Example – Haldor passed the Challenge and now his Grunt
unnoticed – PEF resolved. Sooze will test to take it. She scores a 4 and 5, passing 0d6.
She doesn’t want to take it. Haldor can now decide to stay and
• Decide what the consequences of failure will be.
help Sooze with the Trolls or continue on and leave her
Example – If he fails, he will go to the Action Table with the behind. What would you do?
Trolls having the Advantage.
• Decide if the Challenge is Easy, Difficult, or if the
Challenger has a Profession or Tool that can increase
the chance of success.
STOP!
Example – It’s Nighttime, I Character it’s not difficult, but not Attributes are used to define your Character. We use Race and
easy either. Class Attributes. What is the third type and how do you get it?
There are three Alignment types. Red Sun and Black Moon
• Consult the Challenge Table. Roll 2d6 versus the Rep will not work together. Neutrals can work with both.
of the Character.
Reputation reflects how good a Character is. Your Star starts
2 CHALLENGE with Rep 5. Reps can increase or decrease depending on how
well you do during your games.
(Taken versus Rep)
There are six Classes that define the Character by what they
A result of “6” is always a failure. do. How are Soldiers and Knights different?
ATTRIBUTE There are four Armor Classes – AC 2, AC 4, AC 6 and AC 8.
CLEVER: Able to take a Challenge with 3d6 when rolling to What’s the maximum Armor Class for a Caster?
disarm a Trap or find a Secret Room, counting the two best Review when and how Challenges are used.
scores.

CIRCUMSTANCE MODIFIER TO REP

Challenge is Easy. +1
Challenge is Difficult. -1

#D6 RESULT
PASSED
2 Success! Complete the Challenge.
1 Not sure if you want to try this. Can
immediately re-take the test, counting a
subsequent result of pass 1d6 as pass 0d6
OR
Can decide not to try again.
0 Failure! Suffer the consequences.

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• If your Rep goes down, any Grunt with a higher Rep
LEADERS leaves your group! This can also occur if the Grunt
has its Rep increase to higher than yours.

Bands of Characters will always have a Leader. Here’s how Example – The Rep 5 Grunt has a successful Encounter and
we do it: rolls 1d6, scoring a 6. His Rep now increases to 6. As this is
now higher than the Leader’s Rep, he leaves the Band.
• The Star is always the Leader of the Band.
• A Temporary Leader is the Character with the • As your Rep goes down you must lose one Grunt,
highest Rep in the Band when a Star is not present or rolled randomly, from your Band. Want to replace
is Out of the Fight or worse. the Grunt? Recruit!
Example – My Rep goes down from 5 to 4. I have two Rep 5
LEADER FUNCTION Grunts and two Rep 4s. As the Rep 5 Grunts now have a Rep
higher than mine, they both leave! This leaves me with three
The Leader’s Reputation is used when rolling on the Action
Characters in my Band, including myself. I can recruit one
(page 24) and Will to Fight (page 25) Tables.
more Grunt, but they can only be Rep 4 or lower. I go to the
Men List and get the 3rd row Grunt as the 2nd is already in my
Band.
RECRUITING THE BAND
You start the game alone, but you can recruit Grunts to form
your Band if you want.
DEALING WITH NPCS
How you deal with the Non-Player Characters and Creatures
HOW BIG OF A BAND? you meet in Swordplay 2018 builds your Story. Here’s how
Before recruiting your first Band you must know how many we do it:
Characters you can have. Here's how we do it: • Use Interaction when dealing with Characters.
• Your Band can be as large as your Rep, including • Fight Creatures as you cannot Interact with them.
yourself. So if you are Rep 5 you can recruit 4
Grunts.
• You can recruit from your Race List with three
exceptions:
INTERACTION
• Men, Dwarves and Elves can recruit from each
other’s List. A big part of Swordplay 2018 is how you interact with Non-
• You cannot recruit anyone on the 1st row from Player Characters – those run by the game mechanics. This
another List. process is used when you meet one or more NPCs. Will they
• At least half of your Band, including yourself, be friendly? Will they be aggressive? What can they offer you
must be from your own List. that will help you gain Fortune & Fame? Interaction helps to
• You can pick from any row except for the 1st. build your Story and can take you to adventures you never
• Remember that Red Sun and Black Moon cannot dreamed of. Here’s how we do it:
work together! • Consult the NPC Interaction Table (page 14).
Example – Haldor (Rep 5) can recruit 4 Grunts. He takes two • The Leaders of both sides start with 2d6.
from the Men List and 1 each from the Dwarves and Elves, • Modify the number of d6 to be rolled by any
both of them row 2. applicable Attribute or Circumstance.
• Each Leader rolls the modified number of d6 versus
its Rep. The other NPCs will do as their Leader does.
RESTRICTIONS • Determine how many d6 were passed – a score equal
There some restrictions that must be followed when having a or lower than the Rep of the Leader.
Band: • Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
based on how many d6 you have passed.
• You cannot have Grunts with a Rep higher than • Go across to see what happens.
yours. • You can always decide to go to the Action Table
instead, before or after any Interaction.

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2 NPC INTERACTION
THE BATTLE BOARD
(Taken versus Rep)
Always fail on a “6” We call the 8” x 10”” area that combat is fought on, the Battle
CIRCUMSTANCE MODIFIER Board. This can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, with
or without pieces of terrain on it. Here’s how we do it:
ALIGNMENT – If Characters have same or +1d6 or -1d6 • Place one group of Characters within 3” of one board
opposite Alignment.
edge.
REP 7+ = If the Creature or Character is Rep +1d6
• Place the other group of Characters within 3” of the
7 or higher.
opposite edge.
#D6 RESULT
PASSED
Passed Success! Gain 1 Increasing Rep d6.
more d6
Passed NPC has Opposite Alignment = If you are
same outnumbered the NPC will attack!
If you are not, the NPC makes snarky
comments. Gain 1 Decreasing Rep d6.
Otherwise = NPC acknowledges you but
nothing else.
Passed less If facing Opposite Alignment = The NPCs
d6 attack!
Otherwise = NPC makes snarky comments.
Gain 1 Decreasing Rep d6.

STOP!
Every Band or group of Characters will have a Leader – either Example – Using the counters and Battle Board included in
a Star or the Character with the highest Rep. Check the Race the rules, I’ve set up the black side on one edge of the board
List to see how the range of Rep for Leaders is great. and the other side on the opposite edge. Characters matched
up across from each other, with Leader facing Leader.
On what two tables is the Leader’s Rep used on? It’s
important because the result affects the whole Band!
SAMPLE BATTLE BOARD
What Lists can Men recruit from?
We’ve added a Battle Board for your use to get you into the
Take a Rep 5 Star Red Sun Knight and interact with a Rep 4 game ASAP. This is the Woods Battle Board, but don’t worry
Black Moon Dwarf. Did you see the modifier for the about where the counters are placed in relationship to the
Alignments? pieces of terrain.

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TURN SEQUENCE MOVEMENT

Note that a “Turn” occurs when both sides have been Active and Movement on the board is carried out by the action the
taken the Will to Fight Test. Character is taking. Here’s how we do it:
When the Characters are placed on the Battle Board combat • Cast Spell – Character remains in place.
can begin. Here’s how we do it: • Shoot – Character remains in place.
• Roll 1d6 and read the result as rolled: • Charge – Character is moved into contact with the
• 1, 2 or 3: You have the Advantage. target of the charge. The Target of the Charge can
• 4, 5, or 6: They have the Advantage. shoot before contact.
• The Leader of each side rolls 2d6 versus its Rep. • Duck Back – Character is turned around presenting
• Determine how many d6 are passed by each and its back to the enemy. Cannot see or be seen.
consult the Action Table. • Recover from Duck Back – Characters in Duck Back
• This determines which side will Activate and act are turned to face the enemy. Can see and be seen.
first. • Halt in Place – Character remains in place and does
• You only roll on the Action Table once then each not act.
side alternates acting. • Leave the Battle Board – Voluntarily remove the
Character from the table, the Encounter has ended for
The active Characters now act, in the following order. Here’s the Character.
how we do it:
•
•
Cast – Caster Class will cast a Spell.
Shoot – Shooter Class will shoot.
ACTION
• Charge – Other Classes can charge.
• Recover from Duck Back – Characters in Duck Back When a side is Active, match up (target) all of its Characters
will come into sight of the enemy and can now see against an Inactive Character on the other side. After all
and be seen. Inactive Characters have been targeted the Active side can
• Halt in Place – The Character chose or forfeited an target one or more Inactive Characters multiple times.
action and does nothing. Example – The black side of 4 Characters won on the Action
• Leave the Battle Board – Voluntarily remove the Table and is Active against the white side of 3 Characters.
Character from the table, the Encounter has ended for
the Character. • Character A of the black side, targets white side
Character 1.
After all Spell Casting, Shooting and Melees have been
• Character B of the black side, targets white side
finished both sides take the Will to Fight Test (page 25).
Character 2.
• If the Inactive side remains on the table it becomes • Character C of the black side, targets white side
active and follows the procedure as outlined. Character 3.
• Play continues with each side alternating actions until • As all of the Characters on the Inactive side have been
only one or no sides remain on the table. targeted, Character D of the black side can double up on
Character 3.
Example – The black side wins on the Action Table and acts.
Two Characters fire and two Characters charge. After melees
are over both sides take the Will to Fight Test (page 25).
One of the white Characters leaves the table. The white side is CASTING SPELLS
now active and can act. The three Characters fire their
weapons. Having finished their actions both sides take the Casters can cast a variety of Magic Spells. Instead of being
Will to Fight Test (page 25). specific about their names and how they visually appear, we
It is now the black side’s turn to act again. have simplified them into three Spell types.

DAMAGE SPELL
The Damage Spell is the most powerful Spell. It is used to
cause damage, often fatal damage, to the targets. A successful
Damage Spell allows the Caster to roll on the Shooting
Damage Table (page 24). Call it a Fireball if you want.
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DAZZLE SPELL CASTING DAMAGE
The Dazzle Spell is used to stop targets from acting. A When a Damage Spell is successfully cast we must determine
successful Dazzle Spell causes the targets to Halt in Place, what damage each target has taken. Here’s how we do it:
forfeiting their next turn of action. Dancing Lights?
• Consult the Shooting Damage Table (page 24).
If charged they will count a -1 to Rep on the first round of • The Caster rolls 1d6 and applies the result to all of
melee. the targets. All of them!
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
Example – The Goblins and Elves roll on the Action Table.
and across to see what damage, if any, has occurred
The Goblins win and are Active. After the Goblins have
to the target. This means that targets could suffer
finished both sides take the Will to Fight Test.
different levels of damage.
Next the Elves become Active. The Elf Caster casts a Dazzle • Immediately carry out the results.
Spell causing the Goblins to Halt in Place. After the Elves
have finished both sides take the Will to Fight Test. Example – The Rep 4 Leader Caster wants to cast a Damage
Spell. He targets the opposing Leader. He also wants to
The Goblins become Active again, but they still Halt in Place target two Characters to the Leader’s left and one to its right.
from the Elf Caster Spell and forfeit their actions.
I roll on the Casting Table and pass 2d6. This means the Spell
affects all four targets.
DEFEND SPELL I roll 1d6 for the Caster on the Shooting Damage Table and
The Defend Spell is used to protect one or more targets, score a 4. There are four Rep 4 targets. Two are wearing AC 2
including the Caster. A successful Defend Spell causes the which makes them Obviously Dead! One target is wearing AC
Targets to count a +2 to their AC up to AC 8 on the current 4 so he is Out of the Fight. The last target is wearing AC 6 so
turn of Activation and on the opponents turn as well. The it Ducks Back!
Caster will always have the Defend Spell affect himself before
others. Call it the Caster CYA Spell.
NPC SPELL CASTING
Example – Fizzbo the Caster (AC 2) is Active. He Casts a
Defend Spell on himself and three AC 2 members of his Band. Non-Player Casters will roll to see what Spell they will use
They will all count as AC 4 on this turn when they are Active when casting, even if they are in your Band. Hey, it’s a
and the following enemy turn of Activation. Caster, not artillery! Here’s how we do it:
• Consult the NPC Spell Casting section across the top
of the Casting Table (page 24).
CASTING SPELLS • Roll 2d6 versus the Rep of the NPC Caster.
When Active, Casters can cast. Here’s how we do it: • Determine how many d6 are passed.
• Consult the Casting Table (page 24). • Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
then across to see what Spell will be cast.
• Choose which one target the Caster wants to focus
the spell against. Example – Fizzbo is a NP Caster. His side won the Action roll
• He can also target Characters to the left and right of so he will go first. I roll 2d6 versus his Rep of 4. Scoring a 1
the original target for a total equal to its Rep. These and 5, Fizzbo will attempt a Dazzle Spell.
are always the closest Characters. Just be sure to add
targets evenly from each side, with you choosing
which side when there is an odd target.
•
•
Roll 2d6 versus the Rep of the Caster.
Determine how many d6 the Caster passed.
SHOOTING
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
Shooters can shoot and should only melee as a last resort.
then across to see the results.
Check out the Melee Table pass 1d6 result to see what we
• Immediately carry out the results. mean!
Example – The Elf Caster (Rep 4) decides to cast a Dazzle
Spell. He targets the Character across from him, next to the
opposing Leader. He chooses to target two additional
COVER
Characters to the left of the original target and one to the We use Cover in Swordplay 2018 to make it harder to get shot,
right. He Casts the spell and passes 1d6. Only his original doesn’t help you against a spell. Here’s how we do it:
target is affected. • Characters that win on the Action Table are assumed
to be in Cover.
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• After the winning side on the Action Table has
finished its Actions and the Will to Fight Test has
been taking, all Characters are assumed to be in
MELEE
Cover.
• Just so we don’t overthink it – if you’re charging, Once contact is made the melee begins. Here’s how we do it:
you’re not in Cover! • Consult the Melee Table (page 25).
Example – A group of Orcs square off with a group of • Each Character rolls 2d6 versus its Rep.
Dwarves. I roll on the Action Table for both and the Dwarves • If fighting more than one Character all Characters
win so they count as being in Cover. The Dwarves fire and roll at the same time and the defender applies his
some charge into melee. After firing has been resolved and scores to all of the attackers, up to three.
melees completed, both sides take the Will to Fight Test. • Determine how many d6 each Character passed.
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
After the tests are completed and carried out, all of the row. One Character could pass more d6 than the
Characters, both Orcs and Dwarves now count as being in other or the two Characters could pass the same
Cover. number of d6.
• Immediately carry out the results.
HOW TO SHOOT • This could result in the loser going Out of the
Fight, losing 1 point of Rep, or both Characters
For simplicity we categorize all Ranged Weapons together. losing 1 point of Rep.
When Active or if being charged, Shooters and those using
• Note that if a Character fights two or more
Ranged Weapons, can shoot. Here’s how we do it:
enemies and each gives him a result of -1 to Rep,
• The Shooter can target any Character it desires on the he reduces his Rep by the total of all of the -1 to
Battle Board subject to targeting rules (Action page Rep results!
15).
Example –Sir Billy Pink (Rep 5) is in melee with a Rep 4 Orc.
• Consult the Shooting Table (page 24).
Pink rolls 2d6 and scores a 1 and 5, passing 2d6. The Orc
• The Shooter rolls 2d6 versus its Rep and determines rolls 2d6 and scores a 1 and 5, passing 1d6. Looking on the
how many d6 are passed. Remember to modify the Melee Table we see Billy must roll 1d6 versus the AC (4) of
result by any applicable Attribute. the Orc. I roll 1d6 and score a 3 – less than the AC. The Orc
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row drops to Rep 3 and another round of melee is fought.
and read the results.
• If a hit is rolled go to the Shooting Damage Table. The Orc wins the melee by passing 1d6 more. Billy has an AC
of 6 and the Orc scores a 5. Billy’s Rep drops by 1 point to 4.
Example – An archer is being charged by a Rep 4 AC 4 Orc.
The archer rolls 2d6 versus his Rep of 4 and scores a 1 and 4. Another round of melee is fought. Billy, now Rep 4, passes
Looking on the Shooting Table on the pass 2d6 row we see 2d6. The Orc, now Rep 3, passes 0d6 and goes Obviously
that the archer has scored a hit on the Orc! We now go to the Dead! As the melees are over, Billy’s Rep returns to 5.
Shooting Damage Table.
RETRIEVING WOUNDED
SHOOTING DAMAGE When Active, a Character can choose to recover an Out of the
When a hit is scored on the Shooting Table the shooter rolls to Fight Character. Here's how we do it:
see if any damage has occurred. Here’s how we do it: • Remove the Out of the Fight Character and one
• Consult the Shooting Damage Table (page 24). functioning Character from the Battle Board. That
• The shooter rolls 1d6 and reads the result as rolled. simple.
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row • Otherwise, Out of the Fight Characters can be
and across to see what damage, if any, has occurred recovered if their side is the last side remaining on
to the target. the Battle Board.
• Immediately carry out the results. Example – The Goblins now activate. I have four Characters
left, one Out of the Fight and three functioning. I remove the
Example – Continuing the previous example, the archer can
Out of the Fight Character and one functioning Character
now roll on the Shooting Damage Table. He rolls 1d6 and
from the Battle Board.
scores a 3 – lower than the Rep of the target – the Orc Ducks
Back, ending its turn of action.

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 SWORDPLAY 2018

DAMAGE WILL TO FIGHT

We use three types of damage in Swordplay 2018 . Note that After all Spells have been Cast, Shooting resolved and Melees
Obviously Dead and Out of the Fight results do not stack. You completed, both sides must see if they remain on the table.
only take the worse result. So if you suffered an Obviously Here’s how we do it:
Dead and three Out of the Fight results you count the
Obviously Dead. This comes into play when using Star Power • Consult the Will to Fight Table (page 25).
(page 5). • Roll 2d6 versus the Rep of the Leader and determine
how many d6 are passed.
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
OBVIOUSLY DEAD and across to see the results. This may result in none,
The Character has taken so much damage that it is obvious one or all Characters leaving the Battle Board.
that the Character is dead. Place it face down on the Battle • Stars can use Free Will (page 5).
Board.
Example – Three Goblins must now take the Will to Fight
OUT OF THE FIGHT Test. I roll 2d6 versus the Rep of the Leader (4) and score a 1
and 5. Passing 1d6 we see that one Goblin will leave. The
The Character has taken damage and falls to the ground. It Leader stays as he is a Rep 4. The other two are Rep 3, but
cannot continue the fight. Place it face up on the Battle Board. one is a Shooter – he leaves the field and the battle continues.
If an Active Character charges an Out of the Fight Character it
can choose to automatically dispatch the Character or capture
it. This is done by taking both Characters off the Battle Board
(page 14) during the fight or holding the Battle Board after the
fight.
AFTER THE ENCOUNTER
If you are keeping the same Characters to use in multiple
-1 TO REP Encounters you must see if the Out of the Fights, reduced
During Melee the Character can have its current Rep reduced Reps and those that Left the Battle Board return. Here’s how
by1 point. Here’s how we do it: we do it:
• Losing Rep is cumulative so it is possible for a • Consult the After the Encounter Recovery Table
Character to have its Rep reduced drastically. (page 25).
• If a Character reaches “0” Rep it is Out of the Fight. • Roll 2d6 versus the Rep of each qualifying Character.
• If opposing Characters reach “0” Rep at the same Be sure to use the normal Rep for the Character, not
time, ignore the result and fight another round of the reduced Rep.
melee. Continue until only one Character is left. • Determine how many d6 each Character passed.
• After a Character has completed all of its melees for • Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
the turn of activation, any lost Rep is recovered. and determine the results.
• Immediately carry out the results.
Example – The archer left the Battle Board and the soldier
went Out of the Fight. I roll 2d6 versus the Rep 3 archer and
score a 1 and 6. Passing 1d6 I see that the archer, who left the
Battle Board, never returns. I roll 2d6 versus the Rep 3 soldier
and score the same results – passing 1d6. I see that the soldier
returns to the Band.

REP ADJUSTMENT
Check to see if you or your Band members have their Rep
increase or decrease. Adjust them accordingly; remember that
those with a Rep greater than yours will leave your Band.

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 SWORDPLAY 2018

STOP! PEFS
Take one Caster, one Shooter and one Soldier and place it on PEF stands for Possible Enemy Force and are used during
the Battle Board. On the other side of the Battle Board place each Encounter (page 20). By using PEFs, we create a sense of
one Thief, one Shooter and one Knight. Be sure to match up uncertainty as to the number and type of NPCs.
the Characters across from each other. All of them are Rep 4.
Roll on the Action Table. Remember the side that wins on the
Action Table counts as being in Cover.
HOW MANY PEFS
In some Encounters there will be 2+1/2d6 PEFs. You may not
Shoot and Cast Spells. Fight a melee. What if a Shooter is have to resolve all of them to achieve the objective of the
charged? Encounter!
Which Damage is stackable? Here’s a hint; after the melee is In other Encounters there will be only one PEF.
over, your Rep returns to normal.
Have both sides take the Will to Fight Test. How can a Star
affect it?
RESOLVING PEFS
Resolving a PEF is easy, just figure out who they are and how
You have one Rep 4 Character with a reduced Rep of 3, one many of them you have met. Once it has been resolved, the
that is Out of the Fight and one that Left the Battle Board. Roll PEF is removed from play.
for them on the After the Encounter Recovery Table.
Resolve the next PEF if there are any left.

PLAYING THE GAME WHO ARE THEY?

Unless you are designing your own Encounters use the
following procedure to find out who the enemy is. Here’s how
All THW games can be played solo, same side (cooperatively)
we do it:
and head to head (competitively and that includes Swordplay
2018. Feel free to play anyway you like. • Consult the Who Are They Table.
• Roll 1/2d6 and read the result as rolled.
The solo and same side rules are brilliant and are designed that
way. You do not draw a card to see when a group can move; • Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
nor do you have to “make the best decision” for the non-player row.
enemy. The game mechanics in Swordplay 2018 does all that • Roll 1d6 and go across the row to the appropriate
for you. Playing with everyone on the same side is also great column to see who the NPCs will be.
for teaching the game to newcomers and non-gamers. • Note - If the 1/2d6 and 1d6 scores are the
same, substitute Men for the Race.
Playing solo and same side starts with PEFs. • Now see How Many of Them there are.

½+1 WHO ARE THEY

(Taken vs. normal Rep)

# 1, 2, OR 3 4 OR 5 6
1 Dwarves Ghouls Feral Vampires
2 Elves Ogre Skeletal Undead
3 Goblins Orcs Troll

Example – I am on an Explore Encounter. I roll 1/2d6 on the

Who Are They Table and score a 3. I now roll 1d6 and score a
6. I have met Trolls. It’s now time to find out how many of
them?

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
HOW MANY OF THEM?
If you don’t already know how many NPCs you are
ENCOUNTERS
confronting – if you designed your own Encounter – use the
following procedure: Encounters are what make up your Story. We have provided
these for you when you want to create your own. If you want,
• Start with the number of Characters in your Band, you can also pick and choose to play them as desired. Feel free
including yourself. to change the Story behind each to fit your Story!
• Roll 1/2d6 and add that to your Band numbers.
• Roll 1/2d6 and subtract if from the new total.
• That’s how many you’ve met. NEXT ENCOUNTER
• Go to the appropriate List and take the number of Your first Encounter will be Explore. How well you do in that
NPCs you need, starting at the top and going down in Encounter helps determine your next Encounter. Here’s how
order. we do it:
• Now see if they are Friends or Foes.
• Consult the Next Encounter Table.
• Go down the left-hand column to the last Encounter
ARE THEY FRIENDS OR FOES? then across to the column if you succeeded or failed.
Now that you resolved a PEF as Characters, (1) determined • This is you your next Encounter.
how many of them there are, and who they are, we need to see • You will always face the same NPCs that you faced
how they act. Here’s how we do it: on the Explore Encounter.
• When you return to the Explore Encounter, re-roll to
• Start with the number of Characters in each group. determine the NPCs.
• Roll 1d6 for each group and add it to the number of
Characters in that group. NEXT ENCOUNTER
• Compare the totals scored by each group. If one total
twice or more than the other, they will fight. Go to LAST ENCOUNTER SUCCESS FAILURE
the Action Table (page 24) and resolve normally. Explore Raid Defend
• If one total is not twice or more than the other then Defend Explore Defend
it’s time to Interact (page 13) with Characters. Raid Raid Explore
(1) Remember, you cannot interact with Creatures – they are always
the enemy!
½+1 WHO ARE THEY
(Taken vs. normal Rep)

STOP! #
1
1, 2, OR 3
Dwarves Ghouls
4 OR 5 6
Feral Vampires
PEFs are used to limit the information the player has before
2 Elves Ogre Skeletal Undead
contact as well as insuring that no two games play out the
3 Goblins Orcs Troll
same.
You can resolve one or more PEFs depending upon the Example – Haldor starts his adventures with an Explore
Encounter. Encounter. I go to the Who Are They Table and roll 1/2d6,
You are on an Explore and score a 2 on a 1/2d6 roll and then a scoring a 2. I now roll 1d6 and score a 4. Going across the 2
4. What have you run into? Roll 1/2d6 twice to see how many row to the 4 or 5 column I see that Haldor has run into Ogres.
NPCs you have met. Add the first score to the number of Haldor’s Band fails on the Explore Encounter. The next
Characters in your Band and subtract the second result. Encounter is Defend with the Ogres attacking. Haldor wins
You have 5 Characters in your Band and score a 1 and 3. How this time!
many NPCs have you met? Roll to see if they are Friends or Back to the Next Encounter and it’s an Explore. Who’s the
Foes. enemy? I roll a 1 and 2 – Dwarves. As they are Characters, I
roll to see if they are Friends or Foes. They are not Foes so
Haldor can Interact (page 13) with them!

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 SWORDPLAY 2018

EXPLORE DEFEND
In this Encounter you are exploring the area and must resolve In this Encounter the enemy is out to destroy or drive you from
multiple contacts with Characters and Creatures. your camp.

OBJECTIVE OBJECTIVE
• To be successful you must resolve all the PEFs that • To be successful you must defeat and drive off the
are generated. attackers.

FORCES FORCES
• You can go alone or with members of your Band. • You can be alone or with members of your Band.
• The PEFs will be generated as per the Special • The PEFs will be generated as per the Special
Instructions. Instructions.

DEPLOYMENT DEPLOYMENT
• No Battle Board is needed. If combat occurs move to • The Battle Board is needed.
the Battle Board.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS • There will be one PEF. You should already know
• There will be 2+1/2d6 PEFs in the Encounter. You who the NPCs are. If not, use the Who Are They
can choose to resolve as many of them as desired. Table.
When resolving the PEFs use the Who Are They • Play continues until the player has accomplished the
Table – this could lead to you meeting different objective, been incapacitated, or leaves the
NPCs. Encounter.
• Play continues until the player has accomplished the
objectives, been incapacitated, or leaves the
Encounter.

ARE THEY FRIENDS OR FOES?

After you resolved a PEF as NPCs, determined how many of
them there are, and who they are, we need to see how they act.
Here’s how we do it:
• Start with the number of Characters in each group.
• Roll 1d6 for each group and add it to the number of
Characters in that group.
• Compare the totals scored by each group. If one total
is twice or more than the other group, they will fight.
Go to the Action Table (page 24).
• If one total is not twice or more than the other then
it’s time to Interact (page 13).
• Remember, Creatures are always the enemy!

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 SWORDPLAY 2018

RAID 2 LOOT AND DESTROY

(Taken versus Rep)

In this Encounter you are raiding an enemy camp or other #D6 RESULT
location. PASSED
2 Success! Loot has been found.
OBJECTIVE Gain 1 Increasing Rep d6.
1 Immediately retake the test, counting a result of
• Your objective is to raid, loot or destroy the location,
pass 1d6 as pass 0d6.
disperse the enemy, and rescue any hostages.
0 No loot to be found, but you have attracted
attention to the group. Immediately resolve 1 PEF.
FORCES
• You can go alone or with members of your Band. ARE THEY FRIENDS OR FOES?
• The PEFs will be generated as per the Special
After you resolved a PEF as NPCs, determined Who Are They
Instructions.
(page 19) and How Many of Them (page 20) we need to see
how they act. Here’s how we do it:
DEPLOYMENT • Start with the number of Characters in each group.
• Characters are placed on the Battle Board normally. • Roll 1d6 for each group and add it to the number of
Characters in that group.
• Compare the totals scored by each group. If one total
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS is twice or more than the other group, they will fight.
• There will be one PEF. You should already know Go to the Action Table (page 24).
who the NPCs are. If not, use the Who Are They • If one total is not twice or more than the other then
Table. it’s time to Interact (page 13).
• There is a chance (1 – 2) of there being hostages from • Remember, Creatures are always the enemy!
the area you are in, but not of the same Race as the
enemy.
• Play continues until the player has accomplished the
RESCUING THE HOSTAGES
objective, been incapacitated, or leaves the Once the enemy is driven off the Battle Board, you have
Encounter. rescued the hostages, if there were any. Here’s how we do it:
• If there are hostages there will be of 1/2d6 of them.
LOOT AND DESTROY • Roll 2d6 and add the results together for each
Once the enemy is driven off the Battle Board it’s time to loot hostage. If “12” is rolled, you have rescued a Prince
and destroy the place. Here’s how we do it: (1) or Princess (2 – 6).
• You collect 5 Increasing Rep d6 for a Prince or
• Consult the Loot and Destroy Table. Princess, 1 for any other.
• Each Band member, including the Star, can roll on
the Loot and Destroy Table only once.
• Roll 2d6 versus the Character’s Rep, determining
how many d6 are passed.
• Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate row
and across to see the results.

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
CHARACTER JOURNAL CHARACTER JOURNAL
NAME REPUTATION NAME REPUTATION

STAR OR GRUNT ARMOR CLASS STAR OR GRUNT ARMOR CLASS

RACE CLASS RACE CLASS

ALIGNMENT FORTUNE AND FAME ALIGNMENT FORTUNE AND FAME

INCREASING REP D6 DECREASING REP D6 INCREASING REP D6 DECREASING REP D6

CHARACTER JOURNAL CHARACTER JOURNAL

NAME REPUTATION NAME REPUTATION

STAR OR GRUNT ARMOR CLASS STAR OR GRUNT ARMOR CLASS

RACE CLASS RACE CLASS

ALIGNMENT FORTUNE AND FAME ALIGNMENT FORTUNE AND FAME

INCREASING REP D6 DECREASING REP D6 INCREASING REP D6 DECREASING REP D6

CHARACTER JOURNAL CHARACTER JOURNAL

NAME REPUTATION NAME REPUTATION

STAR OR GRUNT ARMOR CLASS STAR OR GRUNT ARMOR CLASS

RACE CLASS RACE CLASS

ALIGNMENT FORTUNE AND FAME ALIGNMENT FORTUNE AND FAME

INCREASING REP D6 DECREASING REP D6 INCREASING REP D6 DECREASING REP D6

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 SWORDPLAY 2018
2 ACTION 1 SHOOTING DAMAGE
(Taken versus Leader Rep) (Read the result as rolled)
Score of “6” is always a failure. ATTRIBUTE
1, 2 or 3 you gain the Advantage, 4, 5, or 6 they do.
RESILIENT: Once during each Encounter will treat its first Out
ATTRIBUTE of the Fight result as a Carry On result instead.

DUTY: Re-roll 1 failed d6 on the Action Table. # RESULT

SLOW MOVER: Must re-roll 1 passed d6 when rolling on the
Action Table. FANATIC: Changes 1 failed d6 on the Action “6” Target Obviously Dead.
Table to a passed d6. Rep or higher of If score is:
Target, but not a • Higher than AC = Obviously Dead.
#D6 RESULT “6”. • Equal to AC = Out of the Fight.
PASSED • Less than AC = Duck Back.
Less than Rep of Target Ducks Back.
More d6 The side that passed more d6 can act, in order: the Target.
• Cast – Caster Class will cast a Spell.
• Shoot – Shooter Class will shoot.
• Charge – Other Classes can charge. 2 CASTING
• Recover from Duck Back – Characters in (Taken versus Rep)
Duck Back will come into sight of the enemy
and can now see and be seen. Score of “6” is always a failure.
• Halt in Place – The Character chose or # D6 NPC SPELL CASTING
forfeited an action and does nothing.
• Leave the Battle Board – Voluntarily remove PASSED (TAKEN VS. REP)
the Character from the table, the Encounter 2 Damage Spell.
has ended for the Character.
1 Dazzle Spell.
Same Side with the Advantage counts as passing more
0 Defend Spell.
number d6.
of d6
* Only the mounted members of the group gain the modifier. Non-
#D6 RESULT
mounted will roll and act separately. PASSED

2 SHOOTING 2 Success! Affects a number of targets equal to the

current Rep of the Caster.
(Taken versus Rep) • DAZZLE SPELL causes the targets to halt
Score of “6” is always a failure. any action and remain in place, forfeiting
next turn of Activation.
#D6 RESULT • DAMAGE SPELL causes the Caster to roll on
PASSED the Shooting Damage Table against all
affected targets.
2 Hit all targets.
1 Miss: • DEFEND SPELL causes the targets to count a
+2 to their AC up to AC 8.
• If being charged. Charger continues into
1 Partial Success!
contact.
• DAZZLE SPELL causes one target to halt any
• If the target is in Cover. action and remain in place, forfeiting next
• If 2nd or higher target. turn of Activation.
Otherwise: • DAMAGE SPELL causes the Caster to roll on
• Hit. the Shooting Damage Table against one
0 Miss all targets. target of choice.
• DEFEND SPELL causes himself to count a +2
to its AC.
0 Disaster! Spell fails and the Caster’s Rep is
reduced by 1 point for remainder of the
Encounter.
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 SWORDPLAY 2018
2 MELEE 2 WILL TO FIGHT
(Taken versus Rep) (Taken versus Rep of the Leader)
Score of “6” is always a failure. Score of “6” is always a failure.

ATTRIBUTE ATTRIBUTE
LIGHTWEIGHT: Counts opponents AC at 1 point higher when COWARD: Will always be the first to Leave the Battle Board
winning on the Melee Table. regardless of Rep or situation. BORN LEADER: Rolls 3d6
RAGE: Counts a +1d6 bonus when in melee. counting the lowest 2d6 results on the Will to Fight Table.
RESILIENT: Once during each Encounter will treat its first Out
of the Fight result as a Carry On result instead. # D6 RESULT
SLIGHT: Counts opponents AC at 1 point higher when PASSED
winning on the Melee Table. 2 IF 50% OR MORE Out of the Fight, Obviously
SLIPPERY: Counts AC at 1 point higher when losing on the Dead, or Left the Battle Board, count as passing
Melee Table. 1d6.
SWORDSMAN: Ignores the first -1 to Rep suffered when OTHERWISE: Continue the fight.
fighting on the Melee Table. 1 CIVILIANS – Count as passing 0d6.
ALL – One Character Leaves the Table.
CIRCUMSTANCE MODIFIER Duck Backs will go first.
Lowest Rep will leave next in this order:
REP 7+ = Each point of Rep over 6. +1d6
• Caster.
• Shooter.
#D6 RESULTS
• Healer.
PASSED • Others.
Pass 2d6 Opponent Obviously Dead. If tied, roll randomly.
more 0 ALL – Leave the Battle Board. If both sides
reach this result at the same time, both sides
Pass 1d6 SHOOTER OR CASTER WINNER:
leave!
more • Fight another round of melee with both
Characters counting a -1 to Rep.
ALL OTHER WINNERS: 2 AFTER THE ENCOUNTER RECOVERY
Rolls 1d6:
• If score is higher than loser’s AC = Out of (Taken vs. normal Rep)
the Fight. # D6 RESULT
• If score is equal or less than loser’s AC = PASSED
Fight another round of melee with loser
counting a -1 to Rep. 2 After the Encounter – All Characters recover
Pass same ALL will fight another round of melee with both back to original Rep and return to the Band.
Characters counting a -1 to Rep. 1 After the Encounter – Out of the Fights and
reduced Reps recover back to original Rep and
return to the Band. Those not ordered to, but
Left the Battle Board, do not return to the Band
0 After the Encounter – Out of the Fights do not
return to the Band. Those not ordered to, but
Left the Battle Board, do not return to the Band

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 WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF
TWO HOUR WARGAMES!
SWORDPLAY 2015 IS AN INTRODUCTION TO TWO HOUR WARGAMES. IT’S A COMPLETE GAME – NOT A
TEASER – AND IS FREE. SWORDPLAY 2015 IS A SET OF MAN-TO-MAN COMBAT RULES THAT CAN BE
PLAYED IN A VARIETY OF PERIODS AND WITH ANY FIGURES YOU MAY ALREADY HAVE.

SWORDPLAY 2015, LIKE ALL THW GAMES, CAN BE PLAYED SOLO, COOPERATIVELY – ALL PLAYERS ON
THE SAME SIDE – OR COMPETITIVELY – HEAD TO HEAD. INSIDE YOU’LL FIND:

• THE CURRENT REACTION SYSTEM, USED IN ALL TWO HOUR WARGAMES, THAT ALLOWS
YOU TO LEARN ONE SET OF MECHANICS TO PLAY A VARIETY OF PERIODS.
• QUICK GAME MECHANICS THAT YIELD REALISTIC SHOOTING AND MELEE RESULTS.
• THREE SCENARIOS THAT CAN BE PLAYED OVER AND OVER WITH NO TWO GAMES EVER
BEING THE SAME.
• CHARACTER ADVANCEMENT BASED ON YOUR SUCCESS IN EACH GAME.
• AN EASY TO USE CAMPAIGN SYSTEM THAT GENERATES YOUR NEXT GAME BASED ON HOW
WELL YOU’VE DONE.
• WAYS TO GENERATE YOUR CHARACTERS AND YOUR OPPONENTS – WHETHER FANTASY OR
HISTORICAL IN NATURE.
• ALL THIS AND MORE…

SWORDPLAY 2015 LETS YOU TO LEARN THE CURRENT VERSION OF THE REACTION SYSTEM USED BY
THW WITHOUT SPENDING A DIME. WHILE OUR COUNTERPART CHAIN REACTION IS ABOUT MODERN
FIREARMS, SWORDPLAY 2015 IS ALL ABOUT HAND-TO-HAND COMBAT WITH SWORD AND SHIELD.

SWORDPLAY 2015 GIVES YOU A CHANCE TO SEE IF YOU LIKE THE REACTION SYSTEM, BEFORE TRYING
ONE OF OUR PERIOD SPECIFIC GAMES. THINK OF SWORDPLAY 2015 AS A PREVIEW OF OUR OTHER
PERIOD SPECIFIC GAMES LIKE WARRIOR HEROES LEGENDS, CAPTAINS AND KINGS, AND 2 HOUR
DUNGEON CRAWL.

TWO HOUR WARGAMES –

LEARN ONE SET OF MECHANICS, PLAY MANY PERIODS.

***************************************************

2HW – SP
FREE
 WRITTEN BY ED TEIXEIRA
COVER ART BY KIM ALLMAN
COVER LAYOUT AND DIGITAL EDITING BY CRAIG ANDREWS
 SWORDPLAY 2015
7.0 RULES OF WAR 11
TABLE OF CONTENTS 7.1 Turn Sequence
7.1.1 Many Turns into One
11
12
1.0 PROLOGUE 3 7.2 Actions 12
7.2.1 Other Actions 12
7.3 Firing 12
2.0 INTRODUCTION 4
7.4 Movement 12
7.4.1 Normal Movement 12
3.0 YOUR ROLE 4 7.4.2 Fast Move 12
7.4.3 Going Prone 13
4.0 NEEDED TO PLAY 4 7.4.4 Mounting and Dismounting 13
4.1 The Dice 4 7.4.5 Involuntary Movement 13
4.1.1 Passing Dice 4 7.5 The Reaction System 13
4.1.2 Counting Successes 5 7.6 In Sight 14
4.1.3 Possibilities 5 7.6.1 In Sight or Out of Sight 14
4.1.4 Reading and Adding the Dice 5 7.6.2 Triggering an In Sight Test 14
4.1.5 1/2d6 5 7.6.3 Taking the In Sight Test 14
4.1.6 How Many d6 5 7.6.4 Resolving In Sight Actions 15
4.2 Figures and Terrain 5 7.6.5 Adding to Ongoing In Sights 15
4.2.1 Basing Figures 5 7.6.6 Completed In Sights 15
4.2.2 Defining Facing 5 7.7 Reaction Tests 15
4.3 Tables 5 7.7.1 How to Take a Reaction Test 15
7.7.2 Multiple Results 16
5.0 DEFINING THE FIGURES 6 7.7.3 Completing Reactions 16
5.1 Stars and Grunts 6 7.8 Status and Actions 16
5.1.1 Stars 6 7.9 Ranged Combat 17
5.1.2 Grunts 6 7.9.1 Reloading 17
5.1.3 Why Use Stars? 6 7.9.2 Shooting 17
5.2 Star Advantages 6 7.9.3 Line of Sight 17
5.2.1 Star Power 6 7.9.4 Cover or Concealment 17
5.2.2 Larger Than Life (LTL) 7 7.9.5 Target Selection 18
5.2.3 Cheating Death 7 7.9.6 Shooting a Weapon 18
5.2.4 Free Will 7 7.9.7 Determining Damage 18
5.3 Reputation 7 7.9.8 Auto-Kill or Capture 18
5.4 Class 8 7.9.9 Pitiful Shot 18
5.4.1 Missile 8 7.10 Melee 19
5.4.2 Melee 8 7.10.1 Melee Weapons 19
5.5 Weapons 8 7.10.2 Charge into Melee Test 19
5.6 Armor 8 7.10.3 How to Charge into Melee 19
5.6.1 Armor Class 2 (AC 2) 8 7.10.4 Melee Combat 19
5.6.2 Armor Class 4 (AC 4) 8 7.10.5 Melee Damage 20
5.6.3 Armor Class 6 (AC 6) 8 7.10.6 Multiple Figure Melees 20
5.7 Shield 9 7.11 Retrieving Wounded 20
7.12 After the Battle 20
6.0 GETTING STARTED 9 7.13 Challenge 21
6.1 What Army? 9
6.2 Forming Your Band 9 8.0 BUILDINGS 21
6.2.1 Recruiting Your First Band 9 8.1 Building Size and Area 21
6.3 Groups 10 8.2 Entering and Exiting 22
6.3.1 Forming and Splitting Groups 10 8.3 Cover or Concealment 22
6.3.2 Group Cohesion 10 8.4 Burning Buildings 22
6.3.3 Large Groups 10 8.5 Firing from Buildings 22
6.4 Leaders 11
6.4.1 Leader Functions 11 9.0 TERRAIN 22
6.4.2 Using Leader Die 11 9.1 Setting Up the Table 22
6.4.3 Multiple Leaders 11 9.2 Generating Terrain 22

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 SWORDPLAY 2015
INDEX OF TABLES
9.3 Types of Terrain 23
9.3.1 How Many Pieces of Terrain? 23
9.4 Terrain & Scenery 23 After the Battle Recovery, 7.12 20/33
9.4.1 Clear 23 Army Lists, 6.1 30
9.4.2 Hill 23 Army List – Feudal, 6.1.1 30
9.4.3 Impassable 23 Army List – Northmen, 6.1.2 30
9.4.4 Woods 23 Army List – Elves, 6.1.3 30
9.4.5 Buildings 23 Army List – Gobbos and Orcs, 6.1.4 30
9.5 Types of Buildings 24 Building Type, 9.5 24
Challenge Test, 7.13 21
10.0 PLAYING THE GAME 24 Charge into Melee, 7.10.2 32
Cover or Concealment, 7.9.4 18/31
11.0 PEFS 24 In Sight, 7.6.3 31
11.1 PEFs and Buildings 24 Melee Combat, 7.10.4 33
11.2 PEF Movement 25 Melee Damage, 7.10.5 33
11.2.1 Special PEF Movement 25 New Recruits, 13.1 28
11.3 Resolving PEFs 25 NP Force Movement, 11.6 26/34
11.4 Who Are They? 25 PEF Movement, 11.2 34
11.5 Loading Up PEFs 25 PEF Resolution, 11.3 34
11.6 How the Enemy Moves 25 Ranged Combat, 7.9.6 32
Ranged Combat Damage, 7.9.7 32
12.0 ENCOUNTERS 26 Reaction Tests, 7.7.1 31
12.1 Explore 26 Ranged Weapons, 7.9 17/32
12.1.1 Objective 26 Recruiting, 6.2.1 10
12.1.2 Forces 26 Terrain Generator, 9.3.1 23
12.1.3 Terrain 26
12.1.4 Deployment 26
12.1.5 Special Instructions 26
12.2 Raid 27
12.2.1 Objective 27
12.2.2 Forces 27
12.2.3 Terrain 27
12.2.4 Deployment 27
12.2.5 Special Instructions 27
12.2.6 Finding the Objective 27
12.3 Defend 27
12.3.1 Objective 27
12.3.2 Forces 27
12.3.3 Terrain 27
12.3.4 Deployment 27
12.3.5 Special Instructions 28
12.3.6 What is their Objective? 28

13.0 AFTERWARDS 28
13.1 New Grunts 28
13.2 Increasing Rep 28
13.3 Decreasing Rep 28
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
14.0 STEP-BY-STEP 29 Kim Allman: For a great picture for the cover.
14.1 At the Start 29 Ken Hafer, Bob Minadeo and Ron "Baddawg"
14.2 During the Encounter 29 Strickland: For insisting that, "It's not just a gang
14.3 After the Encounter 29 warfare game."
The THW Guys on the Group and Forum: For the
15.0 DESIGNER NOTES 30 constant support.
15.1 My Game, Your Game 30 And Lil…

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 SWORDPLAY 2015

1.0 PROLOGUE
that it became apparent to me that CR 2.0 needed a
facelift.

Before we get into Swordplay 2015 let’s give you a little So after five years I upgraded to CR 3.0. What Chain
history. Many of you have probably heard of Chain Reaction had become is an introduction to the Reaction
Reaction, but for those of you that haven’t, this is for you. System and all the other mechanics used in current THW
products. CR 3.0 was a THW lite version given to the
gamer at no cost.
2002
Two Hour Wargames makes its first foray into providing 2012
rules for man-to-man skirmish games. The rules are called
Guns and Girls and they debut with a News Item on The The past three years had seen the company explode to
Miniatures Page. The cover of the rules (two young ladies over thirty titles and a Yahoo Group of over 5000
in bikinis, high heels, and automatic weapons) is taken as members. As THW gained more exposure one of the
a sign of the Apocalypse, by some, causing a change of biggest comments I’ve heard is that it’s nice to have one
title to Chain Reaction for the US market and a new cover common set of mechanics to play a variety of periods.
depicting a target riddled with bullet holes. This has led me to do the next update to Chain Reaction.
With a variety of periods there are still some basic
mechanics that give a really good game. The last three
2004 years, with the help of input from the Yahoo group, THW
As word spread via the Internet, battle reports began mechanics have become pretty standard between the
coming in about the games that people were playing with games. Like one player told me, “If you can play one set
Chain Reaction. World War 2, Dark Future, and police you can play about 90% of them as they share common
actions were common, but there were also American Civil mechanics.”
War games, Star Wars (you all understand I didn’t write Chain Reaction 3.0 – The Final Version are these
Star Wars, right?), hard core Sci-Fi, Gangsters of the mechanics.
‘20s, and much more. It quickly became apparent that you
could adapt Chain Reaction for almost any period where Anyway, thanks for the interest, give the game a read,
modern firearms were used. play the game a few times. If you have questions come
over to the THW Forum and ask. You’ll usually get an
What also became equally apparent was that gamers answer within 24 hours.
wanted bigger battles with more and more figures. That
was the main reason for Chain Reaction 2.0: Fully
Loaded. With bigger battles came the need for smoother “WHAT A LONG STRANGE TRIP IT’S BEEN.”
mechanics and less bookkeeping. Seeing how there was
******************************************
minimal book keeping in Chain Reaction it was obvious
that the mechanics would be where the ease of play would
ALERT! ALERT! WE’RE AT IT AGAIN!
come from. Chain Reaction 2.0 delivered.

2008 2015
By now Two Hour Wargames was up to twenty plus titles NUTS! – Final Version, Larger Than Life – Director’s
from a variety of authors covering a variety of periods Cut and 2 Hour Dungeon Crawl has caused a dilemma.
from Ancient Warfare to the conflict in Vietnam, as well There are a few things in them that really make the THW
as Fantasy and Sci-Fi titles. While CR 2.0 was a generic mechanics work even better. Not big changes, just a few
set of rules that covered many periods in a light way, the minor ones. We’ve folded some of the mechanics into a
other titles are detailed and focused specifically to bring simpler format, resulting in fewer tables. I’m not about to
the flavor of that period to life. issue new editions of the current books, the ones with the
CR 3 mechanics, but I want to get the changes to
So I decided to make CR 2.0 free to the masses. everyone and get it to them for free. That’s what this book
is doing.

2009 Here’s the beauty of the THW system. You can use these
tweaks with any of the THW rule sets if you want to, just
With all the exposure and questions generated by CR 2.0 bring them over; it’s your game.
it became obvious that the rules were reaching a much
larger audience than before. But the jump in mechanics
from CR 2.0 to current THW products was so dramatic
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 SWORDPLAY 2015

2.0 INTRODUCTION 4.0 NEEDED TO PLAY

Swordplay 2015 is the companion to Chain Reaction You will need a few things to play Swordplay 2015. They
2015. While Chain Reaction focuses on modern are:
firepower, Swordplay 2015 covers sword and shield
combat. Swordplay 2015 is a set of man-to-man combat  Six-sided dice, referred to as d6. It is best to have
rules that can be played in a variety of periods and with at least six of these and the more you have, the
any figures you may already have. quicker games will play.
 One ruler or measuring device, ideally one per
Games are usually finished in two hours or less, hence the player.
company name. Swordplay 2015, like all THW games,  Any combination of metal, plastic or paper
can be played solo, cooperatively – all players on the figures in a consistent scale of your choice.
same side – or competitively – head to head.  Something to represent buildings and other
Before we go into detail about the game let's explain the terrain features.
cornerstone of all THW games, the Reaction System.  A 3'x3' flat surface, but you can play with a
larger one if desired.
Traditional games use a turn sequence known as “IGO,
UGO”. This means that I move my figures, fire, we do
some melee and maybe you do a morale test or two.
4.1 THE DICE
THW uses what is called the Reaction System. In this
During the game you will be required to roll dice in a
system your side activates and you move part of your
variety of ways. They are:
force. That triggers a reaction from parts of my force. I
immediately react and this may cause you to react in kind.  Passing Dice.
You’ll see what I mean as you read along.  Counting Successes.
 Possibilities.
 Reading and Adding the Dice.
WORD OF ADVICE  1/2D6.
Be sure to read the rules one section at a time and do the
review and easy exercises in the Stop boxes. We’ve 4.1.1 PASSING DICE
broken the rules down into smaller pieces to make it
easier to learn. If you have a question about the rules just This way to use the dice is to roll one or more d6 and
keep reading as the answer will be coming along shortly. compare each die score individually to the Target
Number. The Target Number can be Reputation (5.3) or
But if you can’t find the answer check out the THW something entirely different.
Forum link below for answers to questions and free
downloads.  If the d6 score is equal or less than the Target
Number, the d6 has passed.
http://site.twohourwargames.com/forum/index.php
 If the score is greater than the Target Number,
You can expect a response within 24 hours. the d6 has not passed.
 You can only pass 2, 1, or 0d6 regardless of the
number you actually roll.
 Isn’t passing 0d6 like failing the dice? No,
3.0 YOUR ROLE because we count how many you pass.

Your role in Swordplay 2015 is up to you. Here are some

suggestions: Example – An Orc Archer (Rep 4) comes under fire and
must take a Received Fire Test (7.7). The Target Number
 You can play as a loner, going on Encounters on for the test is his Reputation (4). He rolls 2d6 and scores
your own. a 1 and a 5. As the 1 is equal or lower than the Rep of 4,
 You can play as a Leader of a Band with as 1d6 has been passed. Looking on the Received Fire Test
many figures as you like; we recommend one per under the Pass 1d6 column we see that the Orc must
each point of Rep (5.3), including your own. return fire counting the Rush Shot penalty.
 You can play a variety of periods.
 You can play historical or fantasy.
 The bottom line is you can play it any way you
like because it’s your game.
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 SWORDPLAY 2015
4.1.2 COUNTING SUCCESSES 4.2 FIGURES AND TERRAIN
Another way to use the dice is by rolling them and
As mentioned earlier you can play Swordplay 2015 with
counting successes.
any kind of figures. You can even play with cardboard
 A score of 1, 2, or 3 is a success. counters.
 A score of 4, 5, or 6 is a failure. Terrain can be as simple as using books or as elaborate as
finely detailed models, it’s up to you.
Example: The Soldier enters melee and rolls 4d6. He
scores a 1, 3, 3, and 4. He has scored three successes (1,
3, and 3). 4.2.1 BASING FIGURES
Each figure represents one man. The easiest way to base
your figures for Swordplay 2015 is one figure on a round
4.1.3 POSSIBILITIES or square base as either style will work.
When you see numbers in parenthesis, such as (1 – 2),
this means there is a chance of that event happening,
based on a 1d6 roll.
4.2.2 DEFINING FACING
Charging or shooting to the rear of an enemy depends
Example – The Knight has a One Hand (1 – 3) or Two upon the physical location of the attacker. To qualify as a
Hand Melee Weapon (4 – 6). I roll 1d6 and score a 5, the rear attack the attacker must begin and end its movement
Knight has a Two Hand Melee Weapon. behind the front facing of the target.
 The front facing is defined as 180 degrees to the
4.1.4 READING AND ADDING THE DICE front of the figure.
 The rear facing is defined as 180 degrees to the
Sometimes you simply read the result as rolled. When
back of the figure.
rolling 2d6 in this manner you add the scores together to
get a total. The following illustration defines the front and rear
facings. See the section on Shields (5.7) for more
information.
4.1.5 1/2D6
When asked to roll a 1/2d6, here’s how we do it:
 Roll 1d6.
 (1 – 2) = 1.
 (3 – 4) = 2.
 (5 – 6) = 3.

4.1.6 HOW MANY D6

How many d6 do you roll? This is found by looking in the
upper left-hand corner of each table. There will usually be
a number, 1 or 2, telling you how many d6 to roll.
In some cases there may be a word like Rep or Target. 4.3 TABLES
That means 1d6 for each point of that word. Wherever possible all the tables that you will usually use
Example – A Warrior (Rep 4) must roll an In Sight Test. during the game have been grouped together in the back
Looking on the In Sight Test (Table 7.6.3) we see the of the book. When reading a section it is recommended
word Rep in the upper left corner so I toss 4d6. that you review the table in question.

Later he must take a Reaction Test versus his Rep. There Swordplay 2015 may seem to have a lot of tables, but in
is a 2 in the upper left-hand corner so I roll 2d6. reality you will be using two or three of them 95% of the
time and those that you do use are easily memorized.
Other THW titles will have more tables, mostly covering
designing your Encounters and for determining the
actions of your enemy when playing solo.

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 SWORDPLAY 2015
Swordplay 2015 is like a toolbox. You may not need all 5.1.2 GRUNTS
the tools, but they are there if you do!
These are the figures that do not represent a player. They
may be friends or foes and will come and go as the game
progresses. Grunts are controlled by the game mechanics.
STOP!
Swordplay 2015 can be played in three ways: 5.1.3 WHY USE STARS?
One question that may be asked is why do we use Stars in
 Solo, against the game mechanics. THW? It's to give the player personal control of his
 Cooperatively, with everyone on the same side character.
against the game mechanics.
 Head to head, against your friends. Remember that all Grunts are controlled by the Reaction
Tests.
Swordplay 2015 is played with six-sided dice called d6.
Grunts will behave in a realistic manner that balances a
You can play in any scale, with figures or counters. You desire to stay alive with the desire to do their job.
can play with as many or as few figures as desired.
But Stars? That's you. You will see that you have much
Passing dice is when you roll a d6 and compare it to a more freedom, as in real life, to do what you want, as well
Target Number like Rep. Score equal or less and you have as some distinct advantages that separate you from the
passed; score greater than the Target Number and you Grunts.
have not. You can pass 2d6, 1d6 or 0d6.
A success is a score of 1, 2 or 3.
Possibilities are the numbers in parenthesis next to an
5.2 STAR ADVANTAGES
event. Scoring that number means the event has As a Star in Swordplay 2015 you have four important
happened. advantages. These are:
Rolling a 1/2d6 is easy. Just roll 1d6 and divide the score  Star Power.
in half, then round up. What is a 5?  Larger Than Life.
 Cheating Death.
 Free Will.
5.0 DEFINING THE
5.2.1 STAR POWER
FIGURES Usually reserved for Stars, but sometimes found in some
Note that the words figure and character are interchangeable. Grunts, Star Power is the ability of a character to ignore
normally disabling damage. Here’s how we do it:
Swordplay 2015 – 2015 is played with individual figures
that are defined in the following ways.  Stars start each Encounter (game) with 1d6 of
Star Power for each point of Rep. So a Rep 5
 Is it a Star or a Grunt? Star starts with 5d6 Star Power.
 What is its Reputation?  Whenever a Star takes damage it rolls its current
 What is its Class? Star Power d6. Read each d6 as rolled.
 What type of Weapon does it have?  Any result of 1, 2, or 3 reduces the damage
 What type of Armor does it have? by one level.
 Is it carrying a Shield?  Any result of 4 or 5 means the damage stays
and the d6 is retained for future use.
 Any result of 6 means the damage stays, but
5.1 STARS AND GRUNTS the d6 is removed from the character’s Star
Power for the rest of the Encounter.
There are two types of figures, called Stars and Grunts.
Damage is reduced in the following ways:

5.1.1 STARS
An Obviously Dead result becomes an Out of the
Fight result.
This figure represents you, the player. We suggest your  An Out of the Fight result becomes a -1 to Rep if
Star begins with a Reputation of 5. in Melee or a Duck Back if fired on.

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 SWORDPLAY 2015
It is possible to reduce damage by multiple levels if you Example - Otto (Rep 5) is shot by an English Archer (Rep
roll several results of 1, 2, or 3. 5). The archer scores an Obviously Dead result. Otto uses
his Star Power, but to no avail. He then declares he is
Cheating Death and is whisked from the table to safety.
Example: A Star with a Rep of 5 is hit by missile fire. He
He is still alive, but is now reduced to Rep 4.
takes one Out of the Fight and one Obviously Dead result.
The player rolls one d6 per point of the Star’s Rep or 5d6 Note that Cheating Death is applied after Star Power.
in this case.
 The results are 2, 2, 4, 5, and 6.
5.2.4 FREE WILL
 One “2” reduces the Obviously Dead result to an Out
of the Fight result. The last Star Advantage is Free Will. Here’s how we do
 The other “2” reduces one Out of the Fight result to a it:
Duck Back result.  Stars will take Reaction Tests just like Grunts.
 The 4 and 5 have no effect but are retained.  Instead of rolling any d6 the Star can choose to
 The 6 has no effect, but is discarded for the pass 2, 1, or 0d6.
remainder of the Encounter.  This applies when taking the Received Fire and
However, this won’t do the Star much good since he is Man Down Tests (7.7). It does not apply to the
still Out of the Fight. It’s time to try another Star In Sight Test (7.6).
Advantage, Larger Than Life.
Example - Otto (Rep 5) is shot at by the enemy. He is a
Star so can choose his reaction on the Received Fire
5.2.2 LARGER THAN LIFE (LTL) Reaction Test. He chooses to pass 2d6 and returns fire.
Swordplay 2015 can be used to capture the cinematic
Later Otto must take an In Sight Test. He cannot use his
flavor of heroic fantasy and medieval movies where the
Free Will, but must roll 5d6 instead.
Star is a larger than life character. Here’s how we do it:
 Stars cannot be killed by anyone with a Rep
lower than the Star. 5.3 REPUTATION
 The worst result a Star could receive would be
Out of the Fight. Reputation or Rep represents a combination of
experience, morale and motivation. Rep is an expression
of a figure’s overall fighting quality. Both Stars and
Example- Otto, the Captain of the Guard (Rep 5) is shot Grunts use Rep. There are three possible starting levels of
by an enemy crossbowman (Rep 4). The enemy scores an Reputation:
Obviously Dead result. Otto uses his Star Power, but to
no avail. He declares he is using his Larger Than Life  REP 5 – These are veterans of numerous
advantage and is Out of the Fight instead. successful encounters. Knights and veteran
Warriors would have a Reputation of 5.
Note that Larger Than Life is applied after Star Power.  REP 4 – These are reliable men and women of
some experience that usually make up the bulk
of an army. Soldiers and Warriors are examples
5.2.3 CHEATING DEATH of Rep 4.
Another Star Advantage is Cheating Death. Here’s how  REP 3 – These are troops with limited combat
we do it: experience or desire to fight. Peasants and some
Goblins would have a Reputation of 3.
 A Star can be killed by anyone with an equal or
higher Reputation. Remember, Stars always start with a Rep of 5.
 When this occurs, the Star may declare that he is
cheating death. He is immediately removed from
the table and whisked to safety.
 When a player chooses to cheat death his Rep is
immediately reduced by one level until he
qualifies to increase his Rep (13.2).

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 SWORDPLAY 2015
5.4 CLASS 5.6.1 ARMOR CLASS 2 (AC 2)
The character is lightly armored or completely
All characters are one of the two following Classes.
unarmored. Leather would be an example of AC 2.

5.4.1 MISSILE  Figures hitting targets wearing AC 2 with missile

fire will count +2 when rolling on the Ranged
Missile characters are those armed with ranged weapons Combat Damage Table (Table 7.9.7).
with the intent to defeat their enemies by showering them  Figures winning a melee against targets wearing
with missile fire from a distance. Missile armed troops AC 2 will count as scoring one success more on
can be mounted on horses or similar beasts, but usually the Melee Damage Table (Table 7.10.5).
are not. Whether mounted or not, missile troops strive to
stay away from melee.
Example – The Warrior (AC 2) is hit by an arrow from a
short bow. The shooter rolls 1d6 and scores a 2. This is
5.4.2 MELEE modified to a result of 4.

Melee characters are those armed with melee weapons Later he is beaten in melee. The winner scored one
who strive to charge into combat and deliver damage to success more than the Warrior which is increased to two
their foes in hand to hand combat. Melee armed troops successes more.
can be mounted on horses or similar beasts. Regardless of
what they are armed and armored with they share one
common trait, bravery. 5.6.2 ARMOR CLASS 4 (AC 4)
The character is heavily armored. Chainmail would be an
example of AC 4.
5.5 WEAPONS
 Figures hitting targets wearing AC 4 with missile
Most characters are assumed to have a weapon of some
fire will count +1 when rolling on the Ranged
sort whether a ranged one or one used in melee. Some
Combat Damage Table (Table 7.9.7).
characters such as peasants, hostages, and children often
 Figures wearing AC 4 will count a -1 to their
do not.
Rep when taking a physical related Challenge
It is possible for a character to have more than one (Table 7.13).
weapon such as a lance and sword. Missile Class figures
always count as having a One Hand Melee Weapon when 5.6.3 ARMOR CLASS 6 (AC 6)
in melee. Players are encouraged to count the figure to be
armed with the weapon it has. The character is very heavily armored. Full plate mail
would be an example of AC 6.
Weapons are covered in more detail in the appropriate
sections entitled Ranged Combat (7.9) and Melee (7.10).
 Figures wearing AC 6 will count a -2 to their
Rep when taking a physical related Challenge
Example – I choose three figures. One has a sword, one a (Table 7.13).
two handed axe, and the third a bow. I decide to play the  Figures winning a melee against targets wearing
figures with the weapons that they have. AC 6 will count as scoring one success less on
the Melee Damage Table (Table 7.10.5).

5.6 ARMOR Example – The Vampire Lord (AC 6) loses a melee by one
success. This is reduced to 0 due to the AC of 6, so the
It is easy to get carried away with arguing the merits of melee result is immediately refought with neither figure
the different armor types used in ancient and medieval suffering any loss in Rep (7.8).
times, let alone in fantasy games. In Swordplay 2015 we
have simplified it to three types mirroring those in Rally
Round the King, our big battle unit based set of rules and
Warrior Heroes – Legends, our fantasy RPG set of rules.
They are:

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 SWORDPLAY 2015
5.7 SHIELD 6.0 GETTING STARTED
In Swordplay 2015 some figures will carry a shield to
protect themselves from injury. Here’s how we do it: This section will explain some of the games that
Swordplay 2015 can be used for and some of the basics of
the game. Whether it’s an Orc or English Longbow man
 A figure counts his shield only when attacked to
shooting the arrow you’ll be just as dead!
the front and not to the rear.
 Shields are treated the same regardless of size

6.1 WHAT ARMY?

with the smaller ones being assumed to be easily
wielded therefore provided the same protection
as a large shield. Some books will have Lists that describe what the figures
 Using a shield provides benefits when in melee in a particular army is armed with and looks like. But
and when fired upon by ranged weapons. because Swordplay 2015 covers so many periods we’ve
 Shields are only used when using a One Hand taken a different approach. Play with the figures you
Weapon and cannot be used when using a Two already have!
Hand Weapon.
 However, a mounted character using a lance Want to play Normans versus Saxons or maybe Orcs
(Two Hand Weapon) is considered shielded versus Goblins? No problem. Heck you can even play
during the first round of melee. Orcs versus Normans if you want. Just use the definitions
of Rep, Weapons, Armor, etc. found in the rules and you
 Characters using two One Hand Weapons are
can make up any army you want. It’s that simple.
considered to be shielded in melee with one of
the weapons used for parrying attacks. Okay – If you really want them, we slipped in four basic
Army Lists for you to use (Tables 6.1). 

STOP!
Your personal figure is a Star and should start at Rep 5.
6.2 FORMING YOUR BAND
All the other figures, friend or foe, are Grunts. Stars have In Swordplay 2015 the game revolves around you, the
four Star Advantages. other characters that make up your Band, and those of
your opponents. Let's define the Band:
Star Power can reduce damage. If you roll your Star
Power d6 and score a “6”, what happens? When fired at  Every Band has one Leader.
Star Power reduces an Out of the Fight result to Duck  The rest of the members are non-Leader Grunts.
Back. How is this different than losing a melee?
What is the difference between Cheating Death and 6.2.1 RECRUITING YOUR FIRST BAND
Larger Than Life?
You will start the game alone, but you can recruit Grunts
Free Will lets you choose to pass 2d6, 1d6 or 0d6 on your to join you. Here's how we do it:
Received Fire and Man Down Reaction Tests.
 Your Band can be as large as your Rep,
What are the two types of Classes? including yourself. This means you can recruit
There are three classes of armor each with a number. The your Rep, less one, Grunts. As your Rep goes up
higher the number the better you are protected. or down (13.2) so will the number of Grunts in
your Band.
Shields protect from missile fire and when in melee, but  Consult the Recruiting Table (Table 6.2.1).
only if you are attacked to your front facing.  Roll 1d6 and read the result as rolled.
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
row and across to the appropriate column for the
type of Grunt you’re recruiting. This will give
you its Rep.
 Grunts are always assumed to have the weapon
represented on the figure.
 You cannot have Grunts with a higher Rep than
yours. If your Rep goes down, any Grunt with a
higher Rep than yours leaves your group!

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6.2.1 RECRUITING TABLE
1 RECRUITING
(Read the result as rolled)

# MISSILE CLASS MELEE CLASS

1 3 3 In this picture we see a four figure group. All of the figures are
2 3 4 within 4" of another figure and LOS.
3 4 4
4 4 4
5 4 4
6 5 5

STOP!
You start the game as a Rep 5 Star. In this picture one member of the group has been hit and is out
of the fight or obviously dead. The link between figures is now
You can recruit up to one Grunt per point of Rep, less broken. There are now two groups that will activate separately.
one. As your Rep changes you can add or must subtract
Grunts.
You can never have Grunts with a higher Rep than your 6.3.3 LARGE GROUPS
own. You can make large groups of multiple groups just as you
do with multiple figures. This could also occur when two
Non-Player groups decide to band together under one
6.3 GROUPS Leader.

A group is any number of individual figures that operate

together during a turn. The smallest group is one figure;
there is not a maximum.
At the start of the Encounter (game) each side must
deploy their figures into groups. Each group will
automatically have a Leader (6.4) and figures in a group
do not have to have the same Rep.

6.3.1 FORMING AND SPLITTING GROUPS In the picture above we see three groups. Groups A and B are
Groups are not permanent. You can form up or break grouped together as they are within 4” and LOS so will activate
at the same time. Group C is more than 4" from A and B so will
apart your group into larger or smaller groups at any time
activate separately.
during the turn when you are active or when forced to do
so by a Reaction Test.

6.3.2 GROUP COHESION

A group consists of one or more figures with one being
the group Leader. To qualify as a group the following two In this picture groups A and B start the turn apart in separate
requirements must be met. groups. Group C activates and moves within 4" of the other
groups. The Leader is now in charge of all three groups and
 Remain within 4" of one or more figures in the they can activate at the same time.
group.
 Have a Line of Sight (LOS) to one or more
figures in the group and/or be in LOS of one or
more figures in the group.

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Example - Bulah (Rep 4) is the leader of a group
composed of three Rep 3 Orcs. Two members of the group
come under fire and they must take the Received Fire
Test.
I roll 2d6 for the two Orcs under fire and score a 5 and a
3. This means that they have passed 1d6.
I now roll 1d6 for the Leader Die Bulah is with the
In this picture the groups from the previous example activate at group. I score a 4 so have passed 1d6. This is added to
the same time and groups A and B move away. As none of the
the group result so they have passed 2d6.
groups are within 4" of each other the figures are now in three
groups and will activate separately. Reaction dice are rolled for the group, but applied
individually to only the figures taking the test.

6.4 LEADERS
6.4.3 MULTIPLE LEADERS
Groups will always have a Leader. Here’s how we do it:
In situations where more than one Leader is present only
 The Star is always the Leader when in a group. the Rep of the highest Leader is used for Activation.
 A Temporary Leader is the figure in the group
with the highest Rep and only acts as a Leader
when the Star is not with the group. Example – A Star Leader joins a group in his army. The
group will use his Leader Die and Rep as long as he is
carrying on (7.8) with the group. Once he leaves or is
6.4.1 LEADER FUNCTIONS disabled, the group Leader will use his Rep to activate.
Star Leaders have two specific functions they will use to
affect their group. Here’s how we do it:
 All Leaders allow for all figures in their group to STOP!
activate when it does.
Groups are formed and disbanded as needed and consist
 The Star Leader is allowed to use Leader Die to
of multiple figures. The smallest group is one figure.
inspire his group when taking Reaction Tests.
There is no limit on the maximum as long as they qualify
Temporary Leaders do not use Leader Die, but allow for as a group. What two requirements must be met to be part
all figures in his group to activate when he does. of a multi-figure group?
Leader Die is used by rolling 1d6 versus the Rep of the
6.4.2 USING LEADER DIE Star Leader.

When the Star Leader is part of a group he is allowed to

7.0 RULES OF WAR

roll a Leader Die to help inspire the group when taking
certain Reaction Tests. Here’s how we do it:
 Leader Die is used when the group must take the Now let’s go over the rules in the order that you will use
Received Fire Reaction Test (Table 7.7.1). A them during the game.
(LDR) will be found next to this Reaction Test.
 To use Leader Die throw 1d6, read the result as
rolled and compare the result to the Rep of the
Leader.
7.1 TURN SEQUENCE
 If the result is passed 1d6; add this to the Swordplay 2015 is played in turns, with one phase of
number of d6 passed by each figure in the Activation per side. Although Encounters (games) can last
group. an unlimited number of turns, each turn follows a strict
 If the result is passed 0d6; nothing is added. sequence.
 Leader Die is used even if the Leader does not  Before the game begins each player chooses a
need to take the test. different colored d6 to represent their side.
 Leader Die is not used when the Leader is by
himself. Example - I choose a blue d6 and Jim Bob Joe chooses
yellow.

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 At the start of each turn both dice are rolled. This Now that you know the turn sequence we will explain the
is called rolling for Activation. rules in the order that they will occur during the game
 If the die scores are the same (doubles) re-roll turn. This may be different than traditional rules, but is
them. much more effective.
 The higher score determines which side will Let’s start with actions.
activate its groups first.
Example - The two dice are rolled and a Blue 5 and a
Yellow 4 are rolled. I scored higher so I can activate my 7.2 ACTIONS
groups first.
When a figure is active it can voluntarily do one of the
 Only groups with a Leader whose Rep is equal to following actions.
or higher than its Activation die score can be  Move up to the normal 8” or a successful Fast
activated. Move, ending its move facing as desired.
 Groups are activated from highest to lowest Reps  Charge into Melee (Table 7.10.2).
with ties activating in the order the player
desires.
Example: A Blue 5 and a Yellow 4 were rolled. My side 7.2.1 OTHER ACTIONS
scored higher so I activate first. I can activate only When active, figures can do the following actions in
groups that are led by a Rep 5 or higher Leader. addition to those previously listed and still make a normal
move.
 After the first group has completed all its actions
and any reactions it may have caused have been  Pick up dropped weapons or other items.
resolved, the active side is allowed to proceed to  Reload a weapon.
its next group.
 After all of the active side’s groups have been
activated the other side can activate one group at 7.3 FIRING
a time based on the result of its activation die
roll. In addition to the previous actions, figures can fire during
the turn at the following times:
Example: A Blue 5 and a Yellow 4 were rolled. I went
first and have finished activating all the groups I wanted  Once when active, if loaded.
to. It is now Jim Bob Joe’s turn. He can activate only  When called upon by any Reaction or Charge
groups that are led by a Rep 4 or higher Leader. into Melee Test, if loaded.

 After both sides have activated all of their

eligible groups and all reactions have taken place 7.4 MOVEMENT
the turn is over and Activation dice are rolled
again – signifying the start of a new turn. There are two types of movement, voluntary, when the
figure is active, and involuntary when caused by a
This system will mean that many times lower Rep figures Reaction Test.
will not be able to activate. This reflects their lack of
confidence and hesitancy to engage the enemy. It also
stresses the importance of higher Rep Leaders! 7.4.1 NORMAL MOVEMENT
Normal movement for all figures is 8”.
7.1.1 MANY TURNS INTO ONE
With the Reaction System – allowing players to react to 7.4.2 FAST MOVE
what the other player does when it isn’t their turn – we are
If desired a figure can attempt to move faster than normal
combining traditional game turns into longer THW turns.
speed. Here's how we do it:
This means:
 Declare the intent of any figures in the group that
 No artificial stopping of action.
want to Fast Move.
 Longer turns, but shorter games.
 Roll 2d6 for the group and compare each die
 You’re always involved in the turn, no waiting score individually to the Rep of each figure Fast
for the other player to finish his turn. Moving.

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 For each d6 passed, the figure is allowed to add  It may not fire until active or directed to by a
4” to its move. subsequent Reaction Test.
 Figures declaring a Fast Move will count as  Figures in Duck Back behind cover cannot see or
moving fast regardless of the actual distance be seen by the cause of the test.
moved.
LEAVE THE BATTLEFIELD – Remove the figure from the
table.
Example – A group of three figures want to Fast Move. I RETURN FIRE – The figure immediately returns fire at the
roll 2d6 and score a 4 and 5. Here's how the group will cause of the test.
move.
RUSH SHOT - The figure immediately returns fire at the
The Rep 5 passes 2d6 and can move 16”. cause of the test, but takes the Rush Shot penalty.
The Rep 4 passes 1d6 and can move 12”.

STOP!
The Rep 3 passes 0d6 and can move 8”. All count as Fast
Moving.

Each turn starts with two different colored d6 being

7.4.3 GOING PRONE rolled.
Figures can go prone at any time during their turn. Here’s What happens if doubles are rolled?
how we do it:
High score activates first. Only groups with a Leader
 Active figures can choose to go prone or can be having a Rep equal or greater than the d6 result can
forced to go prone by a reaction result. activate.
 Going prone ends their movement. After a group has activated and all reactions it caused are
 To regain their feet takes half of their movement resolved, the next group can activate.
distance.
 Prone figures cannot fire. Review the actions available to each figure when active.
Normal movement is 8” and Fast Move can be up to 16”.
7.4.4 MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING Dismounting is free, but mounting costs 4” of movement.
When active a character can mount or dismount his horse
or beast. Here's how we do it:
 Active figures that choose to dismount cannot
7.5 THE REACTION SYSTEM
fire immediately after dismounting. This section covers the heart of the THW system. It’s
 Dismounting takes no additional movement and called the Reaction System. Reaction Tests reflect how a
can be done at the end of movement. figure will perform when under physical, mental, or
 To mount takes 4” of movement. emotional stress during the fight.
 If wishing to Fast Move after mounting you can Reaction Tests represent immediate unthinking reactions
do so, but only moving half your total Fast to certain events. Here's a real life example. You're in the
Move. kitchen and grab a pot. It’s hot and you immediately let
go of it. That's a reaction. Next you grab a towel and then
7.4.5 INVOLUNTARY MOVEMENT grab the pot. That's an action.
Figures can be forced into involuntary actions and Figures take Reaction Tests during the game when called
movement due to the results of a Reaction Test (Table upon. Let's look closer at each Reaction Test – In Sight
7.7.1). The possible involuntary actions and moves are as (7.6), Received Fire (7.7), and Man Down (7.7).
follows.
DUCK BACK – Figures that Duck Back are seeking cover
and safety. Here’s how we do it:
 Move to the nearest cover within 6”, ending its
turn. This can be in any direction, even forward.
 If no cover is available within 6” the figure will
halt in place, ending its turn.

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7.6 IN SIGHT
Let's explain the difference between being In Sight and
Out of Sight.

7.6.1 IN SIGHT OR OUT OF SIGHT

Figures are always in sight or out of sight
A figure is in sight when:
In the second picture white activates and figures “A” and “B”
 An enemy figure can trace a Line of Sight (7.9.3) move forward. “A” comes into sight of “1” triggering the In
to that figure, from figure base to figure base. Sight Test.
This applies even if that figure is in cover,  Once the test is triggered the triggering group is
concealed or both. allowed to move all of its figures (whether they
A figure is out of sight when: triggered the In Sight or not) up to two additional
inches (free). This movement could result in the
 It cannot be seen because of intervening terrain. figure going out of sight.
 It cannot be seen due to weather or light
restrictions such as being too far away to see the
enemy at night.
 It cannot be seen due to any other figure in the
way.

7.6.2 TRIGGERING AN IN SIGHT TEST

Here's how an In Sight Test is triggered:
 Whenever a group has an opposing group enter
into its Line of Sight or LOS, and the opposing
group was not seen previously during this The In Sight is triggered and the figures in the triggering group
activation phase, the In Sight Test has been are allowed to move two additional inches, before the test is
resolved. Figure “A” moves closer to “1” while “B” moves to
triggered. Note that not all figures in the group
the edge of the house so “B” can see “1”; also putting “B” into
will qualify to take the In Sight Test. sight of “1”.

7.6.3 TAKING THE IN SIGHT TEST

The In Sight Test is a Reaction Test taken differently than the
other two – Received Fire and Man Down.
After the triggering group has moved up to two additional
inches, all figures in sight of an enemy, or having the
enemy in sight will take the test. Here's how we do it:
 Consult the In Sight Table (Table 7.6.3).
 The Leader of each group with LOS takes the In
In this picture the white side cannot be seen by “1” or “2”. Sight for the whole group. If the Star Leader
does not have LOS the highest Rep figure that
 The In Sight Test is triggered as soon as any
does, counts as the Temporary Leader.
figure in a moving group comes into sight.
 Each Leader starts with1d6 per level of their
Rep.
 Modify the number of d6 each Leader rolls, by
any applicable Circumstance.
 The Leaders roll their modified d6 total looking
for successes, a score of 1, 2 or 3.

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 Only one side can win the In Sight Test. The
moving side wins the In Sight only if they score
more successes.
STOP!
 If the number of successes is equal, the non- Take two figures and place them on the table, out of sight
moving side wins the In Sight. of each other. Both are Rep 4.
 With multiple In Sights at the same time, it’s not Roll 2d6 for Activation. Move the active figure into sight.
if you win, but if you lose. So if you beat one Once the In Sight is triggered the figure can move 2”
group, but lose to another, you lost the In Sight more before the In Sight is taken.
and can only react. After all In Sight actions are
done, you react. Take the In Sight Test for both sides. Did you modify the
number of d6 rolled any the applicable Circumstance?

Example – Groups A and B come into sight of group 1. Just to recap. The In Sight is taken by the Leader in the
Group A scores 4 successes, group 1 scores 3 successes, group with a qualifying LOS. This means that a
and group B scores 1 success. Temporary Leader could take the test. What is a
Temporary Leader?
Group A wins the In Sight as it scored more successes
than group 1. Group 1 reacts. Group B cannot act as it
scored fewer successes than group 1, but it could active
fire if it were active. If it had scored more successes than 7.7 REACTION TESTS
group 1 it could have acted along with group A. After There are two additional Reaction Tests the In Sight.
both groups had finished their In Sight actions, group 1 They are:
would have reacted.
 RECEIVED FIRE TEST – The figure was shot at
and did not get hit.
7.6.4 RESOLVING IN SIGHT ACTIONS  MAN DOWN TEST – The figure is within 4” and
LOS of a friendly figure that was hit by fire.
Each figure in the winning group can now act. Here’s
how we do it:
 Missile figures that are loaded will fire. 7.7.1 HOW TO TAKE A REACTION TEST
 Melee figures in charge reach will take the Here's how these Reaction Tests are taken.
Charge into Melee Test (Table 7.10.2).
 Consult the Reaction Tests Table (Table 7.7.1)
 If a figure cannot fire or Charge into Melee it
will Duck Back if in enemy ranged weapons  Determine what is causing the test; Fired On,
range. Man Down or a combination of both. If more
than one cause, you still roll 2d6, but apply the
 Otherwise the figure will Carry On.
worse result.
 Determine which figures in the group must take
7.6.5 ADDING TO ONGOING IN SIGHTS the test. Note that there will be times when some
figures will take the test and others will not, as
There may be a time where a character that was not when figures are shot at while others are not.
involved in an In Sight, becomes involved in it. The  Start with 2d6 for the group taking the test.
newly involved character makes an In Sight Test. If it  Modify the number of d6 by any applicable
beats the opponent’s original In Sight result, it takes its In Circumstance.
Sight Action
 Roll the modified total of d6.
 Determine how many d6 were passed based on
7.6.6 COMPLETED IN SIGHTS the individual Rep of each figure taking the test.
This may result in figures in the same group
Once all figures in the winning group have completed behaving in different ways.
their actions and appropriate Reaction Tests are taken, the  Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
active side continues its part of the turn. This could be row and across to the appropriate column.
additional movement and/or active fire.  Immediately carry out the result.

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7.8 STATUS AND ACTIONS
The Reaction Tests and Melee can change the status of a
figure or force it to act in a certain way. Here we will
explain the terms found on the Reaction Tests.
CARRY ON – The figure is in good order and can act and
react as desired. This is the best status the figure can have.
A figure is considered to be carrying on if it is not doing
any of the following. We have ranked them from best to
worst.
In the picture above we see the white group come into sight of  Return Fire.
three enemy figures. After the white group has moved 2  Rush Shot.
additional inches, only 7 and 8 are involved in the In Sight Test.  Duck Back.
After taking an In Sight Test, figures “A", "B" and "C" fire at  Leave the Battlefield.
"7" and "8". Note that the white Leader was not involved in the
test and the higher Rep between 7 and 8 was used instead.  -1 to Rep.
 Out of the Fight.
Both 7 and 8 are missed and they take a Received Fire Test for  Obviously Dead.
being fired on. 2d6 are rolled and a 5 and a 3 are scored. As the
Leader is within 4" and part of the group that was fired on he is
allowed to roll one Leader Die. He rolls a 4 and passes 1d6. -1 TO REP – The character has its Reputation reduced by 1
Adding the pass 1d6 result means soldier 7 passes 2d6, so point by losing a round of Melee. After the melee is over,
returns fire while soldier 8, due to a lower Rep, returns fire, but the character’s Rep returns to what it was prior to the
counts the Rush Shot penalty.
melee, even if it went Out of the Fight.
DUCK BACK – Figures that Duck Back are seeking cover
7.7.2 MULTIPLE RESULTS and safety. Here’s how we do it:
There may be times when a figure qualifies for more than  Move to the nearest cover within 6”, ending its
one Reaction Test and scores more than one result, turn. This can be in any direction, even forward.
sometimes conflicting. Here’s how we do it:  If no cover is available within 6” the figure will
 One set of d6 are rolled. halt in place, ending its turn.
 Apply the results to each cause of the test.  It may not fire until active or directed to by a
 Take the worse result. subsequent Reaction Test.
 Figures in Duck Back behind cover cannot see or
See the Status and Actions section (7.8) for more details. be seen by the cause of the test.
LEAVE THE BATTLEFIELD - Remove the figure from the
7.7.3 COMPLETING REACTIONS table.
There may be times when a figure is carrying out a OBVIOUSLY DEAD – The figure has taken damage that is
Reaction Test and may be forced to take another test prior so severe it is obvious that the figure is dead.
to completion of the first. When called for, the figure
OUT OF THE FIGHT – The figure has taken serious
immediately takes the new Reaction Test, cannot score
damage and cannot continue the battle. He cannot move
better than the first result, but can score worse.
on his own and must be retrieved by others. If contacted
by an enemy he is considered to be captured or dispatched
Example - A figure takes a Received Fire Test and scores as desired.
a result of Duck Back. The figure moves towards cover RETURN FIRE – The figure immediately returns fire at the
and into the sight of another enemy figure triggering an cause of the test.
In Sight Test. The enemy fires and misses the ducking
back figure before it has completed its move. The ducking RUSH SHOT - The figure immediately returns fire at the
back figure takes a new Received Fire Test and passes cause of the test, but takes the Rush Shot penalty.
2d6 which would allow him to return fire. However, he
cannot score better than the Duck Back result, so
continues on towards cover.

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
STOP!
Thrown weapons must be recovered.
 Bows can fire when active and in reaction, even
more than once in the same turn.
One set of d6 are rolled for each group taking the  Crossbows and slings must reload.
Reaction Tests, but the results are applied to the Reps of  The figure fires its weapon.
each figure separately. This means that figures in the  The next time it activates the figure can
group may behave differently. reload the weapon. He cannot do anything
Take three figures and place them on the table. They are a else.
Rep 5 Leader, a Rep 4 Soldier, and a Rep 3 Soldier. All
three are fired on. The dice are rolled and a 4 is scored for Example – The active French Crossbowman fires his
the Leader Die. The other d6 result in a 4 and 6. Look on crossbow as directed by a Charge into Melee result. After
the Received Fire Test and see how the three Soldiers melee is over, the French Crossbowman is active but
react. cannot reload. He can when next active.
How many d6 did each pass? The active English archer fires his longbow as directed by
a Charge into Melee result. After the melee he can also
active fire.
7.9 RANGED COMBAT
There are two ways to inflict damage in Swordplay 2015. 7.9.2 SHOOTING
The first is by ranged weapons fire and the other is by Shooting a weapon and hand-to-hand combat are
melee (hand-to-hand combat). distinctly different ways of inflicting damage. This is
Each weapon is defined by type and in some cases reflected by the different game mechanics used in
weapons have been lumped into broader categories. Swordplay 2015.
Weapons are defined by three characteristics.
TYPE – What it is. 7.9.3 LINE OF SIGHT
RANGE – The range listed for every weapon is its effective To shoot something you must first be able to see it. A
range, which is the range that the shooter feels he has a straight line from the shooter to the target is called a Line
reasonable chance of hitting the target. This range is of Sight or LOS. Here’s how we do it:
considerably shorter than most weapons’ maximum
ranges.  Line of Sight extends across the whole table and
is blocked by friendly figures, terrain, buildings
2H – Weapons with a “Y” in this column on the Weapons and sometimes weather.
Table require two hands to be used. Otherwise one hand  LOS is to the front of the figure up to a 180
is all that is needed. degree arc.
RELOAD – Weapons with a “Y” in this column must be  In nighttime LOS is reduced to 12”. However,
reloaded after each time it is fired. Otherwise it is a targets in a well-lit area will count LOS as
thrown weapon and must be recovered to use again. normal for those firing at them.
 LOS between figures inside woods is reduced to
12” in the daytime and 6” at night. If at the edge
7.9 RANGED WEAPONS TABLE of the woods the figure can see and be seen from
outside the woods as normal.
TYPE RANGE 2H RELOAD
 LOS in inclement weather such as fog, rain or
(1)
Bow. 24/12 Y - snow, is reduced to 12” in the daytime and 6” at
Crossbow. 24/12 (1) Y Y night.
Sling. 12 - Y
(2)
Throwing axe or 6 -
spear. 7.9.4 COVER OR CONCEALMENT
(1) Shorter listed range for crossbow and bow is for when firing There will be times when a character will be in cover,
while mounted. (2) Must be retrieved to be thrown again. concealment or both. Cover and concealment are
different.
7.9.1 RELOADING  Concealment makes you harder to see, but does
Some weapons are required to reload or recover after each not stop an arrow. Concealment comes into play
shot. Here’s how we do it: when taking the In Sight Test.

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 Cover stops an arrow from hitting parts of your  Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
body, so it makes you harder to be hit. Cover row then across to see the result.
comes into play on the Ranged Combat Table
(Table 7.9.6). Example – Sir Billy Pink (Rep 5) fires his crossbow at
Jacque who is in cover. Billy rolls a 3. The die is added to
So how do you tell which is which? Consult the Cover or the Rep of Billy (5), which results in an 8; a miss as
Concealment Table (Table 7.9.4). Players should match Jacque is carrying a shield and being fired to the front.
the terrain on the table with the type that best resembles it
on the Cover or Concealment List before the game begins.
7.9.7 DETERMINING DAMAGE
7.9.4 COVER OR CONCEALMENT TABLE Each time a figure is hit the shooter rolls on the Ranged
Combat Damage Table (Table 7.9.7). Here’s how we do
# COVER OR CONCEALMENT it:
 Consult the Ranged Combat Damage Table
TYPE RESULT (7.9.7).
Buildings, Stationary figures inside of buildings are  Roll 1d6. Modify the result by any applicable
Inside. in cover and concealment. Circumstance and go down the left-hand column
Moving figures inside buildings are to the appropriate row and across to see the
concealed. result.
Cart or Figures inside are in concealment.
Wagon,
Example – Robin has hit an AC 2 Rep 4 Soldier with his
Inside.
Longbow. Robin rolls 1d6 and scores a 4. As the Soldier
Cart or Figures behind are in cover.
is wearing AC 2 this is modified into a 6. The Soldier is
Wagon,
Obviously Dead.
Behind.
Woods or Stationary figures inside woods or rocky However, he is a Star so can roll his 4d6 Star Power d6.
Rocky. areas are in cover and concealment. He scores a 1, 2, 5 and 6. The 1 and 2 reduces the
Moving figures inside woods or rocky Obviously Dead result to a Duck Back. The 6 is lost for
areas are concealed. the remainder of the Encounter.

7.9.5 TARGET SELECTION

7.9.8 AUTO-KILL OR CAPTURE
Figures match up one on one when targeting each other
whether firing or charging into melee. The firing side If an active figure comes into contact with an Out of the
Fight figure he can choose to automatically dispatch the
when shooting or the charging side if going into melee
figure or capture it. If captured the figure must be guarded
determines target allocation.
by at least one armed figure. Each armed figure can guard
All figures must be targeted at least once before being up to six enemy figures.
targeted a second or third time by other figures.
Figures in reaction will always target the figures that shot
7.9.9 PITIFUL SHOT
at them.
Rep 3 and 2 figures are allowed to use the pitiful shot
When taking an active fire the player may choose his rule. Here’s how we do it:
targets.
 Whenever a figure fires and rolls a "6", but still
cannot hit the target, such as when a target is in
7.9.6 SHOOTING A WEAPON cover, he is allowed to roll 1d6 again.
Here's how to shoot a weapon.  If the score is equal to or lower than his Rep a hit
is scored.
 First establish a LOS between the shooter and  Otherwise, treat the result as a miss requiring the
the target figure. target to take a Received Fire Test.
 Consult the Ranged Combat Table (Table 7.9.6).
 Roll 1d6 and read the result as rolled.
 Add the d6 to the shooter’s Reputation to arrive Example – Francis (Rep 2) fires at Charles who is in
at a total. There is no need to modify the total as cover. He scores a 6 but still cannot score a hit. Francis
it is built into the table. invokes the Pitiful Shot rule and rolls another 1d6 and
scores a 2. Charles has been hit.
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STOP!
Example – A Roman slinger comes into sight of two
Germans. The Germans win the In Sight and decide to
Charge the Roman. All three roll the Charge into Melee
Ranged weapons are defined by the distance they can fire Test and the Roman results are applied separately to each
out to (Range), whether it must be used with two hands, German.
and if it needs to be reloaded.
To shoot you need a clear LOS the target.
7.10.3 HOW TO CHARGE INTO MELEE
Roll 1d6 and add the result to the Rep of the shooter.
Once the charger is moved to within 6” of the target the
Take out two figures. One is a Rep 3 AC 4 with a Charge into Melee Test is taken. Here’s how we do it:
crossbow the other a Rep 4 AC 2 with a bow. Place them
 Consult the Charge into Melee Table (Table
out of sight of each other.
7.10.2).
Roll activation and move the active figure into sight. Take  Each figure starts with 2d6.
the In Sight Test. Resolve any fire and damage. Repeat  Modify the number of d6 by any applicable
with the other figure to see how AC affects damage. Circumstance.
 Roll the modified number of d6 versus the Rep
of the figure.
7.10MELEE  Determine how many d6 each figure has passed.
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
When figures come into contact they can enter into melee column then across to the appropriate column.
(hand-to-hand combat).
 Immediately carry out the results.
 If charged by more than one figure, the target
7.10.1 MELEE WEAPONS will apply its result against all of the figures
separately. This may mean the target could fire
There are two types of hand to hand weapons. but only at one target.
 One Hand Weapon – Those used with one hand.
A spear with a shield is used with one hand. Example – The two Germans charge the Roman. The
Using a one hand weapon gives the user +1d6 in Roman passes 2d6; one German passes 2d6, and the
melee. other 1d6. According to the test he is allowed to fire at
 Two Hand Weapon – Those used with two both, but can only fire at one. He fires at the German that
hands. A spear used without a shield is used with passed 1d6. If he fired at the other he would count the
two hands. Using a two hand weapon gives the Rush Shot penalty.
user +2d6 in melee.

7.10.4 MELEE COMBAT

7.10.2 CHARGE INTO MELEE TEST
After the Charge into Melee Test is resolved the charger
The only way to enter melee, is via the Charge into Melee is moved into contact with the target. Now it's time to
Test. Here’s how we do it: melee. Here’s how we do it:
 The test is taken by the figure and not the group.  Consult the Melee Combat Table (Table 7.10.4).
 The figure can be active or inactive.  Each figure starts with 1d6 for each point of Rep.
 The test can be taken at any time during the turn.  Modify the number of d6 by any applicable
 Chargers can declare a charge at any time during Circumstance.
their turn, even if the target of the charge was out  Each figure rolls its modified number of d6,
of LOS at the start of the charger's turn. counting all successes, scores of 1, 2 or 3.
 The charging figure must have a clear LOS to the  Compare the number of successes scored by each
target figure at the time it charges. figure.
 The figure must be able to reach a spot 6" from  If both sides score the same number of successes,
the actual target. Whether or not it has enough immediately re-fight the melee.
distance to reach the target is irrelevant, it need
 If one figure scores more successes he has won
only be able to reach a spot 6" from the target.
the melee.
 Move the charger to 1” from the target. It’s now
time to take the actual test.

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7.10.5 MELEE DAMAGE 7.11 RETRIEVING WOUNDED
The figure that scores more successes than his opponent
Characters can attempt to recover their wounded during
has won the melee and can inflict damage. Here’s how we
the Encounter. Here's how we do it:
do it:
 When active or when Ducking Back in reaction,
 Consult the Melee Damage Table (Table 7.10.5)
a Grunt will roll 1d6 versus its Rep.
 Roll 1d6 and add the number of successes the
 If pass 1d6 it will attempt to retrieve
winner rolled more than the loser.
wounded friends.
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
 If pass 0d6 they will not.
row and across to see the result.
 Stars can always choose to retrieve wounded.
 Immediately carry out the result.
 Now move the figure into contact with the
wounded figure.
Example –Sir Billy Pink (Rep 5) is in melee with an Orc  Pick up the wounded figure, reduce the
(Rep 4). remaining movement by 2", and move the
remaining distance.
Pink starts with 5d6 for Rep and adds the following
 Figures carrying wounded can take the Fast
modifiers: +1d6 for using a One Hand Weapon. He rolls
Move Test, but can only pass 1d6.
6d6 and scores a 1, 2, 2, 3, 4 and 5 for four successes.
 Figures cannot fire weapons when retrieving
The Orc starts with 4d6 for Rep and adds the following wounded figures, but will count the Rush Shot
modifiers: +2d6 for a Two Hand Melee Weapon. He rolls penalty.
6d6 and scores a 1, 2, 4, 4, 4 and 6 for 2 successes.  Figures charged while retrieving wounded will
Pink scores two more successes than the Orc. He adds 1 drop the wounded.
success as the Orc has AC 2. He rolls 1d6, scoring a 3.  Figures fired on while retrieving wounded will
Adding the 2 more successes he scored over the Orc and count as if in cover, with any result of miss due
the +1 success for the Orc wearing AC 2 gives Billy a to cover counting as a hit on the wounded figure.
result of 6. Looking on the Melee Damage Table we see
that the Orc is Obviously Dead.
If Billy had scored lower than the Orc’s Rep of 4, another
7.12 AFTER THE BATTLE
round of melee would immediately be fought with the Orc If you are keeping the same characters to use in multiple
counting a -1 to his current Rep. Encounters you must see if the wounded and those that
left the battlefield return. Here’s how we do it:
 Consult the After the Battle Recovery Table
7.10.6 MULTIPLE FIGURE MELEES (Table 7.12).
A figure may be meleed by more than one figure at the  Roll 2d6, read each result as rolled and compare
same time. Here’s how we do it: it to the Rep of the figure.
 Up to three figures can melee one figure.  Determine how many d6 are passed.
 The side with more figures decides in what order  Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
its figures will attack. row, then across and immediately carry out the
result.
 Attacks are carried out one on one.

7.12 AFTER THE BATTLE RECOVERY

TABLE
2 AFTER THE BATTLE RECOVERY
(Taken vs. Rep)

# DICE RESULT
PASSED
2 Figure returns to the Band
1 Out of the Fight returns to the Band.
Those that left the battlefield do not return.
0 Figure does not return.
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7.13 CHALLENGE
STOP!
Before going any farther take two figures (Rep 4) and do
2 CHALLENGE TEST
the following. (Taken vs. Rep)

Place them 6" from each other. A score of “6” is always a failure

Give them different melee weapons. CIRCUMSTANCE MODIFIER TO REP

Take a Charge into Melee Test. Challenge is very easy. +1
Challenge is very difficult. -1
Resolve a melee.
Challenger has a tool that will +1
Do this a second time with two figures charging one make the Challenge easier.
figure. Did you roll one set of d6 for the target when Challenger wearing AC 4 and -1
taking the Charge into Melee Test and apply them doing a physical Challenge.
individually to both chargers? Challenger wearing AC 6 and -2
doing a physical Challenge.

7.13 CHALLENGE # D6 RESULT

PASSED
There may be times during the game when you want to do
something out of the ordinary and not covered by an 2 Character completes the challenge
existing rule. You can do it by taking a Challenge. Here’s successfully.
how we do it: 1 Character may choose to immediately re-
roll the challenge counting a result of pass
 Decide on what the challenge is. 1d6 as if pass 0d6.
Example – I want to jump from the roof of a building to OR
the street below. Decide not to continue the challenge and
may not try again.
 Decide what a success looks like. 0 Character fails and suffers consequences.
Example – If I am successful I will make it onto the street
uninjured.
 Decide what the consequences of failure will be. 8.0 BUILDINGS
Example – If I fail I will damage a leg and reduce my We handle buildings in an abstract and simple way so as
movement by half. not to slow down game play.
 Consult the Challenge Test Table (Table 7.13).
 Modify the Rep of the Challenger by any
applicable Circumstance. 8.1 BUILDING SIZE AND AREA
 Roll 2d6 versus the modified Rep of the Buildings come in different sizes with the larger ones
challenger and determine how many d6 are being composed of more than one area. Here’s how we do
passed. it:
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
row and across to see the result.  Buildings that are roughly 6” x 6”, when playing
 Immediately carry out the result. with 28mm figures, are small and have one area.
 Buildings that are considerably bigger will have
multiple areas. You can tell this by looking at the
building and deciding the number of areas before
the Encounter.
 Additional floors above the ground floor will
also count as additional areas.

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8.2 ENTERING AND EXITING 9.0 TERRAIN
Figures may enter or exit a building when active or
inactive. Here’s how we do it: Encounters may specify what the terrain will look like,
but in general just populate the board with appropriate
 Entering or exiting through a door reduces scenery.
movement by 2”.
We recommend using whatever you already have.
 Entering or exiting through a window reduces
movement by 4”.

9.1 SETTING UP THE TABLE
Moving between floors takes one turn of
activation or reaction.
Now that you know all the rules it’s time to set up and
play your first game. First start with a flat space at least
8.3 COVER OR CONCEALMENT 3’x3’.
Buildings can provide cover and concealment to those

9.2 GENERATING TERRAIN

inside. Unless specified as being at a window or door,
figures inside buildings cannot be seen. Refer to the
Cover or Concealment Table (Table 7.9.4) for more info. Unless previously determined by the scenario, players
should use the following system to generate terrain for the
battlefield.
8.4 BURNING BUILDINGS 1 - Divide the table into nine roughly equal sections. See
There may be a time when you want to set fire to a the following illustration that shows the corresponding
building. Here’s how we do it: number for each section. In this case the board is square,
but you may be using a rectangle. It doesn’t matter, just
 Take a Challenge Test. A success means you be sure and divide the table into nine equal sections.
have lit a fire.
 Next turn of Activation move to the building.
 Take a very easy Challenge if the building is
thatch or similar.
 Take a very difficult Challenge if the building is
wood or stone – yes, you are catching the roof of
the stone building on fire.
 A success means the building is on fire.
 One area of a building will burn down per turn of
Activation.
 Burned out areas must be vacated.

8.5 FIRING FROM BUILDINGS 2 – Determine the overall terrain type of the battlefield.
Figures inside a building can fire at targets outside. Here’s You can base this on the actual terrain that the forces
how we do it: fought over or simply roll 1d6 and read the result as
rolled.
 Up to two figures can fire from a door or
window.  1 – 3 = Clear.
 4 = Settlement.
 5 = Wooded.
 6 = Mountainous.
Example – I have divided the table into nine sections, but
do not know what type of terrain it will have. I roll 1d6
and score a 4. I will use the Settlement area column to
determine the actual terrain in each section.

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9.3 TYPES OF TERRAIN 9.4 TERRAIN & SCENERY
There are four types of terrain. They are- This section describes terrain and what effects it may
have on your figures. Each area of terrain must cover at
Clear: This terrain is flat and does not conceal or provide
least 75% of the section that it is in. The boundary of the
cover.
terrain area should be easy to distinguish.
Settlement: This represents areas with buildings.
Wooded: This represents dense wooded or jungle areas 9.4.1 CLEAR
that slow travel and obscure vision.
These are open areas that do not provide cover or
Mountain: These are legitimate mountains that hinder or concealment.
prevent movement through them.

9.4.2 HILL
9.3.1 HOW MANY PIECES OF TERRAIN?
These are elevations that slope down in two directions
After you have determined the overall type of terrain on and blocks Line of Sight between figures on opposite
the battlefield it’s time to see what the table will look like. sides of its crest or ridgeline.
Here’s how we do it:
 Figures within 1" of the crest or ridgeline of the
 Start from section number one and work your hill are considered to be in cover to those on the
way to section number nine. opposite side. They can see and be seen from the
 Roll 1d6, read the result as rolled and consult the other side.
Terrain Generator Table (Table 9.3.1).
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
row and across to the appropriate column for the 9.4.3 IMPASSABLE
overall type of terrain. These are the bases of inaccessible mountains or sheer
 This tells you the type of terrain that occupies at cliff sides.
least 75% of that section.
 Movement through Impassable terrain is not
allowed.
9.3.1 TERRAIN GENERATOR TABLE
1 TERRAIN GENERATOR 9.4.4 WOODS
(Read the result as rolled) These include woods, marshes and areas of rough terrain
providing cover and concealment.
# CLEAR SETTLEMENT WOODED MOUNTAIN
 Movement is reduced to half speed.
1 Clear Clear Clear Impassable  Visibility between figures inside these terrain
2 Clear Clear Clear Clear features is limited to 12” in the daytime and 6” at
3 Clear Clear (B) Woods Impassable night.
4 Clear (B) Clear (B) Woods Woods  Those inside one inch of the edge of these terrain
features count as concealed and in cover. They
5 Hill Hill Woods (B) Woods can see out and be seen from outside the area.
6 Woods Woods Wooded Hill Impassable  Those farther inside from the edge cannot be
(B) See the Building section (9.4.3) seen from anyone outside of the terrain.
Example – I have determined that the overall terrain type
of the board will be clear. I roll 1d6 on the Terrain
Generator Table for section one and score a 3, clear 9.4.5 BUILDINGS
terrain. I roll a 4 for section two, clear with a chance of When a result of (B) is rolled on the Terrain Generator
buildings. I continue to roll until all nine sections are Table there will be buildings in the section. Here’s how
full. we do it:
 There will be 3 + 1/2d6 buildings if a Settlement
section, 1/2d6 if not.

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10.0 PLAYING THE

After you have determined the number of buildings check
the Building Types Table (Table 9.5) to see what they
are.
GAME
9.5 TYPES OF BUILDINGS As you may or may not know, all THW games can be
played solo, same side (cooperatively) and head to head
Once you know how many buildings are in a section we
(competitively). Feel free to play anyway you like.
must determine what types they are. We recommend
using buildings you already have; just be sure to divide The solo and same side rules are brilliant. You do not
them into 6” x 6” areas. Otherwise, here’s how we do it: draw a card to see if a group moves; nor do you have to
“make the best decision” for the non-player enemy. The
 Roll 1d6 for each building.
game mechanics in Swordplay 2015 does all that for you.
 Read the result as rolled and consult the Building
Type Table (Table 9.5). Playing with everyone on the same side is also great for
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate teaching the game to newcomers and non-gamers.
row then across to the appropriate column for the


overall terrain type.
Place that type of building in the center of the
11.0 PEFS
section, if it is the first one placed. Otherwise PEF stands for Possible Enemy Force. We use PEFs to
place it 1/2d6” from another in any direction. limit the intelligence the player has before and during the
 Taller buildings are placed towards the center of Encounter. By using PEFs we create an uncertainty as to
the section. the size of the enemy force, its composition and location.
 Buildings with an * are wooden (1 – 5) or stone PEFs are used in every Encounter. Here's how we do it:
(6).
 Roll 1d6. The score indicates which numbered
section of the table will contain a Possible
9.5 BUILDING TYPE TABLE Enemy Force or (PEF).
 Place a marker of any type in this section of the
1 BUILDING TYPE board to represent the PEF.
 If a terrain feature could block the LOS from
(Read the result as rolled) your force to the PEF be sure to place the PEF in
# CLEAR OR WOODED SETTLEMENT a manner that does so.
 If no feature is present, place the PEF in the
1 One area – one floor. * One area – one floor. * center of that section.
2 One area – one floor. One area – one floor.  Repeat this process until you have three PEFs
3 One area – one floor. Two areas – one floor. placed on the board.
4 Two areas – one floor. Two areas – one floor.  It is possible to have more than one PEF in the
same section.
5 Two areas – one floor. Two areas – two floors. *
 PEFs have a Rep of 4.
6 Two areas – two floors. * Two areas – two floors. *
 Once the PEF has been resolved it is removed
from the table.

STOP! 11.1 PEFS AND BUILDINGS

Buildings can be divided into more than one area. We use
The first time coming within 12” and LOS to a building a
roughly 6” x 6” per area, but just be sure to let everyone
PEF is generated inside the building. Resolve it normally.
know how many areas each building has.
If the PEF did not resolve as an enemy:
Review the process for burning down a building.
 The first time the building is entered resolve a
The table is always divided into nine equal sections. They PEF using 3d6, counting the lowest two results.
do not have to be square just as long as they are equal in  Resolve a PEF for each level of the building.
size.
You can choose your terrain or randomly generate it.
What terrain reduces movement through it by half?

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11.2 PEF MOVEMENT 11.5 LOADING UP PEFS
PEFs move just like they were groups of enemy figures. Here’s a shortcut we highly recommend. It’s called
Here's how we do it: loading Up PEFs and will save you a lot of time. Here’s
how we do it:
 When the enemy is active, start with the PEF
farthest from any player group.  Use the Army Lists (Tables 6.1) as a template for
 Consult the PEF Movement Table (Table 11.2). your own figures. Maybe use the Feudal List
 Roll 2d6 and compare the scores versus its Rep (Table 6.1.1) for Normans or Medieval English.
of 4.  Before the game generate your Non-Player
 Determine how many d6 were passed. enemies. That includes Rep, weapon, armor, etc.
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate  Do this for about six figures. Be sure to assign
row and across to see the result. each figure a number from one to six.
 Immediately carry out the result.  When you meet enemies just roll 1d6, that many
 Any contact that the PEF causes must be times, to see which of the pre-generated enemy
resolved prior to moving the next PEF, the next figures you have met.
one farthest from any player group.  Save the info on all PEFs you use as they can be
used over and over. Here’s an example of a
Feudal army like Normans.
11.2.1 SPECIAL PEF MOVEMENT
PEFs do not suffer any terrain movement penalties. # REP CLASS WEAPON ARMOR
1 3 Melee Spear AC 2 w/Shield
11.3 RESOLVING PEFS 2 4 Missile Crossbow AC 4
3 4 Missile Bow AC 2
When a player group and a PEF have a LOS it's time to 4 4 Melee Spear AC 4 w/Shield
resolve the PEF. Here's how PEFs are resolved:
5 4 Melee Sword AC 4 w/Shield
 Consult the PEF Resolution Table (Table 11.3). 6 5 Mtd. Melee Lance & Sword AC 4 w/Shield
 Be sure that there is a valid LOS to the PEF.
PEFs in cover can be seen while those with
cover between the tester and the PEF cannot. Example – I resolve a PEF as two more than the
 Roll 2d6 versus the PEF Rep of 4. triggering group. I have 3 figures so will roll 1d6 five
times. I score a 6, 5, 5, 3, 2, and 1. I pull those figures out
 Determine how many d6 are passed.
to use. In addition, I write them down on an index card
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
and in future games pull them out when needed instead of
row and across to see the result.
rolling.
 Immediately carry out the result.
 Remove the PEF marker.

11.6 HOW THE ENEMY MOVES

11.4 WHO ARE THEY? When PEFs are deployed they will move according to the
PEF Movement Table (Table 11.2).
This will depend upon the period and army you are
fighting. But here are some guidelines: When PEFs are resolved and figures placed on the table
these non-player figures use the NP Movement Table
 If desired, use the Army Lists (Tables 6.1) (Table 11.6). Here’s how we do it:
provided in the book. Just roll 2d6 per figure,
add the results together, and this tells you the  Start with the Non-Player group with the Leader
stats for that figures. with the highest Rep.
 If not using existing Army Lists, 75% of your  Consult the NP Movement Table (Table 11.6).
enemy will be their most common Class. If  Start with 1d6.
that’s Melee figures, then that’s what you’ll use.  Modify the number of d6 to be rolled by any
 The other 25% will be the opposite Class. applicable Circumstance.
Continuing the above example, that’d be Missile  Roll the modified number of d6versus the Rep of
figures. the group’s Leader.
 Rep is determined normally using the Rep  Determine how many d6 were passed.
section (5.3).
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 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate
row, then across to the appropriate column. 12.1EXPLORE
 Immediately carry out the result. You are traveling the area looking for opportunities that
may arise.

11.6 NP MOVEMENT
12.1.1 OBJECTIVE
1 NP FORCE MOVEMENT  Your objective is to recon the table.
 To be successful you must spend one turn of
(Taken versus Rep)
activation within in the center of each section on
CIRCUMSTANCE RESULT the table. Once you have accomplished this you
must return by exiting the table from the edge
Mounted Melee +1d6 that you entered.
Outnumber enemy by 2:1 or greater. +1d6

# D6 RESULT 12.1.2 FORCES

PASSED
 You can use up to your whole Band.
1 Melee Class – Move directly to charge the  Decide who the enemy are, based upon the type
closest player group. of game you are playing. Do not worry about
Missile Class – If unloaded will reload. gathering their force as all enemy forces, if any,
If loaded and in range will fire. are determined in the Special Instructions
If loaded and out of range, will move into section.
range and fire.
0 Melee Class – Halt in place.
Missile Class – If unloaded will reload. 12.1.3 TERRAIN
If loaded and in range will fire.  The board is divided into nine sections and
If loaded and out of range, will halt in terrain generated normally (9.2).
place.

Example – Activation dice are rolled and the enemy 12.1.4 DEPLOYMENT
activates first with a score of 4. This means that only
 Your Band will enter the board from the edge
enemy groups with a Rep 4 or higher Leader can activate.
bordering sections 7, 8, and 9.
I start from high to low and the Rep 5 group goes first. I
roll a 5, passing 1d6. The Melee figures will move to  PEFs are generated and deployed as outlined in
charge while the Missile figures will fire first. the PEF section (11.0).

12.1.5 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

12.0 ENCOUNTERS  Move your Band onto section 7, 8, or 9, or any
combination of those sections if you choose to
We call your Swordplay 2015 games Encounters. We split your Band.
have provided you with three Encounters. They are:
 After you have entered the table, place the PEFs.
 Explore.  Roll activation.
 Raid.  When the enemy activates go to the PEF
 Defend. Movement Table (Table 11.2).
 Resolve PEFs as needed (Table 11.3).
Explore will be your first Encounter.
 Use the NP Movement Table when needed
 If you win your next Encounter is a Raid. (Table 11.6).
 If you lose your next Encounter is Defend.  Play continues until the player has accomplished
his objective, been destroyed, or leaves the table.

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12.2 RAID 12.2.6 FINDING THE OBJECTIVE
In this Encounter there will be a specific objective. This
In the Raid Encounter you are attacking the enemy for a
could be an enemy to take as a prisoner, a hostage or
specific reason.
maybe a treasure. Here’s how we do it:
 If you win your next Encounter is a Raid.
 When a PEF is resolved as enemy figures, roll
 If you lose your next Encounter is an Explore.
1d6 and read the result as rolled.
 If the score is equal or less than the number of
12.2.1 OBJECTIVE: PEFs resolved, the objective is with these
enemies.
 You can raid for a variety of reasons; rescue,  If the score is greater than the number of PEFs
capture an enemy, search a deserted village for resolved, treat it normally.
wine, the reasons are endless. Feel free to  If you resolve all PEFs and have not found your
provide the reasons why! objective, it will be with the last one. Remember
 You must accomplish what you set out to do if that buildings generate PEFs (11.1).
you are raiding.

12.2.2 FORCES 12.3 DEFEND

 You can use up to your whole Band. In this Encounter the enemy is out to destroy or drive you
 Decide who the enemy are, based upon the type off the table. You must stop them from accomplishing
of game you are playing. Do not worry about their objective.
gathering their force as all enemy forces, if any,  If you win your next Encounter is an Explore.
are determined in the Special Instructions  If you lose your next Encounter is Defend.
section.

12.3.1 OBJECTIVE
12.2.3 TERRAIN
 Your objective is to prevent the enemy from
 The board is divided into nine sections and achieving their objective.
terrain generated normally (9.2). There will be
1/2d6 buildings in section 2.
12.3.2 FORCES
12.2.4 DEPLOYMENT  You can use up to your whole Band.
 Decide who the enemy are, based upon the type
 You enter the table through sections 7, 8 or 9. of game you are playing. Do not worry about
 PEFs are generated and deployed as outlined in gathering their force as all enemy forces, if any,
the PEF section (11.0). are determined in the Special Instructions
section.
12.2.5 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
 Set up your force in sections 7, 8, or 9, or any 12.3.3 TERRAIN
combination of those sections if you choose to  The board is divided into nine sections and
split your force. terrain generated normally (9.2). There will be
 After you have set up your force, place the PEFs. 1/2d6 buildings in section 8.
 Roll activation.
 When the enemy activates go to the PEF
Movement Table (Table 11.2). 12.3.4 DEPLOYMENT
 Resolve PEFs as needed (Table 11.3).  You can set up anywhere you want in sections 7,
 Use the NP Movement Table when needed 8 or 9.
(Table 11.6).  PEFs are generated and deployed as outlined in
 Play continues normally until the player has the PEF section (11.0).
accomplished his objective, been destroyed, or
leaves the table.

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12.3.5 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS 13.1 NEW RECRUITS TABLE
 Set up your force in sections 7, 8, or 9, or any
combination of those sections if you choose to 2 NEW RECRUITS
split your force. (Taken vs. Rep)
 After you have set up your force, place the PEFs.
A result of "6" is always a failure.
 Roll activation.
 When the enemy activates go to the PEF # D6 RESULT
Movement Table (Table 11.2). PASSED
 Resolve PEFs as needed (Table 11.3).
2 You can recruit new Grunts to bring your
 Use the Non-Player Movement Tables when
Band up to full strength.
needed (Table 11.6).
1 You can recruit one new Grunt.
 Play continues normally until the player has
0 No new recruits available.
accomplished his objective, been destroyed, or
leaves the table.
13.2 INCREASING REP
12.3.6 WHAT IS THEIR OBJECTIVE? The Reps of you and your Band members could improve
after an Encounter. After each successful Encounter it is
In this Encounter there will be a Non-Player objective.
possible that the Rep of a character could increase. All of
This could be to kill or capture your Grunts or recover
the following requirements must be met for the Encounter
something or rescue someone. Here’s how we do it:
to be considered a success for that character. It is possible
 When the first PEF is resolved as enemy figures, that an Encounter may be a success for one character and
roll 1d6 and read the result as rolled. not another! Here’s how you were successful – you must
 If a success (score of 1, 2 or 3) is rolled the have all of the following:
Non-Player objective is to kill or capture
 Fired at the enemy and scored a hit or engaged in
your Grunts.
melee.
 If a failure (score of 4, 5 or 6) is rolled the
 Did not receive a result of Out of the Fight.
Non-Player objective is to rescue or recover
 Did not receive a result of Leave the Battlefield.
someone or something from the buildings;
 Did not leave any Out of the Fight Band
your choice.
members behind.
 Use the Finding the Objective procedure
previously outlined when this is the If the Encounter was a success the character rolls 1d6.
objective (12.2.6).
 If the score is higher than the current Rep the

13.0 AFTERWARDS
Rep will go up one level.
 If the score is a “6” the Rep will go up one level
regardless of the current level.
Use this section only if you choose to use the same  Any other result and the Rep remains the same.
characters for multiple Encounters.  Your character can grow to as high a Rep as
After the Encounter is over it’s time to see what happens desired as there isn't a maximum. There is,
to you and your Band members after the After the Battle however, Obviously Dead.
Recovery Test has been taken.

13.3 DECREASING REP

13.1 NEW GRUNTS Just as Rep can go up when you have a successful
When your Band takes losses you may be allowed to Encounter it can go down if the Encounter was a failure.
recruit more Grunts. Here’s how we do it: It is possible that an Encounter may be a failure for one
character and not another. Here’s how you were a failure
 Consult the New Recruits Table (Table 13.1). – you only need to have one of the following:
 Roll 2d6 versus the Rep of your Star.
 Determine how many d6 are passed.  Received a result of Out of the Fight.
 A result of “6” is always a failure.  Receives a result of Leave the Battlefield.
 Go down the left-hand column to the appropriate  Left an Out of the Fight Band member behind.
row and across to see the results. If the Encounter was a failure the character rolls 1d6.

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
15.0 DESIGNER NOTES
If the score is a “1” the Rep will go down one
level regardless of the current level. This can be
attributed to stress, illness, or anything else you
decide it to be. SWORDPLAY 2015 is an introduction to the Reaction
 You can never have a Rep lower than “2”. System used by Two Hour Wargames. That is why it is so
 Any other result and you are fine. basic in nature. The other THW games provide much
more detail and period specific flavor. If you liked

STOP!
Swordplay 2015, then Warrior Heroes – Legends or Rally
Round the King might be for you.

After the Encounter you could recruit new Grunts. The Reaction System is not for everyone. You'll find that
you do not have total control of your forces; this isn't
If you do well you and your group members could chess. You will often not know what you're facing and
increase in Rep. this can lead to unwinnable situations. But you will be
If you do poorly you and your group members could presented with challenges every Encounter and the
decrease in Rep. tension that comes from uncertainty. But like I said, not
everyone is going to like it.

14.0 STEP-BY-STEP And that’s why we decided to make Swordplay 2015 free.

Here's a step-by-step outline that will help you to get

started. After a few games it will become second nature 15.1 MY GAME, YOUR GAME
and you won’t need it anymore. In fact, you may choose Games are a reflection of what the writer believes combat
not to use some parts, but if you do, they’re there! is all about. So feel free to tweak rules as you like as the
game mechanics are pretty tight and won’t suffer from it.

14.1 AT THE START

Just remember that changing one rule may cause
something else to change in an unexpected way. If you
1. Your Star starts with a Rep of 5 (5.1.1). get to a point where all your tweaks are confusing you, go
2. Choose your Class (5.4). back to the original rules and start over. Remember the
3. Choose your Weapons (5.5). goal is to have fun. Well, at least that’s what I think it is.
4. Choose your Armor (5.6) and if you want a The game is actually pretty simple once you've played it a
Shield (5.7). few times. Start small, use the Stop boxes and you'll be
5. Decide what type of Band you will have. This fine. Check out the THW Forum. It’s a great place to get
will define your enemies as well. questions answered and very much alive. The group is full
6. Recruit your Band (Table 6.2.1). of knowledgeable and helpful gamers and you can usually
get answers within 24 hours.

14.2 DURING THE Take care and just play the game!
Ed 8/10/2015
ENCOUNTER
1. Choose the Encounter you want to play (12.0).
2. Follow the Encounter instructions and play the
game.

14.3 AFTER THE ENCOUNTER

1. All characters that went Out of the Fight or left
the battlefield will take the After the Battle
Recovery Test (Table 7.12).
2. Check to recruit new Grunts (13.1).
3. Adjust Reps as needed (13.2).

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6.1 ARMY LISTS

6.1.1 FEUDAL
# TYPE CLASS REP ARMOR WEAPON
2 Knights Mounted Melee 5 AC 4 + Shield Lance and Sword
3 Mounted Crossbow Mounted Missile 4 AC 2 Crossbow and Sword
4 Mounted Sergeants Mounted Melee 4 AC 4 + Shield Lance and Sword
5 Heavy Infantry Melee 4 AC 4 + Shield Spear
6 to 9 Infantry Melee 3 AC 2 + Shield Spear
10 to 12 Crossbowmen Missile 4 AC 2 Crossbow and Sword

6.1.2 NORTHMEN
# TYPE CLASS REP ARMOR WEAPON
2 or 3 Fanatics Melee 6 AC 2 Two-Handed Axe
4 to 7 Warriors Melee 4 AC 2 + Shield Spear or Sword
8 Veterans Melee 5 AC 4 + Shield Spear
9 Nobles Melee 5 AC 4 Two-Handed Axe
10 to 12 Archers Missile 4 AC 2 Bow and Sword

6.1.3 ELVES
# TYPE CLASS REP ARMOR WEAPON
2 or 3 Scouts Missile 5 AC 2 Bow and Sword
4 to 6 Archers Missile 5 AC 2 Bow and Sword
7 to 9 Soldiers Melee 5 AC 4 + Shield Spear
10 Guard Melee 6 AC 4 + Shield Spear
11 or 12 Fanatics Melee 6 AC 2 Two-Handed Axe

6.1.4 GOBBOS AND ORCS

# TYPE CLASS REP ARMOR WEAPON
2 to 4 Gobbo Archers Missile 3 AC 2 Bow and Sword
5 to 6 Goblins Melee 3 AC 2 + Shield Spear
7 to 8 Orcs Melee 4 AC 2 + Shield Spear
9 Trolls Melee 5 AC 6 Two-Handed Axe
10 Riders Melee 5 AC 4 + Shield Spear
11to 12 Greater Orcs Melee 5 AC 4 + Shield Spear

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7.6.3 IN SIGHT 7.7.1 REACTION TESTS
REP IN SIGHT 2 REACTION TESTS
(Looking for successes) (Taken versus Rep)

CIRCUMSTANCE MOD Stars may exercise Free Will

Concealed - Enemy is concealed. -1d6 CIRCUMSTANCE MOD

7.6.4 RESOLVING IN SIGHT ACTIONS

If in cover. +1d6

 Missile figures that are loaded will fire. #D6 RECEIVED FIRE MAN DOWN
 Melee figures in charge reach will take the (LDR)
Charge into Melee Test (Table 7.10.2). PASSED
 If a figure cannot fire or Charge into Melee it 2 Mounted Melee that All will Carry On.
will Duck Back if in enemy ranged weapons can, will charge.
range.
Missile that can, will
 Otherwise the figure will Carry On.
Return Fire.
Others will Carry On.
7.9.5 COVER 1 Missile that can, will All – If twice more
Rush Shot. friends Out of the
# COVER OR CONCEALMENT Fight or Obviously
Missile that can’t, will
Dead:
TYPE RESULT Duck Back. Roll to
 Leave the
retrieve wounded.
Buildings, Stationary figures inside of buildings are Battlefield.
Inside. in cover and concealment. Others will Carry On. Otherwise:
Moving figures inside buildings are  Duck Back. Roll
concealed. to retrieve
Cart or Figures inside are in concealment. wounded.
Wagon, 0 Missile will Leave the All will Leave the
Inside. Battlefield. Battlefield
Cart or Figures behind are in cover.
Wagon, Melee will Duck
Behind. Back. Roll to retrieve
Woods or Stationary figures inside woods or rocky wounded.
Rocky. areas are in cover and concealment.
Moving figures inside woods or rocky
areas are concealed.

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7.9 RANGED WEAPONS 7.10.2 CHARGE
TYPE RANGE 2H RELOAD
(1)
2 CHARGE INTO MELEE
Bow. 24/12 Y -
(Taken versus Rep)
Crossbow. 24/12 (1) Y Y
Sling. 12 - Y CIRCUMSTANCE MODIFIER
(2)
Throwing axe or 6 -
spear. Target in cover. +1d6
(1) Shorter listed range if mounted. (2) Must be retrieved to be Target charged to flank. -1d6
thrown again. Target charged to rear. -2d6
Mounted charging unmounted. +1d6

7.9.6 RANGED COMBAT #D6 CHARGER TARGET

PASSED
1 RANGED COMBAT
Pass more Target may not fire. Target fires.
(Read the result as rolled) d6 than
opponent Charger moves into Charger moves into
# RESULT
melee. No Reaction melee. No Reaction
3 to 7 SHOOTER MISSED Tests taken. Tests taken.
8 SHOOTER MISSED IF Pass same Target Rushes Shot. Target Rushes Shot.
 Fast Moving. number d6
 Rushed Shot. as opponent Charger moves into Charger moves into
TARGET WAS MISSED IF melee. No Reaction melee. No Reaction
 Shielded. Tests taken. Tests taken.
 Charging.
 In Cover.
 Fast Moving.
OTHERWISE – HIT.
9 SHOOTER MISSED IF
 Fast Moving.
 Rushed Shot.
TARGET WAS MISSED IF
 Shielded.
 In Cover.
OTHERWISE – HIT.
10+ SHOOTER HITS TARGET

7.9.7 RANGED DAMAGE

1 RANGED COMBAT DAMAGE
(Read the result as rolled)

CIRCUMSTANCE MOD
AC 2 Target +2
AC 4 Target +1

SCORE RESULT
"6" Obviously Dead.
Rep or higher, but Out of the Fight.
not a “6”.
Lower than Rep. Duck Back.

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7.10.4 MELEE COMBAT 7.12 AFTER THE BATTLE
REP MELEE COMBAT RECOVERY
(Looking for successes)
2 AFTER THE BATTLE RECOVERY
MELEE WEAPON MOD (Taken vs. Rep)
One Hand Melee Weapon +1d6 # DICE RESULT
Two Hand Melee Weapon. +2d6 PASSED
CIRCUMSTANCE MOD
2 Figure returns to the Band.
Bigger – Usually a Troll, Ogre or +1d6 1 Out of the Fight returns to the Band.
similarly significantly bigger figure. Those that left the battlefield do not return.
Fanatic – Berserker troops or similar +2d6 0 Figure does not return.
Missile Class – Missile Class figure in -1d6
melee.
Mounted Charging – Figure is mounted +1d6
and charging.
Prone – Attacking a prone opponent. +1d6
Shielded - If being attacked to the front +1d6
while using a shield. (1)
(1) Using two One Hand Weapons counts as using a shield.

7.10.5 MELEE DAMAGE

1 MELEE DAMAGE
(Read result as rolled)

CIRCUMSTANCE MODIFIER
Each success scored more than the +1
opponent.
AC 2 Loser +1 success
AC 6 Loser -1 success (1)
(1) If reduced to same number of successes as loser,
immediately refight a round of melee.
SCORE RESULT
6 or higher Obviously Dead.
Rep or higher, but Out of the Fight.
not 6 or higher.
Lower than Rep Loser -1 to Rep. Immediately fight
another round of melee.

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11.2 PEF MOVEMENT 11.6 NP MOVEMENT
2 PEF MOVEMENT 1 NP FORCE MOVEMENT
(Taken versus the Rep of 4) (Taken versus Rep)

#D6 RESULT CIRCUMSTANCE RESULT

PASSED
Mounted Melee +1d6
2 The PEF moves 8” directly towards the Outnumber enemy by 2:1 or greater. +1d6
player ending in cover if possible.
1 The PEF moves 4” directly towards the # D6 RESULT
player ending in cover if possible. PASSED
0 PEF does not move.
1 Melee Class – Move directly to charge the
closest player group.
11.3 PEF RESOLUTION Missile Class – If unloaded will reload.
If loaded and in range will fire.
2 PEF RESOLUTION If loaded and out of range, will move into
(Taken versus PEF Rep of 4)
range and fire.
0 Melee Class – Halt in place.
# D6 Missile Class – If unloaded will reload.
PASSED RESULT If loaded and in range will fire.
If loaded and out of range, will halt in
2 Contact! You have run into enemy. Roll 1d6: place.
1 = Two less than the triggering group.
2 = One less than the triggering group.
3 = Same number as the triggering group.
4 = Same number as the triggering group.
5 = One more than the triggering group.
6 = Two more than the triggering group.
Can never run into less than one enemy.
1 Something’s out there! Resolve the next PEF
with 3d6 counting the lowest two scores.
0 False alarm! Just a case of nerves. If this is
the last PEF and no enemy has been
contacted, count as if passed 2d6.

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