Wizkid’s starter sets are superb these days. When the game first launched, introducing new players to this (fairly simple) comic book themed strategy game was a little tricky and a little random. These days however, every time Wizkid’s releases a new range of Heroclix booster boxes, we get a comprehensive, well designed and interesting stand-alone board game that also doubles as an introduction to Heroclix as a whole.
Marvel Heroclix: X-Men X Of Swords Miniatures Game is the latest iteration of this approach, much like the What If? set before it. This is slight improvement on the previous set; the rules are clearer and the map pieces can be used in different ways for various scenarios. At it’s core it’s still the same fun strategy game; form a team of super heroes using the models provided and then beat the ever-living snot out of your opponent. You’ve got bystander and object tokens to throw about, and any complicated rules are explained either on the heroes card or via the rotating click base.
This set is inspired by the recent X of Swords storyline, which sees the traditional X-Men form their own nation on the living island of Krakoa. The plot-line sets X-Men against the strange inhabitants of Arakko, an ultra-harsh community of super-powered near immortals who share origins with the X-Men. You don’t need to know any of this to enjoy the game, but it’s more fun if you know the comics.
The models in the set reflect this; we get X-Men, Arrakki and some of Apocalypse’s brood. We get Storm, Magik, Cable, Gorgon, Iska, War, Summoner, Solem, Death and of course, Wolverine. Each model has two cards, one with more basic rules and one that’s a bit more advanced. These models are pre-painted and excitingly posed.
The new twiddle for this set is X-Men Tarot Cards. Though themed along the lines of the traditional fortune telling game, these are actually scenario adjusting cards. You place a deck of these cards on the table (you get five in the box) , and play one each turn. These cards adjust the established rules, making certain powers temporarily stronger or providing additional support. Additional cards can be collected via the boosters. These are nice to have, and thematic with the X Of Swords set.
Overall, another great introduction to Heroclix.
