witten by Bryan Winter
published by Corsair Publishing
$29.95
96 pages, plus Counters

Most everything that is needed to play is this game is included in the rule book (you still need 2d6). Although the cardboard dinosaurs and dragons presented in the book aren't as detailed and interesting as 3D miniatures, they do save on cost (some of us are saving for college). Should you be one of those dedicated gamers who really needs real figures, the game can be played with those, too.

The basic rules present a simple scenario and rules for playing out quick dragon wars. This part can be entertaining, but there's nothing really exceptional about it. I would have been just as happy if all of the rules had been lumped together. The background details Eorthe, the fantasy world in which Dragon Hordes takes place, providing a history of the world (which is most similar to Earthdawn or Council of Wyrrns) and details why the magical forces of the planet are fighting.

The standard rules present a much more solid foundation and include morale, campaigns, and experience. Best of all, the army list includes something other than Dragons. Dinosaurs, windlings, and giant insects are all provided. The expanded game boasts a solid, well thought out system, but for me, didn't break any new ground.

However, there is something special in the sidebars Reality Checks. These how the game system translates into real life. Why do the armies fight one after the other instead of all at once? Why do the rules only allow flying creatures to float at three altitudes? How come the game doesn't allow individual warriors to line up and duke things out? All of these questions and more are answered in these sections. Very few games actually go so far as to logically define the rules; perhaps more designers should turn to this example.

My only other criticism is that, despite having all the necessary game components in the book, terrain is left out. The focus here rests on flying creatures, and terrain has little or no effect on play. Sigh.

Ultimately, Dragon Hordes is a great, if not altogether unique, game. Interested in miniatures; don't have much spending money? Definitely check this out. Fans of more popular systems might be a little disappointed with the rules, may be releved that its not Games Workshop.

Dragon Hordes. Yes, it's your father's miniatures game, but no, it won't cost you your family's savings.