SAGA: Age of Magic

The latest expansion for the SAGA universe provides rules to move beyond the historical and into the realms of fantasy. Studio Tomahawk have created SAGA: Age of Magic, a 108-page hardback book which comes complete with 6 new battleboards and acts as a supplement to the main rules. The book begins with a guide to how to use the rules contained within, plus introduces the main Factions. A nice touch is an early introduction to the new Battleboards and a discussion on the new troop types and their stats and usage in this fantasy version of the game.   There are new Special Rules & Equipment outlined, followed by that all important facet of fantasy battles, the use of Magic, complete with an explanation of how to use the spell and the details of dice allocation cost, plus the minimum and maximum effects. The main spells are outlined, and the book continues to make use of some excellent photos to evoke the atmosphere and style of games in this SAGA universe. Each of the new Factions are outlined, complete with their own special rules, Warband samples and army lists, and a very nice double photo page spread to show what a Warband could consist of. All the various unit types are explored, and details of Legendary Units offered for each Faction. The Grimoire provides listings of all the available spells that Sorcerors may use. There are 6 Domains of Magic, covering different costs and effects. There are also photocopiable slash downloadable cards which may be used during the game. The book finishes with a brief Designer’s Notes and quick reference sheets for use during gameplay. Age of Magic is supported by three new sets of dice: Order for the Good factions, Chaos for the evil factions, and Magic  dice which are used for casting spells. This is a supplement that is typical of the clear, easily understandable style associated with Studio Tomahawk products. The photographs and sheer ‘look’ of the book is fantastic, and a great deal of thought has gone into the layout to make it as accessible as possible. Although you need to purchase the core SAGA rulebook to use the rules and ideas contained within, this is a great book for those looking to run a different type of force and indulge their more fantastical gaming needs.