If you enjoy tactical battles, fantasy storytelling, and collecting miniature armies, the A Song of Ice and Fire Tabletop Starter Set may be worth adding to your gaming collection.
Inspired by George R. R. Martin’s fantasy novels, this tabletop wargame lets you command recognizable Westeros factions while making military and political decisions.
Before purchasing, you should understand the included components, gameplay mechanics, faction choices, and additional costs.
This guide explains what to expect and how to determine if the game matches your preferences.
What Is the A Song of Ice and Fire Tabletop Starter Set?
The A Song of Ice and Fire Tabletop Starter Set introduces you to a miniature-based strategy game centered on battles between the major houses and factions of Westeros.
Unlike conventional board games, the A Song of Ice and Fire miniatures game uses physical miniature armies, unit trays, measurement tools, cards, and battlefield terrain.
You control military formations, activate special abilities, and compete for objectives during each battle.
The original two-player starter set features House Stark and House Lannister, allowing two players to command opposing armies.
Faction-specific starter boxes are available as well. These generally focus on one army and are suitable for players who already have an opponent with compatible miniatures.
What’s Included in an A Song of Ice and Fire Starter Box?
The contents of an A Song of Ice and Fire starter box vary according to the faction and edition you purchase.
The original Stark versus Lannister release includes two opposing forces and the accessories required to learn the game.
| Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Miniature soldiers | Represent infantry, cavalry, and other battlefield units |
| Commanders and characters | Provide leadership abilities and tactical advantages |
| Unit trays | Organize miniatures into formations |
| Unit cards | Display combat statistics and special abilities |
| Tactics cards | Support faction-specific battlefield strategies |
| Tactics Board | Handles political actions and non-combat characters |
| Rulebook | Explains gameplay procedures and combat mechanics |
| Tokens and measurement tools | Track conditions and determine distances |
| Terrain components | Help establish the battlefield |
Many starter miniatures arrive preassembled, so you can begin playing without building every individual figure.
However, you should verify the exact product listing before purchasing. Updated releases and faction-specific boxes may contain different units, cards, and accessories.
How Does the Game of Thrones Tabletop Game Work?
The Game of Thrones tabletop game combines miniature combat with political actions.
Players take turns activating units, moving formations, attacking opponents, and using special abilities.
Victory depends on the selected scenario, which may involve controlling objectives, earning victory points, or defeating important enemy units.
Battlefield Movement and Positioning
Each military unit has movement characteristics that determine how it operates on the battlefield.
Your positioning affects attack opportunities, defensive advantages, and access to objectives.
For example, placing an infantry formation near an objective can help you maintain control of that area. However, exposing its flank may create an opportunity for your opponent to attack.
Combat and Morale
Combat uses dice rolls and unit statistics to determine attacks, defensive saves, and casualties.
Morale also influences battlefield performance. Certain attacks and abilities can force morale tests, potentially causing additional losses.
As a result, maintaining strong positioning and protecting vulnerable formations can be as important as dealing damage.
Political Actions
One of the game’s distinguishing features is the Tactics Board.
Non-Combat Units, commonly called NCUs, can claim positions on this board to trigger political effects.
Depending on the character and available abilities, these actions may influence combat, provide additional tactical options, or interfere with an opponent’s plans.
This creates another decision-making system beyond moving and attacking with miniature soldiers.
Stark vs Lannister Starter Set: Which Faction Should You Choose?
The original Stark vs Lannister starter set introduces two factions with different battlefield tendencies.
Your preferred strategy can help determine which army you may enjoy commanding.
| Feature | House Stark | House Lannister |
|---|---|---|
| General playstyle | Offensive pressure and mobility | Defensive control and disruption |
| Common strengths | Aggressive attacks and movement abilities | Defensive resilience and morale effects |
| Tactical focus | Exploiting battlefield openings | Controlling engagements |
| Suitable for | Players who enjoy attacking | Players who prefer defensive planning |
| Learning consideration | Requires attention to positioning | Rewards careful use of unit abilities |
These descriptions reflect general faction tendencies rather than fixed rules. Commanders, unit selections, and updated cards can significantly affect each army’s performance.
Why Choose House Stark?
House Stark may suit you if you prefer an aggressive battlefield approach.
Its units and commanders can support offensive strategies that reward effective movement and carefully timed attacks.
However, aggressive positioning may expose your units to counterattacks.
Why Choose House Lannister?
House Lannister may be suitable if you enjoy controlling engagements and interfering with enemy strategies.
Its available units and abilities can support defensive formations, morale pressure, and tactical disruption.
You may find this approach rewarding if you prefer planning engagements before committing your forces.
Is This Tabletop Miniatures Starter Set Beginner-Friendly?
A tabletop miniatures starter set should help you understand the game without requiring extensive preparation.
A Song of Ice and Fire includes several features that can make the learning process manageable.
Preassembled Miniatures
Many official miniatures arrive assembled, reducing preparation time.
Painting is optional, so you can play using unpainted figures.
If you enjoy miniature painting, you can customize your armies separately.
Organized Unit Formations
The game uses unit trays to keep soldiers organized.
Instead of moving every infantry figure individually, you generally move formations together.
This helps you manage larger battlefield engagements.
Structured Unit Activations
Players alternate activating units and performing actions.
This system gives both players opportunities to respond throughout the round rather than waiting for an entire opposing army to finish acting.
Learning Considerations
Although the game provides a structured system, beginners should expect to learn several mechanics.
These include movement restrictions, line of sight, combat timing, morale, tactics cards, and scenario objectives.
Starting with basic units and a straightforward scenario can help you understand the fundamentals before experimenting with advanced combinations.
Understanding A Song of Ice and Fire Game Rules
The A Song of Ice and Fire game rules determine how units move, fight, activate abilities, and score victory points.
Learning the following systems can help you prepare for your first match.
Unit Activation
Players alternate activating available units during a round.
Military units perform battlefield actions, while eligible non-combat characters interact with the Tactics Board.
Combat Resolution
Attacking units use their combat statistics and dice to determine successful hits.
Defending units may attempt saves, depending on the attack and applicable rules.
Casualties and other effects are then resolved.
Tactics Cards
Tactics cards provide additional abilities that can influence specific battlefield situations.
Their timing requirements matter, so reading each card carefully is important.
Scenario Objectives
Different scenarios introduce victory conditions that influence your strategy.
Controlling an objective may be beneficial even when your army has suffered significant casualties.
Buying tip: Check the official rulebook and current card updates before your first game.
Revised rules and updated faction cards may differ from printed materials included in older boxes.
How Much Does the Starter Set Cost?
The price depends on the specific starter box, edition, retailer, and availability.
Some faction-specific starter sets have carried suggested retail prices around $100–$110, although current prices can differ significantly.
The original two-player set may have different pricing because of its contents, age, and stock availability.
Before purchasing, compare the total cost rather than focusing exclusively on the listed box price.
| Potential expense | What to check |
|---|---|
| Starter set | Included armies, miniatures, and accessories |
| Shipping | Delivery fees and possible import charges |
| Additional units | Compatibility with your selected faction |
| Gaming surface | Available table space and terrain requirements |
| Painting supplies | Optional paints, brushes, and accessories |
| Updated materials | Availability of current cards and rules |
If you’re purchasing internationally, shipping and import charges may noticeably affect the final amount.
Advantages and Limitations to Know Before Buying
Understanding the game’s strengths and possible drawbacks can help you make a practical purchase decision.
| Advantages | Potential limitations |
|---|---|
| Preassembled miniatures reduce preparation | Rules require time to learn |
| Recognizable Westeros factions | Some starter boxes contain only one army |
| Tactical combat and political actions | Requires adequate tabletop space |
| Multiple faction and unit options | Additional units increase total spending |
| Painting is optional | Older printed cards may require updates |
| Objective-based gameplay | You need an opponent for regular matches |
If you enjoy tactical games with repeated opportunities to improve your strategy, these features may suit your interests.
However, if you prefer games with minimal setup and short learning times, another tabletop format may be a better fit.
Who Should Buy the Starter Set?
The game may be suitable for several types of players.
Fantasy fans: You can command recognizable Westeros houses and characters in tabletop battles.
Strategy players: You can experiment with battlefield positioning, unit abilities, and political actions.
Miniature collectors: You can collect, paint, and display figures from your preferred faction.
Competitive players: You can develop army lists and practice different tactical approaches.
Beginners: You can start with a beginner-friendly faction selection and learn through smaller practice matches.
Before buying, confirm that you have enough space to play and access to another player interested in the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play A Song of Ice and Fire with one starter box?
The original Stark versus Lannister starter box contains two opposing armies. Most faction-specific starter boxes focus on one faction, so another compatible army is needed for a two-player battle.
Do you need to assemble the miniatures?
Most official starter miniatures are supplied preassembled. However, you should verify the exact product contents because packaging and components can vary.
Is painting required before playing?
No. You can use the miniatures without painting them. Painting is an optional hobby activity.
How long does a typical match take?
Many product descriptions estimate approximately 45–60 minutes for standard gameplay. Actual playing time depends on the scenario, army size, and player experience.
Can you expand your army after purchasing?
Yes. Additional units, commanders, and faction expansions can increase your army-building options.
Check faction restrictions and current card compatibility before purchasing expansions.
Is the game suitable for children?
Many starter products carry a recommended age of 14 and older. Younger players may need guidance with the rules, card abilities, and tactical decisions.
Is the Starter Set Worth Your Money?
The A Song of Ice and Fire Tabletop Starter Set may be worth purchasing if you enjoy miniature wargames, tactical decision-making, and the military conflicts of Westeros.
Preassembled figures, organized unit trays, and alternating activations help make the game approachable.
Meanwhile, the Tactics Board, faction abilities, and objective-based scenarios provide tactical decisions to explore over repeated matches.
Before purchasing, check the exact box contents, faction compatibility, current rules, and total cost.
The original two-player starter can be practical if you’re beginning with another new player, while a faction-specific box may suit you if your gaming group already plays.
Choosing a set that fits your preferred playstyle and available opponents will help you make a well-informed purchase.
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