I found the following to be useful before I played:
- Easy Army Firefight online builder EasyArmy Firefight
- YouTube Channel for battle reports DreadPathZone - YouTube
I had a little time to go through the rules before hand which was useful. I would strongly suggest you try to allocate a good block of time to read through before your first game. I found it more difficult to get straight into than say Deadzone or Kings of war which for either I barely check the rules for now.
At the start of the game the added complication of secondary objectives added too many variables for the first game in my opinion. What added the most rulebook checking was the orders system. This is a great system which adds a huge flavour to the game but there is a big learning curve on how and what can be used.
For the rest of it the stat lines are slim lined and simple. Basic action concepts were intuitive and easy to grasp. The rule book was sensibly laid out so it was relatively easy to find the relevant sections. I really wish I had printed out my Force Stats etc though as constantly flicking between the Force section and core rule section was a bit time consuming. Once we got into the rhythm of the game though it flowed really well.
Forces
Both my opponent and I were playing Enforcers which for a first game was handy, as we both had a chance to see what the other was doing with their units and were using the same stat lines. I like the system where there are no limitations of what unit types you can take. Each unit having its perks and flaws being the reason you take it.
My Force
2 Jetbikes
Strider with Polaris Cannon
Strider with Flamer and Chainsaw
Captain - Peacekeeper Armour
Enforcers & Commander
Pathfinders & D.O.G. drone
Opponent Force
4 Jet Bikes
Strider with Polaris Cannon
Peacekeepers
Pathfinders
Heavy Weapon Enforcers & Forward Observer
The game started in my favour heavily with some unlucky roles from my opponent and some lucky ones for me. My Polaris Strider basically took his out in two shots. This then meant that my Assault strider had little threat getting stuck in with his flamethrower on his Heavy Enforcer unit with devastating results. Taking out the forward observer, significantly limited his order options.
I lost my Enforcer unit and Jet bikes but had positioned my Pathfinders well allowing me to shoot his Peacekeepers from behind as they charged my main line.
I won out right by destroying all his units but also accrued a good amount of victory points from objectives.
Let me know your thoughts on Warpath and any good combinations for Enforcers.
