Blood & Valor

Players build custom forces from major powers, determine a scenario, and use the game’s Blood & Plunder-based system, which features individual figure removal, a d10 dice mechanic for combat, and a unique initiative bidding system, to resolve skirmishes, trench raids, and patrols.

Key Aspects

Historical Setting:

Blood & Valor simulates the conflicts of the Great War, allowing players to recreate battles and events from various fronts, including the Western Front, the Eastern Front, and the Gallipoli campaign.
Skirmish-Level Combat:

The game focuses on small units and individual figures rather than large armies. Units are composed of squads of approximately four figures, and individual figures are removed when hit by enemy fire.
Firelock Games’ System:

The rules are a modified version of Firelock’s popular Blood & Plunder system, making it accessible to players familiar with that game.
D10 Combat System:

The game uses a d10 for both ranged combat and melee. Each figure generates dice based on their weapon, and a score of six is needed to hit a target.
Initiative Bidding:

Each round, players secretly bid points to determine the order of play, with stronger forces potentially having more points to bid with.
Army Lists & Scenarios:

The game provides force lists for major WWI powers and includes scenarios for various battles, from small patrols to larger engagements.
Tabletop Requirements:

The game is designed for a small tabletop space, typically a 3ft x 3ft board, and uses between 25 to 40 miniatures per side.

Gameplay Elements

Force Building:

Players choose a nationality and build a custom army from command, core, and support units.
Combat:

Players roll dice based on their unit’s firepower, aiming to hit the target score.
Saving Throws:

Units that are hit can make saving throws to avoid casualties.
Fatigue:

Units also accumulate fatigue points for each hit they take; when a unit reaches seven fatigue points, it is removed from play.
Special Rules:

The game includes rules for special units and tactics, such as artillery barrages, gas attacks, and the use of tanks, although tanks are typically for narrative play.