Broken Legions

The Roman Empire rules the civilized world with an iron fist, seemingly all-powerful and limitless. And yet, the power of Rome is secured not by its mighty legions, but by small bands of warriors and agents fighting a secret war. Tasked by the Emperor to explore ancient temples, forgotten labyrinths and beast-haunted caverns, they seek out artefacts hidden by the gods themselves, hunt creatures of myth and face enemies that would use dark magic against the empire.
Broken Legions is a set of fantasy skirmish rules for a war unknown to history, fought in the shadows of the Roman Empire. Various factions recruit small warbands to fight in tight, scenario-driven battles that could secure the mystical power to defend – or crush – Rome. A points system allows factions to easily build a warband, and mercenaries and free agents may also be hired to bolster a force. Heroes and leaders may possess a range of skills, traits and magical abilities, but a henchman’s blade can be just as sharp, and a campaign can see even the lowliest henchman become a hero of renown.

Setting:

A fantasy Roman Empire where the gods, monsters, and ancient magical power are real.
Secret War:

The game focuses on a secret conflict fought in the shadows of the empire, rather than large-scale military engagements.
Skirmish Level:

Players control small warbands, typically 7-12 models per side, making it a skirmish-level game.

Gameplay Elements

Scenario-Driven:

Games are played through various scenarios with specific objectives, not just simply destroying the opponent.

Game Mechanics

Alternating Activation:

Play proceeds in turns, with players alternating between moving and activating one model at a time.
d10 System:

The core dice mechanic uses 10-sided dice (d10s) for activations and other checks.
Fate of the Gods Dice:

A special dice roll on a “Fate” die during actions can result in fumbles or negative consequences.
Presence Tests:

Models might need to take presence tests (rolls including their presence score) to avoid breaking and fleeing in combat.
Magic and Abilities:

Heroes and leaders can possess skills and magical abilities, with spellcasting referred to as “performing miracles”.