Impetus – 2nd Edition

Impetus is a set of miniature wargaming rules by Dadi&Piombo for Ancient, Medieval, and Renaissance battles, known for its flexible, fast, and relatively abstract system that supports many historical periods and various miniature scales (6mm to 28mm). The game uses a turn-based initiative system with a non-traditional I-go/you-go activation, allowing units to react out of sequence. Combat is resolved using a unit’s Strength/Morale (VBU) combined with dice rolls, supported by detailed rules for commanders, army command structure, and advanced tactical cards.

Key Features

Historical Scope:

Covers over 3,000 years of history, from Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire to the Crusades and Samurai periods.
Miniature Scale Flexibility:

Designed to work with 6mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm (1/72), and 25/28mm miniatures, and is compatible with armies already based for other systems.
Gameplay Mechanics:

Features a turn-based system where players roll for initiative, followed by unit activation.
Reactive System:

A non-traditional “I-go/you-go” system allows units to react and “opportunity” to the opponent’s actions, preventing a strict turn order.
Fast and Simple Combat:

Combats use a unit’s “VBU” (strength and morale) to determine dice rolls, with modifiers adding bonuses.
Diorama-Style Basing:

Encourages the use of “big bases” for a more aesthetic, economical, and practical diorama-style look for units.
Command Structure:

Includes rules for customizable commanders and a command structure that determines a unit’s command radius.
Advanced Rules:

Offers optional advanced rules such as hidden commands and tactical cards to enhance strategic depth.