MERCS (2010)

About this game

MERCS is a skirmish game of miniature combat taking place in the future. Games consist of two squads of 5, which have all special equipment and skills. The miniatures act simultanously, using a system of initiative and reaction to determine the exact order of turns. MERCS uses unique cards as both reference and a means to measure. This streamlined approach means games are faster, with less rule-lawyering, providing a dynamic feel with combat that ebbs and flows. It also means that a game of MERCS is flexible; it can be played just about anywhere with any number of people. All that is needed is 1 fi g, 1 card, and 1d10. The game board can use 3D terrain, but is equally dynamic with the provided 2D terrain cards.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 10.
• Rules load. At 2.8/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.