How do I get started with Halo: Flashpoint?

Halo: Flashpoint is a thrilling two-player tactical miniatures game that brings the intense action of the Halo War Games battle arena straight to your gaming table. As the commander of a Spartan fireteam, you lead your elite soldiers to victory in fast-paced, mission-based battles. Two different starter boxes are available for beginners: the Recon Edition and the Spartan Edition.

1. What is Halo: Flashpoint?

Halo: Flashpoint is a fast-paced, tactical skirmish miniatures gamefrom Mantic Games set in the popular Halo universe. It brings the intense battles between Spartan fireteams and other factions to the gaming table.

2. Who is Halo: Flashpoint suitable for?

• Halo fans who want to experience the universe in a new way.
• Tabletop gamers looking for a fast and tactical skirmish game.
• Beginners, as the rules are accessible and the starter boxes contain everything you need.

3. What do I need to play?

You only need a few things to play Halo: Flashpoint. The starter boxes already contain the most important things, but here is a more detailed overview:

One of the two starter boxes

You have the choice between two starter boxes:

• Recon Edition (smaller starter box with 8 Spartan models)
• Spartan Edition (larger box with 16 Spartans + 4 exiles)

Both boxes contain:

• Miniatures
• Rulebook
• Dice (W8 + command dice)
• Play mat & terrain
• Cards for weapons, units and special abilities

Playing area & terrain

• The starter boxes contain a play mat and printed cardboard terrain.
• Advanced players can use additional terrain (e.g. 3D terrain) to fight more realistic battles.

Markers & accessories

• Important game markers are included in the boxes to indicate effects such as cover, damage or special abilities.

Painting & customization (optional)

• The miniatures are pre-colored (uniformly in red and blue) so that you can play straight away.
• If you want to make them more individual, you can paint them with acrylic paints.

One player & missions

• The game is designed for two players.
• The rulebook contains missions and scenarios to get you started right away.
• There are more game modes and expansions in the community or on Mantic Games.

In short:
If you buy a starter box, you have everything you need to play! Later you can add terrain or additional miniatures to expand your gaming experience

4. Choose the right starter set

If you want to get started with Halo: Flashpoint, you have the choice between two starter boxes: the Recon Edition and the Spartan Edition. Both offer a complete introduction to the game, but which one is right for you?

Recon Edition – The quick start

The Recon Edition is the smaller and cheaper starter box, ideal for players who want to try out the game first. It contains:

• 8 Spartan miniatures
• Rulebook, dice and cards
• Play mat & cardboard terrain
• Basic markers & accessories

Who is it suitable for?

• Perfect for beginners who want to get to know the game.
• Good for players who want to start slowly before setting up larger units.
• Ideal for casual players who don’t want to invest directly in a large collection.

Spartan Edition – The full experience

The Spartan Edition is the more comprehensive box and contains everything the Recon Edition has – plus more. Here you get:

• 16 Spartan miniatures (twice as many as in the Recon Edition)
• 4 models of the exiles Elites
• Additional weapon and unit cards
• More terrain & an additional game map
• 3D accessories for a more immersive gaming experience

Who is it suitable for?

• Players who want more tactical depth right away.
• Perfect for groups or two players sharing a box.
• Ideal for players who want to immerse themselves in the game over the long term.

5. Which box should you choose?

• Are you looking for a cheap, quick start? → Recon Edition
• Want more miniatures & tactical options right away? → Spartan Edition
• Are you planning to play the game for longer or with more people? → Spartan Edition is the better choice

No matter which box you choose – both contain everything you need to get started right away!

6. Learn the basic rules

The rules are accessible, but still offer deep strategic possibilities. Here are the most important basics to get you started:

Moves & activation

• The game is played in rounds in which players take turns activating each other.
• Each unit can move, attack or perform special actions.
• Certain abilities or weapons have ranges or effects that need to be taken into account.

Using the pitch & terrain

• The game is played on a predetermined playing mat or an individual playing field.
• Terrain is crucial! High walls, cover and elevated positions influence the gameplay and offer strategic advantages.

The dice system

• Halo: Flashpoint uses eight-sided dice (W8) for attack rolls, damage rolls and special actions.
• Each dice roll is influenced by modifiers, e.g. cover or bonuses from team members.
• Command cubes offer tactical options for activating special abilities or using rerolls.

Attacks & Defense

• Units have different weapons with their own values for range, damage and special effects.
• Cover and movement are essential to avoid or survive attacks.

Special abilities & tactics

• Each unit has unique abilities that influence the gameplay.
• Spartans are flexible and adaptable, while other factions have their own tactical strengths.
• The right combination of movement, cover and attacks is the key to victory!

Conclusion: quick to learn, but difficult to master

The basic rules of Halo: Flashpoint are easy to understand, but the many tactical possibilities make every game unique. Regardless of whether you charge straight in or tact carefully – every decision counts!

Tip: Play a few test games with the basic rules before trying out advanced strategies!

7. terrain construction and miniature painting

In addition to the actual game, BattleTech also offers hobby aspects:

• Terrain construction: Create exciting playing fields with self-built or purchased terrain. Forests, cities or open plains provide variety. Please note that Halo: Flashpoint comes with a Checkerboard pattern works as a playing surface. The terrain must be suitable for this.
• Miniature painting: Customize your figures with your own color schemes.

8. Be patient and have fun

With small steps you will quickly get to know the game. The important thing is that you have fun – whether it’s playing, painting or planning your next Halo: Flashpoint battle.