The Lords of Underearth
- Designer Keith Gross
- Publisher Hobby Japan , Metagaming
- Illustration Trace Hallowell , Pat Hidy , Denis Loubet , Norman Royal
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The Lords of Underearth, you lead humans, dwarves, orcs, and monsters through tactical battles in an underground labyrinth. The modular hex grid board enables varied exploration and combat scenarios. The game features surprise attacks, morale, locked doors, and treasure hunts, all playable solo or with up to three players. Dice rolling combined with movement points and combat results tables simulate detailed fantasy skirmishes.
Who Is This Game For?
This game suits experienced players and fantasy fans aged 12+, looking for a tactical wargame with about 60 minutes playtime. Rules are easy to learn, making solo play accessible. Due to its tactical depth and combat result tables, it is less suitable as a casual family game and more for those familiar with microgames.
How It Works
The Lords of Underearth uses a hexagonal grid and modular board for movement with movement points. Combat involves dice rolling and consulting a ratio/combat results table. Various scenarios include surprise attacks, morale effects, locked doors, and fleeing. The game supports both solo and multiplayer modes.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Keith Gross and part of the Metagaming Microgames series from 1981, it features a modular hex board and combat results tables typical for classic fantasy microgames. Some scenarios evoke famous fantasy battles, like dragon encounters and battles reminiscent of Khazad-dûm. It is compatible with Wizard & Melee and The Fantasy Trip.
Pro
- Modular hex grid board for high replayability
- Easy to learn with tactical depth
- Includes solo play
- Classic fantasy tactical microgame with varied scenarios
Contra
- Limited to 3 players max
- Older design with simple components
- Not ideal for families due to tactical complexity
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Underearth, an underground dwarven labyrinth ruled by dwarven lords. The world includes humans, orcs, monsters, and dragons in a dark fantasy environment.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the combat results tables and start with the provided scenarios to learn the mechanics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, The Lords of Underearth includes rules for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, relatively short for a tactical fantasy game.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic familiarity with tactical wargames and dice mechanics helps, but the rules are accessible.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its modular hex board and dice plus combat results table are characteristic of the MicroGame series, differing from larger wargames.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to tactical depth and age 12+ rating, it’s better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of dice rolling, movement points on a modular hex grid, and combat results tables shapes the tactical gameplay.
Fazit
The Lords of Underearth is a solid tactical fantasy microgame for fans of old-school combat and solo play. Those who enjoy quick tactical dice battles on modular boards will appreciate this classic.
