View manual text
ocs.com
http://www.replacementd
WARNING: TO OWNERS OF
PROJECTION TELEVISIONS
Still pictures or images may cause permanent picture-tube damage or mark the phosphor of the CRT.
Avoid repeated or extended use of video games on large-screen projection televisions.
EPILEPSY WARNING
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING THIS
GAME OR ALLOWING YOUR CHILDREN
TO USE IT
Some people are susceptible to epileptic seizures or loss of consciousness when exposed to certain
flashing lights or light patterns in everyday life.
Such people may have a seizure while watching television images or playing certain video games. This
may happen even if the person has no medical history of epilepsy or has never had any epileptic
seizures.
If you or anyone in your family has ever had symptoms related to epilepsy (seizures or loss of
consciousness) when exposed to flashing lights, consult your doctor prior to playing.
We advise that parents should monitor the use of video games by their children. If you or your child
experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness, blurred vision, eye or muscle twitches, loss of
consciousness, disorientation, any involuntary movement or convulsion, while playing a video game,
IMMEDIATELY discontinue use and consult your doctor.
PRECAUTIONS To TAKE DURING USE
•
Do not stand too close to the screen. Sit a good distance away from the television screen, as far
away as the length of the cable allows.
•
Preferably play the game on a small screen.
•
Avoid playing if you are tired or have not had much sleep.
•
Make sure that the room in which you are playing is well lit.
•
Rest for at least 1 0 to 15 minutes per hour while playing a video game.
1
CONTENTS
THE WARHAMMER WORLD
For Installation - Please see Reference Card
Across a conflict ridden world, mighty armies clash to decide the fate of imperilled realms. On every
continent mighty warriors march to battle accompanied by fearless heroes, terrifying monsters and
devastating engines of war. Swarms of arrows darken the sky, swords clash against shields, and
bloody banners are held aloft in victory, amongst the carnage of the battlefield.
The Warhammer World
3
Introduction
4
Control Summary
5
The Main Menu
7
New
9
Campaign
Positioning Your Regiments
14
Other Orders
15
Battle Magic
19
Using Magic Items
20
The Troop Roster
22
Mission One: A Strategy Guide
26
Appendix A
37
Appendix B
46
Appendix C
48
Credits
59
The lands that men know and inhabit comprise what is called 'The Old World'. These lands are
home to many races besides Men, including Dwarfs, Elves, Halflings and the numerous abominations
that infest the towering craggy mountains and dark forests. At the centre of the Old World are the
twin realms of the Empire and Brettonia wherein lie the greatest concentrations of Humans and their
allies. Further to the north lie the steppes and grasslands of Kislev, and beyond them the barren rocky
land of Norsca. South of Brettonia fall the hot lands of Estalia and Tilea. Neither is united under one
crown and instead they are divided into countless petty kingdoms and warring city states. Between
Tilea and Brettonia rise the Vaults mountains, a stronghold of brigands, bandits and mercenaries all to
willing to sell their sword to the highest bidder or simply cut the throat of a stranger.
Across the seas and beyond the towering mountains that border the Old World lie the lands that
few Old Worlders have ever seen. The South Lands, Lustria, Araby and the Dark Lands. Only the
seafaring Elves truly know the histories and terrors of these lands and they share few secrets with
those not of their race.
From every corner or the Warhammer world, the march of evil threatens to splinter the fragile veneer
of Civilisation. Armies of Orcs sweep down from the mountains to lay waste the lands of men. The
cruel Skaven ratmen hatch their insidious plots to lay waste the world with pestilence and decay.
And from the far poles of the world - known as the Realms of Chaos - march the furious armies of
Daemons, warriors and beastmen. And now from long forgotten tombs in the south an ancient evil
stirs and raises its rotting armies of the night against the forces of the Empire of man
2
3
INTRODUCTION
CONTROL SUMMARY
Dark Omen casts you in the role of Commander Morgan Bernhardt,
leader of the Grudgebringer mercenary army. Your army begins the
Mouse Controls (Battlefield)
campaign with one of each of the following regiments; Infantry,
Left-click
Select
Cavalry, Crossbows and Cannon. As the campaign progresses you
Right-click
Centre camera view
will get the chance to hire new regiments and buy reinforcements.
Hold right button
Scroll view towards mouse pointer
You ride with the Cavalry regiment during the campaign, and if you
die then the campaign will end in defeat.
Mouse Controls (Books)
Skirmishes against the enemy take place on the battlefield. You will
Left-click
Select
choose which regiments to take with you into battle, and which ones
Right-click
Go to relevant page
to hold in reserve. You will issue commands to your regiments before
and during the battle. When you complete a mission, your surviving
Keyboard Controls (Battlefield)
regiments will be rewarded with experience and gold.
F1
Cancel pending instruction
When you are not on the battlefield, you will be at camp making decisions about what to spend
F5
Toggle banner sort mode
your gold on. As the campaign matures, your army will grow in numbers and experience.
A
Auto-deploys Regiment
Experience makes your troops better fighters. The more experience they accrue, the better they will
B
Break button
become. The amount of experience they gain depends on how many enemy troops they defeat and
C
Charge button
how tough they were. The tougher the enemy, the more gold your troops will earn.
It's important to note that once all troops in a regiment are dead, the regiment is lost and cannot be
replaced. Regiments who have suffered casualties but who still have survivors can be reinforced,
provided you have enough gold. As you fight through the campaign you should avoid sustaining
continual heavy losses, as you will need a progressively stronger army as you reach the later battles.
Fire button
H
Halt button
M
Magic Button
S
Strength button (hero)
<
Step anticlockwise through friendly regiments
>
Step clockwise through friendly regiments
SHIFT <
Step anticlockwise through enemy regiments
SHIFT
Step clockwise through enemy regiments
>
ENTER
End Deployment Phase / End Mission (when instructed)
TAB or SPACE
Invoke Map / Turn off Map - return to battlefield
+
Increase current regiment's ranks
Decrease current regiment's ranks
4
Left
Rotate camera view left
Right
Rotate camera view right
Up
Zoom in camera view
Down
Zoom out camera view
Delete
Maximum camera zoom (centres view to the cursor's position)
End
Medium camera zoom (centres view to the cursor's position)
Page Down
Minimum camera zoom (centres view to the cursor s position)
ALT*
Drop Magic Item on battlefield (hold ALT then left-click the item)
5
Place multiple move waypoint on battlefield (Move pointer must be
You will also find useful advice from your mentor, Klaus Zimmerman
active)
within these pages. Heed his words, for they are born from years of
ESC
Menu - Abort, Adjust sound balance, Continue
experience on the battlefield. You can also learn from him by
F4 or T
Chat mode (Multiplayer only)
CTRL*
selecting the Tutorial option found on the Main Menu.
(* = Hold key and left-click mouse)
Keyboard Controls (Camp)
replay entire speech
skip entire speech (or continue campaign if speech has ended)
SPACE
skip current sentence
F9
view troop roster
F10
go to save menu
Keyboard Controls (Debriefing)
THE MAIN MENU
Once the introduction has finished, the Main Menu will appear. There are six menu items to choose
previous page
from. Move the mouse pointer over an item then left-click your mouse to select it.
next page
exit debriefing
F9
view troop roster
F10
go to save menu
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This manual will explain how to issue orders to your troops, how to use magic during a battle and
how to react to events as they occur on the battlefield. You will discover how to spend your hard
earned gold on buying reinforcements and expanding the size of your army once a battle is over.
The appendices detail the variety of Magic Spells on offer and explain the differences between the
New Campaign
Your campaign will begin here. This option is explained in more detail below. If you haven't played
races who live in the Warhammer world.
The following terms are used throughout the manual. Learn them well:
before, you should try out the TUTORIAL before you select this.
Load Campaign
Troops
Soldiers belonging to regiments
Regiment
An organised group of soldiers
For those who wish to continue from a previously saved campaign. See DEBRIEFING for details on
Army
All your regiments
how to save. Simply select a save game from the list by pointing at it and left-clicking your mouse.
Campaign
Your mercenary career
Now select Load to restore the save game.
Line of Sight
The unobstructed view for a regiment
Tutorial
Melee
Hand to hand combat
Mission
A job for your army
Rally
To regroup after being routed
Range
The distance at which a weapon or Magic Spell can be used
Rate of fire
Rout
New Commanders can learn a lot by following this step by step tutorial by Klaus Zimmerman. Just
listen to his instructions and carry them out on the battlefield. More detailed instructions on playing
the game can be found in the NEW CAMPAIGN section below.
How quickly each shot is reloaded and fired from a weapon
To defeat and cause to flee in confusion
6
7
Multiplayer
Particle effects This determines the level of graphic detail in the particle effects
Challenge a fellow player to a head-to-head battle over the Internet, an IPX network or via a modem
(particles are used in the battles for explosions, magic effects etc.). LOW detail gives
or null-modem cable. Choose or create your army, connect and then select a location for your
the fastest game performance, while HIGH detail gives the slowest.
skirmish. May the most cunning and ruthless army win! See page xx for full details.
Options
Colour cursors When turned ON this uses colour mouse pointers throughout the game.
Depending on the specification of your PC the black-and-white cursors option may be
To change the level of performance on your computer. During installation, the program automatically
unavailable. Note that colour cursors may not move around the screen as smoothly as
sets these options according to the specification of your PC. However, you may wish to change the
black-and-white cursors.
settings to suit your own preferences or to increase performance.
Rendering device If you have a compatible 3D graphics accelerator in your machine,
Sound quality This determines the quality of the sound and music throughout the game.
ensure this is set to 3D. If you don't have a 3D accelerator the 3D option will be
LOW quality gives the fastest game performance, while HIGH quality gives the
unavailable.
slowest.
Pop-up help When this is turned on, holding the mouse pointer over different areas of
Sound balance This adjusts the balance between the sound effects volume and the
the screen will display Pop-up help. You will also receive Play Tips in each debriefing.
music volume. Moving the slider all the way to the sound effects side will turn off the
Turn this option OFF if you don't want this help.
music.
Pixel resolution This determines the level of graphic detail in the battles (LOW,
MEDIUM or HIGH). LOW detail gives the fastest game performance, while HIGH
detail gives the slowest. If you are using a 3D accelerator the option will default to
HIGH .
Quit
Selecting this option will exit the game and return you to Windows® 95. You can also use ALT
and TAB to switch between Dark Omen and other active Windows® 95 applications as normal.
NEW CAMPAIGN
Sprite filtering When turned ON this improves the graphic quality of the sprites (i.e.
the troops) in the battles. This option is only available if you are using a 3D accelerator
and has a negligible effect on game performance.
When you enter a mission, you are safe from immediate attack. This is explained fully in the
DEPLOYMENT PHASE. This respite allows you to survey the battlefield and learn a few basics
before you wade into battle.
Head up display (H.U.D.)
Landscape
Texture filtering When turned ON this improves the graphic quality of the textures
(i.e. the landscape and buildings) in the battles. This option is only available if you are
using a 3D accelerator and, depending on the type of accelerator, may have a
Deployment window
Start Battle button
Mouse pointer
ployment Hags
noticeable effect on game performance.
Lighting When turned ON this lights the battlefields realistically, using shadows cast by
buildings, trees, high terrain etc. If you are not using a 3D accelerator this will have a
noticeable effect on game performance.
Regiment banners
Control Panel
Auto-deploy button
Troops
Perspective correction When turned ON this makes the perspective in the battlefields
more realistic. If you are not using a 3D accelerator this will have a noticeable effect on
game performance.
8
9
Selecting your Army
The H.U.D.
Welcome to the battlefield! What you can see here is a small part of the battlefield. To scroll the
You should have noticed some smaller banners around the edge of the screen. These are part of the
view around, hold down the right mouse button; the view will scroll towards the mouse pointer. The
Head up display (H.U.D.). The H.U.D. shows you where other regiments are elsewhere on the
further you move the pointer from the centre of the screen, the faster the view will scroll. To the left
battlefield in relation to the area you are currently viewing. The colour of the arrow beneath the
of the screen you can see the Deployment window. Inside this window are all of the banners
banner tells you their current status:
representing the regiments in your army. Banners are used both on and off the battlefield to help
•
WHITE =
Available for orders
identify each regiment. You can see three regiments in the window - the Grudgebringer Infantry,
•
RED =
Engaged in combat
•
YELLOW =
Routing
•
GREEN =
In cover/Available for orders
Crossbows and Cannon. To select them you must left-click on a banner and hold the mouse button
down. Now drag the banner out of the window and into the deployment area (marked out on the
battlefield with white flags). Let go of the mouse button. Now repeat this exercise with the other
banners. If you change your mind, left-click on the regiment's banner on the battlefield and drag it
back into the window. If you prefer you can click the Auto-deploy button or press the A key, this
will choose and deploy the most suitable regiments for you.
The Grudgebringer Cavalry is automatically selected and will already be on the battlefield. You can't
play a mission without them. In some battles, other regiments are automatically selected also - e.g. if
The arrow also points in the direction that regiment is currently facing. As you move around the
landscape, the banners on the H.U.D. will also move to reflect their position in relation to the area
shown before you. The relevant H.U.D. banner will disappear if the actual regiment appears in view
on the battlefield. The banner will then be displayed above the regiment itself.
NORTH is also indicated on the H.U.D. for your reference.
Note: When you have several units in a melee, their banners may be overlayed on the battlefield.
you are helping someone else.
Note: You can field a maximum of 1 0 regiments in a battle, even if you have more available in your
army. Choose the best regiments to field for each battle.
As you start the campaign, the Grudgebringer Cavalry is in possession of the Grudgebringer Sword.
Press the F5 key to toggle through banners, making selection easier.
Friend or Foe?
•
Allied regiments can consist of Humans, Dwarves, Wood Elves, Ogres, Treemen and others. The
•
Your currently selected regiment will have a WHITE banner border.
•
Greenskin regiments can consist of Orcs, Night Goblins, Night Goblin Fanatics, Giant Spiders,
•
Undead regiments can include Mummies, Wights, Wraiths, Ghouls, Skeletons, Zombies and
This is a Magic Item which can be used on the battlefield. For more information on magic, see the
BATTLE MAGIC section.
Money Matters
banner border for these regiments will be GREEN.
Giant Scorpions and others. Their banner border will be RED.
Your army earns gold at the end of a successful mission so you can afford to hire reinforcements or
new regiments later on. As the saying goes, you've got to spend money to make money.
others. Their banner border will also be RED.
Regiments
Note: In a Multiplayer game, GREEN borders will represent a regiment from your own army but
There are six different regiment types available during the campaign. They each have different abilities:
they won't necessarily be Allied. RED will represent enemy regiments, but their race will be
Infantry
determined by your opponent.
These troops march on foot and are best suited at hand-to-hand
combat.
Cavalry
These troops ride on horseback and therefore move much faster than
other regiments.
Archers
These troops are skilled in the art of hand-held ranged weapons, e.g.
crossbows, longbows.
Artillery
These troops man the War Machines, e.g. Cannons. They cannot be
moved around the battlefield after deployment (with the exception of
the Steam Tank). Some regiments require 'line of sight' to be able to
fire on the enemy. See Status Indicator section for details.
Magic Users
Magic users specialise in different types of magic. See BATTLE
Monsters
These are large beasts and are generally faster and tougher than normal
MAGIC section for more details.
troops.
10
11
Changing Camera Views
General tip - consulting the Map is the only way you can assess the strength of an enemy regiment,
You can right-click on a banner and the view will immediately centre on that regiment, wherever they
so use it to help decide which of your own regiments to pitch against them in battle.
are on the battlefield. In fact, right-clicking on anything on the battlefield will centre the camera. If
Press TAB or SPACE to deactivate the Map and return you to the battlefield.
you right-click and hold the button down, you can move the camera around the battlefield yourself.
Changing Ranks
You can also change the position of the camera by using the following keys:
Cursor Left
Rotate camera left
Cursor Right
Rotate camera right
Cursor Up
Zoom in
Cursor Down
Zoom out
To change a regiment's ranks (formation) on the battlefield, select the regiment and then press the +
and - keys on your keyboard to step through the available ranks. Note that only the front two ranks
of bows and the first rank of crossbows can fire, and a 'charge' command will be more effective if the
ranks are deep.
Note: When you give an 'engage' or 'fire' order, the regiment will automatically adopt the most
The following keys will centre the view to the cursor's position, in addition to zooming the camera:
suitable formation. Also: changing formation can also help a regiment hide in cover.
Delete
Maximum Zoom
End
Medium Zoom
Deployment Phase
Page Down
Minimum Zoom
The period immediately before a battle is known as the Deployment phase. This is where you are
given the opportunity to set some initial orders for your troops before the battle begins.
Map / Pause
Every mission will begin with a deployment phase. You should have noticed some white flags planted
Press TAB or SPACE to switch on the Map. This shows the entire battlefield and can be invoked at
in the ground around your regiments. These flags mark out the deployment area. You can reposition
any time. Whilst the Map is selected, the game will pause (except in Multiplayer model). As well
your troops anywhere within the deployment areas, but they can't be placed outside their
as the geographical features, your regiments and the regiments of the enemy (once sighted) will
boundaries. You can give the regiment orders to move beyond the flags, but they won't act on these
appear here.
orders until the deployment phase has been ended. You can also move regiments between multiple
deployment areas on some battlefields.
Note: You can field a maximum of 1 0 regiments in a battle, even if you have more available in your
Enemy regiments
army. Choose the best regiments to field for each battle.
To end the deployment phase and start the battle, you would press the ENTER key, or press the
START BATTLE button. However, you should only do this after you have considered issuing some
Regiment
Your
regiments
information
initial orders to your regiments, as detailed in the next section.
By pointing at each banner, you can view the details of friendly and enemy regiments. Their details
will be displayed beneath the Map. Left-clicking a friendly regiment's banner will select that
regiment; their banner border will then turn white.
12
13
POSITIONING YOUR REGIMENTS
Other Orders
Regiments can be simply dragged and dropped with use of the left mouse button. They
Other orders are issued by using the Control Panel located in the bottom right corner of the screen.
can be picked up by being selected with the 'grasping hand' and then pressing the left
The mouse pointer will also change its appearance as before. Most of these orders can only be given
mouse button. To put the regiment down within the deployment area, release the left
after the deployment phase is over.
mouse button.
Basic Orders
As you move the mouse pointer away from the regiment, it will change appearance again. This will
Halt Button
Charge button
Magic button
Fire Weapon button
Hero / Strenghth
Break Button
happen often on the battlefield, depending on the situation at hand. Check the following list to see
what each pointer signifies:
Left-clicking on the landscape will give your regiment an order to move to that location
on the battlefield. A BLUE flag will be planted in the ground to confirm the order.
You can also set multiple points on the landscape if you wish. Simply hold down the
CTRL key as you click. Each click will set another flag up to a maximum of eight. If you
set these points to circle back on to the first flag then you have effectively created a
The buttons can be selected by left-clicking on them with the mouse, or using the shortcut key.
patrol loop (indicated by the flags turning RED) which the regiment will patrol once
However, buttons are not always available - it depends on the circumstances. For example,- if a
the battle begins. Note that most Artillery regiments (e.g. Cannons) can't be moved,
regiment of yours is routing, then none of the buttons will be available until the regiment has rallied.
and regiments can only act on a move command once the battle has started.
When buttons are unavailable, they always switch to the colour of the Control Panel.
Gold =
This allows you to turn and face your regiment in a particular direction. Select a point
Available
Silver =
Not available
on the landscape then left-click. The regiment will immediately turn and face in the new
Note: In a Multiplayer game, you can control Greenskin or Undead armies as well as Allied. The
direction. Note that this pointer will only appear if it is positioned close to the current
colour of the buttons will be different depending on which race you command. See MULTIPLAYER
regiment. If you have difficulty obtaining this pointer (e.g. if the regiment's banner is in
for more details.
the way) hold the SHIFT key.
Order Buttons
If an enemy regiment is on the battlefield or on the H.U.D., you can instruct your
Use the buttons on the Control Panel to issue the following orders to your regiment. Remember that
regiment to engage them in hand-to-hand combat. Move the pointer over the enemy
they will not always be selectable:
banner. The pointer will change into a sword. Now left-click on the banner. Note that
Charge (shortcut key: C)
regiments can only act on an engage command once the battle has started.
During battle, left-click this button to make the regiment charge in the direction they are
Line of Sight
facing. A charging regiment will ram the enemy's ranks with great force, using their
The battles fought in Dark Omen employ a line of sight system between friendly and enemy forces.
Any enemy regiment will only be displayed on the battlefield, H.U.D. or Map if it can be seen by
one of your own regiments. In order for the enemy to be spotted they must be within your regiment s
field of vision. Your regiment's view to them must also be unobstructed. The enemy will also be
harder to spot the further they are from your own troops. This is known as line of sight .
Some regiments who use trajectory weapons don t rely on line of sight as their weapons are
momentum to rain mighty blows upon them. Charging is strategically important because
a charging regiment s momentum and power will give them the first strike in the ensuing
melee and also award them additional strength during the melee.
Halt (shortcut key: H)
This button overrides the current order. The troops within the regiment will halt. Orders
to fire on the enemy (see below) are also cancelled by this.
designed to be fired over obstacles, e.g. Mortars. However, their accuracy is not as good if the
target is out of their sight.
14
15
Magic (Shortcut Key: M)
You can utilise magic via a Magic Spell or a Magic Item. Selecting this button will
display icons of the Magic Spells or items that the regiment has available. Magic Items
Magic Points
Reload counter
can only be used once in each 'Winds of Magic' cycle. The Grudgebringer Cavalry
begins the campaign with the Grudgebringer Sword, a Magic Item which can cast
Winds of Magic cycle
fireballs.
Hero/Strength (shortcut key: S)
To encourage a regiment to even greater effort during a battle, repeatedly press the
Hero button to boost their strength. This only applies when the regiment is in hand-to-
The centre of the Control Panel is home to four important indicators. The 'Reload counter' and
hand combat. This boost only affects your current regiment and is only temporary. The
Hero gauge are explained above. 'Magic Points' and the 'Winds of Magic cycle' are explained in
Hero gauge shows the build-up of strength boost. Only when the gauge is in the red
the BATTLE MAGIC section. There are a few other indicators found on the corners of the Control
zone will the boost have an effect. Note that it will become harder to reach the red
Panel:
zone as your regiment suffers more casualties.
Break (shortcut key: B)
Banner indicator
Threat indicator
If your regiment is taking a beating, break them from the melee. They will then rout to a
safe distance before coming to a halt, unless they are being relentlessly pursued by the
enemy or have suffered too many casualties. If this is the case, a white flag will appear
Status indicator
on the regiment's banner indicating that they are unable to rally, and they will flee the
battlefield.
Fire (shortcut kay: F)
To select this button your regiment must have ranged weapons. You must then select
The Banner indicator shows you which regiment is currently selected. This is important because the
this button and use the pointer to choose a target to fire at. The target can be an
orders you select will only be given to this regiment. To issue orders to another regiment you would
enemy regiment or a point on the battlefield. Left-clicking on the target will make the
need to select it from the H.U.D. or the battlefield by left-clicking on the relevant banner. When the
regiment fire. The regiment will continue to fire at the target until they receive an order
banner border turns WHITE, you know the regiment has been selected. The banner will then appear
to halt or the enemy has moved out of range, or until the target has been destroyed.
on the banner indicator.
They can only fire again after they have reloaded their weapons. The Reload counter
•
counts down the length of time that it takes the regiment to reload their weapons. They
can fire when all eight segments are lit.
Note: When you select an immobile artillery regiment (e.g. a cannon) the fire button will
automatically be selected for you.
The Threat indicator shows a number of skulls:
1 skull =
Recruits (lowest threat)
2 skulls =
Regular troops
3 skulls =
Crack troops
4 skulls =
Elite troops (highest threat)
The pointer will change if the target is currently out of range. If you left-click then the
target will be fired on if they come into range.
•
The Status indicator has three modes:
If your regiment is positioned behind a copse of trees, this might block the view of any
approaching enemy regiment. The cover indicator will switch on to show that your
This pointer tells you that the target is currently out of sight. If your regiment doesn't
need 'line of sight' to fire then they will still fire on the target but their accuracy will be
regiment is currently in cover and no enemy regiment can see them. The arrow beneath
the regiment's banner will be green.
poor. If line of sight' is required, they will open fire as soon as they can see the target.
16
17
When the regiment is in melee, the battle indicator will switch on. The arrow beneath
Aborting Mission
the regiment's banner will be red.
If you want to abort the mission, press F1 key. A small menu will appear. Abort will quit the
mission and return you to the Main Menu, whilst Continue is self-explanatory. You can also adjust
the sound balance from this menu. The game will pause whilst this menu is displayed.
BATTLE MAGIC
The routing indicator turns on if the regiment is routing. The arrow beneath the
regiment's banner will be yellow. Regiments who are routing will only halt when it is safe
to do so. You can then issue fresh orders. If a regiment has suffered large casualties they
•
THE WINDS OF MAGIC
The Winds of Magic are the means by which all Wizards cast their spells. As magical
will rout until they are off the battlefield. Under these circumstances you will see a
energy seeps into the material world it fragments into eight distinct types or qualities.
white flag waving above their banner as they retreat across the battlefield.
Just as oil spilled onto water produces a rainbow of colours, so magic produces a
The Troop Count Indicator shows how many troops are in the current regiment. This number will
obviously reduce if the regiment suffers any casualties.
polychromatic display of swirling clouds. These invisible clouds blow from north to
south, some magic riding high, other falling to the ground and seeping into the earth
and rock. There are many different types of magic in the Warhammer world. In Dark
Omen you will encounter four - Bright, Ice, Waaagh and Dark.
INTO BATTLE
A full spell list for each of the above can be found in the Appendices. You can also learn about
them within the game by browsing through an appropriate Wizard's spell book in the Troop Roster.
Once you have issued your initial orders it is time to end the deployment phase and start the battle.
To do this, press ENTER, or left click the red arrow on the scroll at the top of the screen. The white
flags will disappear. You will also hear a rumble of thunder, indicating the start of a new Winds of
Magic' cycle (which is explained in more detail in the BATTLE MAGIC section). Your regiments
will now act on the orders you gave them. As the mission progresses, new situations will arise. You
will hear responses from all regiments (friend or foe) as these events unfold. For example:
"Aye sir"
Confirmation of new orders that you have just issued to a regiment.
"Enemy sighted"
A new enemy regiment has just been seen. Their banner will now
appear on the H.U.D.
CASTING SPELLS
In the Warhammer world, magic exists in all things, both living and dead. As the Winds of Magic
billow over and through the land, a magician must draw from the energy that is available at that time.
This is represented by the eight BLUE lamps that are found in the centre of the Control Panel. Each
lamp represents one Magical Power Point.
Every spell requires a number of Magical Power points to cast. These points are shown as small
lamps beneath the spell icons that appear on the Magic Panel when the Magic button has been
selected. Spells are only available on the battlefield if the current regiment is a Wizard. You can only
"Enemy destroyed"
One of your regiments has defeated an enemy regiment.
cast a spell if the required number of Magical Power points are available. Once the spell has been
"Help us!"
Some of your troops need help - use the Hero button, some magic
cast, the appropriate number of Magical Power points will be deducted. The winds change at the
"We're under fire!"
and/or send in some of your other regiments to help them out.
beginning of each 'Winds of Magic' cycle and a different amount of magic is made available for your
One of your regiments is being attacked by an enemy using ranged
Wizards to use. This cycle can be seen in the control panel, when the indicator is filled blue a new
weapons, e.g. archers firing arrows.
cycle is about to begin. The blue circles in the centre of the icon interface will turn red when a spell
"Charge!"
One of your regiments has charged.
I spending. You can only cast as many spells as there are available spell points for that magic phase.
"We fear the enemy!"
See SPECIAL RULES in Appendix B for more details on fear.
Wizards from the same army must share the points on offer. If one Wizard casts a spell which requires
"Retreat"
One of your regiments has fled the melee.
three points and there are only three available, your other Wizards will have to wait for the winds to
You must learn to react quickly to these events as they occur. Learn to switch between your
change again before they can cast any spells.
regiments and issue fresh orders. Thinking on your feet is but one of the requirements for being a
A clap of thunder announces the start of each new Winds of Magic cycle.
successful Commander!
The Magic button is only available if you currently have control of a Wizard, or a
regiment which owns a Magic Item. When you select the Magic button, the Magic
Panel will appear. You can then select a spell or a Magic Item, then choose a target if
one is required. To close the Magic Panel, select the Magic button once more.
IS
19
The mouse pointer will change into a magician's staff when you have selected a spell or
Some Magic Items cannot be used by certain regiments. For example, a Bright Wizard can't make use
Magic Item to use. Some spells and items require a target, so point at a target then
of an Enchanted shield because Wizards cannot use armour, so the Wizard won't be able to pick the
left-click to confirm. Other spells and items will be immediately cast or used, e.g.
Crystal Cloak. You can only cast a spell if the required number of Magical Power
points are available.
item up.
The Experience Level of the regiment governs how many Magic Items they can own. If a regiment
has failed to earn experience, then they can possess just one Magic Item. The maximum allowed is
three items, and a regiment can only own one item of each type - Shield, Weapon or Banner. Once
Some spells have an immediate effect on their target, others are longer lasting. To cancel
an item has been collected, the regiment can usually start using it immediately, via the Magic button.
a lasting spell, make sure the Magic Panel is visible, then move the staff pointer over the
DROPPING MAGIC ITEMS
spell to be cancelled and Left-click. To try stopping an enemy's spell, you must cast
Dispel Magic. See Appendix A for a full list of Magic Spells.
You can drop a Magic Item on the battlefield by holding down the ALT key and left-clicking on the
item's icon from the Magic Panel. It will land on the ground nearby. But beware, enemy regiments
USING MAGIC ITEMS
like to own Magic items as much as you, and they will try to pick up anything they find!
Magic Items can generally be used just once in every 'Winds of Magic' cycle. You will then have to
wait until the next cycle to use them again. Some Magic Items are always active, e.g. Shield of
Ptolos. Others can only be used once and have an immediate but temporary effect, e.g. the Potion
of Strength. Fortunately, Magic Items don't use any precious Magical Power points.
MISSION ENDED
The mission will end when:
•
You have won; having defeated all the enemy regiments.
•
you have lost; having had all your regiments destroyed or routed from the battlefield.
Or:
The Grudgebringer Sword
Your Grudgebringer Cavalry begins the campaign with the Grudgebringer sword in its
Or:
possession. This mighty sword has runes inscribed along the blade by a Bright magic
•
Wizard Lord. In hand-to-hand combat the wielder strikes more accurately and
ferociously against his enemies. In addition a fireball may be cast from the sword once
Debriefing
per Magic Cycle.
After a mission is over, you will be told whether you were victorious or defeated. The amount of
Commander Bernhardt has been killed! This will result in the end of the campaign - Game Over!
COLLECTING MAGIC ITEMS
gold earned on the battlefield will also be displayed. The next page gives a summary of each
Enemy regiments can also possess Magic Items. If this is the case, you'll normally see some sort of
Along the bottom of these pages you will see some new icons:
magical effect around the unit, either constantly or when you attack them. When you destroy these
regiment s kills, losses and the experience gained.
Go to previous page.
regiments they will drop the items on the ground. The same is true of gold coins. When you
successfully complete a mission, both items and gold will be automatically collected by your army as
they leave the battlefield. The items will appear in the storage slots on the right page of the Troop
Roster and can then be redistributed amongst your regiments. See TROOP ROSTER section for full
details.
Close the scroll book and go to camp, where the campaign will continue.
Note: If you loose a mission, items and gold will NOT be collected automatically.
You can pick up a dropped item during a battle. Simply point at the item and the
pointer will change to a grasping hand. Now left-click on the item. The current
regiment will then attempt to pick it up. If they have no room for the item then your
regiment won't be allowed to pick it up.
20
Go to next page.
21
This allows you to save your game or load in a previously saved game. You can also
The number if shields and empty shield slots indicate the maximum Armour Level for the regiment.
delete a save game file from here. A name for your save game file is suggested, but you
The GOLD shields show the minimum Armour Level (this may not be sold).
can amend or delete it if you wish.
The SILVER shields represent any extra armour that has been bought (this armour may be sold if
required)
Selecting this icon will take you to the open pages of a book known as the Troop
Note: Wizards have no use for armour and so won't have an Armour Level. Instead, their spell book
is shown.
Roster. You should use this book before you go to camp and continue with the
You may also see a small green arrow next to the regiment's banner. This shows that the regiment is
campaign.
not a permanent member of your army, and at some point they will either leave or join you
permanently. A large red arrow next to their banner shows that they are just about to leave. When
this happens any Magic Items you have given the regiment will be returned to you storage area, but
any armour or troops you have purchased for them will not be returned.
THE TROOP ROSTER
You can also read about particular Magic Spells providing you have a Wizard under
your command. Wizards specialise in one school of the arcane, so their Spell Books will
Within this book you are able to recruit new troops and replace any casualties,
only reveal details for that particular type of magic. Right-click on the Wizard's Spell
providing you have enough gold coins to pay for them! You can also sell Armour and
Book icon to be taken directly to the first page of the Spell Book.
sell or move any Magic Items your army might possess.
An extra icon is found at the bottom of almost all book pages:
"An enchanted shield..."
This will take you back to the very first page of the Troop Roster.
Any Magic Items belonging to the regiment are also shown here. If you right-click on
Each double page serves a different function. The first gives you an update on the
the item you will be taken directly to the relevant pages which will tell you what the
current status of all your regiments. It shows the following:
item is and what it can do. Use the bookmark to take you back to the first page of
the Troop Roster when you've finished. You can also right-click on the regiment's
•
banner to view details on the current owner of the item.
The regiment's experience level as represented by two vertical bars:
The yellow bar shows the regiment's overall experience level. Each time the level reaches a marker,
Note: You can have up to fifteen regiments in your army at any one time.
the regiment gains a level (see following section). The blue bar shows the regiment's progression to
Gaining Levels
the next level.
•
•
The regiment's Threat Level as represented by skulls:
1 skull =
Recruits (lowest threat)
2 skulls =
Regular troops
3 skulls =
Crack troops
4 skulls =
Elite troops (highest threat)
with an increase of Threat Level. Threat Levels affect a number of regiment attributes - their skill with
standard weapons, trajectory weapons or their overall strength.
Increases in Threat Levels are awarded once your army is off the battlefield. When a regiment gains a
level, they can carry one extra Magic Item. When a Wizard regiment gains a new level, they gain an
The current number of troops within the regiment and the maximum allowed:
e.g. 10/15 = 10 troops left from a maximum of 15.
•
When your regiments have gained enough experience points on the battlefield, they will be rewarded
extra Magic Spell and the ability to possess an extra Magic Item. Their primary skill on the battlefield
will also improve, e.g. bowmen will improve their firing ability.
Experience Level
Number of Magic Items
Number of Magic Spells
No armour (normal clothing)
1
1 shield =
Lowest strength armour
2
2 2
3
5 shields =
Highest strength armour
3
3 (maximum)
4 (maximum)
0 shields =
Experience points required
(excluding Dispel Magic)
The regiment's Armour Level as represented by small shields:
1
2
1000
4
3000
6000
All Wizards begin the campaign with 'Dispel' in their repertoire. See Appendix A for a full list of
spells for all races.
22
23
Giving Items
To purchase armour for the regiment, click on the + button to the right of the shield icon. Each time
You can pick up Magic Items on this page and give them to other regiments. Left-click on the item
your total gold. You will also see the regiment s current armour level change to show the new armour
to pick it up. Drag it over an empty Magic Item box belonging to another regiment and release the
level as a red shield. You cannot increase the armour level beyond the regiment's maximum (depicted
you click, the cost of the armour (shown to the left of the + / - buttons) will be deducted from
mouse button. That regiment can then use the item in the next battle they fight.
by the empty shield slots), and you must have sufficient gold to cover the cost of the armour. If you
Some Magic Items can't be given to certain regiments. For example, a Bright Wizard can t be given
can't buy armour for any reason, the + button will be greyed. You can reduce the amount of armour
an Enchanted shield because Wizards cannot use armour of any kind.
you are buying with the - button. Note: each level of armour is progressively more expensive!
Note: Regiments can only carry one of each type of Magic item. When you pick an item up, any
To sell armour for the regiment, left-click on one of their shields in the main area of the screen and
regiment that cannot carry it will be greyed.
hold the button down (note that you cannot sell gold shields). Drag the shield over the 'current
You can store up to twenty different Magic Items at camp. The right hand page displays a list where
gold' icon at the bottom left of the screen, and the armour's sale value will be displayed. Release the
items collected from the battlefield will first appear if they haven't already been distributed to the
button to sell the armour for that price (you will be asked to confirm the transaction) or move the
regiments. Use the left and right red arrows to step through the list. You can pick these items up and
armour away from the 'current gold' icon and release the button to abort the sale. Note that if you
then give them to your regiments.
'sell' a red shield in this way, you will receive the full value of the armour, just as if you had clicked
Buying And Setting
the - button to the right of the shield icon (you are simply deciding not to buy the armour after all).
At the bottom of the left hand page are the controls for buying additional troops, buying and selling
armour is second-hand).
armour, and selling Magic Items.
However, if you sell a silver shield you will only receive a portion of what you originally paid (the
Note that throughout this process, the new troops and armour are depicted in red. At this stage,
you have the opportunity to change your purchases as many times as you like. You can also undo all
of the purchases by clicking the undo button. Your purchases are in fact only finalised when you exit
the Troop Roster. Next time you view the roster, all the figures will be in black and silver, and you
cannot undo your changes.
You should note that the cost of troops for your regiments will increase each time you buy armour for
the regiment and finalise the purchase (by exiting the Troop Roster). Therefore, whenever possible
The name of the currently highlighted regiment is shown, together with an icon depicting what type
you should always buy troops either before, or at the same time as, buying armour.
of regiment they are (cavalry, infantry, etc.). To highlight a different regiment, left-click their banner in
To sell a magic item, left-click on the item in the main area of the screen and hold the button down.
the main area of the screen.
Drag the item over the 'current gold' icon at the bottom left of the screen, and the item's sale value
Beneath the regiment's name are two sections; troop purchasing and armour purchasing. The
will be displayed. Release the button to sell the item for that price (you will be asked to confirm the
information shown in these sections relates only to the currently highlighted regiment.
transaction) or move the item away from the 'current gold' icon and release the button to abort the
To purchase troops for the regiment, click on the + button to the right of the helmet icon. Each time
sale.
you click, the cost of the troop (shown to the'left of the + / - buttons) will be deducted from your
If you want to read through the remaining pages of the book, use the 'next page' icon. If you see an
total gold. You will also see the regiment's current size change to show the new size in red. You
icon of a banner or a Magic Item on a page, right-click on the icon to read more about it.
cannot increase the number of troops beyond the regiment's original size, and you must have sufficient
gold to cover the cost of the troops. If you can't buy troops for any reason, the + button will be
Camp
greyed. You can reduce the number of troops you are buying with the - button, but you cannot
After each battle is concluded, you will eventually return to camp. From here you will learn of the
actually sell troops.
consequences of the previous battle and possibly meet new characters or old friends. You can use the
To automatically purchase troops for you entire army, click the auto-reinforce button. The computer
Troop Roster to buy reinforcements if you haven't already. New developments in the campaign will
will calculate the best use of your money, but you are free to make your own modifications.
be revealed as you recover at camp, and you also might have to make important decisions about
what to do next or where to go. You can also save your campaign whilst at camp by selecting the
disk icon.
25
Select this icon to continue with the campaign.
Deployment phase
Turn the map so that the southernmost edge of the map is at the bottom of the screen. Place the
cannon an inch and a half below the copse of trees to the right (N.B. Be sure you still have line of
sight by clicking on the target projectile weapons icon and moving the pointer north towards the rock
face ridge where the enemy troops will approach. The arrow pointer will have a no entry circle on it
To hear the last camp meeting again, select this 'rewind' icon.
if you have no sight. Place the Grudgebringer infantry in the bottom right of the deployment area
(behind and slightly to the right of the crossbowmen) and give them an order to march round and
stand on the immediate right of the crossbowmen. Finally place the Grudgebringer cavalry in between
the two outcrops of trees facing the dirt path so that none of them can get away. When deploying
MISSION ONE: A STRATEGY
GUIDE
the crossbowmen press the '-' key to extend the ranks in a long line to achieve the maximum possible
spread of fire.
Strategy
Press space to view the map. You will see the position of the first enemy regiment: the Goblin
archers. Now you are ready to begin the battle so click on the red arrow next to the
Deploy Your
Troops" text at the top of your screen. As soon as the battle begins order the cannon unit to open
fire on the incoming Goblin archers. You will now see a Night Goblin infantry regiment approaching
from the top of the path heading towards your troops. Tell your crossbows to open fire on the
Goblin infantry. As the goblins approach the Grudgebringer crossbows, order the Grudgebringer
infantry to attack the remaining Goblin infantry. Click on your crossbows and order them to attack
the remaining Goblin archers. Next, order you Grudgebringer cavalry to attack the Goblin infantry
already engaged with your infantry. You should quickly eliminate the goblins. Next, order your
cavalry to engage any remaining archers. Tell your canon and crossbows to halt their fire. As they
approach the enemy archers use the Grudgebringer swords' magic ability to fire a fireball into their
This very first mission finds the Grudgebringer army ignorant of events developing in the southern
ranks. Once eliminated, move the infantry and cavalry back to their deployment positions. Make sure
lands. They have been employed to protect a small Trading Post from Goblin attack.
they are facing the correct direction i.e. towards the path and up the hill, when you have finished.
Mission Objectives
You will soon sight the next wave of Goblin archers and infantry. Order the cannon and crossbows
To slay the Goblins and stop them from ransacking the Trading Post located in the NW corner of the
battlefield.
to open fire on the archers. When close enough order the crossbows to re-direct their fire on the
incoming infantry regiment. Next, order the infantry to attack the Goblin infantry. Re-direct the fire of
the crossbows again to the to the archers. Order the cavalry to attack the Goblin infantry as soon as
Troop Selection:
possible. When the Goblin infantry are defeated, charge down the remaining archers using your
Grudgebringer Cavalry (with Grudgebringer Sword)
crossbows to disengage fire whilst the Grudgebringer cavalry engage the archers.
Grudgebringer Infantry
Grudgebringer
Crossbows
Grudgebringer
Cannon
cavalry. Use the Grudgebringer flame sword to inflict maximum casualties. Don't forget to tell your
Congratulations you are victorious. Before retiring from battle go and collect the treasure chest of
gold that awaits you in the town down the hill.
Don't forget to use the boost strength icon when your infantry and cavalry are engaging in combat.
26
27
Outcome
Troop Catalogue: Left-clicking this icon allows you to read up on all available regiments
and hire a few. Go through each page and choose a regiment. Select the gold coin to
The treasure stored at the Trading Post should be intact. Aside from your earnings for destroying the
hire the regiment. A number is shown on their banner in the top left corner of the right
Goblins, your army should also have captured 1 50 gold coins to add to your coffers. Your army
page. This is used to help identify multiple regiments of the same type. Remember that
should also have very few or no casualties to report when they return to camp for debriefing.
you can have up to a maximum of fifteen regiments in total. When you have reached
General tip - use the camera controls to zoom out as far out as it will go. This will give you a good
this limit, or if you have insufficient gold to pay for the regiment, the gold coin icon will
view of the entire battlefield and a better understanding of the enemies movements once the battle
not be selectable.
has begun.
Magic Item Catalogue: This icon allows you to read up on all available Magic Items
and buy as many as you can afford or carry in your army. Up to twenty items can be
held in storage.
The Multiplayer option is selected from the Main Menu. This allows two players to fight each other
head-to-head over the Internet, an IPX network, or via modem or a null-modem cable. Each option
utilises the DirectPlay drivers which are installed as part of DirectX 5.
The Multiplayer screen has only a few items to select from.
PLAY
Begin the Multiplayer game. See later for further details.
EDIT ARMY
Edit your army prior to entering the battlefield. See below for further
details.
MAIN MENU
Having equipped your armies and saved them, exit the Troop Roster then select exit from the Army
Editor menus to return to the Multiplayer menu.
Play
This option takes you to the Connection Screen. You can now select the type of connection you are
Returns you to the Main Menu.
Edit Army
going to use for the Multiplayer game.
Note: You can only edit or create armies before you make your connection with your opponent. Be
This option allows you to edit an existing army or create a new one from scratch. You can edit
sure you have a satisfactory army available before proceeding.
Greenskin or Undead armies as well as the usual Allied variety. Note that you can only do this
before you make the connection with your opponent.
The list shows you the names of some existing armies and their strength rating. To the left of the list
are three Race icons. The currently highlighted icon will be Allied, so only Allied armies appear in
the list. If you left-click on the Greenskin icon then only Greenskin armies will be displayed, and so
on. You can also choose to create a new army, with various levels of gold to spend, by clicking on a
New Army .
At the bottom of the screen you have three options:
DELETE
EXIT
EDIT
This will delete the currently selected army from the list.
This will exit this screen and return to the MULTIPLAYER screen.
This will allow you to edit the army as detailed below.
Dark Omen uses the DirectPlay component of Microsoft DirectX to provide its Multiplayer
functionality. The following connections types will be available if your PC is suitably equipped and
Selecting edit from the list will take you to a familiar looking book. This is very similar to the first
configured.
pages of the Troop Roster. The regiments in this army are shown on the left, complete with their
IPX:
relevant threat and armour ratings and current Magic Items.
operate.
Most of the icons along the bottom of these pages you should also be familiar with. You will notice
you can save the army by accessing the disk icon. You should do this once you have finished editing
Typically this will be the service used over a LAN (Local Area
Network). This selection requires no other configuration in order to
TCP/IP:
This may be used play over a LAN, no configuration is necessary.
the regiments.
Simply click OK when presented with a request box for an IP address.
Note that you can't buy additional troops for a regiment because each regiment begins with a full
To play over the Internet or other Wide Area Network (WAN) you
compliment.
will have to supply a value for the IP address request box. (If your
Internet connection is a dial-up account you should connect before you
start Dark Omen). More information can be found below.
28
29
Modem:
Direct Serial:
You may play a head-to-head modem session. Unlike the other
The 'join' button will activate a dialog box allowing you to select the required modem, and to
connection possibilities the modem does not make a connection until
provide the telephone number you wish to call. When you have provided this information clicking
the next screen has been completed. See below for details. (Dark
connect will actually dial up the other modem.
Omen requires a Modem Speed of 28.8k or greater )
Session Screen
This requires an ordinary null-modem cable. You will be required to
supply additional configuration information. Ensure that the correct
COM port has been selected for each machine (see 'Determining
Which COM Ports Are Connected'). The default values for the other
settings are acceptable for Dark Omen. If you do alter the
configuration, both machines must be set the same. N.B. Changing the
Baud rate from the default value of 57600 may result in data loss
and/or poor performance.
Other:
You may see other connection types. These will have been supplied by
3rd parties such as online gaming providers. In these cases you should
seek advice from the 3rd party involved.
Left-click on the connection type of your choice, then select connect to continue (you may be asked
Once your opponent has connected, you will see his army race, strength and name at the top of the
screen.
to enter additional configuration information). The connection will then be made (except for modem
play - see below). If you change your mind, back will return you to the previous screen.
Below, you should choose the army you wish to use from the list, which shows the existing armies
and their strength rating. To the left of the list are three Race icons. Select the required icon to
Available Sessions Screen
display the available armies of that race.
Beneath the armies is a list of available battlefields. The player who creates the session must select
the battlefield on which to play. The player who joins the session cannot change it.
At the bottom of this screen is the message window. You can exchange messages with your
opponent by typing on the keyboard and pressing RETURN. Your messages, and any replies, will be
shown in the message window.
Once both players have configured the session, select fight to go to battle.
Note: As soon as either player has clicked 'fight', the opponent will have 60 seconds to complete
his choices before the battle begins. Use the message system to ensure both players are ready to
begin before clicking 'fight'.
This screen shows a list of the available sessions on the current connection (if any exist). You may
After The Battle
update the list by left-clicking refresh, in case a new session has been created since you connected.
When the battle is over you will receive a debriefing as in the single player campaign. Once you
You can enter your name in the text box at the top of the screen, or use the default name. If you
have examined the battle results you can go to the Troop Roster and save your army, if you wish.
choose to 'create 1 a game the game will be called by the name you have entered.
When you exit the debriefing you will be returned to the Available Sessions Screen, and if you are
To join an available session, select one by left-clicking, then select join. To create a new session,
connected over dial-up Internet or modem the connection will still be active. If you wish to hang up
select create. Either way you will be taken to the Session Screen.
the modem you should select Back to return to the Connection Screen. When you Quit Dark
Note: If you are using modem play, clicking 'create' or 'join' will prompt you for further configuration,
Omen, Dial-up connections active before you started Dark Omen should be shut down in the normal
as follows.
way.
The 'create' button will activate a dialog box allowing you to select the required modem and an
'answer' button. Clicking answer will place your modem in answer mode. The other player will call
your modem.
30
31
Playing Over The Internet (TCP/IP)
To join an Internet game you must supply the IP address of the PC that has created the Session. To
find your IP address you may need to use the Windows® 95 utility 'WinlPCFG' - see the following
instructions. If so, it is recommended that you do this before starting Dark Omen.
The 'time' field gives the latency' of the connection. The lower the number the better. The example
above shows the times over a LAN TCP/IP connection. Acceptable values over an Internet
connection would be up to 500ms or so. Game performance and response will start to suffer over
this value.
If you receive the message 'Destination Host Unreachable', then there is either an error in the IP
Getting your IP address
address, a firewall present or a network failure that cannot be routed around,
1. Holding the mouse cursor over the CREATE button in Dark Omen's Session List Screen will
The 'Request Timed Out1 message will generally occur when the quality of the connection is very low.
pop-up your current IP address. If pop-up help I sturned off, you'll need to hold F6 while
Attempting to play Dark Omen in these circumstances is not recommended.
doing this.
Who Should Create The Game?
OR
It is recommended that whoever has the faster PC should create the game.
1. If you are using a dial-up Internet account you must connect before starting the WinlPCFG
program.
What Modem Speeds are Supported for Dial-Up?
2.
On the start menu select run, then type 'winipcfg'.
Dark Omen requires a modem connection of at least 28.8k.
3.
In the drop down box will be listed your network devices.
Render Quality affects Multiplayer Quality
4. Select the correct device. If you are using a dial-up connection ensure that the device 'PPP
As in single player the fastest response is best. Set the game's display and sound options to give you
Connection' is selected.
5. The correct IP address should now be listed. Take a note of this.
When you arrange to play a game and you are to be the game creator you should give this IP
address to the other player. The player who is joining the game types in this address when prompted
the best performance particularly if you are going to create the game.
High Latency I Poor Connection - What can I do?
1. If your connection is dial-up you could try logging off and reconnecting. In some cases the
by Dark Omen.
quality of connection may improve, however the Internet as a whole is the main factor.
Performance Issues for Internet Play
2. Try connecting at 'off-peak' times when the Internet is quieter.
The quality of your Internet connection will determine how well Dark Omen plays. You can gauge
3. Play only against opponents near to you. Opponents on the same ISP (Internet Service
Provider) are the nearest!
the quality of your Internet connection using a Windows® 95 program called 'PING'.
Testing Your Internet Connection
Determining nearness of Opponent
1. Get the IP address of the other player.
1. From an MS-DOS prompt, type 'tracert xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx', where xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx is the IP
address you are analysing.
2. Open a MS-DOS prompt window (Start Menu/Programs).
3. Type 'ping xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx', where xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx is the IP address of the other player.
2. Wait! The process may take a few minutes to complete.
3.
e-SC:\W95>ping 1 5 9 . 1 5 3 . 4 5 . 4 2
Pinging 1 5 9 . 1 5 3 . 4 5 . 4 2 with 32 bytes of data:
Reply from 1 5 9 . 1 5 3 . 4 5 . 4 2 : bytes=32 time= 1 6ms TTL=3 1
Now you have a list of the 'hops' your data makes to reach it's destination.
4. The less hops the better. A journey of less than 1 5-1 7 hops is in most cases going to work
best.
Lobby Support
Reply from 1 5 9 . 1 5 3 . 4 5 . 4 2 : bytes = 32 time = 21 ms TTL=31
Dark Omen supports being launched by DirectPlay Lobby Clients. Please refer to your Lobby Client
Reply from 1 5 9 . 1 5 3 . 4 5 . 4 2 : bytes=32 time= 1 5ms TTL=3 1
documentation for details.
Reply from 1 5 9 . 1 5 3 . 4 5 . 4 2 : bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=31
32
33
Troubleshooting the Connection
Testing your Serial Cable
Here are the errors you may experience, and their possible causes.
If you are experiencing difficulties setting up a direct serial connection using a null-modem cable, you
'Session lost':
This is the error message returned when the connection has been
can do a simple test using the Windows® 95 Hyperterminal program.
broken. This could either be through errors in the connection or the
1.
other player quitting the game unexpectedly.
'Failed to load battle':
One (or both) the PC's could not load the selected battle. The most
2.
On each PC type a name for the connection and press OK. (Test Serial' would be a good
3.
On each PC select the 'Connect Using' combo box and select the 'Direct to Com X' option that
likely cause of this is through disk corruption. Both PC's should check
their drives for errors (use Scandisk or similar). Dark Omen will require
name).
reinstallation if there were errors.
'Army transfer failed':
This could be caused by either a bad connection or disk errors. You
matches the COM port being used. Click OK.
4. On both PC's make sure the same Port Settings are selected. If they are different change them so
should check both your connection and your PC for disk errors. If
there are disk errors you will need to reinstall Dark Omen.
'Player cannot be synchronised':
One of the PC's cannot keep up with the other. This is
probably due to a low quality connection.
'Could not connect':
The DirectPlay Service could not be started.
Tailed to connect to session':
they match. Click OK.
5.
Now type keys on one PC and see if they appear on the other's screen. Try this in reverse.
If the last step is not successful then the connection has failed.
Possible Reasons for Failure.
This error may be due to a network error, or another player may
1 . Not a Null-Modem Cable. You may be using a modem cable. This will not work.
have joined the chosen session just ahead of you.
2. The cable is damaged. The cable should be electrically tested.
Failed to create the session':This error is most likely given when a connection has failed to initialise
3.
correctly, e.g. Internet/Modem.
'Failed to start lobby session':
On both PC's locate and start 'Hyperterminal'. (Should be Start
Menu/Programs/ Accessories/Hyperterminal/Hypertrm.exe).
The game has been started from a lobby client but could not open
the connection and/or session successfully. The connection
One of the PC's has an incorrectly functioning COM port. Try another port. Check the Device
for Conflicts in the System Control Panel Applet.
Rule Changes In Multiplayer
information from the Lobby client may be incorrect or the other
Note that there are a few rule changes in a Multiplayer game, compared to a solo campaign:
player may have quit.
•
Connection cancelled by user': You have cancelled the operation.
Determining Which COM Ports are Connected
Invoking the Map during a battle (press TAB or Space to toggle it on/off) does not pause the
game as it would do in a solo campaign.
•
If both players choose the same race for their army (e.g. Greenskin), then Fear behaves slightly
differently. For example,- in a solo campaign, Giant Spiders cause fear in all races except those of
In order to set up a successful serial connection you must enter the correct COM port into the
the same race or those who are immune to fear. In a Multiplayer game, your opponent's
configuration dialog. If you are unsure which COM port is being used, follow the steps below.
Greenskin troops will fear your Giant Spider but won't fear their own! (see SPECIAL
1.
ATTRIBUTES in APPENDIX B for details on fear).
Ensure that both machines are connected using a null-modem cable and turned on.
IMPORTANT: If you have a serial printer or any serial device other than a modem, you must turn it
off or disconnect it. Modems may be connected and turned on but should not be operating.
2. On both PC's, from the Dark Omen program folder (Start/Programs/Dark Omen) click the
•
If your Night Goblin regiment contains Night Goblin Fanatics, you will see a swinging ball and
chain above the regiment on the battlefield. Your opponent won't see this indicator.
In a solo campaign you can only control an Allied army. In Multiplayer, you can choose who you
'Detect COM Port Connection' program to run it.
want to be. The colour of the order buttons found on the Control Panel will differ depending on the
3.
On both PC's, click the 'Detect' button at the same time (approximately).
race of your army:
4.
The detection process will take between 30 and 100 seconds.
Race
Selectable
Not currently available
Allied
Gold
Silver
port was not detected it is recommended that you try again (from step 3) a couple more times.
Greenskin
Red stone
Grey stone
6.
If still no port has been detected, there may be a fault with the connectors or cable or a
Undead
Bone
Wood
7.
Press 'Exit' when you are done.
5. When done the detected port will be displayed, or 'none' if the port was not detected. If the
configuration problem.
34
35
Messages
Players can send messages to each other during a Multiplayer game. To do this, simply press F4 or
'T' and then type in your message. Pressing ENTER will send the message to your opponent. Any
APPENDIX A
MAGIC SPELLS
messages they send to you will appear on-screen during the battle.
There are four different types of magic available in Dark Omen; Bright, Ice, Waaagh and
Aborting a Multiplayer Game
Dark.
Each of the four types share one
Magic Spell:
Pressing ESC will give either player the chance to abort the game or continue. If you decide to
abort, you will be taken back to the sessions list. The connection is not broken unless you select
back from the sessions list.
KLAUS ZIMMERMAN'S STRATEGY TIPS
•
Be sure to stop your ballistic regiments from firing when you engage their target regiment in
Bright Magic
Bright Wizards are fire Wizards. Their magic is of flame and heat and they make excellent Battle
Wizards with their ability to cast fireballs and flame storms upon their enemies.
melee, or you'll suffer losses from friendly fire.
•
Put Archers on high ground. This gives them the advantage of a higher 'line of sight', allowing
Dispel Magic
them to see over the top of potential obstacles. They will also benefit from greater than normal
Magic Power points cost: 1 (per potency) - maximum 3
range due to their elevated position on the battlefield.
•
Dispel Magic creates an aura of anti-magic around the chosen friendly regiment, and any
Launch surprise attacks by hiding your regiments behind buildings and trees and charging out as
offensive magic entering this zone of protection may be neutralised. It may also be cast
the enemy passes by.
•
Retreating a regiment to lead the enemy into an ambush is an old but effective tactic.
•
Soften up enemy regiments with missile fire and magic before engaging them in melee.
•
Use caution when advancing past obstacles such as buildings and trees, as enemy regiments may
be hiding behind them.
on a regiment which is currently engulfed by magic. Dispel is more effective when more
magic is channelled into it, but its potency is reduced after each attempt to dispel. To
achieve this, you must select (left-click) one to three times on the spell before casting.
Fireball
Protect your wizards and artillery crews from attack by enemy missile fire and ground troops.
Magical Power points cost: 1 (per Fireball, of which you are allowed a maximum of 3)
They are valuable regiments, but are easily destroyed in this way.
A fiery ball of energy blasts forth from the mage's hands and hurtles towards its target,
•
Gain the advantage in melee by charging enemy regiments in the flanks or rear.
wounding any troops in the blast area. The spell has a medium range and armour offers
•
Cavalry regiments can be held back so they can come to the swift assistance of any regiments
no protection from the searing blast. By channelling more magic into the spell, the mage
that require aid during a battle. A charging Cavalry galloping at the enemy from the rear can be
can produce multiple fireballs. To achieve this, you must select (left-click) one to three
highly effective.
times on the spell before casting.
•
•
Mounted enemy regiments should be engaged by your own Cavalry to even the odds.
•
Attack routing enemy regiments with magic or ranged fire. Although they can't retaliate whilst
Sanguine Sword
Magical Power points cost: 3
routing, they will be able to fight if they regroup elsewhere on the battlefield. You will also earn
more gold and experience.
Magical flaming swords materialise around the mage and will attack enemy units on
•
Target and destroy enemy magic users quickly, before they inflict too much damage on your army.
behalf of their invoker. The swords fly towards any nearby enemies, each dealing a
•
Enemy Wizards can be difficult to defeat with magic, so try hitting them with artillery or missile
•
Night Goblin Fanatics can be concealed in ordinary Night Goblin regiments and will be released
powerful blow. The spell lasts for a short while before the swords fade away.
fire instead.
when your regiments get close, causing large amounts of damage. Charging a fast regiment close
Blast
Magical Power points cost: 2
to the Night Goblins can release the Fanatics and allow your regiment to escape to safety.
•
Don't be afraid to retreat if the battle is going badly. It takes the stronger man to know when to
cut his losses and run.
A powerful attack, Blast launches a lethal volley of burning energy at the target. The
range is of a medium distance, but the flames deal a lethal blow to all but the hardiest
of targets.
36
37
Death Frost
The Bunring Head
Magical Power points cost: 2
Magic Power points cost: 3
A phantasmal flaming skull flies from the mage's hands and travels a short distance until
While in melee a freezing mist engulfs the mage and anyone in close proximity to him,
the spell expires or hits a solid object. The disembodied head causes a good amount of
turning their bodies into frozen blocks of ice. The spell's lack of range is compensated
damage to any target it passes through, and its unearthly laughter can cause units to flee
by its effectiveness, as limbs freeze and shatter causing horrific and often mortal wounds.
Chill Blast
Conflagration of Doom
Magical Power points cost: 3
Magic Power points cost: 3
This powerful spell creates a flaming meteor, suspended in the air high above the heads
This spell sends forth an icy beam, subjecting anything in its path to a violent and
of the enemy troops. The meteor crashes to the ground, delivering an awesome blast to
freezing assault against which armour affords no protection. The spell has a medium
anything onto which it falls. The mere sight of the flames descending from the sky is
range.
often enough to make the enemy flee in fear.
Flamestorm
Ice Shards
Magical Power points cost: 2
Magic Power points cost: 2
A fierce column of fire erupts from the ground spewing forth flame and ash. All troops
who are caught in the blast are burned and attempt to back away from the flames. The
Sharp icicles spring from the mage's hand in the direction of the target, causing multiple
spell stays in effect for a short time unless dispelled or cancelled by the casting mage.
wounds as they pierce and impale their targets. This ranged attack is shorter than most,
Only one Flamestorm can be in effect at any one time.
but is still highly effective as the deadly needles of ice cause their victims to freeze and
shatter.
Crimson Bands
Wind of Cold
Magical Power points cost: 3
Magic Power points cost: 2
Twisting bands of energy entwine the enemy unit, entangling them and rendering them
A freezing wind heads towards the target freezing those it reaches. The spell's range is
unable to move, fight, shoot or cast magic. The spell remains in effect for a short time
unpredictable and varies greatly, however it is unhindered by obstacles and armour
unless dispelled or cancelled by the casting mage.
cannot protect those who are trapped in its wake.
Shield of Cold
Wings of Fire
Magical Power points cost: 2
Magic Power points cost: 1
The mage is lifted up on ethereal fiery wings and is transported to another part of the
This spell creates a frozen shield that protects the chosen friendly regiment from missile
battlefield. This can take the mage into close combat with the usual advantages, but not
fire. The enemy's chances of penetrating the shield are greatly reduced and the shield
remains effective for a short time unless dispelled or cancelled by the caster. The shield
into any areas that are normally inaccessible.
offers no protection from melee attacks and is automatically dispelled if the subject
ICE MAGIC
enters hand-to-hand combat.
Ice Magic is a native form of magic practised in the northern regions of Kislev. An Ice
Hawks
ofMiska
Wizard is able to control magical energy to produce deadly spells of ice and cold.
Magic Power points cost: 2
A flock of crystalline hawks appears in the sky above the heads of a nearby enemy unit,
unnerving them with their unearthly shrieking. Such a spectacle may cause the target unit
to run in fear from the battlefield.
38
39
Snow Blizzard
Fist of Gork
Magic Power points cost: 3
Magic Power points cost: 3
A furious blizzard stirs up around a nearby enemy target, stopping them in their tracks.
Gork imbues the shaman with astounding powers in melee. For a short period of time,
The troops are temporarily immobilised by the strong winds and biting cold, rendering
vaporous fists swirl through the fray, lashing out repeatedly with astonishing accuracy
them unable to move, fight, shoot or cast magic.
and strength and causing severe casualties in the enemy ranks.
Crystal Cloak
Mork Save Vz
Magic Power points cost: 2
Magic Power points cost: 1
The mage is surrounded in a shimmering cloak of ice and snow which may lessen the
This spell protects the chosen Ore or Goblin regiment from all magic for a short period
impact of normal weapons. A blow from a magical weapon will be deflected as normal
of time. Mork Save Uz not only dispels any spells currently cast on the regiment but
but will also destroy the shield, thus rendering the mage open to further attacks.
also renders the target unaffected by all magic, including friendly magic, for the duration
of the spell.
WAAAGH MAGIC
...
Ere We Go
Ores and Goblins are so unlike other creatures that they generate their own form of
Magic Power points cost: 2
energy. As individuals this effect is negligible, but as a mob their combined minds
The shaman can inspire to greater efforts any friendly regiment within a long range, for a
produce an awful lot of concentrated energy. In large amounts this energy excites Ores
short period of time. The target of the magic becomes tougher and stronger, giving it a
and Goblins and this sense of euphoria and common identity is known as the Waaagh.
considerable advantage in melee.
This energy vents itself through the most receptive Ore or Goblin mind present. Such
individuals are called Shamans, and use the power of the Waaagh to cast their magic
spells.
DARK MAGIC
Dark energy is undivided; it contains all the types of magic energy in a seething mass.
Brain Bursta
Dark Magic spells are destructive and powerful. Most mighty of all are the spells
Magic Power points cost: 1 (per Bolt)
which give dominion over demons and the dead.
The shaman sends a bolt of energy flying towards the target. The first target hit by the
blast will suffer the unfortunate consequence of their head exploding in a shower of
bone and blood. Tougher creatures can withstand this mental assault, but armour offers
Gaze of Nagash
no protection whatsoever. By channelling more magic into the spell, the Shaman can
Magic Power points cost: 2
produce multiple bolts. To achieve this, click up to 3 times on the spell icon.
A beam of magic shoots from the mage's eyes, corroding and withering any target in its
path. Armour offers no protection against this short ranged but highly effective attack, it
Gaze of Mork
merely crumbles away.
Magic Power points cost: 2
The shaman sends out a searing beam of energy, delivering a mighty mental blow to
anything in its path and causing massive internal wounding. The range of the shaman's
power is good, and the spell is effective against all targets who are caught in its path.
Raise the Dead
Magic Power points cost: 3
The necromancer's power raises the bodies of the dead up from the belly of the earth.
A regiment of Zombies rises from the ground to fight on behalf of their master. This
Da Krunch
spell can only sustain one group of Zombies at any one time so it must be cancelled or
dispelled, or the Zombie regiment killed, before the spell may be cast again.
Magic Power points cost: 3
The shaman's wailing for divine intervention is answered as the enormous foot of Gork
stamps down on the target unit. Gork is not always precise about where he treads, but
when on target the result is devastating.
40
41
Doombolt
Magic Power points cost: 1 (per Bolt)
A powerful blast of Dark energy rushes towards the target, causing severe wounding.
MAGIC WEAPONS
Grudgebringer Sword
The spell is also exceedingly effective against larger targets, but will not travel very far
This mighty sword has runes inscribed along the blade by a Bright magic Wizard Lord. In hand-to-
before it fades. By channelling more magic into the spell, the necromancer can produce
hand combat the wielder strikes more accurately and ferociously against his enemies. In addition a
multiple bolts. To achieve this, click up to 3 times on the spell icon.
fireball may be cast from the sword once per Magic Cycle.
Death Spasm
Magic Power points cost: 2
A bolt of Dark magic strikes a single target within a short distance. Weaker targets are
killed by the attack but before expiring suffer violent seizures, haphazardly striking those
in the near vicinity. Armour provides no defence against this spell.
The Sword Skabskrath (Undead only)
This unholy sword holds terrifying evil spirits within its blade. In hand-to-hand combat the sword may
be cast once per Magic Cycle, sending forth a demonic wave of spirits to strike fear into the hearts
of the enemy. This sword may only be used by Undead armies.
Runefang (Allies only)
Forged by a great Dwarf runesmith as a gift to the Empire, this sword has powerful Dwarf runes
Blade Wind
Magic Power points cost: 2
carved upon its blade. The sword strikes with such force it penetrates all armour, and any undead
troops hit by the sword suffer twice the normal damage. This sword may only be used by Allied
armies.
This whirling torrent of magical energy materialises over the enemy target, releasing
swirling blades into the regiment and causing severe wounding. The effectiveness of the
Hellfire Sword
spell is lessened when targeted at more skilled fighters, as they defend themselves more
This sword is enchanted with the energy of Bright magic. Its magical power may be cast once per
effectively from the assault.
Arnizipal's Black Horror
magic cycle when the wielder is in melee, unleashing a fiery blast which wounds any troops in the
vicinity.
Magic Power points cost: 3
Stormsword
The mage conjures a swirling cloud of darkness that moves across the field, annihilating
This mighty sword channels the energy of Celestial magic through its blade. In hand-to-hand combat
everything in its path. Strong characters have a better chance of surviving the attack,
a successful strike wounds the enemy automatically, regardless of any armour he may be wearing.
and only those with magical armour can expect any defence against this spell.
When the wielder is in melee it may be cast once per magic cycle, summoning multiple lightning bolts
from the sky which strike the enemy regiment.
Soul Drain
Magic Power points cost: 3
This medium ranged spell allows the mage to drain energy from living creatures. All
those close to the nominated target feel the very life force sucked out of them as the
spell takes effect. The life that is stolen is absorbed into the mage's soul, healing
wounds and revitalising. Only magical armour will offer any resistance.
Witch Flight
MAGIC SHIELDS
Spelleater Shield
The Spelleater Shield is inscribed with symbols which have the power to absorb enemy magic.
Whenever the bearer's regiment is the target of an enemy spell the shield has a good chance of
absorbing the magic and channelling its power to any friendly mages. The shield can also negate the
effects of enemy magic items. Additionally, the shield provides the bearer's regiment with a basic level
of armour if they have none. This item can only be utilised by troops who are normally able to use a
Magic Power points cost: 2
shield.
The mage uses the power of the void to transport him across the battlefield, to any
Dragonhelm
point he desires. This can take the mage into close combat with the usual advantages,
but not into any areas that are normally inaccessible.
This magic helmet protects the bearer's regiment from the effects of fire or flame attacks. The magical
powers are so effective that almost all such attacks will be ineffective.
43
Shield Of Ptolos
The Shield of Ptolos is magically inscribed with a myriad of distracting patterns and designs. The
patterns magically distract arrows and bolts, sending them spinning off course. The bearer's regiment
WIZARD ARCANA (MAGIC USERS
Staff Of Osiris
will be protected against missiles from bows, crossbows, war engines and so on. Additionally, the
The Staff Of Osiris contains magic which can unleash a powerful energy bolt. It may be cast once
shield provides the bearer's regiment with a basic level of armour if they have none. This item can
per magic phase, sending a blast of pure energy towards the target. Any troop in the blast's path is
only be utilised by troops who are normally able to use a shield.
hit with great force. The Staff may only be carried by Wizards.
Enchanted Shield
Wand Of Jet
The Enchanted Shield provides the bearer's regiment with an extra level of armour, or provides a basic
This powerful wand channels the energy of the winds of magic, providing the bearer with extra
level of armour if the regiment has none. This item can only be utilised by troops who are normally
magical powers. Any spell in the bearer's repertoire can be cast for one less magic point than it
able to use a shield.
would normally cost, to a minimum of one point. The Wand Of Jet may only be carried by
Wizards.
IC BANNERS
Book Of Ashur
Banner Of Arcane Warding
The banner of Arcane Warding is inscribed with sigils to twist magic aside and deflect it in
unpredictable paths. When a hostile spell is cast against a regiment bearing this banner the spell is
likely to be either negated or deflected towards the closest enemy regiment.
This enchanted book contains mysterious secrets allowing a Wizard to increase his repertoire of spells
by one, up to a maximum of five spells. The Book Of Ashur may only be carried by Wizards.
MISCELLANEOUS MAGIC ITEMS
Banner Of Wrath
Heart Of Woe
This hallowed banner has been infused with power and can lash the enemy with bolts of pure energy.
This pendant is enchanted with a life-sensing force which, when the bearer is slain, causes the Heart
It may be cast once per magic cycle, unleashing up to six mighty lightning bolts upon enemy troops
to explode. Any troop caught in the blast is hit with potentially huge force and if wounded suffers
within range.
terrible damage.
Banner Of Defiance
Potion Of Strength
This powerful banner infuses the bearer's regiment with extra courage, making them braver and more
When drunk, this magic potion increases the strength of the bearer's regiment for a short period of
determined. A regiment bearing this banner will never break from hand-to-hand combat and is
time, allowing them to inflict far more damage on enemy troops in melee. The potion can only be
immune to fear.
used once.
Mark's War Banner (Greenskins only)
Horn Of Urgok
This banner is infused with the power of the Waaagh and has the ability to negate hostile spells
This enchanted horn has the power to panic enemies and calm friendly troops with a single blast.
which are cast at the bearer's regiment. Additionally, any enemy Wizard who comes into contact with
When sounded, all enemy regiments within earshot may flee and all fleeing friendly regiments within
the regiment will explode, dying immediately. This banner may only be carried by Ore and Goblin
range will rally themselves.
44
45
APPENDIX B
SPECIAL RULES
Skeleton Archers (U)
All*
x
Skeleton Horsemen (U)
All*
x
YES
Skeleton Warriors (U)
All*
x
YES
Undead Chariots (U)
All*
x
YES
Each regiment differs from the next in many ways; not just in their appearance, choice of weaponry or
Vampire (U)
All*
x
YES
Wights (U)
All*
x
YES
Wraiths (U)
All*
x
YES
Zombies (U)
All*
x
YES
preferred method of attack. All of the troops within the three races (Allied, Greenskin and Undead)
have psychological and physical attributes which affect the way they behave on the battlefield. These
differences are known as the 'Special Rules .
Fear & Hatred
YES
Not feared by those in the same army or by those immune to fear.
Strong emotions such as fear or hatred of another race originate from a long history of conflict and
The skulls they fire cause fear when they hit their targets.
misunderstanding. If a regiment comes up against an enemy they fear, they might automatically rout
across the battlefield just to get away from their foe! Similarly, if a regiment encounters an enemy they
hate, they will need no second invitation to engage in battle. If a race is immune to fear and hatred
then it goes without saying that they will be much harder to rout off the battlefield!
Special Attributes
The relative strength of the enemy regiment has an effect on whether the fear is enough to deter your
Apart from fear and hatred, there are 'Special Attributes' associated with particular regiments.
regiment from engaging them in battle. For example, one solitary zombie probably isn't going to be
Race
Regiment
Special Attributes
enough to make your sixteen man strong Cavalry regiment flee in fear! They will still fear the creature,
ALLIED
Treemen
Will take twice the damage from fire attacks.
ALLIED
Imperial Steam Tanks
Cannot be engaged in melee. They will run over
but not to the point where they feel the need to run away from it.
any enemy troops who get in their way!
The following table shows who is feared, who is hated and who is immune to these emotions.
GREENSKIN
Night Goblin Fanatics
A = Allied, G = Greenskins, U = Undead
Regiment
Humans
(A)
will just plough through a regiment regardless!
Feared by...
Hated by...
Immune to Fear/Hatred
X
X
X
Dwarf Warriors (A)
X
Night Goblins (G)
X
Treeman (A)
All*
X
YES
Wood Elf Archers (A)
Goblins
X
X
Wood Elf Glade Guards (A)
Goblins
X
X
Grail Knights (A)
X
X
YES
X
Dwarfs, Treemen (A)
X
Giant Scorpion (G)
Dwarfs, Treemen (A)
YES
Giant Spider (G)
All*
All*
Dwarfs, Treemen (A)
YES
Night Goblins (G)
X
Dwarfs, Treemen (A)
X
Night Goblin Fanatics (G)
X
Dwarfs, Treemen (A)
YES
Troll (G)
All*
All*
All*
All*
All*
All*
All**
Dwarfs, Treemen (A)
YES
YES
Ghouls (U)
Hand of Nagash (U)
Mercenary Ogres
Mummies (U)
Screaming Skull Catapults (U)
(These are hidden in other Goblin regiments)
GREENSKIN
Trolls
Are magically resistant. There's a 50% chance that
a Magic Spell will have no effect on them. They
also have the ability to regenerate wounds (except
those caused by fire), literally growing new flesh as
it is hacked off!
Orcs (G)
The Black Grail (U)
Can't be engaged in hand-to-hand combat. They
X
X
YES
YES
X
X
X
YES
X
YES
X
46
GREENSKIN
Giant Spiders
Have 360 degree vision.
UNDEAD
Wraiths
Can only be harmed by magic weapons or spells.
UNDEAD
Mummies
Suffer double wounds from any fire attack.
Normal weapons have no effect.
47
APPENDIX C
Grudgebringer Crossbows (Mercenary Crossbowmen)
As part of the respected Grudgebringer mercenary army
BATTle: BESTIARY
these troops are skilled in their art and loyal to their
Commander. They are armed with powerful crossbows,
Information about all the regiments encountered in Dark Omen have been gathered together for your
which have a long range but require line of sight to their
reference.
target. Although they wield their crossbows with
ALLIED REGIMENTS
considerable skill, they are not particularly effective in
hand-to-hand combat. Only the front rank of crossbowmen
Grail Knights
may fire.
Having sipped from the grail itself, these Knights are the
Grudgebtinger Cannon (Mercenary Artillery)
most powerful of all the Knights of Bretonnia, Their skill in
This machine fires heavy cannonballs which can tear through
combat is extraordinary and they fight determinedly. Grail
enemy regiments and light buildings with ease, but is
Knights know no fear and are immune to such types of
progressively more inaccurate the further it fires. Its
psychology.
enormously long range is only equalled by Ore Rock
Knights of the Realm
Lobbers, but it requires line of sight to its target as the
cannonball is fired in a very shallow arc. Armour is useless
These Knights belong to the most numerous of the
against hits from a Cannon.
Bretonnian orders of chivalry. They ride into battle on
powerful Bretonnian war-horses and are highly skilled in
combat.
Imperial Cannon
This machine fires heavy cannonballs which can tear through
enemy regiments and light buildings with ease, but is
Dwarf Warriors
progressively more inaccurate the further it fires. Its
enormously long range is only equalled by Ore Rock
Determined and confident, Dwarfs are immensely strong
Lobbers, but it requires line of sight to its target as the
and resilient although slow on their feet. They will flee in
cannonball is fired in a very shallow arc. Armour is useless
only the most desperate circumstances and their hatred for
against hits from a Cannon.
Ores and Goblins makes them even less likely to rout
when fighting them.
Grudgebringer Cavalry (Mercenary Cavalry)
Taking their name from their Commander's powerful sword
1
'Grudgebringer these mercenaries form the core of the
army known as the Grudgebringers. They are skilled in
Carlsson's Cavalry
These warriors form part of the militia commanded by the
Border Prince and former mercenary Sven Carlsson, a
personal friend of Bernhardt. They ride into battle on
mighty war-horses and are proficient in combat.
combat and ride into battle on mighty war-horses.
Bright Wizard (Flame strike)
Grudgebringer Infantry
(Mercenary Swordsmen)
These warriors are highly experienced and proficient fighters
led by Sergeant Gunther Schepke, Bernhardt's second in
command. As part of the respected mercenary army known
as the Grudgebringers they are completely loyal to their
Having spent years studying his art at the Bright College in
Altdorf, a Bright Wizard is able to control magical energy
to produce spells of flame and heat. Although extremely
powerful in battle, Wizards do not fare well in hand-tohand combat. A Wizard may never wear armour.
Commander.
48
49
Countess' Guard (Imperial Halberdiers)
Mercenary Ogres
These fighters, like all the Empire's infantry, are highly
These massive creatures stand twice as tall as a man and
trained and proficient fighters. They are skilled in combat
are far more strongly built. Although they are not
and the halberds they wield are heavy weapons which hit
particularly intelligent, they are strong and tough and fight
with great force. These weapons must be wielded with
ferociously. They are notoriously indiscriminate about who
both hands, so these troops are limited in the amount of
they fight for, as long as they are rewarded. Due to their
armour they can utilise.
large and threatening appearance Ogres provoke fear.
Helmgart Bowmen (Imperial Bowmen)
Outlaw Infantry
These highly trained warriors were once swordsmen of the
Like all warriors of the Empire these bowmen are highly
trained in their art. They are armed with standard bows
Empire. However, under the influence of their leader
which have a medium range. Although they wield their
Jurgen Muntz, they have abandoned the Empire to fight
bows with skill they are not particularly effective in hand-
outside the law for greater material gain.
to-hand combat. Only the front two ranks of archers may
fire. Helmgart Bowmen do not require line of sight.
Flagellants
Imperial Greatswords
Imperial Greatswords, like all swordsmen of the Empire,
Flagellants are men who have been driven over the edge of
are highly trained and proficient fighters. The swords they
sanity by some personal disaster or catastrophe, causing
wield are so large they must be swung with both hands
them to travel the Empire preaching their nightmare visions
and therefore strike with great force. Due to this fact these
of doom. Their madness gives them superhuman strength
troops are limited in the amount of armour they can utilise.
and resilience and they fight with outstanding fury.
Flagellants wear only tattered robes and will not wear
Ice Mage (Stormbringer)
Ice Magic is a native form of Magic practised in the northern
armour. They will also never break from combat.
regions of Kislev. An Ice Mage is able to control magical
Imperial Steam Tank
energy to produce deadly spells of ice and cold. Although
This machine is in effect a mobile cannon and is very
extremely powerful in battle, Wizards do not fare well in
heavily armoured. In battle it cannot be engaged in hand-
hand-to-hand combat. A Wizard may never wear armour.
to-hand combat as it would simply run over any troops in
its path. The cannon, which has a long range but is
Ragnar's Wolves
progressively more inaccurate the further it fires, launches
These warriors originate from the cold and inhospitable
heavy cannonballs which can tear through an enemy
lands of Norsca where they fight under the command of
regiment with ease. Armour provides no protection against
Eric Ragnar, their leader and a personal friend of
Bernhardt. They ride into battle on mighty war-horses and
hits from cannonballs.
are skilled in combat.
Imperial Mortar
This machine fires explosive shells high into the air, sending
Outlaw Pistoliers
them crashing into enemy ranks. It has an extremely long
These young mercenaries are fairly inexperienced, but make
range and can shoot over obstacles and terrain as the shell
an exceptional rapid response force. Under the guidance of
is fired in an arc, but it is progressively more inaccurate the
their disillusioned leader they have abandoned the Empire
further it fires. Armour provides no protection against hits
to fight outside the law. In combat their skills are average
from a Mortar. The Imperial Mortar does not require line
but they carry pistols, which only have a very short range
of sight.
yet are powerful enough to penetrate most armour. The
pistols require line of sight to their target.
50
51
GREENSKIN REGIMENTS
Wood Elf Glade Guards
These tall, agile warriors live in the Forests of Loren. They
are quick on their feet and are skilled in combat. Wood
Gigantic Spider
These huge and horrific monsters are worshipped by Night
Elves are feared by Goblins, giving them the advantage
Goblins. They have 360 degree vision, making them
when facing them in combat. Elves will only wear light
excellent at spotting hidden enemies. Due to their ferocious
armour in battle as heavier varieties are too restrictive.
appearance Gigantic Spiders cause fear.
Wood Elf Archers
These tall, agile warriors are armed with powerful
longbows. Their skill as archers is excellent and their bows
Giant Scorpion
These huge and ferocious creatures breed in the dank
have a very long range. They are quick on their feet, are
underground passageways deep below the earth. The
not slowed by difficult terrain and are equally as good
combined force of their two pincers allows them to fight
hand-to-hand fighters as other Elves. These troops will only
with great strength. Due to their horrific nature Giant
wear light armour in battle as heavier varieties are too
Scorpions cause fear.
restrictive. Wood Elves are feared by Goblins, giving them
the advantage when facing them in combat. Only the front
two ranks of archers may fire. Wood Elf Archers do not
Night Goblins
Typically smaller than Orcs, Goblins look rather thin and
require line of sight.
scrawny compared to their larger relatives. Night Goblins
Treeman
hate Dwarfs and are unlikely to flee when fighting them.
However, they fear Elves and are therefore at a
These extremely large creatures are incredibly strong and
disadvantage when facing Elf regiments.
tough, fighting with great skill and ferocity. However, their
dry woody skin suffers great damage if burned, so fire is
their greatest enemy. They hate Orcs and Goblins, so are
Night Goblins with Fanatics
Typically smaller than Orcs, Goblins look rather thin and
unlikely to flee when fighting them. Due to their huge and
scrawny compared to their larger relatives. Night Goblins
frightening appearance, Treemen provoke fear. Treemen
hate Dwarfs and are unlikely to flee when fighting them.
cannot wear armour.
However, they fear Elves and are therefore at a
disadvantage when facing Elf regiments. This regiment
conceals Night Goblin Fanatics, gibbering lunatics who
become immensely strong and fearless after drinking
intoxicating fungus beer. Hidden within the regiment, they
are pushed out when close to the enemy. The Fanatics spin
wildly through any troops they contact and cannot be
engaged in hand-to-hand combat. They eventually collapse
from exhaustion or collide with an obstacle.
Night Goblin Archers
Night Goblin Archers are armed with short bows. Their
skill as archers is average, but their bows only have a short
range. Night Goblins hate Dwarfs and are unlikely to flee
when fighting them. However, they fear Elves and are
therefore at a disadvantage when facing Elf regiments.
Only the front two ranks of archers may fire.
52
53
Orc Big'uns
Night Goblin Archers with Fanatics
Night Goblin Archers are armed with short bows. Their
Bigger and more powerful than ordinary Orc Boyz, Big'uns
skill as archers is average, but their bows only have a short
are very strong and mean and by far the best mob of Orcs
range. Night Goblins hate Dwarfs and are unlikely to flee
in the army. They are more skilled in combat and their size
when fighting them. However, they fear Elves and are
gives them greater overall strength than their smaller
therefore at a disadvantage when facing Elf regiments. This
counterparts.
regiment conceals Night Goblin Fanatics, gibbering lunatics
Orc Bolt Thrower
who become immensely strong and fearless after drinking
intoxicating fungus beer. Hidden within the regiment, they
This huge crossbow fires spear-sized missiles which can tear
are pushed out when close to the enemy. The Fanatics spin
through several ranks of an enemy regiment, but is
wildly through any troops they contact and cannot be
progressively more inaccurate the further it fires. It has an
engaged in hand-to-hand combat. They eventually collapse
extremely long range but requires line of sight to its target
from exhaustion or collide with an obstacle.
as the missile is fired in a straight trajectory. Armour is
useless against hits from a Bolt Thrower.
Night Goblin Shaman
Orc Rock Lobber
These Goblin Wizards are slightly tougher than ordinary
Night Goblins and have the powers of Waaagh magic at
This enormous catapult hurls large boulders high into the
their disposal. Night Goblins hate Dwarfs and are unlikely
air, sending them crashing down into enemy ranks. Its
to flee when fighting them. However, they fear Elves and
enormously long range is equalled only by Imperial
are therefore at a disadvantage when facing Elf regiments.
Cannons and it can shoot over obstacles and terrain as the
missile is fired in an arc, but it is progressively more
Orc Arrer Boyz
inaccurate the further it fires. Armour is useless against hits
from a Rock Lobber.
Orc Arrer Boyz are armed with standard bows. Their skill
as archers is average and their bows have a medium range.
Orc Shaman
Arrer Boyz are just as skilled in hand-to-hand combat as
These Orc Wizards are slightly tougher than ordinary Orc
other Boyz. Only the front two ranks of Arrer Boyz may
Boyz and have the powers of Waaagh magic at their
fire. Orc Arrer Boyz do not require line of sight.
disposal. They can wreak havoc amongst their enemies with
Orc Boar Boyz
their powerful and destructive spells.
More skilled than normal Orcs, these powerful troops
Trolls
ride into battle on fierce war boars. As large as a horse,
the boars are thick-skinned, difficult to injure and fight
Large and repulsive, Trolls are extremely strong and fight
viciously. Their pointed tusks and sharp teeth inflict extra
with great ferocity. Their bodies possess a natural resistance
damage when charging enemy troops.
to magic and their flesh has the unusual ability to
regenerate almost instantly when wounded. A Troll can
sustain a great deal of damage before it is unable to
These Orcs are the smallest of their kind, yet are still as
regenerate. However, if burned they cannot regenerate so
tall as a man and substantially broader. Single-minded
fire is their greatest enemy. Due to their hideous
when it comes to battle, Orc Boyz normally form the core
appearance Trolls cause fear.
of any Orc army.
55
54
J
UNDEAD REGIMENTS
Ghouls
Skeleton Horsemen
Skeleton Horsemen are the ageing remains of brave riders
and their horses, re-animated by the power of necromancy.
Ghouls are inhuman creatures who live in places of the
The re-animated horses are not slowed by difficult terrain
dead feeding on corpses. They are tough but very
and a regiment of Skeleton Horsemen will never flee from
cowardly and will flee if beaten in combat. Ghouls are foul
hand-to-hand combat. Skeletons are supernatural creatures
and unnatural creatures which cause fear in the enemy.
which cause fear and are immune to this type of
psychology themselves.
Mummies
Skeleton Warriors
These ancient dead come from the desert lands of Araby
Skeletons are the ageing remains of fallen warriors, re-
in the south. They are slow-moving but tough and are
animated by the power of necromancy. A regiment of
powerful fighters. Their greatest weakness is fire; a Mummy
Skeletons will never flee from hand-to-hand combat.
hit by flames suffers additional damage due to the
Skeletons are supernatural creatures which cause fear and
flammable chemicals used during their embalming. Mummies
are immune to this type of psychology themselves.
are supernatural creatures which cause fear and are immune
to this type of psychology themselves.
Undead Chariots
These horrifying contraptions are constructed from bone
Necromancer
and sinew and are pulled by Skeleton steeds. They inflict
These Wizards are evil men who use the power of evil
tremendous damage when charging enemy troops and will
magic to extend their own lives for centuries. They are
never flee from hand-to-hand combat. Undead Chariots
extremely dangerous, being strong fighters as well as having
are evil and unnatural machines which cause fear and are
the powers of Dark and Necromantic Magic at their
immune to this type of psychology themselves.
disposal.
The Black Grail
This regiment consists of the re-animated remains of
Screaming Skull Catapult
Bretonnian Grail Knights and their horses. They are
This machine hurls maniacally screaming skulls high into the
extremely powerful warriors and fight relentlessly. The
air, sending them crashing down into enemy ranks. It has an
horses are not slowed by difficult terrain and the regiment
extremely long range and can shoot over obstacles and
will never flee from hand-to-hand combat. These warriors
terrain as the missile is fired in an arc, but it is progressively
are supernatural creatures which cause fear and are immune
more inaccurate the further it fires. The shot from a
to this type of psychology themselves.
Screaming Skull Catapult causes fear in the target regiment
and its crew are immune to this type of psychology
themselves. Armour is useless against hits from a Screaming
Skull Catapult.
Vampire
Vampires are human in appearance, but their blood is
tainted with supernatural energy. They move swiftly and are
very tough, being able to sustain many wounds before they
Skeleton Archers
die. A Vampire's skill in combat is excellent and they are
Skeleton Archers are armed with standard bows. Their skill as
relentless fighters, making them formidable opponents. In
archers is relatively poor, but they are equally as good hand-
addition they have the powers of Dark and Necromantic
to-hand fighters as Skeleton Warriors and will never flee from
Magic at their disposal.
hand-to-hand combat. Skeletons are supernatural creatures
which cause fear and are immune to this type of psychology
themselves. Only the front two ranks of archers may fire.
56
57
Wights
CREDITS
Wights are the decayed remains of evil lords, wearing
Jeff Gamon, Nick Goldsworthy, Andy Kerridge, Jonathan Taylor
Production Team:
ancient battle gear and re-animated by the power of
necromancy. They are armed with magical Wight Blades
Julian Glover, Graham Harbour
Assistant Producers:
which can inflict many wounds with a single blow. If forced
Design Team:
to flee from hand-to-hand combat the magical bond which
Additional Design:
Steve Brown, Richard Castle, Karl Fitzhugh, Jeff Gamon, Steve Leney
Matt Dean, Trevor Gamon, Simon Tresadern
sustains them is destroyed and they crumble to dust.
Development Team - Art:
Wights are supernatural creatures which cause fear and are
Animated Sequences:
immune to this type of psychology themselves.
Wraiths
Simon Britnell, Richard Castle, Steve Leney , Mark Machin, Nick Tresadern
Adrian Crofts, John McCormack
Tina Bradley, Jason Lord
Additional Art:
Development Team - Programming:
Anthony Bowyer-Lowe, Paul Brooke, Andy Buchanan, Michael A. Carr, Karl Fitzhugh,
Jeff Gamon, Andy Kerridge, William Leach, Colin Moore, Jonathan Taylor
These terrible and powerful creatures are the remains of
Necromancers who were physically consumed by the evil
Video Player:
Martin Griffiths
Anthony Bowyer-Lowe, Mark Knight
magic they practised. Their bodies are insubstantial and can
Sound Design:
only be harmed by magic weapons or spells, which makes
Additional Sound Design:
them very hard to kill. Wraiths are supernatural creatures
Music:
which cause fear and are immune to this type of
Speech Recording:
psychology themselves.
Zombies
Adele Kellet, Bill Lusty
Mark Knight
Audio Interactive
Voice Actors (English Language):
Marc Finn, Tessa Gallagher, Gavin Naylor, Jonathan Owen, Larry Rew
Voice Actors (French Language):
Tony Beck, Patricia Benadiba, Stephane Cornicard, Pierre Maubouche, Sam Spiegel
Zombies are fresh corpses brought back to life by foul
Voice Actors (German Language):
necromancy. Their skill in combat is poor and if forced to
Localisation:
flee from hand-to-hand combat the magical bond which
Dialogue Script:
sustains them is destroyed and they collapse lifelessly to
Manual:
the ground. Zombies are unnatural creatures which cause
Carol Aggett, Patrick Baroni, Noise! Localisation, SDL Ltd
Stephen Marley
Richard Hewison, James Lenoe'l, Ian McClelland
Oliver Byrne, Antony Carr, Rob Charlish, Matt Dean, Lawrence Doyle, Trevor Gamon, Mia Garside,
Testers:
fear and are immune to this type of psychology themselves.
Steffan Boje, Lutz Liebelt, Martin Muller, Peter Schaufler, Gertrude Thoma
Paul Gellatly, Matthew Howells, Darren King, Jake May, Martin Newing , Darren Potter, Ashley Powell,
Matt Price, Simon Tresadern, Darren Tuckey, Ian White, Adrian Wood-Jones
European QA, Jason Berisford, Peter Hill, Danny Passey
Quality Assurance Team:
Marketing Team:
UK - Clive Downie, USA - Lisa Kindred
Public Relations:
Simi Belo, Simon Cailaghan, Karine Dognin, Oscar Del Moral, Niclas Nordlander,
Marc Trennheuser, David Wilson
Games Workshop:
Jon Gillard, Andy Jones
Special Thanks to:
Nicole D. Begere, Alex Bund, Sam Clifford, Bill Duncan, Darran Eteo, Rod Fountain,
Kevin Hopgood, Claudine Joris, Paul Kluge, Richard Leinfellner, Lee McGow, Gavin Moore,
Rebecca Parnell, Geoff Pass, Gavin Robertson, Tim Rushton, James Scalpello, Phil Tresadern,
Oliver White and everyone at Games Workshop
Electronic Arts San Mateo
Compatibility Technicians:
Jesse Abney, David Koerner
Artwork and imagery ©1 998 Games Workshop Ltd., used under license by Electronic Arts Ltd. Games Workshop and Warhammer
are registered trademarks of Games Workshop Ltd. Electronic Arts and the Electronic Arts logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Electronic Arts in the United States and/or other countries. Dark Omen is a trademark of Mindscape.
59