Dark Ages Army Builder: Pre-Production Guide
By Wargames Atlantic | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to build versatile Dark Ages armies with the Wargames Atlantic Army Builder set, featuring decision rules for spear vs sword, head types, and pre-production considerations.
Quick Answer
The Wargames Atlantic Dark Ages Army Builder is a versatile hard plastic set that lets you assemble up to 48 warriors with spear or sword and shield, making it an excellent foundation for multiple Dark Ages warbands.
Spear vs Sword: Matching Weapons to Your Army
The kit's core choice is between spear and sword-and-shield configurations. Spears give you reach and are historically common for shield walls, while swords offer flexibility in close combat and look distinct on the tabletop.
Consider your game system's rules: if spears grant bonuses against cavalry or in the first round of combat, they're often the default. Swords are better when you want elite units or when your rules favor higher weapon skill.
Pre-Production Miniatures: What to Expect
This set is listed as pre-production, meaning the final retail version may have minor differences in packaging or sprue layout. The plastic quality and part count are confirmed, but treat early copies as a preview of the final product.
If you're a tournament player or collector who wants the exact final version, you might wait for the official release. For hobbyists eager to start a new army, pre-production offers early access at a lower price.
Decision Rules for Your Dark Ages Army
- If you want a versatile core force: Choose the Army Builder set to cover multiple historical factions (Saxons, Vikings, Franks) with one purchase. Check your rulebook for which troop types are mandatory in a core unit.
- If you prefer spears: Build most of your warriors with spears to form a solid shield wall, especially if your rules reward ranks or anti-cavalry bonuses. Keep a few spare spear arms for future conversions.
- If you prefer swords: Build elite units or champions with swords and shields for a more aggressive, close-combat profile. Mix sword and spear units to create tactical variety.
Product Facts
- Dark Ages Army Builder: This hard plastic set allows you to build up to 48 Dark Ages Warriors with either spear or sword and shield. You get a full warband in one box, so you can field a complete force without buying multiple kits.
Dark Ages Army Builder - Dark Ages Army Builder: There are a HUGE variety of head types that allow you to build the following types:… The head variety lets you customize units to represent different cultures or ranks, giving your army a unique look.
Who This Is For
Best For
- Hobbyists starting a new Dark Ages army and wanting flexibility
- Players who need a large number of warriors at a budget price
- Collectors interested in pre-production miniatures at a discount
Not For
- Players who require the exact final retail version without any changes
- Those who prefer resin or metal miniatures over hard plastic
- Wargamers who need heavily armored or cavalry units (not included)
