Heroclix
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Heroclix is a collectible miniature-based wargame produced by WizKids Games. Each player constructs an "army" of game-pieces, each of which represents a superhero from assorted comic books.
History
With the overnight success of their first such game—Mage Knight—WizKids knew that they had hit paydirt with the concept of collectible wargame figurines. Heroclix was the next step; instead of the fantasy-based elves and goblins of Mage Knight, these figurines represented already-popular licensed characters. Collectors could play out battles between Spider-Man and the Incredible Hulk, or the X-Men and the Fantastic Four. The game appealed to existing comic book fans, players of wargames, and to collectors.
With the success of the first set of Heroclix, several expansions have been released. The original Heroclix, which were all from comic books printed by Marvel Comics, have been joined by sets from DC Comics, and from independent comics. The expansions have won several Origins Awards, taking three of the 2002 awards and the prestigious Game of the Year 2003 for Indy HeroClix.
Game play
Each Heroclix figurine has statistics associated with it: Attack Value, Defense Value, Speed, Damage, and Range. These statistics are all printed on a dial that serves as the base for the miniature. When a piece takes "damage," its base is twisted a number of "clicks" to the right, revealing changed (usually decreased) stats to correspond to the damage it has taken.
Pieces have point values associated with them. Opposing teams must consist of a total point value in pieces that is less than or equal to a pre-decided total, usually a multiple of 100. Battles are played out on maps, overlaid with a grid of 35mm x 35mm squares.
Heroclix can be purchased in booster packs of 4 randomly assorted figurines, or starter packs with a larger number of pieces, a rulebook, maps, dice, and other accessories. Special products are also available, such as map sets and extra-large figures, as well as figures available only through tournaments and at conventions.