The Barons' War Buyer's Guide 2026 | Rules & Starter Sets
The Barons' War Buyer's Guide 2026: Rules, Medieval History & How to Get Started
Step into medieval England, where rebellious nobles challenge the crown, knights clash in brutal skirmishes, and the fate of a kingdom hangs in the balance. The Barons' War: Second Edition is a historical tabletop wargame that recreates the turbulent conflicts surrounding King John, Magna Carta, and the First Barons' War of 1215–1217.
Created by Andy Hobday and supported by the highly detailed 28mm plastic miniatures from Wargames Atlantic, The Barons' War combines medieval history, tactical combat, and narrative-driven gameplay in a manageable skirmish format.
In this 2026 buyer's guide, we'll cover the history behind The Barons' War, explain how the Second Edition rules work, compare the best starter kits and expansions, and help you build your first medieval retinue.
Explore Wargames Atlantic miniatures at TistaMinis Canada to discover the plastic knights, infantry, cavalry, and medieval gaming accessories available for your collection.
What Is The Barons' War?
The Barons' War is a 28mm medieval skirmish wargame originally developed by Footsore Miniatures & Games, with rules written by Andy Hobday.
Unlike mass-battle games where players command hundreds of soldiers, The Barons' War focuses on smaller retinues led by individual nobles, knights, and military commanders.
Players create their own medieval fighting force and lead it through battles involving raids, ambushes, territorial disputes, and historical engagements.
Why Play The Barons' War?
- Manageable armies: Build a playable retinue with roughly 25–30 miniatures.
- Historical setting: Explore the conflicts of King John's reign and medieval England.
- Character-driven gameplay: Create commanders with their own abilities and battlefield roles.
- Tactical combat: Positioning, terrain, morale, and leadership matter.
- Excellent plastic miniatures: Wargames Atlantic offers modular knights, serjeants, cavalry, and levy troops.
- Narrative campaigns: Develop your retinue through connected scenarios and historical adventures.
The game is especially attractive to players who enjoy medieval history but prefer smaller, character-focused battles over massive ranked armies.
The History and Lore Behind The Barons' War
Unlike fantasy wargames, The Barons' War draws its setting from real medieval history.
Its central conflict is the First Barons' War, fought in England between 1215 and 1217.
King John and the Road to Rebellion
King John ruled England from 1199 until 1216. His reign was marked by military setbacks, disputes with the Church, financial pressure, and growing opposition among the English nobility.
After losing much of his family's territory in France, John attempted to fund further military campaigns through taxation and feudal demands.
Many powerful barons became increasingly hostile toward the king, believing that he had abused royal authority and violated traditional feudal rights.
By 1215, tensions had escalated into open rebellion.
Magna Carta: The Document That Failed to Prevent War
In June 1215, King John agreed to Magna Carta at Runnymede.
The document attempted to address grievances against royal power, including taxation, feudal obligations, and the administration of justice.
However, the agreement quickly collapsed.
With papal support, John rejected its terms, and England descended into civil war.
The First Barons' War: 1215–1217
Rebellious barons controlled important strongholds and sought foreign assistance to challenge the king.
They invited Prince Louis of France, the future Louis VIII, to England to support their cause.
Louis landed in 1216 and gained control of London and other territories, turning an internal English rebellion into an international conflict.
King John died in October 1216, leaving his young son Henry III as king.
William Marshal, one of the most celebrated knights of the medieval period, became regent and helped rally support for the young monarch.
The royalist victory at the Battle of Lincoln in May 1217 and subsequent defeat of French naval reinforcements at Sandwich helped bring the conflict to an end.
Famous Historical Characters
| Character | Historical Role | Tabletop Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
| King John | King of England | Royalist retinue |
| William Marshal | Royalist commander and regent | Experienced knightly leader |
| Prince Louis | French claimant supported by rebels | French expeditionary force |
| Robert Fitzwalter | Prominent rebel baron | Rebel noble retinue |
| Henry III | Young successor to King John | Royalist campaign narrative |
These historical personalities provide excellent inspiration for creating themed retinues and narrative campaigns.
For more background, read our King John and The Barons' War historical wargaming overview.
The Barons' War Second Edition Rules Explained
The Barons' War: Second Edition is the current core ruleset and the recommended starting point for new players in 2026.
The system emphasizes tactical decisions, individual commanders, morale, and small-unit combat.
1. Building Your Retinue
Instead of building a massive army, players organize a retinue: a small force serving a noble, military leader, or other commander.
Retinues can include:
- Foot knights and noble warriors.
- Armoured serjeants.
- Peasant levy infantry.
- Mounted knights and cavalry.
- Archers and other missile troops.
- Commanders and specialist characters.
Players use the appropriate army list and points system to create forces of an agreed size.
A 500-point retinue is an excellent starting target. Larger forces can be built as players become more familiar with the rules.
2. Activations and Command
The game uses alternating activations, allowing both players to remain involved throughout the battle.
Players activate models or groups, manoeuvre their warriors, and respond to enemy actions.
Commanders are particularly important because they can coordinate nearby warriors and influence how effectively a retinue operates.
Good leadership can make the difference between a coordinated attack and a scattered collection of individual fighters.
3. Combat and Armour
Combat is resolved using dice and relevant modifiers, with factors such as equipment, protection, and battlefield circumstances affecting the outcome.
Heavily armoured knights are generally more resilient than lightly equipped peasants, but superior equipment does not guarantee victory.
Numbers, terrain, supporting troops, and careful positioning remain important.
4. Morale and Battlefield Pressure
Morale is a central part of The Barons' War.
Warriors may struggle to maintain cohesion when suffering casualties, losing commanders, or facing difficult battlefield situations.
This encourages players to protect their leaders and avoid exposing inexperienced troops to unnecessary danger.
5. Terrain and Scenarios
Medieval battlefields are filled with obstacles that influence combat.
Buildings, walls, forests, barricades, and narrow streets create opportunities for ambushes and defensive positions.
The game's narrative emphasis also means that battles can involve objectives beyond simply defeating every enemy model.
Players might defend a village, escort a noble, raid supplies, or seize an important crossing.
Best Barons' War Starter Sets and Miniatures for 2026
Wargames Atlantic's growing range of plastic miniatures makes The Barons' War more accessible to new players.
Here are our recommended purchases, starting with the complete Second Edition starter box.
1. The Barons' War Second Edition Starter Set — Best Overall Purchase
The Wargames Atlantic Barons' War Second Edition Starter Set is the strongest entry point for complete beginners.
It includes the full rules, enough miniatures for two starter retinues, and the accessories needed to begin playing.
What's Inside the Starter Set?
- Full Second Edition rulebook.
- Getting Started booklet.
- 12 plastic Foot Knights.
- 18 plastic Foot Serjeants.
- 24 plastic Peasant Levy.
- 56 round 25mm bases.
- Plastic scenery for barricades or a medieval market.
- 14 ten-sided dice.
- 10 custom Morale dice.
- One six-sided die.
- Double-sided token sheet.
With 54 miniatures, the box can be divided into two approximately 500-point starter retinues or used as the foundation of a larger 1,000-point collection.
Best for: Two friends starting together or a player wanting the most complete introduction.
Our verdict: The best first purchase for The Barons' War.
2. Barons' War Retinue Box — Best Single-Player Army Foundation
The Wargames Atlantic Barons' War Retinue Box is designed for players who already have the rules and want to build their own force.
Its assortment includes foot knights, mounted knight command models, serjeants, levy troops, and additional equipment options.
This makes it particularly attractive for hobbyists who want to create a distinctive noble retinue with infantry and mounted leaders.
Best for: Players joining an existing group or expanding beyond their first starter force.
3. Foot Knights (1150–1320) — Best Elite Infantry
Knights are among the most iconic warriors of medieval Europe.
Wargames Atlantic's Foot Knights kit provides heavily equipped warriors suitable for noble household troops, elite retainers, and dismounted knights.
These models are excellent for creating the visual centrepiece of a medieval retinue.
Best for: Players who want a compact force built around well-equipped warriors.
4. Foot Serjeants (1100–1320) — Best Core Infantry
Serjeants were professional or semi-professional soldiers who served alongside medieval knights.
They commonly provided dependable infantry support and could be equipped with shields, spears, and other weapons.
For The Barons' War, Foot Serjeants are a particularly useful purchase because they provide the foundation for a balanced retinue.
Best for: Players who want reliable infantry without relying entirely on expensive knights.
5. Peasant Levy (1100–1350) — Best for Building Larger Forces
Not every warrior on a medieval battlefield was a heavily armoured professional.
Peasant levies could be raised to supplement a lord's fighting force, often bringing comparatively basic equipment.
Wargames Atlantic's Peasant Levy miniatures are excellent for representing local militias, lightly equipped infantry, and ordinary villagers drawn into war.
Best for: Players who enjoy larger retinues and narrative battles involving villages, raids, and local uprisings.
6. Mounted Knights (1150–1320) — Best Cavalry Expansion
Mounted knights are among the most visually impressive miniatures in the Barons' War range.
They offer an opportunity to introduce cavalry movement and mounted combat to your games.
Historically, mounted knights were important symbols of aristocratic military power, and their battlefield role provides excellent inspiration for noble retinues.
Best for: Players ready to add mobility and powerful mounted warriors.
7. Mounted Serjeants (1150–1320) — Best Supporting Cavalry
Mounted serjeants provide another cavalry option for medieval forces.
They are useful for collectors who want a mounted element without filling their entire force with heavily equipped noble knights.
Best for: Players interested in a flexible, cavalry-supported retinue.
Barons' War Miniature Buying Comparison
| Product | Role | Buying Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Second Edition Starter Set | Complete introduction | Essential for beginners |
| Retinue Box | Single-force foundation | Excellent alternative |
| Foot Knights | Elite infantry | High |
| Foot Serjeants | Core infantry | High |
| Peasant Levy | Additional manpower | High |
| Mounted Knights | Heavy cavalry | Medium |
| Mounted Serjeants | Supporting cavalry | Medium |
| King John Sourcebook | New factions and scenarios | Expansion |
Explore the Wargames Atlantic range at TistaMinis to compare available medieval kits.
Which Barons' War Faction Should You Play?
The Barons' War is especially interesting because players can create historically themed retinues rather than choosing from completely fictional armies.
The original conflict provides several natural starting points.
Royalist Forces
Royalist retinues represent those loyal to King John and, later, Henry III.
These forces are ideal for collectors who enjoy heavily equipped knights, professional soldiers, and the defence of royal authority.
Recommended theme: A noble commander supported by foot knights, serjeants, and levy infantry.
Rebel Barons
Rebel forces represent the English nobles who challenged King John's authority.
They offer an excellent opportunity to create a personalized retinue with distinctive heraldry and a fictional or historical noble commander.
Recommended theme: A rebellious baron with household knights and local retainers.
French Forces
Prince Louis's intervention provides the inspiration for French-themed retinues.
These forces are particularly suitable for players interested in the international dimension of the conflict.
Recommended theme: French knights supported by serjeants and other period-appropriate troops.
The specific army-list options available depend on the rulebook and supplements being used. Historically themed forces do not always require completely separate faction rules.
King John Sourcebook: The Best Expansion for 2026
One of the most important additions to The Barons' War in 2026 is the King John: Barons' War Hardcover Sourcebook.
This 246-page supplement expands the historical setting and provides new opportunities for building retinues and recreating campaigns.
What's Included?
- Updated Feudal European retinue options.
- Six additional faction lists.
- Historical characters and commanders.
- Ten historical scenarios.
- Background covering King John's reign.
- New opportunities for narrative campaigns.
The Six New Factions
| Faction | Historical Theme |
|---|---|
| Welsh | Flexible regional forces |
| Scottish | Warriors of medieval Scotland |
| Poitevins | Continental Angevin forces |
| Flemish | Disciplined troops from Flanders |
| Mercenaries | Professional soldiers for hire |
| Outlaws | Irregular fighters and woodland bands |
The sourcebook also includes famous personalities such as King John, William Marshal, Philip Augustus, and Robin Hood.
Historical scenarios cover events including the Battle of Bouvines and the Battle of Lincoln.
Our recommendation: Learn the core game first, then purchase King John when you're ready for more factions, historical characters, and campaign variety.
How to Build Your First 500-Point Barons' War Retinue
A 500-point retinue is an excellent starting size because it provides enough warriors for meaningful tactical decisions without requiring an enormous painting project.
Rather than buying every available unit type, begin with a balanced selection of models.
Example Beginner Retinue Concept
| Unit | Suggested Models | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Retinue Leader | 1 | Command and leadership |
| Foot Knights | 4 | Elite fighting troops |
| Foot Serjeants | 8 | Main infantry |
| Peasant Levy | 10 | Additional manpower |
| Supporting Commanders | 1–2 | Group coordination |
This gives you a modelling plan for approximately 24–25 figures, rather than a verified 500-point legal army list. Final points, equipment, group organization, and commander requirements must be checked against the current Second Edition rules.
Step 1: Assemble Your Commander
Start with a distinctive knight or noble model to represent your retinue leader.
Consider adding a heraldic shield, unique helmet, or decorated cloak to make the commander stand out.
Step 2: Build Your Core Infantry
Foot Serjeants are a sensible foundation for a beginner force.
They provide a recognizable medieval military appearance and can be supported by both elite knights and less-equipped levy troops.
Step 3: Add Levy Troops
Peasant Levy provide additional models for larger groups and historical scenarios.
They also create a pleasing visual contrast with heavily armoured knights.
Step 4: Play Small Battles
Start with straightforward scenarios that teach movement, combat, morale, and leadership.
A village skirmish or contested road crossing is an excellent first battle.
Step 5: Expand Your Retinue
Once you've played several games, consider adding mounted knights, specialist troops, or additional commanders.
Use your preferred tactics and the current rules to guide future purchases.
Painting Barons' War Miniatures: Beginner Tips
Painting medieval miniatures is one of the most rewarding aspects of The Barons' War.
The period offers a wide variety of clothing, shields, armour, and heraldic designs.
Simple Medieval Painting Process
- Assemble your miniatures and clean mould lines.
- Apply a suitable primer.
- Paint tunics, cloaks, and padded clothing.
- Apply metallic colours to mail armour and weapons.
- Paint leather belts, boots, and equipment.
- Add shield colours and heraldic designs.
- Apply washes to create shadows.
- Finish with simple highlights and textured bases.
Using Shield Transfers
Medieval heraldry is one of the most recognizable features of the period.
Wargames Atlantic produces shield decal sheets that make it easier to add heraldic designs without painting every symbol by hand.
For beginners, transfers are an excellent way to achieve a consistent appearance across a retinue.
Consider Wargames Atlantic Barons' War Shield Decals for finishing your serjeants and other medieval warriors.
Building a Medieval Battlefield
The Barons' War benefits from terrain that reflects the villages, castles, roads, and countryside of medieval England.
Because the game focuses on smaller engagements, terrain has a significant influence on movement and combat.
Recommended Terrain
- Medieval cottages and timber buildings.
- Stone walls and wooden fences.
- Small forests and wooded areas.
- Roads and muddy tracks.
- Village marketplaces.
- Bridges and streams.
- Castle walls and defensive barricades.
The Second Edition starter set includes plastic scenery that can be assembled into barricades or market structures, making it easier to begin creating a themed battlefield.
The Barons' War vs Other Medieval Wargames
Several tabletop systems allow players to recreate medieval battles, but they approach the period differently.
| Game | Scale of Battle | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| The Barons' War | Small retinue skirmishes | Character-driven medieval combat |
| SAGA | Warband battles | Faction abilities and tactical choices |
| Hail Caesar | Large army battles | Massed formations and commanders |
| Lion Rampant | Small-to-medium battles | Accessible medieval warfare |
If you enjoy personalized commanders and relatively small model counts, The Barons' War is an excellent choice.
If you prefer large armies fighting in sweeping formations, explore Warlord Games Hail Caesar for a different approach to historical tabletop warfare.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying too many knights: Start with a balanced retinue rather than only elite warriors.
- Ignoring commanders: Leadership is an important part of the rules.
- Starting with a huge collection: A small force is enough to learn the game.
- Overlooking terrain: Medieval villages, walls, and forests create interesting tactical decisions.
- Using outdated rules: Make sure you're using the current Second Edition rules.
- Ignoring historical inspiration: Heraldry and real medieval characters can make your collection more distinctive.
- Buying expansions too early: Learn the core rules before investing in every available supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Barons' War
1. What is The Barons' War tabletop game?
The Barons' War is a 28mm historical medieval skirmish game focusing on small retinues of knights, serjeants, levy troops, and commanders. Its original setting is the First Barons' War of 1215–1217.
2. Who makes The Barons' War?
The rules were created by Andy Hobday and originally developed through Footsore Miniatures & Games. Wargames Atlantic produces the official hard-plastic miniature range and Second Edition boxed starter set.
3. What is the best Barons' War starter set?
The Barons' War Second Edition Starter Set from Wargames Atlantic is the best choice for most beginners. It includes the rules, 54 plastic miniatures, dice, tokens, and medieval scenery.
4. How many miniatures do I need to play?
A typical introductory 500-point retinue may contain approximately 25–30 models, depending on equipment and unit choices. The starter box provides enough miniatures for two beginner forces.
5. What scale are Barons' War miniatures?
The game uses 28mm medieval miniatures. Wargames Atlantic's official plastic kits are designed for this scale.
6. Is The Barons' War beginner-friendly?
Yes. Its manageable model count, alternating activations, and character-driven battles make it a good introduction to historical skirmish wargaming.
7. Can I use other medieval miniatures?
Yes. The Barons' War is suitable for compatible 28mm medieval miniatures. For historically themed games, choose figures with appropriate armour, weapons, and clothing for the period.
8. What is the King John expansion?
King John is a 246-page Second Edition sourcebook introducing six additional factions, historical characters, updated retinue options, and ten scenarios inspired by the reign of King John.
9. Do I need the King John sourcebook to start?
No. The core Second Edition rules are sufficient for learning the game. King John is recommended once you're ready to explore additional factions and historical scenarios.
10. Where can I buy The Barons' War in Canada?
You can find The Barons' War starter sets, miniatures, rulebooks, and related products through TistaMinis Canada's Wargames Atlantic collection.
Final Verdict: The Best Way to Start The Barons' War in 2026
The Barons' War is an excellent choice for historical wargamers who enjoy medieval warfare, character-driven battles, and manageable miniature collections.
Its combination of historical inspiration, tactical gameplay, and Wargames Atlantic's plastic miniature range makes it an appealing entry point into 13th-century tabletop gaming.
For complete beginners, the Second Edition Starter Set is our top recommendation. It provides two starter retinues, the rules, dice, tokens, and scenery in one box.
If you already have the rules, begin with a Retinue Box or a combination of Foot Knights, Foot Serjeants, and Peasant Levy. Expand gradually with mounted warriors and specialist troops.
Once you're comfortable with the game, the King John sourcebook is the ideal next step, adding new factions, famous commanders, and historical campaigns.
Ready to raise your banner? Explore Wargames Atlantic miniatures at TistaMinis Canada and begin building your medieval retinue today.