RuneQuest: Warlords launches on Steam with deep strategy and powerful Rune Magic

RuneQuest: Warlords has officially arrived on Steam, bringing the legendary world of Glorantha to life in a new battle scale turn-based strategy experience. Published by Slitherine and developed on the same engine behind Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector, the game offers a richer melee focus, layered tactical choices, and an authentic connection to one of the most beloved tabletop universes.

You can watch the RuneQuest: Warlords trailer here!

A legendary world brought to life

RuneQuest: Warlords is set in Glorantha, the mythic setting that has shaped decades of tabletop storytelling. The game recreates this universe with remarkable detail, from its distinct cultures and terrains to its heroic sagas and supernatural conflicts. Every settlement, biome, and creature featured on the battlefield reflects years of deep lore, giving players an authentic experience that tabletop fans will immediately recognise and appreciate.

The RuneQuest: Warlords campaign follows Hahlgrim Ironsword of the Bilings Tribe, placing players in the heart of a story filled with alliances, betrayals, and vengeance. As Hahlgrim navigates the shifting political landscape and faces monstrous enemies, the campaign offers an 18-mission journey that blends narrative stakes with strategic complexity. Beyond the main story, Skirmish mode allows players to command any of the three major factions fighting for dominance.

Three factions competing for domination

Players can choose between the Talastar Tribes, the Chaos Hordes, and the Lunar Empire, each with its own identity, strengths, and battlefield style. The Talastar Tribes represent the hardy Orlanthi fighting to defend their homeland. Their forces focus on agility, strong morale, and the traditions that have shaped their culture for generations. They are ideal for players who enjoy flexible battlefield tactics and tribal unity.

The Chaos Hordes present an entirely different playstyle. These corrupted forces rely on monstrous units, overwhelming aggression, and destructive rituals. Their presence in the campaign raises the stakes as they challenge every faction with their unpredictable and relentless advance. The Lunar Empire completes the trio with disciplined armies supported by political influence and powerful magic, offering strategic depth through organisation and sorcery.

Tactical turn-based combat built on depth

RuneQuest: Warlords places tactical combat at the centre of the experience. Battles unfold across grid based maps where terrain, elevation, and movement rules play important roles. Zones of Control restrict enemy manoeuvres, forcing players to plan positioning with precision. Every encounter requires careful consideration of angles, flanking routes, lines of sight, and defensive advantages.

Heroes expand the tactical possibilities even further. With multiple action points per turn, they can perform advanced strategies such as flanking enemies, unleashing spell attacks, or withdrawing to safety. This design provides significant agency and encourages creative combat decisions. As units advance and unlock new powers, their roles on the battlefield evolve, adding even more layers to strategic planning.

Rune Magic defines the battlefield

Magic is a core feature in RuneQuest: Warlords rather than an optional extra. Runes shape each unit’s abilities, offering divine powers inspired by Glorantha’s sacred pantheon. As heroes progress, they gain access to Cult Rune Magic which enhances spellcasting options and introduces new tactical strengths. These divine abilities influence damage output, defence, support roles, and battlefield control.

This magical system ensures that no two encounters feel the same. Runes can turn the tide of battle, allowing players to summon powerful abilities at crucial moments. The progression system also supports long-term tactical planning, letting players build and refine their magical forces as the campaign unfolds. Strategy is not limited to physical combat but also extends into divine influence and spiritual mastery.

Shaping the future of Glorantha

RuneQuest: Warlords brings together rich lore, deep tactical combat, and a powerful magic system to create an experience that stands out within the strategy genre. With its launch discount on Steam and a full campaign grounded in Gloranthan mythology, the game invites both newcomers and long-time fans to step onto the battlefield and shape the fate of tribes and empires. Let the battles begin.

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