Kings of War launches community survey for 4th Edition feedback
Mantic Games has launched a Kings of War Community Survey designed to gather direct feedback from players on 4th Edition development. The survey comes as the "Fracture" expansion prepares to launch at the end of June, with the Siege of Samarik campaign announced for summer release.
What makes this initiative notable is Mantic's commitment to community-driven development. Players can submit up to three Command Order ideas per faction, directly influencing how their favorite armies evolve in the upcoming edition.
Command Orders: Shaping Faction Identity
Command Orders have become a cornerstone of Kings of War 4th Edition, providing each faction with unique abilities that differentiate them on the battlefield. The survey asks players to reflect on what makes their chosen faction special and how Command Orders can enhance that identity.
This approach recognizes that experienced players have deep knowledge of their armies' strengths, weaknesses, and playstyles. By soliciting ideas from the community, Mantic taps into decades of collective tabletop experience rather than designing in isolation.
The survey also seeks feedback on existing Command Orders, asking players to identify which ones work well and which might need adjustment. This iterative process helps ensure the final ruleset feels balanced and true to each faction's lore.
Fracture and the Summer Campaign
While the survey gathers long-term feedback, immediate content is already in motion. The Fracture expansion, launching at the end of June, introduces new units and mechanics that will form part of the 4th Edition foundation.
Following that, the Siege of Samarik campaign promises a narrative-driven experience for players who enjoy storytelling alongside their tactical gameplay. Campaign play in Kings of War has always been a strength, offering multiplayer scenarios that feel more like epic battles than standard games.
Free Starter Rules Available
Mantic is also making the Kings of War Starter Rules available as a free PDF download. This move lowers the barrier to entry for new players and provides a reference for veterans who want to refresh their understanding of core mechanics before diving into 4th Edition changes.
The starter rules include:
Basic movement and combat procedures
Sample army construction guidelines
Introductory scenarios for learning the game
For parents or group leaders looking to introduce tabletop gaming to younger players, this free resource makes Kings of War an accessible option. The rules are straightforward enough for beginners while maintaining the strategic depth that experienced wargamers expect.
Why Community Feedback Matters
The survey represents a shift toward more collaborative game development. In an industry where publishers sometimes release rules that require multiple errata cycles, Mantic's approach of gathering feedback before finalizing 4th Edition shows respect for the player base.
For Christian gamers who value stewardship and community, this model offers a positive example. When developers listen to their audience and incorporate feedback thoughtfully, the end product serves everyone better. It's a principle that extends beyond gaming into how we approach collaboration in any field.
How to Participate
Players can access the survey through Mantic Games' website. The feedback window remains open through the summer, giving the community ample time to submit thoughtful responses. Mantic has indicated they'll share summary results and how player input influenced final decisions.
For those who participate, this is a chance to shape the future of a game that has been running since 2014. Kings of War's longevity speaks to its solid foundation, and 4th Edition aims to build on that legacy while addressing modern player preferences.
New Miniatures on the Horizon
The announcement also hints at a "major wave of new miniatures" arriving alongside the rule updates. Kings of War's fantasy setting offers endless opportunities for creative unit design, and Mantic's sculpting team has consistently delivered high-quality models that capture each faction's personality.
Whether you're fielding the disciplined ranks of the Meren Empire or the chaotic hordes of the Orcish Warbands, new miniatures mean more options for customizing your army's appearance and tactical approach.
Looking Ahead to Fall 2026
With Fracture launching in late June, the survey running through summer, and new miniatures in production, Kings of War's development pipeline looks robust. Players who have invested in the game over the years can expect continued support and evolution rather than abandonment in favor of newer properties.
For Crosspad readers interested in tabletop gaming, Kings of War offers a fantasy wargaming experience that balances accessibility with depth. The community survey shows Mantic values its player base, and the free starter rules demonstrate a commitment to growth.
Stay tuned as we track the survey results, Fracture's release, and any announcements about the final 4th Edition ruleset. For now, players have an opportunity to have their voices heard in shaping the next chapter of Kings of War.