Lost Worlds Fantasy Combat Books

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1001 Man in Chainmail with Sword and Shield
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1983
Back of Book Text: Rummaging through the ruins of the Ancients has been exhausting and unprofitable. You've found nothing useful this time. Suddenly, you hear the sound of gravel shifting on the stones behind you. You turn and face an armed creature you've never seen before.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-001, "Man in Chainmail with Sword and Shield" sculpted by Julie Guthrie
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: Being the first book in the series, it is not too surprising that this is a fairly generic fighter.
Errata: My copy of the book came with a little slip which reads: "Page 28, Column 1 Should Read: 2 - 7, 4 - 31, 6 - 45, 8 - 19."

1002 Skeleton with Scimitar and Shield
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1983
Back of Book Text: Rummaging through the ruins of the Ancients has been exhausting and unprofitable. You've found nothing useful this time. Suddenly, you hear the sound of gravel shifting on the stones behind you. You turn and face an armed creature you've never seen before.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-002, "Skeleton with Scimitar and Shield" sculpted by Dennis Mize
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 7, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is a pretty generic character, really. It has no special attacks, it's not particularly strong, but at least it has a really funny arm wound picture.

1004 Giant Goblin with Mace and Shield
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1983
Back of Book Text: Slowly you lift the heavy mace to your shoulder. Lurking around the cave mouth is someone - or something - you've never faced before. What? Lunch, maybe, if it's not too big or strong. It's almost here; you leap to surprise it....
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-004, "Giant Goblin with Mace and Shield" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 13, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is another relatively undistinguished character, though a giant goblin is certainly a strange idea, and the artwork looks sufficiently ferocious.

1005 Woman in Scale with Sword and Shield
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1983
Back of Book Text: For hours you have led your foe along the high paths above the sea -- always one step ahead -- always away from your people. They are safe, now. Finally, on the brink, you turn to face the most dangerous enemy your clan has ever known.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-005, "Woman in Scale with Sword and Shield" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 10, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is the first female character to appear in the series, but apart from her gender and the varied personality of her illustrations, she isn't especially distinguished.

1006 Hill Troll with Club
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1983
ISBN: 0-917370-30-8
Back of Book Text: Big and mean and ugly, they said. Well, you showed them who's big and mean, anyway. Now you can hear another of the nasty little creatures out in your woods, trying to hide in the dark. This is too much! You're starting to get mad, and when you get mad....
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-006, "Hill Troll with Club" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 5, Body Points - 35, Attacks - 2/1R
My Thoughts: This is a rather entertaining character, thanks mainly to the fact that he can become enraged, throw aside his weapon and attack with his teeth and bare hands!

1007 Barbarian with Two-handed Sword
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1984
ISBN: 0-917037-31-6
Back of Book Text: As the village burns you examine your share of the loot: food and a couple of trinkets. Thin pickings. It's time to move on. Suddenly a figure rises from the edge of the firelight, no frightened villager, but something much more. You smile. Now, at last, a real fight.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-007, "Barbarian with Two-handed Sword" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This early character is really quite uninteresting. The illustrations aren't bad, but the moves aren't very exciting.

1008 Fighter Mage with Magic Sword
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1984
Back of Book Text: The years of searching, studying, digging through every scrap of parchment which survived the Ruin were worth it. At last -- you can do magic! Not the awesome magics of the Ancients, of course -- not yet. But still.... Suddenly, you hear footsteps in the passage outside your chambers. You sense it is no friend.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-008, "Fighter Mage with Magic Sword" sculpted by Julie Guthrie
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 sword, red spells (10 points)
My Thoughts: This is the first book to have spell-casting abilities, and my copy (which was used and thus might not have reached me in its original state) came with three red spells (4 - Stun, 12 - Hypnotize and 13 - Vampire Fly) plus the Karcilabran magic sword card.

1009 Wraith with Sickle
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Jill Leonardi (additional character development)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1984
ISBN: 0-917037-33-2
Back of Book Text: The hunger returns. And so does the hatred of all who possess the precious life energy. Now you will go among them and cause fear and panic -- and to feed! Suddenly, you sense the presence of a living being -- but it does not flee or cower! It intends to fight for its life!
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-009, "Wraith with Sickle" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 8, Attacks - 2
My Thoughts: The wraith is an interesting beast. He can cause fear and dematerialize, and kicking him is inadvisable.

1010 Cold Drake
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1984
ISBN: 0-917037-34-0
Back of Book Text: First you thought it was ice melting, or perhaps a trinket falling. But there it is again. Wait, voices? INTRUDERS!! Here in your misty sanctuary. Robbers, thieves come to steal your treasure. Bold little dinners seeking glory. Suddenly you rise out of the cold mist to greet your unwelcome guests.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-010, "Cold Drake" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 6, Body Points - 60, Attacks - 2
My Thoughts: This thing is big and scary and quite fun to use. The only problem is that the exact results of its breath weapon are unclear.

1012 Lizard Man with Scimitar and Buckler
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Michael Vitale (character design)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1984
ISBN: 0-917037-36-7
Back of Book Text: The sounds are getting louder, now. Someone, or something, from outside has entered the swamp. It tries to be quiet but it does not know the ways of your land. The sounds of broken branches and occasional splashes betray its progress. You wait, motionless, as it approaches. Suddenly, the water ripples -- it's here!
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-012, "Lizard Man with Scimitar and Buckler" sculpted by Julie Guthrie
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 16, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: The lizardman is a fairly straightforward creature, but its ability to sometimes gain damage-increasing adrenaline bursts when injured is quite useful.

1013 Man in Plate with Sword and Shield
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (system), Bruce Perry (character)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1985
ISBN: 0-917037-37-5
Back of Book Text: Everything fits. Now you feel like a real knight - except for the tense feeling in your stomach as you approach the lists. The armor looked good when you bought it but.... your opponent is larger than you thought and doesn't look nervous at all! Suddenly the trumpets sound! Doubt must vanish. You step forward. Glory to the victor!
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-013, "Man in Plate with Sword and Shield" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: Like many of the early characters in this series, this fighter isn't terribly interesting, though his armor makes him a bit tougher than the average human of the time.

1014 Man with Short Sword and Dagger
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (system), Douglas Huskins (character)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1985
ISBN: 0-917037-39-1
Back of Book Text: Carefully, now. You peer around the edge of the rock. There it is! But -- so many guards! Still, getting in won't be nearly as difficult as getting out again. As you prepare to cross an unsheltered gap in the rocks, you catch a small movement out of the corner of your eye. Spinning around, you realize -- secrecy is of no use now!
Based on: Ral Partha figure 95-015, "Man with Short Sword and Dagger" sculpted by Dennis Mize
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is one of my favorite early characters. He's kind of weird-looking and has the potential to be incredibly annoying (and somewhat dangerous).

1015 Woman with Quarterstaff
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (system), Bruce Perry (character)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1985
ISBN: 0-917037-40-5
Back of Book Text: There is a break in the trees. Up ahead is the ford in the river and, once across, the way home. This circuit of the forest is almost over. Suddenly, as you step into the clearing, the undergrowth parts on the other side. Whoever -- or whatever -- that is over there doesn't look inclined to let you pass.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 02-925, "Woman with Quarterstaff" sculpted by Julie Guthrie
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 10, Attacks - 1 / 2
My Thoughts: While this character is for the most part fairly typical, at least she's sometimes capable of scoring against two enemies at once.

1016 Winged Gargoyle with Scimitar
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Douglas Huskins & Dennis Greci (character design)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Lee Moyer
First Published: 1987
ISBN: 0-917037-44-8
Back of Book Text: Day disappears as you emerge from your craggy home. Far down in narrow valleys it is already night. Suddenly, you spot movement below! Someone -- or something -- has dared to enter your realm and has not fled with the sun! Silently, you launch yourself from the cliff edge and begin a steep attack glide.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 01-005, "Winged Gargoyle with Scimitar" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4 (6 when flying), Body Points - 16, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: The gargoyle isn't all that visually interesting, nor does it have any particularly exciting abilities. Still, it's a fairly solid fighter.

1101 Tome of Red Magic
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Arne Starr
First Published: 1985
ISBN: 0-917037-41-3
My Thoughts: This is a collection of twelve red spells (16 - Extra Strength, 17 - Grow, 18 - Slow, 19 - Blur, 20 - Hand of Belo, 21 - Magic Lasso, 22- Retrieve Weapon, 23 - Sunburst, 24 - Weak Knees, 25 - Crushing Walls, 26 - Lightning Bolt and 27 - Insanity); there's not really a whole lot to say about it.

1401 Samurai with Katana
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Brad Gorby
First Published: 1985
ISBN: 0-917037-42-1
Back of Book Text: Honor demanded that you draw your sword. It can not now be sheathed until victory. Your opponent knows this as he circles. Tonight you will write a poem about theis battle. If you win. But first...
Based on: Ral Partha figure 53-780, "Samurai with Katana" sculpted by Dennis Mize
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: The samurai is a solid fighter and has the unique characteristic of being most interesting when fighting against itself.

1402 Ninja with Ninjato
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Michael Vitale (character design)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: Brad Gorby
First Published: 1985
ISBN: 0-917037-43-X
Back of Book Text: Moving swiftly and silently from shadow to shadow, you have slipped past the guards unseen. Now there remains just one barrier to the completion of your mission. Suddenly, a guard turns the corner ahead! Secrecy is gone! You prepare to make your escape. But first...
Based on: Ral Partha figure 10-200, "Ninja with Ninjato" sculpted by Tom Meier
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This character is unfortunately bogged down by the rather unclear gimmick system. The art is quite good, though, and with clearer explanations it may well be a useful book.

1601 Manticore
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Michael Vitale (character design)
Developers: Alfred Leonardi and James Rosinus
Illustrator: H. Spencer Kipe
First Published: 1987
ISBN: 0-917037-45-6
Back of Book Text: Sunlight filtering through the trees warms your fur as you rest on the lawn of the abandoned temple. But now, you feel you are being watched. There! You spot movement at the edge of the clearing. Nothing has dared trespass here in an age. Stretching your great wings, you rise to face this bold intruder.
Based on: Ral Partha figure 02-908, "Manticore" sculpted by Julie Guthrie
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 20, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is a fun monster to play; the venomous tail is great and the artwork is quite interesting. The body wound graphic is especially amusing...

3001 Bith - Female Cleric
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Larry Elmore (cover), Todd Cameron Hamilton (credited as Todd Hamilton) (interior)
First Published: 1991
ISBN: 0-917037-56-1
Back of Book Text: Bith, princess and daughter of the evil sorceress Morea, has rebelled from her mother's control. She has left the devastated lands beyond the Mistwall, an ominous cloud which marks the boundary between good and evil. With limited but growing magical powers, she seeks her own destiny among the peoples of the unconquered lands.
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 10, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: red or yellow magic (12 points)
My Thoughts: This is the first of the four books based on the Runesword fantasy novels from Ace Books. These books are a bit larger than the rest of the series, and they feature tear-off flaps attached to the front and back covers. The back cover flap is the character sheet, while the front cover flap is a set of six square cards which can be cut apart. The cards included with this book are four red spells (33 - Blinding Flash, 34 - Wall of Flame, 35 - Enlarge and 36 - Magic Blast) plus two items (the Stones of Amber and a Silver Wand). There is also mention in the rules of role-playing books related to these fighters; this probably explains why the character sheet lists a skill (Linguistics: 7) that has no bearing on combat, but I don't think this role-playing system ever came to pass. As for Bith herself, she's not an especially notable character, and I can't comment on the accuracy of the adaptation from the Runesword books, since I haven't read any of them.

3002 Cal - Warrior with Sword and Shield
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Larry Elmore (cover), Todd Cameron Hamilton (credited as Todd Hamilton) (interior)
First Published: 1991
ISBN: 0-917037-60-X
Back of Book Text: Caltus Talienson, former squire to Sir Edric, is a soldier of fortune with no fortune in sight. His family home lies in ruins beyond the dreaded Mistwall, destroyed by the forces of the Dark Lord. Cal now seeks the mystical Runeswords, extraordinarily powerful weapons forged by the dwarves at the behest of a god. Of the four heroes of Cairngorn, only he has the skill, the strength, and the blind determination to wield the dangerous amd powerful Runeswords.
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1 / 3 (with Runesword)
Usable Cards: tactics (5 points)
My Thoughts: This is another Runesword book that fails to excite me due to the rather mundane nature of the character it contains. At least it has a few useful cards in the front flap: four Tactical Move Cards (1 - Heroic Surge, 2 - Blind Swing, 3 - Heidlin's Step and 4 - Sideslip) plus an Ironwood Shield and the Runesword Sjonbrand.

3003 Endril - Elfin Archer with Epee
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Larry Elmore (cover), Todd Cameron Hamilton (credited as Todd Hamilton) (interior)
First Published: 1991
ISBN: 0-917037-61-8
Back of Book Text: Endril, outcast and mysterious elf from a distant land, has been banished from the sylvan village and beech forests of his homeland. His age is measured in centuries, his perception of time and nature inconsistent with the fleeting and fragile world of humanity. With deadly accurate bow and ancient elven magic, he wanders the lands before the Mistwall searching for the key to the mysteries which will restore his honor, free his homeland, and allow him to rejoin the community of elves.
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 8, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: red or yellow magic (10 points)
My Thoughts: This book includes the first of the yellow spells (1 - Entangle, 2 - Summon Small Creatures and 3 - Burst of Speed) plus three other cards: Enchanted Sword Selenbrand, Medallion of Ten'Garel and Elven Gauntlet. The character himself has a blend of combat (with ten arrows to fire) and magic (including resistance) abilities but is quite weak in body points. He also features three skills (Acrobatics: 5, Archery: 9 and Stealth: 8) which were presumably meant for use with the never-published role-playing product mentioned in the rules.

3004 Hathor - Troll with Axe
Designer: Alfred Leonardi
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Larry Elmore (cover), Jim Clouse (interior)
First Published: 1991
ISBN: 0-917037-62-6
Back of Book Text: Hathor, a red-haired, axe-wielding troll, is an enigma in the world of Runesword, for he has sworn off the carnivorous habits of his kind and adopted the ways of civilized society. He has turned the strengths of his trollish past against the minions of evil which emanate from the dreaded Mistwall. His loyalty to the outcast heroes of Cairngorn, and especially to the young mage Bith, is unshakable.
Statistics: Height - 5, Body Points - 37, Attacks - 2
Usable Cards: tactics (4 points)
My Thoughts: The toughest and most unusual (which isn't saying too much) of the Runesword books, Hathor comes with five tactical move cards (13 - Trollish Rage, 14 - Troll War Cry, 15 - Sweeping Kick, 16 - Dodge & Swing and 17 - Heroic Swing) along with a card containing rules for throwing rocks at opponents.

5001 "Arcanthus" the Sage
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrator: Michael Kimble
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 sword, 4 scrolls, tactics (4 points), red spells (12 points)
My Thoughts: This really just feels like a slightly more powerful version of the Fighter Mage with Magic Sword.

5002 "Daniel" the Pirate
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrators: Rick Emond (cover), Kelly Bennett (interior)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 foil (sword), 1 pistol, tactics (2 points), luck (7 points)
Card I Got: 227 Wrist Roll
My Thoughts: Daniel isn't the most unique character in the series, but he captures the swashbuckler spirit effectively and has a well-illustrated book.

5004 "Chester" the Jester
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrator: Sean Fletcher
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 10, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 baton (mace), 1 lead cap, tactics (2 points), luck (9 points)
My Thoughts: This is a delightfully goofy book, with moves like "swat with hat," "tweak nose" and "jig & swing high." How could I not like it?

5006 "Wyrm" the Dragon
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrators: Andrea Sfiligoi and Elisabetta Giulivi
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 5 (7), Body Points - 45, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: luck (5 points)
My Thoughts: This is a rather powerful fighter, though I'm not too fond of the inside artwork, and it's not all that exciting beyond its sheer strength.

5008 Stegosaur
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (title design)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Kathy Capach (illustrations), Sean Fletcher (color)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 22, Body Points - 34, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is one of the weaker dinosaurs and not particularly unusual apart from its "knock tree down" move.

5009 Pachycephalosaur
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (title design)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Kathy Capach (illustrations), Sean Fletcher (color)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 22, Body Points - 62, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: While this dinosaur doesn't have much in the way of interesting moves, its book is full of hilarious pictures and thus is a very entertaining opponent to have.

5010 T-Rex
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (title design)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Kathy Capach (illustrations), Sean Fletcher (color)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 46, Body Points - 75, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is an incredibly nasty monster capable of doing a lot of damage; while not unbeatable, T-Rex is a very tough beast.

5011 Triceratops
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (title design)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Kathy Capach (illustrations), Sean Fletcher (color)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 28, Body Points - 65, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is one of the nicest-looking Dino Fight books and, of course, fun to pit against the T-Rex.

5012 Pinacosaur
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (title design)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Kathy Capach (illustrations), Sean Fletcher (color)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 16, Body Points - 50, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This Ankylosaurus-like dinosaur, like the Pachycephalosaur, is a fun opponent due to a variety of humorous pictures; particularly notable is the "knocked down" illustration on page 41.

5013 Allosaur
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (title design)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Kathy Capach (illustrations), Sean Fletcher (color)
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 39, Body Points - 80, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This carnivore has some of the most interesting moves in the Dino Fight series and is tough enough to give T-Rex a run for its money.

5016 "Zzz..." Zombie
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Adam Arrowsmith
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 9, Attacks - 1
My Thoughts: This is a physically weak character with largely disappointing artwork, though it does have some surprisingly powerful special attacks like "cause disease" (which does damage every turn thereafter) and "acrid breath" (which leads to automatic victory if the opponent can't back off quickly enough).

5019 "Horras" Hob-Goblin
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrator: Andrea Sfiligoi
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 14, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: katana & scimitar (swords), tactics (5 points), luck (2 points)
Card I Got: 62 Weak Link
My Thoughts: Horras isn't the most original character in the series, but he has an amusing illustration or two and his use of two weapons is well-done.

5020 Medusa
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrator: Andrea Sfiligoi
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 15, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 scimitar (sword), 1 shield, luck (3 points)
My Thoughts: This is pretty much what you would expect a Medusa book to be like, with a powerful gaze attack and some fun movement maneuvers like "sidewind" and "slither away."

5021 "Gildersleve" the Dwarf
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Adamo Leoni (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Mary Leonardi and Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Jim Clouse
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 3, Body Points - 16, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 sword, 1 horn, yellow spells (5 points), purple spells (5 points)
My Thoughts: This book is very dependent on cards; without them, it's not too distinguished, but with the right equipment and spells, it could be formidable.

5024 "Ursa" Bugbear
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Mary Leonardi (character)
Other Designers and Developers: Dennis Greci and William Fortin
Illustrator: Michael Kimble
First Published: 1997
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 18, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 morning star, 1 shield, tactics (3 points), luck (3 points)
My Thoughts: This is a pretty generic character, though he can attack with his shield and give off a war cry that potentially scares his enemy into dropping weapons.

8601 "Umslopagaas" The Scorpion Wizard
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Ken St. Andre (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Erin McKee
First Published: 1995
ISBN: 0-940244-32-2
Back of Book Text: Umslopagaas came from the jungle lands near the Dragon's Claws. With ebony skin and ivory teeth, with ironwood staff which could dash the brains from man or monster, he was a fighting wizard welcome in any group of adventurers facing evil magic and long odds. Deep in Uncle Ugly's Underground, Umslop claimed a Zodiac Gem as part of his plunder, and it claimed him -- giving him a lethal scorpian's [sic] sting growing from the base of his spine. Now, twice as deadly as before, he runs his own dungeon in Khosht -- the famed Deathtrap Equalizer Dungeon. Meet him in combat if you dare, but don't be surprised if he vanishes in a cloud of sorcery if you're skilled enough to wound him. A smart wizard always gives himself a way out.
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 17, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 staff, 5 general items, red spells (14 points)
Card Types Included: 3 Red Spells, 1 Random Card
Cards I Got: 52 Khalyde's Surge, 59 Dalclion's Touch, 64 "Kalouran," 65 Muscida Buzz
My Thoughts: This is a fairly diverse character, with strong spell-casting abilities, a nasty tail attack and the ability to entrance with his smile!

8604 "Chiron" Magical Centaur
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), James L. Walker (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Erin McKee
First Published: 1995
ISBN: 0-940244-35-X
Back of Book Text: Chiron clambered up the craggy cliff. Few other beings had the ability to patrol the crater's rim, and only the foolhardy dared. "But wait! Is that not an intruder? Some silly being is making his way up the treacherous pass. He answers not my hail -- then answer this!" said Chiron to himself as he hurled a persuasive spell, bathing the intruder in an engulfing glow of crimson magic. yet onward the intruder came. Readying his axe, Chiron prepared for the inevitable.
Statistics: Height - 5, Body Points - 20, Attacks - 2
Usable Cards: 1 axe, chainmail and helm, 1 shield, 3 general items, red spells (6 points)
Card Types Included: 3 Red Spells, 1 Random Card
Cards I Got: 53 Aeraqitaq, 54 Tang of Thang, 59 Dalclion's Touch, 200 Llam's Bridge
My Thoughts: It's nice to have a blend of combat and spell-casting abilities, and the "call 'halt'" move is nicely in keeping with the character's sentry origins.

8607 "MacAber" A Highland Warrior with Claymore
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), James L. Walker (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrators: Stephan Peregrine (cover), Gilead (interior)
First Published: 1996
ISBN: 0-940244-38-1
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 12, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 sword, 3 spears, leather armor or better, 5 general items, tactics (4 points)
Card Types Included: 2 Tactics, 2 Random Cards
Cards I Got: 5 Itiel, 69 "Healing Herb," 223 Jack's Punch, 224 Leaping Charge, F-1 Gold Piece
My Thoughts: Although he is immune to fear (despite his facial expression on, say, pages 27 and 29) and can throw spears, MacAber isn't especially strong or interesting. He also looks rather scrawnier in the interior illustrations than on the cover.
Errata: The cover illustrator's first name is incorrectly listed as "Stephen" on the front cover.

61050 "Othere" Djinn of Distinction
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Adamo Leoni (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Doug Shuler
First Published: 1995
ISBN: 1-883240-29-8
Back of Book Text: Time has no meaning within the confines of the lamp. The price for your great power is this brass prison. As you stare down at the unknowing fool who rubbed the lamp, you realize you have another chance for freedom. You will grant their wish, but only if they can defeat you. Energy crackles as you tower over your new enemy...
Statistics: Height - 3 / 5, Body Points - 35, Attacks - 2
Usable Cards: 1 sword, 3 scrolls, 3 general items, purple spells (12 points)
Card Types Included: 3 Purple Spells, 1 Random Scroll
Cards I Got: 101 Zodlik's Fist, 113 The Flood, 115 Arachnos, 175 Se Squelchur
My Thoughts: This is a unique and interesting character. His whirlwind ability, which allows him to gain a cumulative damage bonus, is particularly useful.

60151 "Brimstone" The Fire Giant
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Adamo Leoni (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Doug Shuler
First Published: 1995
ISBN: 1-883240-30-1
Back of Book Text: High on the slopes of the Fioree Mountains, the last refuge of the fire giants, you guarded your domain from intruders during the War of the Dwarves. Perhaps the war is over, you think. But no! Someone approaches through the great pass. You lift your great axe and start down the mountain, a challenge forming on your lips.
Statistics: Height - 5, Body Points - 20, Attacks - 2
Usable Cards: 1 axe, 1 leather armor, 3 general items, tactic cards (5 points)
Card Types Included: 2 Tactic Cards, 2 Random Cards
Cards I Got: 134 Glenna's Touch, 147 Surturaxe, 182 Sideslip, 189 Parry & Trip
My Thoughts: Like the other Chessex books, this is a unique character. In addition to a variety of fun moves involving rocks, Brimstone has the mysterious and silly "Grab Beard" attack!

60152 "Sir Percival" Mounted Knight
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Adamo Leoni (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Chris White
First Published: 1995
ISBN: 1-883240-31-X
Back of Book Text: The theft of the crown jewels was almost too great an insult to bear. Fearing a conspiracy to discredit the throne, the King dispatched you, his best knight, to ride like the wind and recover the royal property. As your horse's hooves thunder on the road, you see a stranger to these lands. Maybe this is the thief! You spur your horse and charge.
Statistics: Height - 4 / 5, Body Points - 14, Attacks - 1 / 2
Usable Cards: 1 sword, 1 chain mail, 1 helm, 1 charger, 5 general items
Card Types Included: 1 Sword, 3 Random Items
Cards I Got: 138 Brambles, 145 Gunnar's Kreig, 148 Full Plate, 175 Se Squelchur
My Thoughts: Having a mounted character was an interesting idea, and this guy is quite dangerous! Combined with General Item 157 (Feather Cape), Sir Percival can't be dismounted and is thus even more powerful! The biggest problem with Sir Percival is the slightly sloppy construction of his character card, which is missing the text for his kick move.

60153 "Cimeree" Elfin Maid
Designers: Alfred Leonardi (design), Adamo Leoni (character)
Developer: Dennis Greci
Illustrator: Doug Shuler
First Published: 1995
ISBN: 1-883240-32-8
Back of Book Text: Your quest has taken you far from your home, through a dozen forests and countless encounters. Your sword arm is tired, but you cannot rest until you find the medallion you seek. The foliage parts in the distance to reveal someone you have never seen before. Perhaps they have the medallion that could end your quest.
Statistics: Height - 4, Body Points - 14, Attacks - 1
Usable Cards: 1 sword and 1 dagger, 1 leather armor, 3 general items, yellow spells (8 points)
Card Types Included: 3 Yellow Spells, 1 Random Card
Cards I Got: 127 Butterfingers, 129 Dalclion's Blur, 138 Brambles, 157 Feather Cape
My Thoughts: Of the Chessex characters, Cimeree seems the least interesting. She doesn't have any unique moves and she's not especially powerful. Still, she's a useful addition to a party of adventurers.