D&D Onslaught Core Set: How to Start Your First Game

By WizKids Store | Published: 2026-11-03

Category: 操作指南

Learn how to set up and play your first game of Dungeons & Dragons Onslaught with the Core Set, from unboxing to your first turn. A practical beginner's guide.

Quick answer

To start your first game of D&D Onslaught, unbox the Core Set, separate the miniatures and tokens, read the quick-start rules, set up the dungeon tiles, and choose your adventuring party. Then follow the turn sequence: move, attack, and use abilities. The Core Set includes everything two players need to play.

What you need before your first session

The Core Set is self-contained: it includes miniatures, dungeon tiles, dice, tokens, and rules for two players. You do not need to buy anything else to play your first game. However, the miniatures come unpainted and some may require assembly. Set aside time to assemble them if needed, and have a pair of hobby clippers and plastic glue on hand. If you prefer to play immediately, you can use the miniatures straight from the box without painting.

How the Core Set plays differently from a full dungeon crawl

Onslaught is a competitive skirmish game, not a cooperative roleplaying game. Each player controls a party from a Forgotten Realms faction and competes to complete objectives while battling rival adventurers and monsters. This means you should approach it as a tactical duel rather than a story-driven campaign. The Core Set includes twelve characters from two different factions, giving you enough variety for your first few games, but you will eventually want expansions to explore other factions and scenarios.

Step-by-step: your first game of D&D Onslaught

Unbox and organize components: Carefully remove all miniatures, tiles, tokens, dice, and rulebooks from the box. Sort miniatures by faction and keep tokens in small bags or compartments. Check that all twelve character miniatures are present and undamaged. Missing or damaged pieces? Contact the store before proceeding.
Assemble miniatures if needed: Some miniatures may require assembly. Use plastic glue and follow the assembly guide if included. Let glue dry completely before handling. If you are eager to play, you can skip assembly for now and use the miniatures as they are, but assembled miniatures are more stable during play. Do not force pieces together; if a part does not fit, check the guide or contact support.
Read the quick-start rules: Open the rulebook and read the setup and turn sequence sections. Focus on how movement, attacks, and abilities work. Do not try to memorize everything; refer back to the rules during play. Bookmark the turn sequence page for quick reference.
Set up the dungeon tiles: Follow the scenario setup diagram in the rulebook to arrange dungeon tiles. Place objective tokens and any monsters as indicated. Ensure tiles are aligned and stable. Use the scenario book's first mission for your initial game; it is designed for new players.
Choose your party: Each player selects a faction and takes the corresponding miniatures and cards. The Core Set includes two factions, so each player picks one. Review your characters' abilities and stats before play. For your first game, use the suggested starter parties in the rulebook to avoid decision paralysis.
Determine initiative and start playing: Follow the initiative rules to determine who goes first. On your turn, activate one character: move, perform an attack or ability, and then end your turn. Alternate until the scenario objective is met. Remember that you can only activate one character per turn; plan your activations carefully.

Product facts

Dungeons & Dragons: Onslaught - Core Set: The Core Set includes twelve characters from two different factions, along with everything two players need to play. You can start playing immediately with two players without buying extra miniatures or components.
Dungeons & Dragons: Onslaught - Core Set