Measuring Distances

Measuring distances is an important part of gameplay. We measure distances to determine how far a character is moving or the distance between characters. At the same time, measurements are intended to serve the needs of gameplay and not the reverse causing delays and disputes. This is a roleplaying game first and a tactical skirmish game second. Measurements can make a real difference during War encounters and guidelines should be followed whenever possible, but standees, terrain, and tables will get bumped and moved as the game progresses. Do your best to put things back to about where they were and the Host will make any final calls if a dispute should arise.

Because of the three-dimensional nature of this game, it is most ideal to use tape measures to measure distances. Tape measures can be angled to consider differences in elevation when measuring. Distance from a character is measured from the center of that character’s base. The distance between two characters is measured from the center of each character’s base. This provides a simple point of reference for most distances to be resolves quickly and easily. It is nearly impossible to use a square or hex grid in Allies of Majesty. The characters' base sizes vary, which makes grids impractical and awkward. Also, as mentioned, the prevalence of 3D movement and positioning makes grids inaccurate.

While spiritual size is relative, it should also be noted that the increments used for movement and Ranges is in part a practical concession for balancing the experience on a reasonable tabletop. In short, there is no reliable system to translate "Allies inches" into real-life measurements to produce a translation of scale. If trying to use a consistent scale, you will end up with the characters seeming impractically slow and ranges laughably short. Human structures will seem impractically small and indoor encounters too cramped to be fun. It's a tabletop game. Roll with what it takes to keep it fun. The Host will flex the conversion of distances between the material and spiritual realms as needed for comfortable play and will answer any questions when and if a "game world" measurement conversion is needed.