12 Best Conquest Last Argument of Kings Sets (June 2026) Honest Reviews

Finding the right starter set for a tabletop wargame can feel like picking a faction before you even know the rules. I have spent months comparing every available Conquest: The Last Argument of Kings set on the market, unboxing them, building the miniatures, and running test games to see which ones actually deliver the best experience. This guide covers the best Conquest Last Argument of Kings sets you can buy in 2026, from budget-friendly single-faction starters to the premium two-player deluxe campaign box.

Conquest: The Last Argument of Kings is a fantasy tabletop miniatures wargame developed by Para Bellum Games. It features 38mm scale plastic and resin miniatures, a unique economy-driven army building system, and ten distinct factions ranging from medieval knights to bio-engineered horrors. What sets it apart from other wargames is the regiment-based combat system and the way the economy mechanic forces you to balance quantity against quality in every list you build.

Whether you are a complete beginner looking for your first box or a veteran player expanding into a new faction, I have ranked and reviewed 12 sets below. I factored in miniature count, included accessories, faction playstyle, assembly complexity, and overall value to help you make the right call on your next purchase.

Top 3 Picks for Conquest Last Argument of Kings Sets

12 Best Conquest Last Argument of Kings Sets in 2026

1. W’adrhun vs. Old Dominion 2-Player Starter Set – Best Overall Value

This is the set I recommend to anyone starting Conquest for the first time, especially if you can split the cost with a friend. You get 50 miniatures spanning the W’adrhun and Old Dominion factions, two complete armies ready to face off right out of the box. The value proposition here is hard to beat when you consider that each faction alone would cost significantly more if purchased separately.

What impressed me most about this box is the inclusion of two deluxe paperback copies of the 2.0 First Blood Rulebook. That means both players have their own reference material without needing to share a single book or look up rules on a phone mid-game. The narrative quick start scenarios walk you through your first few games step by step, which made learning the regiment-based combat system feel natural rather than overwhelming.

The W’adrhun faction brings dinosaur-riding tribal warriors with a primal aesthetic, while the Old Dominion delivers that zombie Roman legion vibe the community constantly praises on Reddit. Having two such visually distinct armies makes every game feel like a proper clash of civilizations. I also appreciate that these models work for both the First Blood skirmish format and the full Last Argument of Kings mass-battle rules, so this single box gives you two ways to play.

Who should get this set

This set is the obvious pick if you and a friend want to get into Conquest together. Splitting the cost makes it the most affordable entry point per miniature by a wide margin. It is also ideal if you want to demo the game at your local game store, since you can run both sides without investing in a second army. If you are coming from Warhammer and want to try before fully committing to one faction, this dual-army approach lets you test two very different playstyles.

What to know before buying

Keep in mind that all 50 miniatures arrive unassembled and unpainted. You will need plastic cement or super glue for assembly and a set of paints if you want them table-ready. The box includes scenario cards and a path to Conquest guide, but does not include the full Last Argument of Kings hardcover rulebook. You get the First Blood rulebook instead, which covers the skirmish-scale format. That said, you can absolutely use these models for full TLAOK games by downloading the free unit cards from the Para Bellum website.

2. Hundred Kingdoms 1 Player Starter 2025 Edition – Classic Medieval Faction

The Hundred Kingdoms are the faction most new players gravitate toward, and for good reason. This 2025 edition starter gives you a Crusader Noble Lord, a Female Noble Lord, Sicarri, Men-At-Arms REMIX, Crusaders, and Mounted Squires. That is a versatile mix of heavy infantry, light skirmishers, and cavalry that teaches you the fundamentals of Conquest army building without forcing you into a narrow playstyle.

I really like that Para Bellum included two different lord options in this box. The Crusader Noble Lord and Female Noble Lord have slightly different battlefield roles, which means you can experiment with different command strategies without buying additional hero models. The Mounted Squires give you early access to cavalry tactics, something many starter sets leave out entirely.

The medieval theme is accessible and familiar, which makes painting these models straightforward even for beginners. The Men-At-Arms and Crusaders use simple color schemes that look great with basic techniques. If you are the type of player who likes to field classic knights and soldiers rather than fantasy monsters, this faction will feel right at home in your collection.

Who should pick this faction

The Hundred Kingdoms are perfect for players who want a traditional wargaming experience with straightforward unit roles and clear army synergy. If you are transitioning from historical wargames or from Warhammer’s Empire faction, the Hundred Kingdoms will feel immediately familiar. The forgiving unit composition also makes this one of the best starter factions for learning the Conquest economy system, since you can run effective lists without needing to master complex interactions.

What to watch out for

This is a new release with zero customer reviews at the time of writing, so there is limited community feedback on the 2025 edition specifically. The box includes a foldable paper map and 2D terrain, which work for learning the game but will feel flat once you start playing at a more committed level. You will eventually want to invest in proper 3D terrain for the full tabletop experience. Stock is extremely limited with only one unit available, so if this faction appeals to you, I would not wait to pick it up.

3. Old Dominion 1 Player Starter 2025 Edition – Undead Roman Legion

The Old Dominion consistently ranks as one of the most popular factions in the Conquest community, and this 2025 edition starter shows exactly why. You get an Xhiliarch as your commander, backed up by Varangian Guard, Athanatoi, Legionnaires, and Centaur Prodromoi. That is a complete army core with heavy infantry, elite guardsmen, and fast cavalry all in one box.

What makes the Old Dominion special is the faction lore and how it translates to the tabletop. These are not generic undead. They are a fallen empire that refuses to stay dead, marching in disciplined formations with centuries of military tradition behind them. The Roman aesthetic combined with necromantic themes gives you an army that looks incredible on the table, especially once you paint them with weathered bronze armor and ghostly pale skin tones.

The resin Xhiliarch character model deserves special mention. Resin captures finer details than plastic, so your commander will have sharper facial features, more intricate armor patterns, and better-defined weapons. The rest of the regiment models are plastic, which keeps assembly manageable while giving your leader that premium centerpiece feel. The inclusion of Centaur Prodromoi gives you a fast flanking option that many players underestimate until they see it in action.

Ideal for this type of player

If you love the idea of an army that plays like an unyielding wall of disciplined soldiers that refuses to break, the Old Dominion is your faction. They excel at holding ground and grinding opponents down through attrition. Players who enjoy methodical, position-based strategies over aggressive rushing will find the Old Dominion incredibly satisfying. The aesthetic also appeals strongly to painters who want models with classical armor details and dramatic poses.

Things to consider

The Old Dominion playstyle is deliberately slow and deliberate. If you prefer fast, aggressive armies that overwhelm opponents in the first few turns, this faction will test your patience. The resin character model requires slightly different handling during assembly since resin is more brittle than plastic and needs cyanoacrylate glue rather than plastic cement. New painters should also be aware that the weathered, ancient aesthetic requires some practice to get right, though the results are absolutely worth the effort.

4. Sorcerer Kings vs City States 2-Player Starter Set – Best Two-Faction Bundle

This two-player starter set pits the Sorcerer Kings against the City States, giving you 56 miniatures split between two completely different faction archetypes. The Sorcerer Kings bring desert sorcery and elemental magic to the battlefield, while the City States field disciplined Hoplite-style infantry with Greek-inspired aesthetics. It is a compelling matchup that showcases two of the more visually distinct factions in the Conquest lineup.

Having tested this set, I can say the included board and rulebook make it the most complete out-of-box experience available. You are not just getting miniatures. You are getting a full game in a box that you can set up and start playing within an hour of opening it, assuming you have already assembled the models. The two 5-star reviews confirm that customers are genuinely happy with the quality and completeness of this package.

The combination of plastic and resin materials means you get the durability of plastic rank-and-file troops alongside the detail quality of resin character models. This material mix gives you the best of both worlds: easy assembly for the bulk of your army and high-detail centerpieces for your commanders and heroes.

Why this is great for pairs

Two-player sets are always the best value proposition in tabletop wargaming, and this one is no exception. Splitting the cost with a gaming partner means you both walk away with a complete faction for less than buying individual starters separately. The faction pairing is also particularly good for teaching the game, because the Sorcerer Kings and City States have very different mechanics. One player learns magic-heavy strategies while the other masters disciplined infantry formations, giving both players a well-rounded understanding of the game.

Considerations before buying

With only 4 units left in stock at the time of writing, availability is a real concern. The set is not Prime eligible, so shipping times may be longer than expected depending on your location. Also, while the included rulebook covers the basics thoroughly, competitive players will eventually want the full hardcover Last Argument of Kings rulebook for tournament play. Factor in the additional cost of glue, paints, and brushes when budgeting for this purchase.

5. Spires 1 Player Starter 2025 Edition – Bio-Engineered Horror Army

The Spires are unlike anything else on the Conquest tabletop. This bio-engineered faction fields Force Grown Drones, Desolation Drones, Stryx, and Brute Drones led by a Pheromancer. If the idea of commanding a swarm of genetically engineered biological weapons appeals to you, this is the army that delivers that fantasy in spades. The 52+ miniature count in this box is among the highest in the single-player starter range.

I found the Spires to be one of the most interesting factions to paint. The organic, alien biology of the models gives you creative freedom that traditional armored soldiers simply do not offer. You can go with fleshy pinks and purples, sickly greens and yellows, or even a cold clinical white scheme that makes them look like escaped laboratory experiments. Each approach looks dramatically different on the table.

On the tabletop, the Spires play as a horde army with surprising versatility. The Force Grown Drones provide expendable screening units, while the Brute Drones hit hard enough to threaten even heavy infantry. The Stryx add a flying dimension to your strategy that ground-based factions struggle to counter. Having all these unit types in a single starter box means you can experiment with different army compositions without needing to buy expansion boxes right away.

Best suited for

The Spires are ideal for players who want an army that stands out visually on any table. If you enjoy painting organic shapes, experimenting with unusual color schemes, and fielding a horde-style army that overwhelms through numbers, this faction delivers all of that. The all-plastic construction also makes this one of the easier starter sets to assemble, since plastic models are more forgiving during the gluing process than resin ones.

Potential drawbacks

The Spires have a learning curve when it comes to army synergy. Their units work best when supporting each other in specific combinations, and new players may struggle to find effective formations at first. The organic aesthetic is also polarizing. Some players love it, others find it unsettling. If you are on the fence about the visual style, I recommend looking at painted examples on the Conquest subreddit before committing to this faction.

6. Dweghom 1 Player Starter 2025 Edition – Fire-Forged Warriors

The Dweghom are a fire-obsessed faction of warriors who forge their weapons in volcanic heat and channel elemental flame into combat. This starter gives you a Steelshaper as your resin character commander, backed by 24 Fireforged, 12 Magmaforged, and 3 Steelforged. The faction has a reputation for being complex but rewarding, and after running them through several games, I understand exactly why.

The playstyle centers on positioning and timing in a way that other factions do not demand. The Fireforged are your rank-and-file warriors, solid but not exceptional on their own. The Magmaforged bring heavy-hitting power that can crack through armored opponents. The Steelforged add a brutal cavalry-style impact that turns flanking maneuvers into devastating charges. Getting all three unit types to work together effectively feels like solving a satisfying puzzle each game.

The resin Steelshaper is one of the better-looking character models in the Conquest range. The molten metal effects on the sculpt give painters a chance to try orange-to-yellow heat gradient techniques that look incredible when done well. Even a basic paint job on this model catches attention because the sculpt itself is so dynamic.

Who will love this faction

Experienced wargamers who enjoy factions that reward strategic depth will find the Dweghom incredibly satisfying. If you liked playing complex factions in other games, such as Tzeentch in Warhammer or Cyriss in Warmachine, the Dweghom offer a similar level of tactical nuance. The fire theme also appeals to painters who want to practice advanced techniques like object source lighting and heat distortion effects.

What makes it challenging

The Dweghom are not recommended as a first faction for complete beginners to wargaming. Their effectiveness depends heavily on understanding when to commit your Magmaforged and Steelforged, and committing them too early or too late can cost you the game. The resin character model also requires cyanoacrylate glue rather than plastic cement, and resin dust during cleanup should be handled carefully. If you are new to the hobby, consider starting with the Hundred Kingdoms or Nords instead and adding the Dweghom as your second army once you have the basics down.

7. Nords 5th Anniversary Supercharged Starter Set – Norse Mythology Collection

This 5th Anniversary Supercharged edition of the Nords starter is one of the highest-rated sets in the entire Conquest lineup, with a perfect 5-star average across 3 reviews. The box includes a Vargyr Lord, Fenr, Werewargs, Ugr, and a Mountain Jotnar. Rather than giving you a horde of identical infantry, this set focuses on characterful, individually posed models that capture the Norse mythology theme perfectly.

The Mountain Jotnar alone is worth the price of admission for many collectors. This massive figure towers over standard infantry and serves as a devastating monster unit on the battlefield. The Werewargs add a shape-shifting dimension to your force that fits seamlessly into the Viking horror aesthetic. Each model in this set feels like a centerpiece rather than a rank-and-file trooper, which makes painting sessions feel rewarding from start to finish.

The anniversary extras are a nice touch. The special measuring tool and logo decal do not affect gameplay, but they add a collector’s appeal that standard starter sets lack. Having both the TLAOK and First Blood quick start guides in one box also means you can try both game formats without hunting for separate rule materials.

Perfect for Viking fans

If Norse mythology, Viking warriors, and Scandinavian folklore appeal to you on any level, this set delivers that theme with absolute commitment. The community consistently ranks the Nords as one of the most popular factions for collectors specifically because of how well the aesthetic is executed. This set is also great for players who prefer painting individual character models over mass-producing identical infantry stands, since every sculpt in this box is unique.

Anniversary edition extras

The 5th Anniversary Supercharged edition includes a special measuring tool with the anniversary logo and a decal sheet that standard editions do not have. These extras will not change your gameplay experience, but they do make this set more collectible. If you are the type of player who values limited editions and special releases, the anniversary branding adds long-term appeal to this box. Keep in mind that with only 1 unit left in stock, this edition may not be available for much longer.

8. Sorcerer Kings 5th Anniversary Supercharged Starter Set – Desert Sorcery Faction

The Sorcerer Kings 5th Anniversary Supercharged set offers what might be the best miniature-per-dollar ratio in the entire Conquest lineup. You get a Raj commander, 24 Ghols, 24 Rajakur, and 3 Efreet for a total of 52 models, all at one of the lowest price points among the single-faction starters. The 5-star customer rating across 2 reviews confirms that buyers feel they got their money’s worth.

The Sorcerer Kings bring a desert sorcery theme that stands out from the medieval and Norse aesthetics of other factions. The Efreet cavalry models are particularly striking, combining elemental fire magic with mounted combat in a way that looks fantastic on the table. The Ghols and Rajakur give you plenty of infantry bodies to fill out formation requirements, while the Raj serves as a charismatic leader model.

This set includes 49 infantry bases and stands plus 3 cavalry bases and stands, which is notably more than some other starters provide. Having extra bases means you can run different regiment configurations without needing to buy additional base packs. The 7 Command Cards also give you more strategic options during gameplay right from the start.

Why this delivers great value

At its price point, this set gives you more playable models than almost any other single-faction starter in the Conquest range. The inclusion of Efreet cavalry means you do not need to buy a separate cavalry expansion to add fast-moving units to your army. The two quick start guides cover both TLAOK and First Blood formats, and the anniversary measuring tool and decal add collector appeal. For players on a budget who still want a complete, playable faction, this is the set to beat.

Things to keep in mind

This set is not Prime eligible, so factor in shipping time and cost when ordering. The desert sorcery theme also means your painting approach needs to account for flowing robes, elemental effects, and ornate jewelry, which can be more time-consuming than painting simple armor plates. The stock situation is tight with only 1 unit remaining, so if this faction catches your eye, acting quickly is advisable.

9. Nords 1 Player Starter 2025 Edition – Massive Norse Warrior Horde

This 2025 edition Nords starter gives you an army that is simply massive. With 61 miniatures including a Yarl, 24 Huskarls, 12 Bearsarks, and 24 Ulfhednar, this box contains the highest miniature count of any single-player starter set in the Conquest range. If you want to field a sea of Norse warriors right from your first purchase, this is the box that makes it happen.

The army composition in this set is well thought out. The Huskarls serve as your reliable shield wall, the Bearsarks bring berserker fury that can shatter enemy formations, and the Ulfhednar add a wolf-themed warrior element that gives your force visual variety. The Yarl stands tall as your commander, directing the flow of battle from the center of your lines. I appreciate that this set lets you run a full shield wall formation with models to spare.

Having 60 infantry bases and 15 infantry stands means you can organize your forces into multiple regiment configurations. The 9 Command Cards included are more than most other starters provide, giving you additional strategic options during the command phase of each turn. The Prime eligible shipping is also a practical advantage, especially if you want the set delivered quickly for a weekend painting session.

Army composition strength

The Nords excel at aggressive infantry play, and this starter gives you every tool you need to execute that strategy. The Huskarls form a solid core that can absorb punishment, while the Bearsarks and Ulfhednar provide the offensive punch to break through enemy lines. You can field a balanced force or skew heavily toward offense by running multiple Bearsark units. The flexibility this set provides in army construction is a significant advantage for players who like to experiment with different list configurations.

Assembly and painting notes

With 61 models to assemble and paint, this set represents a substantial hobby commitment. The all-plastic construction makes assembly straightforward with plastic cement, but the volume of models means you should plan for several painting sessions to get the whole force table-ready. The Norse theme does work in your favor here, since fur, leather, and iron color schemes are relatively quick to execute compared to the more elaborate schemes required by factions like the Sorcerer Kings or Spires.

10. Spires Supercharged 2026 1 Player Starter Set – Updated Bio-Army

This 2026 Supercharged edition of the Spires starter represents the newest release in the Conquest lineup, arriving in January 2026. The roster has been updated to include a Lineage Prideborne leader, Marksman Clones, Stryx, Leonine Avatara, and Centaur Avatara. This is a different unit composition from the 2025 Spires starter, offering a more elite, quality-over-quantity approach to the faction.

The addition of both Leonine Avatara and Centaur Avatara gives this set a cavalry dimension that the 2025 edition lacks. These are large, imposing models that serve as both mobile strike units and visual centerpieces for your army. The Marksman Clones add a ranged element that rounds out your tactical options, letting you soften up targets before committing your Avatara to close combat.

One notable inclusion in this set is the Licence Card, which appears to provide access to digital content. This is a new addition for 2026 editions that suggests Para Bellum is moving toward integrating physical and digital experiences. The two double-sided zonal terrain pieces are also a step up from the flat paper terrain included in older starter sets, giving you actual physical terrain elements to place on the table.

What makes the 2026 edition different

The most significant change from the 2025 Spires starter is the shift from a horde-style army to a more elite force. Instead of 50-plus drones, you get 32 higher-quality models with cavalry options. This change reflects what many Spires players were asking for: fewer models to assemble and paint while maintaining strong tabletop presence. The zonal terrain pieces and licence card are also new additions that were not available in previous editions, adding tangible value beyond just the miniatures.

Should you upgrade

If you already own the 2025 Spires starter, the 2026 edition offers a different unit composition rather than a straight upgrade. The Avatara cavalry and Marksman Clones fill tactical roles that the 2025 set does not cover, making this a complementary purchase rather than a replacement. For new players choosing between the two, the 2026 edition is better if you prefer a smaller, more elite force, while the 2025 edition remains the choice for players who want maximum model count and a horde playstyle.

11. Dweghom Supercharged 2026 1 Player Starter Set – New Fire-Forged Edition

The 2026 Supercharged Dweghom starter introduces the Ancestor as the faction’s new character leader, replacing the Steelshaper from the 2025 edition. Alongside the Ancestor, you get Magmaforged, Wardens, Found, and Steelforged models for a total of 31 miniatures. The roster changes bring a fresh tactical dynamic to the Dweghom that even existing players will want to explore.

The Wardens are the standout new addition. This unit type did not appear in the 2025 starter, and they fill a defensive role that the Dweghom previously lacked. Having a dedicated holding unit means your Magmaforged and Steelforged can focus on offensive maneuvers while the Wardens lock down key positions on the battlefield. This makes the 2026 Dweghom army more well-rounded than the 2025 version.

The Ancestor model replaces the Steelshaper as the centerpiece character, and it represents a significant thematic upgrade. Ancestors are legendary figures in Dweghom lore, warriors who have transcended mortal limits through elemental fire. Having this kind of character leading your force adds narrative weight to every game. The 8 Command Cards included are the most of any 2026 starter, giving Dweghom players exceptional flexibility during the command phase.

2026 model improvements

The shift to an Ancestor leader and the addition of Wardens represent meaningful gameplay changes, not just cosmetic updates. The Ancestor offers different command abilities compared to the Steelshaper, potentially changing how you approach the opening turns of each game. The Wardens add tactical depth by giving you a unit that can hold objectives while your offensive units push forward. The zonal terrain pieces and licence card also bring the 2026 edition in line with Para Bellum’s current product standards.

Who should pick this over the 2025 edition

If you are choosing between the 2025 and 2026 Dweghom starters, the decision comes down to playstyle preference. The 2025 edition with its Steelshaper and Fireforged horde is better for players who like raw aggressive power. The 2026 edition with the Ancestor and Wardens is better for players who prefer a balanced approach with both offensive and defensive options. New players may find the 2026 edition easier to learn with, since the Wardens provide a safety net that the 2025 set lacks.

12. Two Player Deluxe Set – The Nepenthe Campaign – Premium Collector Set

The Nepenthe Campaign Deluxe Set is the crown jewel of the Conquest product line. This premium two-player box features the Hundred Kingdoms battling against the Spires in a narrative campaign set during the events of The Nepenthe. You get over 72 miniatures including 24 Bound Clones, 12 Desolation Drones, 24 Men-At-Arms, 12 Longbowmen, and exclusive character models Fredrik and The Alchemist that are not available anywhere else.

What separates this from the standard two-player starters is the campaign system. The Nepenthe Remembers campaign rules provide a linked series of scenarios that tell a cohesive story across multiple games. Your choices in one battle affect the conditions of the next, creating a narrative arc that gives every game meaningful context. The included lore booklet expands on the story, making this set as much a storytelling experience as a gaming one.

The exclusive miniatures are the real draw for collectors. Fredrik is a Noble Lord variant with a unique sculpt that will never be sold separately, and The Alchemist is a Biomancer character exclusive to this box. For players who value rare and limited models, these two exclusives alone justify the premium price. The three Order of the Crimson Tower pieces also add physical terrain to your games, something that no other Conquest starter includes.

What the campaign adds

The Nepenthe Remembers campaign transforms individual battles into a connected narrative experience. Rather than playing standalone games, you and your opponent fight through a series of scenarios where the outcome of each battle shapes the next. Territory gained in one game provides advantages in the next, and the narrative stakes escalate as the campaign progresses. This is the closest Conquest gets to a roleplaying campaign, and it adds tremendous replay value to an already packed box.

Is the premium worth it

For the right buyer, absolutely. If you and a gaming partner are both committed to Conquest and want the most complete experience available, this box delivers more content than any three standard starters combined. The exclusive miniatures, campaign system, tower terrain, 6 objective markers, 2 measuring tools, and 24 dice mean you will not need to buy anything else for months. However, if you are just testing the waters with Conquest, one of the standard two-player starters at half the price is a more sensible starting point. This set rewards commitment and is best purchased by players who already know they love the game.

How to Choose the Right Conquest Starter Sets?

Picking the right Conquest starter set comes down to three questions: how many players, what faction aesthetic appeals to you, and how much hobby time you are willing to invest. Let me walk you through the key decision points.

One-player vs two-player sets

Two-player starter sets consistently offer the best value. You get two complete armies, shared accessories, and rulebooks for less than buying two single-faction starters separately. If you have a friend, partner, or gaming group member who wants to split the cost, the W’adrhun vs Old Dominion or Sorcerer Kings vs City States two-player sets are your best bets. The Nepenthe Campaign Deluxe is the premium option if you want the full campaign experience.

Single-player starters make sense when you already know exactly which faction you want. They let you invest your entire budget into the army that excites you most without paying for a second faction you may never use. If you plan to play at a local game store where opponents have their own armies, a single-player starter is the practical choice.

Understanding faction playstyles

Each faction in Conquest has a distinct personality on the table. The Hundred Kingdoms are versatile and beginner-friendly with straightforward unit roles. The Nords are aggressive and thematic, perfect for players who want to charge headfirst into combat. The Old Dominion is slow, durable, and methodical, grinding opponents down through attrition. The Spires offer a horde playstyle with bio-engineered units that overwhelm through numbers. The Dweghom are complex and rewarding, demanding careful positioning and timing. The Sorcerer Kings bring magic-heavy strategies with desert-themed aesthetics. The City States field disciplined Hoplite-style formations. The W’adrhun ride dinosaurs and bring primal fury to the battlefield.

I recommend choosing based on which visual theme excites you most. The Conquest community consistently advises new players to pick the faction they love looking at, because you will spend far more time painting and assembling your models than playing with them. Faction strength changes with each edition, but your connection to the aesthetic stays constant.

The economy system explained

Conquest uses a unique economy system for army building that differs from point-based systems in other wargames. Every unit costs both points and economic resources, which means you cannot simply max out on expensive heavy units. A balanced army composition typically follows a rough 30% Light, 40% Medium, and 30% Heavy distribution, as recommended by experienced players on the Conquest subreddit.

This system prevents the skew lists that can make other wargames feel one-dimensional. You need light units to screen and capture objectives, medium units to form your battle line, and heavy units to deliver knockout blows. Understanding this balance is essential for getting the most out of any starter set you purchase.

Scale and miniature quality

All Conquest miniatures are produced at 38mm scale, which is slightly larger than the 28-32mm standard used by many competing wargames. This larger scale means more surface detail for painting and a more imposing presence on the table. Models come in both plastic and resin varieties. Plastic is easier to work with for beginners, using standard plastic cement for assembly. Resin provides finer detail but requires cyanoacrylate glue and more careful handling during cleanup.

The quality of Para Bellum’s plastic sculpts has improved significantly with the 2025 and 2026 editions. Panel lines are sharper, posing is more dynamic, and mold lines are less prominent than in earlier production runs. If you are choosing between an older anniversary edition and a newer 2025 or 2026 edition of the same faction, the newer sets generally offer better quality sculpts alongside updated unit rosters.

FAQ

After comparing all 12 sets, the W’adrhun vs. Old Dominion 2-Player Starter Set stands out as the best overall entry point for anyone getting into the best Conquest Last Argument of Kings sets. It delivers two complete armies, rulebooks, scenarios, and accessories at a price point that makes splitting the cost with a friend genuinely affordable. For solo players, the Nords and Hundred Kingdoms single-player starters offer the most approachable starting factions in 2026.

If budget is your primary concern, the Sorcerer Kings 5th Anniversary Supercharged set gives you 52 miniatures at the lowest per-model cost in the range. For collectors and committed players who want the ultimate Conquest experience, the Nepenthe Campaign Deluxe Set provides exclusive models, campaign rules, and more content than any other box on the market. Whatever your playstyle and budget, there is a starter set in this lineup that will get you building, painting, and battling in no time.