by Jeff Bullard
Welcome back to another Majestix map review. This time we are looking at the “Clocktower 2015” map. The map is currently winnable in the weekly MOCs. “Clocktower 2015” is a map style we have not seen in a while. The unique starting areas give each player advantage whether they win or lose map roll. The map center has a diverse terrain layout to make for a great strategic game. Most importantly how does this map fit into the Bronze Age format?
The “Clocktower 2015” offers two standard size starting zones 2×12 squares centered on opposite sides. On the Clocktower side of the map, 75% of the starting area is on Level 2 with the other 25% on Level 1. One disadvantage to this starting area is for non-flyers there are only two stairs that go to Level 1. However, the openness looking out from the rim makes TK lines much easier. Whether you are TK’ing an object back or a figure out. On the opposite side, you have the Diner. All 24 squares of the starting area are Indoors. The Diner extends out 2 more rows with a wall separating the Indoor from the Outdoor. There are 3 Spaces on the wall that have a Door. The Diner starting area provides a great defense from range attacks. It a safe space for the Colossal and Giant figures until they are needed. It gives the player the safeguards they may need to set up. Something to keep in mind with choosing this side is there are no TK lines to reposition objects under figures. With either side, you will be off to a great start.
This is a very visually appealing map and with a balanced design. There is a bit of each type of terrain on the map. The starting zones have Elevated and Indoor terrain. The center of the map, for this instant I am referring to row 6 thru 20 has a bit of everything. There is a patch of Obscuring coming out of the Diner. Also, there are two trees on the corners of the body of water closest to the Diner that supply Hindering Terrain. This is a great spot for someone with Stealth to hide. The Water Terrain in the middle of the map is surrounded by small sections of Blocking terrain. The Blocking terrain is on three of the four sides. These Blocking terrains make it so you can come out of your starting area and not get shot right away. Again, without flying or some other improved movement you are stuck walking around the Water terrain that stretches most of the map’s width. I like the options of the pier that sticks out into the middle of the water or the steppingstones to give you a bit of extra reach to shoot something further back. The layout makes for very tactical games.
Where does this map fit in with Bronze Age? Let us start with Special terrain. It can control the tempo of the game on this map. Whether it is a jet, plane, or car of sorts placed in front of the main entrance to the Diner funneling all the non-Flyers out the single side door. A Boxing or WWE ring makes a nice bridge to cross the Water terrain. Another trick is you can expand your coverage by adding to the Blocking terrain with the Wall or a Mandarin Ring (old or new) allowing you safe passage to your target. Something else to keep in mind is Galactus and his Elemental Converter dial. It will force your opponent out of the Diner into battle. I look forward to seeing more of the tricks played on this map.
Overall, this a great addition to the Bronze Age map list. It adds another layer to choosing a map with the non-symmetrical map style. The design and layout of the map lean towards more balanced games. With anything in Bronze Age I am sure the players will find a way to make it work. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to practice rolling your dice!
