90 Generic Combat Styles

for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Introduction Combat Style Traits

Below follows a list of 90 Combat Styles that
can be used by PCs and NPCs. Intended for
use in Conan’s Hyborian Age, they are generic
enough to be inserted into any sword &
sorcery campaign. They are grouped by theme
for ease of reference.
Combat Styles
All Combat Styles are in the following format:
The list includes 21 new Special Traits not in
the RQ6 book. These were created to give
additional flavour or further differentiate
various Combat Styles. All special traits are
listed at the end of the document.
Table of Contents
The combat styles are roughly grouped per
theme. These have no in-game function other
than flavour.

Name(s) of the Combat Style

Description and flavour text.
Introduction...................................................1
Weapons (x): The weapons included in the
Combat Style are listed here. Where there are House Rules ...................................................2
choices offered (“or”) only one weapon is The Light of Civilization ..................................3
chosen. The number lists the number of Frontier Life ...................................................5
weapons that are (initially) included in the
Travellers of the Seas .....................................6
Combat Style. At the GM’s discretion weapons
listed here but not chosen can be ‘added’ to Armies of the Hyborian Kings .........................7
the Combat Style through additional training Empire of the Inland Sea ................................9
(see ‘Combat Style House Rules’).
Horsemen of the Steppes ...............................9
Traits: The traits that can be learned with this
An Ancient and Decadent Civilization ........... 10
Combat Style are listed here. Usually more
than one trait is listed per Combat Style. Barbarians of the North ............................... 11
When the Combat Style is first learned the GM Desert Dwellers ........................................... 12
will choose which combat style trait (if any) is
Jungle Kingdoms .......................................... 13
learned. Typically this should be only one trait
for a novice practitioner. At the GM’s Great Kingdoms of the Orient ...................... 14
discretion, listed special traits that are not The Deep Wilderness ...................................15
learned can be ‘added’ to the Combat Style
Behind the scenes ........................................ 15
through additional training (see ‘Combat Style
House Rules’). Combat Style Traits ......................................16
Combat Style Index ......................................20
On ‘named’ Combat Styles
Some combat styles reference a particular
Hyborian culture (ie Bossonian Longbowman).
At the GM’s discretion, these may also be
suitable as ‘elite’ versions of other combat
styles and be available to other cultures.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
House Rules
Below are some optional house rules that
work well with the Combat Styles as
presented.
Weapon Choices
It is assumed that when learning a Combat
Style, a character will come in contact with
many weapons, but end up with favourites he
or she is most comfortable with. This is why
some Combat Styles have many weapons
available, but only a fraction of them are
chosen to be a part of the Combat Style. The
chosen weapons are the ‘favourites’ while
others on the list are weapons that are merely
familiar. The assumption is that characters
with broad martial training (ie knights) are
competent with many weapons without being
experts in all of those weapons.
House Rule: Weapon Defaulting
If a character uses a weapon that was not
chosen to be a part of the Combat Style, but is
present as an option on the list, the character
is assumed to have some familiarity with the
weapon and may default from that Combat
Style at a penalty of one difficulty grade.
House Rule: Learning New Weapons
Characters can expand their Combat Styles by
adding new weapons. Weapons that are on
the Combat Style list are already familiar, and
can be added through the expenditure of 2
Experience Rolls and two weeks in-game
training with the weapon.
Weapons that are not on the list can be added
to the Style if the GM deems it reasonable to
the ‘spirit’ of the style. Adding an unfamiliar
weapon requires expenditure of 3 Experience
Rolls and three weeks in-game training with
the weapon.
Combat Style Traits
Traits represent specialisation in using a set of
weapons in a particular way, and are used to
distinguish how differing Combat Styles might
use even the same weapon-set in different
ways. Generally speaking, Combat Styles with
a broad selection of weapons have few
combat style traits, while Combat Styles
specialising in few weapons have many. The
mark of ‘elite’ Combat Styles is that they have
both breadth of weapons and depth of traits.
It is assumed that learning the basic forms of a
Combat Style is easy, but that further
specialisation requires more training.
House Rule: Learning New Traits
A novice character should only know one of
the combat style traits presented, whichever
best represents the basic form of the Combat
Style. New traits on the list can be added
through the expenditure of 2 Experience Rolls,
plus one Experience Roll for every trait already
‘known’ of the Combat Style. One week of in-
game training is needed per Experience Roll.
Traits that are not on the list can be added to
the Style if the GM deems it reasonable to the
‘spirit’ of the style. Adding a ‘non-standard’
trait costs as above plus one additional
Experience Roll and week of training.
House Rule: Evolving Combat Styles
It may occur that characters have developed a
Combat Style to such an extent that it is no
longer representative of the character’s actual
style of fighting. In such a situation the GM
might (in cooperation with the player)
‘upgrade’ the Combat Style to a more relevant
one on the list, keeping existing skill level,
weapons and traits but making new weapons
and traits available. This should require
expenditure of 3 Experience Rolls and one
month of in-game training.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

The Light of Enforcer

Civilization
These Combat Styles can be found in civilized
nations, in the cities or developed farmlands.
Citizen / Slave
Only in civilized lands could a man live his
whole life without any ability to defend
himself. Also appropriate for slaves who do
not handle weapons.
Weapons (1): Club or Dagger.
Many cities have squabbling criminal lordlings,
fighting each other for power. Those lordlings
need soldiers.
Weapons (3): One of the following (Club,
Hatchet, Mace, Shortsword), Dagger, Light
Crossbow or Buckler Shield.
Traits: Batter Aside, Crossbow Handling.
Shanker
An expert with small, concealable blades can
always find work.

Traits: None. Weapons (3): Shortsword, Main Gauche,

Dagger.

Highborn / Courtier Traits: Assassination.

Courtiers and other highborn often have the
right to bear swords... though they are
typically too soft-bellied to use them.
Weapons (2): Broadsword (Hyborians) or
Scimitar (Orientals), Dagger.
Pugilist
A bare-fisted brawler, fighting for coin or
acclaim. A trained pugilist is dangerous even
to armed men... and is never unarmed.

Traits: None. Weapons (2): Unarmed, Cestus*.

Traits: Knockout, Unarmed Prowess,
Beggar Showmanship.
Even those with nothing fight with something.
* A Cestus is an armoured fighting glove. It
Weapons (2): Rock, Knife or Club. increases unarmed damage by 1 point.
Traits: None.
Pit Fighter
Guttersnipe Fighting other men to the death for a crowd’s
When your job is cutting purse-strings, you get cheers and some coin is rarely legal, but
handy with a knife. popular nonetheless. Pit Fighters get good
fast, or die.
Weapons (2): Dagger, Knife.
Weapons (3): Three of the following (Ball and
Traits: None. Chain, Battleaxe, Broadsword, Chain, Dagger,
Hatchet, Falchion, Mace, Scimitar,
Thug Shortsword).
A simple thug takes what he wants by force.
Traits: Batter Aside, Create Opening,
Weapons (2): One of the following (Chain, Showmanship.
Club, Mace, Shortsword), Dagger.
Traits: None.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Watchman Fencer / Duelist

Serving as police and fire-fighters, watchmen Fencing is fashionable amongst the nobility;
rarely draw their weapons with deadly intent. socialites flaunt their wealth by hiring teachers
of the “Zingaran school”
Weapons (3): Shortspear, Club, Dagger.
Weapons (1): Rapier.
Traits: None.
Traits: Lunge, Showmanship.
Guardsman / Bodyguard
The wealthy maintain guardsmen as well Marksman
trained and equipped as any soldier. Marksmen practice shooting at small targets,
for sport or entertainment rather than war.
Weapons (4): Light Crossbow, Broadsword or
They usually favour one type of weapon.
Scimitar, Dagger, Heater or Target Shield.
Bows (2): Longbow or Recurve Bow,
Traits: Crossbow Handling.
Shortbow.

Palace Guard Crossbows (2): Light and Heavy Crossbow.

The last line of defence for the reigning Thrown (2): Hatchet, Dagger.
nobility, these men might be deadly veterans...
or handsome boys that look good in uniform. Traits: Crossbow Handling, Longshot,
Marksmanship, Showmanship.
Weapons (4): Halberd or Glaive, Broadsword
or Scimitar, Dagger, Buckler Shield.
Wrestler
Traits: Batter Aside, Formation Fighting. Wrestling is a popular sport in many nations.
The techniques taught can be useful to an
Judicial Champion unarmed man forced to defend himself.
A specialist in one-on-one combat, champions Weapons (1): Unarmed.
are skilled in a wide variety of weapons.
Traits: Iron Holds, Unarmed Prowess,
Where trial by combat exists, these men are
highly sought after. Unarmed Throws.

Weapons (5): One of the following (Glaive,

Zingaran Bravo
Great Axe, Great Hammer, Great Sword,
Halberd, Longspear, Military Flail, Pike), two of Bravos fight fierce duels in the alleys of
the following (Ball & Chain, Battleaxe, Zingaran cities – they are masters of the
Broadsword, Hatchet, Falchion, Flail, rapier-and-dagger style.
Longsword, Mace, Military Pick, Scimitar,
Weapons (3): Rapier, Main Gauche, Dagger.
Shortsword), Dagger, one Shield (any).
Traits: Batter Aside, Create Opening, Traits: Create Opening, Cross-Parry, Excellent
Showmanship. Footwork, Lunge, Showmanship,
Swashbuckling.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Frontier Life
Combat Styles typical for sparsely populated
rural areas, on the edges of civilization.
Peasant / Herder
Every herder or peasant learns to protect his
farm or herd from predators... or thieves.
Weapons (2): Quarterstaff or Flail, one of the
following (Club, Dagger, Hatchet).
Traits: None.
Hunter
A skilled hunter of non-dangerous game.
Weapons (2): Shortbow or Sling, Hatchet or
Dagger.
Traits: Marksmanship.
Brigand / Bandit
Sometimes the poor turn to brigandage, if
crops fail or the taxman is too greedy.
Weapons (3): Shortbow or Sling, one of the
following (Club, Quarterstaff, Shortspear),
Hatchet or Dagger.
Traits: None.
Patrolman / Outrider
Lightly armed cavalrymen protect the
kingdom’s roads from bandits.
Weapons (3): Light Crossbow or Shortbow,
one of the following (Battleaxe, Broadsword,
Mace, Shortspear), Hatchet or Dagger.
Traits: Mounted Combat, Crossbow Handling.
Bailiff / Magistrate
Representatives of the crown in the kingdom’s
backwaters, these men must sometimes
enforce their rulings with steel.
Weapons (4): Two of the following:
(Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion, Longsword,
Shortsword), Dagger, Heater Shield.
Traits: None.
Borderer / Forester
Tasked with keeping the kingdom’s forests
safe from poachers or enemy agents, these
men patrol the wild places.
Weapons (4): Longbow or Recurve Bow, one
of the following (Battleaxe, Broadsword,
Falchion, Longsword), Hatchet, Dagger.
Traits: None.
Beast Hunter
The hunting of large, dangerous or exotic prey
can be lucrative business. Specialists learn
various techniques to kill these beasts.
Weapons (4): Longbow or Recurve Bow or
Heavy Crossbow, Longspear, Javelin or
Shortspear or Trident, one of the following
(Battleaxe, Mace, Military Pick, Hatchet,
Dagger).
Traits: Marksmanship.
Slave-Catcher
Whether chasing fugitives or on the hunt for
new stock, these men are specialists in
capturing other men.
Weapons (4): Light Crossbow or Shortbow or
Sling, Bolas, Mace or Club, Net.
Traits: Mancatcher.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Travellers of the Marine

Not all seamen on a naval vessel are trained
Seas fighters. Marines take the brunt of all
boarding actions, and are occasionally called
These Combat Styles are typical to those who to fight on land as well.
live (and die) at sea.
Hyborian Marine

Sailor Hyborian nations favour heavily armed

Countless merchant vessels ply the trade
routes, but pirates are always a threat. Luckily,
there are plentiful bludgeons and axes on
hand on a ship.
Weapons (2): Oar (Quarterstaff) or Club,
Hatchet or Dagger.
Traits: Sea Legs.
Spear Diver
These trained divers can hold their breaths
underwater for minutes. They hunt for fish
with their spears.
Weapons (2): Shortspear, Dagger.
footmen as marines.
Weapons (4): Light Crossbow, one of the
following (Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion,
Mace, Military Pick, Shortspear), Hatchet or
Dagger, Heater Shield or Kite Shield.
Traits: Sea Legs, Crossbow Handling.
Oriental Marine
The navies of Turan, Shem and further East
favour contingents of archers on their ships.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow, one of the
following (Battleaxe, Falchion, Mace,
Scimitar), Hatchet or Dagger, Target Shield.

Traits: Water Combat. Traits: Sea Legs, Volley Fire.

Whaler Zingaran Freebooter

The bravest fishing crews attempt to hunt the
great beasts of the deep. They must be
harpooned and chased to exhaustion.
Weapons (3): Harpoon (Javelin), Hatchet,
Dagger.
Traits: Sea Legs.
The Zingaran freebooters are amongst the
most feared pirates, renowned for their cruelty
and mercilessness. As befits their heritage,
many are skilled fencers.
Weapons (4): Light Crossbow, Broadsword or
Rapier, Main Gauche or Buckler Shield,
Dagger.

Pirate Traits: Crossbow Handling, Sea Legs, Excellent

On a pirate vessel, every sailor learns to fight. Footwork, Swashbuckling.
A hard life of kill-or-be-killed makes pirates
bloodthirsty and cruel.
Weapons (3): Shortbow or Javelin,
Broadsword or Falchion or Scimitar, Hatchet
or Dagger.
Traits: Sea Legs.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Armies of the
Hyborian Kings
Combat styles for professional or semi-
professional soldiers. Below entries generally
reflect Hyborian military traditions, with a
strong focus on heavy cavalry and infantry
often being considered a secondary role,
worthy of little honour. Note that most of the
generic roles listed below are in use far
outside of the Hyborian kingdoms as well.
Militia / Infantryman
Infantry is the cornerstone of most armies.
There is fundamentally little difference in the
combat styles of part-time militia and
professional soldiers, but professionals tend to
have a higher level of skill, superior
equipment, and are trained in more auxiliary
weapons and combat style traits.
Militia and Infantrymen are distinguished by
the weapon they carry and the role they fill on
the battlefield.
Archer / Bowman
Trained bowmen can make arrows rain on
their enemies, causing all but the most heavily
armoured troops to falter.
Weapons (3): Longbow or Recurve Bow,
Shortsword or Hatchet, Dagger.
Traits: Volley Fire.
Crossbowman
A crossbow cannot match a bow’s rate of fire,
but basic skill can be taught in a week, and the
weapon is potent even in a novice’s hand.
Weapons (3): Light Crossbow or Heavy
Crossbow, Shortsword or Hatchet, Dagger.
Traits: Crossbow Handling, Reload Drill, Volley
Fire.
Spearman
Spearmen form the main line of battle and
anchor an enemy in place. Spears have fallen
out of favour in Hyborian military thought,
though many other nations still field vast
numbers of spearmen, most notably Khitai.
Weapons (3): Shortspear, Shortsword, Kite
Shield or Hoplite Shield or Scutum.
Traits: Shield Wall, Formation Fighting.
Pikeman
Pikemen are the most common infantrymen in
Hyborian armies; a row of pikes is an
insurmountable obstacle to any charge.
Weapons (3): Longspear or Pike, Shortsword,
Buckler Shield.
Traits: Formation Fighting.
Halberdier
Filling a similar role to pikemen on the field,
halberdiers lose on reach but are more potent
in the swirl of melee.
Weapons (3): Halberd or Glaive, Shortsword,
Buckler Shield.
Traits: Formation Fighting.
Knight / Man-at-Arms
Most Hyborian generals believe that a charge
by lance-armed heavy cavalry will win any
battle. Whether noble-born knights or more
lowly men-at-arms, these warriors are the
elite of Hyborian armies.
Weapons (4): Lance, one of the following:
(Ball & Chain, Battleaxe, Broadsword,
Falchion, Flail, Longsword, Mace, Military
Pick), Dagger, Heater Shield or Kite Shield.
Traits: Lancer, Mounted Combat.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Siege Arbalister Hyperborean Gaunt

Elite crossbowmen specialised in static battles
like sieges. Their large pavise shields protect
them from enemy fire.
Weapons (4): Heavy Crossbow, Broadsword or
Battleaxe or Mace, Dagger, Pavise*.
Traits: Crossbow Handling, Pavisier, Reload
Drill, Volley Fire.
* A pavise is a large shield used for cover that
can be stood on the ground with an attached
spike or worn on the back. Treat as a Scutum.
The tall warriors of Hyperborea fight in a
manner not unlike their Nordheimr enemies.
Slow of thought and speech, in battle they
reveal a terrifying fury.
Weapons (4): One of the following (Great
Axe, Great Hammer, Great Sword), one of the
following (Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion,
Mace, Military Pick, Shortspear), Hatchet or
Dagger, Viking Shield.
Traits: Berserker, Batter Aside.

Knight of Poitain
Bossonian Longbowman
The premiere military force of Aquilonia, they
Immovable in defence, the Bossonians of
are equally deadly on horseback as on foot.
Aquilonia are deadly at range and in melee.
Weapons (5): Lance, Longsword or
Weapons (4): Longbow, Broadsword or
Greatsword, one of the following: (Ball &
Battleaxe or Mace, Hatchet or Dagger, Buckler
Chain, Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion, Flail,
Shield.
Mace, Military Pick), Dagger, Heater Shield or
Traits: Strong Pull, Longshot, Marksmanship, Kite Shield.
Volley Fire.
Traits: Batter Aside, Lancer, Mounted Combat.

Gunderland Pikeman
Gunderland Pikemen use shields in formation
to defend themselves from missiles, and
switch to sword and shield at closer ranges.
Weapons (4): Pike, Broadsword or Battleaxe,
Short Sword or Dagger, Buckler Shield.
Traits: Batter Aside, Formation Fighting, Pike-
and-Shield.
Kothic Spahi
The Spahis of Koth have adopted the cavalry
styles of their ancestral enemies in Shem and
Turan.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow, Lance,
Broadsword or Falchion or Scimitar, Dagger.
Traits: Lancer, Mounted Combat.
Nemedian Adventurer
This famed band of not-quite mercenaries
nominally owes allegiance to the king of
Nemedia. Mostly composed of nobles or men-
at-arms too poor to be knights, the
Adventurers are tough and practical fighters.
Weapons (5): Light or Heavy Crossbow,
Greatsword, one of the following: (Ball &
Chain, Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion, Flail,
Mace, Military Pick), Dagger, Heater Shield or
Kite Shield.
Traits: Batter Aside, Crossbow Handling.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Empire of the Inland
Sea
Combat styles for the warriors of the great
kingdom of Turan. As befits the descendants
of nomadic horsemen, Turanians are skilled at
mounted warfare.
Turanian Soldier
Trained in spear, sword or bow, these
horsemen are the backbone of Turan’s armies.
Weapons (3): Shortspear or Scimitar, Dagger,
Recurve Bow or Target Shield.
Traits: Mounted Combat.
Turanian Imperial Horseman
The best warriors are promoted to the
Imperial Horsemen with great honours, a rank
roughly equivalent to a Hyborian knight.
Weapons (4): Lance or Tulwar*, one of the
following (Battleaxe, Falchion, Mace, Scimitar,
Shortspear) Dagger, Recurve Bow or Target
Shield.
Traits: Mounted Combat.
Turanian Miner
Specialised in siege warfare unsuited to
Turanian mounted armies, the Miners are
tasked with bringing down the fortresses in
the way of Turan’s imperial ambitions.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow, one of the
following (Battleaxe, Falchion, Mace, Military
Pick, Scimitar), Dagger, Kite Shield.
Traits: Marksmanship, Siege Combat.
* The Tulwar is a heavy two-handed scimitar
favoured in Vendhya and Turan. Treat as a
Greatsword that cannot Impale.
Mighty Archer of Turan
An elite regiment of mounted archers, these
warriors report directly to the king.
Weapons (5): Recurve Bow, Lance or Tulwar*,
one of the following (Battleaxe, Falchion,
Mace, Scimitar, Shortspear), Dagger, Target
Shield.
Traits: Longshot, Mounted Combat, Strong
Pull, Volley Fire.
Horsemen of the
Steppes
Combat styles for the nomadic Hyrkanians,
who live on the saddle. When not raiding each
other in their lands, they often find their way
into the armies of Turan.
Hyrkanian Horse Archer
The bulk of the Hyrkanian hordes are horse
archers. Riding around their enemies, they
overwhelm them under a rain of arrows.
Weapons (3): Recurve Bow, one of the
following (Mace, Scimitar, Shortspear),
Dagger.
Traits: Longshot, Mounted Combat.
Hyrkanian Lancer / Cataphract
The Hyrkanian elite are heavy cavalrymen as
deadly as any Hyborian knight. They fire volley
after volley into enemy ranks and then destroy
them in a devastating charge.
Weapons (5): Recurve Bow, Lance, one of the
following (Battleaxe, Falchion, Mace,
Scimitar), Dagger, Target Shield.
Traits: Lancer, Longshot, Mounted Combat,
Volley Fire.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

An Ancient and Mamluk

Decadent
Civilization
These Combat Styles represent a more
antiquated form of warfare, such as practiced
by the Stygians.
Conscript / Slave Army
The bulk of Stygian armies are untested
conscripts or slaves, sent into battle with
whatever equipment they can scavenge.
Weapons (3): One of the following (Club, Flail,
Shortspear), Hatchet or Dagger, Target or
Peltast Shield.
Traits: None.
Skirmisher
These agile warriors throw spears at the
enemy ranks and melt away if pursued.
Weapons (4): Javelin, Shortsword, Hatchet or
Dagger, Peltast Shield.
Traits: Skirmisher.
An elite warrior-caste, these men are well-
trained, disciplined and devout Settites to
boot. Wielding spear or bow, they are
expected to hold out against any enemy.
Mamluk Spearman
Weapons (4): Shortspear, Khopesh* or
Battleaxe, Dagger, Scutum.
Traits: Shield Wall, Formation Fighting.
Mamluk Bowman
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow, Khopesh* or
Battleaxe, Dagger, Target Shield.
Traits: Strong Pull, Volley Fire.
Charioteer
Charioteers circle the battle-line, firing into
enemy ranks, and charging down any breaks
in the lines.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow or Javelin,
Shortspear, Khopesh* or Battleaxe, Target
Shield.
Traits: Chariot Fighting.

Slinger Stygian Highborn

Mocked as a peasant’s weapon, slings are
deadly in the right hands.
Weapons (3): Sling, Staff Sling, Dagger.
Traits: Longshot.
Scout / Rider
With no tradition of heavy cavalry, Stygians
use lightly armoured riders to scout and
harass the enemy.
Weapons (4): Javelin, Shortspear, Hatchet or
Dagger, Target Shield.
Traits: Mounted Combat.
The true-blooded Stygian nobility revel in
warfare, mastering bow, spear and khopesh in
the manner of their giant-like ancestor race.
They ride heavy chariots to battle.
Weapons (5): Glaive, Recurve Bow, Khopesh*
or Battleaxe, Dagger, Hoplite Shield.
Traits: Chariot Fighting, Batter Aside, Strong
Pull, Marksmanship.
* A Khopesh is a heavy curved blade favoured
by the Stygians. Treat as a Falchion.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Barbarians of the
North
These are the combat styles typical of the
Aesir, Vanir and Cimmerians, who constantly
raid their neighbours and each other.
Nordheimr / Cimmerian Thrall
In the North, slaves fight for their masters;
barbarian raiders have no use for passive
slaves, and would show no mercy.
Weapons (3): Shortspear, Hatchet or Club,
Dagger.
Traits: None.
Nordheimr / Cimmerian Hunter
The bow is a coward’s weapon amongst the
barbarians; only hunters learn to use it.
Nonetheless, come war-time, these skilled
archers are in high demand.
Weapons (3): Shortbow, one of the following
(Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion, Hatchet,
Shortspear), Dagger.
Traits: Marksmanship.
Nordheimr Carl / Cimmerian Freeman
Nordheimr and Cimmerians warriors fight to
protect their steads or raid their neighbours.
They are skilled with spear, sword and shield.
Weapons (4): Shortspear, one of the following
(Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion, Mace,
Military Pick), Hatchet or Dagger, Target
Shield (Cimmerians) or Viking Shield
(Nordheimr).
Traits: Intimidating Scream, Shield Wall.
Nordheimr Berserkar
Cimmerian Battleborn
While all barbarians have a healthy lust for
battle, some amongst them are blessed with a
terrifying blood-frenzy of such violence that
they lose all sense of self-preservation or pain.
Weapons (4): One of the following (Great
Axe, Great Hammer, Great Sword), two of the
following (Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion,
Mace, Military Pick, Shortspear), Hatchet or
Dagger.
Traits: Berserker, Batter Aside, Intimidating
Scream, Throw Weapons.
Nordheimr Jarl / Jarlsguard
Cimmerian Chieftain / Chosen
Barbarian chieftains are amongst the best
fighters of their clan or stead, and surround
themselves with their fiercest and most loyal
warriors.
Weapons (5): One of the following (Great Axe,
Great Hammer, Great Sword), two of the
following (Battleaxe, Broadsword, Falchion,
Mace, Military Pick, Shortspear), Hatchet or
Dagger, Target Shield (Cimmerians) or Viking
Shield (Nordheimr).
Traits: Batter Aside, Create Opening,
Intimidating Scream, Shield Wall, Throw
Weapons.
Nordheimr Reaver
The Nordheimr are skilled sailors. On their
longships, reavers terrorise coastal villages,
killing, looting and taking slaves.
Weapons (3): Two of the following (Battleaxe,
Broadsword, Falchion, Mace, Military Pick,
Shortspear), Hatchet or Dagger,
Traits: Batter Aside, Create Opening,
Intimidating Scream, Sea Legs.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Desert Dwellers
These combat styles are typical for the
peoples on the edge of or within the vast
desert that splits the eastern from the
western world.
Desert Nomad
The nomads of the desert ride from oasis to
oasis, and either raid or trade with caravans
depending on their strength. In Shem or Turan
they ride horses, in the deep desert camels.
Weapons (3): Shortspear, Scimitar, Dagger.
Traits: Mounted Combat.
Caravaneer
The crossing from Vendhya or Khitai to the
Hyborian kingdoms is a path to incalculable
wealth... or a shallow desert grave.
Weapons (3): Light Crossbow or Shortbow or
Javelin, Scimitar or Shortspear, Hatchet or
Dagger.
Traits: Crossbow Handling, Mounted Combat.
Iranistani City Militia
Iranistani cities maintain well-equipped and
occasionally well-trained militia for defense.
When a larger force is needed, the Iranistani
recruit the desert nomads as mercenaries.
Weapons (4): Light Crossbow or Shortspear,
Scimitar, Dagger, Target Shield.
Traits: Crossbow Handling.
* The Tulwar is a heavy two-handed scimitar
favoured in Vendhya and Turan. Ghulistani
warriors often claim them as trophies. Treat as
a Greatsword that cannot Impale.
Shemite Asshuri
An elite warrior caste from the meadow cities
of Shem, Asshuri train as light cavalrymen or
foot archers. Veteran Asshuri are adept at
both roles. They are often employed as
mercenaries by Shem’s wealthy neighbours.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow or Lance, Scimitar,
Hatchet or Dagger, Buckler Shield or Target
Shield.
Traits: Strong Pull, Lancer, Longshot, Mounted
Combat, Volley Fire.
Ghulistan Hillman
The barbaric hillmen of Ghulistan are a fierce
people, similar in temperament to the
barbarians of the north. Surrounded by
powerful enemies, they resist all incursions.
Weapons (4): Great Axe or Tulwar *, Scimitar,
Dagger, Target Shield.
Traits: Batter Aside, Berserker
Kozaki Freerider
The kozaki are a fierce desert folk opposed to
the expansion and frequently raiding the
kingdom of Turan. Their reputation attracts
many foreign fighters to their number.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow or Javelin, one of
the following (Battleaxe, Falchion, Mace,
Scimitar, Shortspear), Dagger, Target Shield.
Traits: Mounted Combat, Intimidating Scream.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Jungle Kingdoms
Combat styles typical of the savage Southern
Kingdoms.
Kushite Hunter
The spear puts food on the table and enemies
in the ground. All men in the Southern
Kingdoms know how to wield it.
Weapons (3): Atlatl and Javelin or Longspear,
Shortspear, Dagger.
Traits: None.
Kushite Spearman / Impi
The tribesmen of the Black Kingdoms war
incessantly. With their flint-tipped spears and
hardwood clubs, they are as fierce as any
Northern reaver.
Weapons (4): Shortspear, Hatchet or Club,
Dagger, Isihlangu*
Traits: Intimidating Scream.
Kushite Champion
The strongest warriors are given a permanent
position at the chief’s side and the pick of the
tribes’ weapons, such as the traditional
Kushite warclubs, or the occasional Stygian
weapon acquired in war or trade.
Weapons (5): One of the following (Greatclub,
Battleaxe, Falchion, Shortsword), Shortspear,
Hatchet or Club, Dagger, Isihlangu.
Traits: Batter Aside, Intimidating Scream.
______________________________________
* The Isihlangu is a large cowhide shield
favoured by Kushites. Treat as a Kite Shield.
Darfari Cannibal
The depraved tribesmen of Darfar are known
cannibals. They raid their neighbours for
captives, eating the strong and selling the
weak as slaves.
Weapons (3): Bolas or Net, Club, Dagger.
Traits: Mancatcher.
Darfari Brute
Some of the Darfari cannibals are particularly
touched by their bloodthirsty demon-god.
They live only to fight and kill.
Weapons (3): Greatclub, Hatchet or Club,
Dagger.
Traits: Berserker, Batter Aside
Pygmy Headshrinker
In the deep jungle, the pygmies and other
tribals are experts in the use of many deadly
poisons.
Weapons (2): Blowgun, Dagger.
Traits: Poisoner, Marksmanship.
Kushite Witch Doctor
The Witch Doctors of Kush rely on magical
secrets for defense. They often ensorcell
beasts of the jungle to fight at their side.
Weapons (2): Quarterstaff or Club, Dagger.
Traits: Poisoner, Trained Beast.
Black Coast Corsair
Famed pirates of the Black Coast, the corsairs
have a fierce reputation. Unlike most civilized
sailors, they are usually excellent swimmers.
Weapons (4): Javelin, Shortspear, Hatchet,
Dagger.
Traits: Intimidating Scream, Sea Legs, Water
Combat.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Great Kingdoms of
the Orient
Most warriors from faraway Vendhya and
Khitai practice similar Combat Styles to the
Hyborian and Stygian styles above. Some
styles are distinctly of their culture however,
and are listed below.
Vendhyan Kshatriya
In the strictly caste-segregated Vendhya, only
the noble Kshatriya are allowed to own arms
or become professional soldiers. They train to
fight as lancers or spearmen, and some carry
bows to act as archers if needed.
Weapons (4): Lance or Shortspear, Scimitar or
Tulwar*, Dagger, Recurve Bow or Kite Shield.
Traits: Lancer, Mounted Combat, Shield Wall,
Formation Fighting, Volley Fire.
Vendhyan Mahout
Vendhyan war elephants are like castles that
walk. Safe within the howdah, Kshatriya
mahouts fire on their enemies.
Weapons (4): Recurve Bow, Javelin, Military
Pick, Shortsword or Dagger.
Traits: Marksmanship.
Vendhyan Rakhsha
The Rakhsha of the Himelian Mountains are
the servants of the dread Seers of Ymsha.
Learned in both martial arts and sorcery, they
kill on their behalf as warriors or assassins.
Weapons (4): Scimitar, Dagger, Garrotte,
Unarmed.
Traits: Assassination, Poisoner, Unarmed
Prowess.
Khitan Conscript
In Khitai commoners are forbidden to bear
arms in peace-time, and so are often sent to
war woefully unprepared for combat. Khitan
armies are generally inexperienced conscripts.
Infantry: As Stygian Conscript or Hyborian
Spearman.
Archers: As Hyborian Bowman.
Crossbowman: As Hyborian Crossbowman.
Cavalry: As Stygian Rider.
Charioteers: As Stygian Charioteer.
If more professional soldiers are needed,
typically foreign mercenaries are hired.
Khitan Martial Artist
In some regions of Khitai commoners
circumvent the prohibition to bear arms by
learning to fight with common implements or
their bare hands.
Weapons (4): Quarterstaff, Flail, Knife,
Unarmed.
Traits: Unarmed Prowess, Unarmed Throws
Khitan Alchemist-Engineer
Khitai’s supremacy in the fields of engineering
and alchemy is unchallenged. When facing
dangerous foes, Khitai’s alchemist-engineers
field ever more inventive devices to destroy
their enemies.
Weapons (4): Two siege weapons of choice,
Light or Heavy Crossbow, Scimitar, Dagger.
Traits: Crossbow Handling, Longshot,
Marksmanship.
* The Tulwar is a heavy two-handed scimitar
favoured in Vendhya and Turan. Treat as a
Greatsword that cannot Impale.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
The Deep
Wilderness
Combat styles typical of the Picts, living off
nature deep in the wilderness. These fierce
and savage warriors are destined to conquer
all the world’s nations in time.
Pictish Hunter
Every Pict must learn to hunt, to contribute to
the success of the tribe.
Weapons (3): Shortbow, Hatchet, Dagger.
Traits: Marksmanship.
Pictish Brave
Fierce and fearless, Pictish Braves stalk their
foes with their bows and charge in with spears
and axes.
Weapons (4): Shortbow, Spear or Club,
Hatchet, Dagger.
Traits: Marksmanship, Skirmisher,
Intimidating Scream.
Pictish Woad Warrior
The tribe’s favoured warriors go to war with
the blessings of the tribe’s totems. Painted
head to toe in shamanistic symbols, they fight
with a terrifying ferocity.
Weapons (5): Greatclub, Spear, Club, Hatchet,
Dagger.
Traits: Berserker, Batter Aside, Marksmanship,
Skirmisher, Intimidating Scream.
Behind the scenes
These are the combat styles for those who act
behind the scenes.
Assassin
Sometimes a single dagger can accomplish
more than an army’s worth of swords.
Weapons (4): Blowgun or Light Crossbow or
Darts, Shortsword or Dagger, Garrotte, Hidden
Blade*.
Traits: Assassination, Crossbow Handling,
Hidden Weapons, Marksmanship, Poisoner.
* A Hidden Blade is an object on the assassin’s
person disguised to not appear as a weapon.
Examples might be a belt-buckle, hairstick,
brooch, or fan. These will be exceedingly
difficult to detect (at least Hard difficulty), and
should be considered a Knife in combat.
Spy / Agent
Trained to impersonate anyone, from thug to
knight, agents practice with an unusual mix of
weapons.
Weapons (4): Broadsword or Scimitar,
Quarterstaff or Club, Shortbow or Light
Crossbow, Dagger.
Traits: None.
Cultist
Fearing discovery at every turn, cultists prefer
weapons that are easy to hide, as well as
other underhanded methods to dispatch their
enemies.
Weapons (3): Quarterstaff, Shortsword or
Club, Dagger.
Traits: Poisoner.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Combat Style Traits

Below is a list of current and new traits that can be applied to the Combat Styles above. Note that
some special traits are listed as ‘xxx Only,’ these will only be in effect when using a weapon that
matches the listed requirements, even if other weapons are included in the style.
Traits in italics are custom (house-ruled) not from the core RQ6 book.

Trait Description
Assassination Allows the user access to the normally restricted ‘Kill Silently’ special effect.
Batter Aside Used by physically powerful fighters, this Combat Style leverages strength
and size to overwhelm an opponent’s defences. If the fighter’s Damage
Modifier is two or more steps greater than his opponent’s, his weapon is
considered one size larger for the purposes of bypassing parries. Does not
stack with the weapon size increase when charging.
Berserker The style emphasises entering into a violent frenzy where personal safety
and pain are disregarded. At the beginning of a fight, or upon taking an
injury, a berserker may attempt to roll his POW x5 to enter a frenzy. When in
a frenzy:
• Damage modifier is increased by one step.
• Parrying or Evading attacks are one step more difficult.
• Endurance rolls for resisting the effects of injury are one step easier.
• Effects of Fatigue are ignored.
After the fight any deferred Fatigue levels plus one additional level are
applied.
Blind Fighting Allows user to reduce any penalties imposed due to poor lighting or
temporary blinding to be reduced by one difficulty grade.
Chariot Fighting Style allows those riding in a chariot to ignore the skill cap placed upon their
combat rolls by the driver’s Drive skill.
Create Opening This technique for wielders of two weapons involves pushing aside an
enemy’s defenses with one weapon and following up with the other. The
Style allows usage of the ‘Flurry’ Special Effect for dual-wielders; the follow-
up attack must be with a different weapon. Two weapons Only.
Cross-Parry A wielder of two weapons can choose to attempt a cross-parry. This
increases the difficulty of a parry by one grade, but increases the size of the
parry to one size larger than the larger of the parrying weapons.
Two Size M or smaller weapons Only.
Crossbow Handling Despite their many disadvantages, given the right training crossbows are
simple to use. Any shot taken without penalty (Standard difficulty) instead
becomes Easy difficulty. Crossbows Only.
Excellent Footwork When fighting on slippery, wobbling surfaces the user can ignore the skill cap
placed on combat rolls by the Acrobatics skill.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Trait Description
Formation Fighting* Permits a group of three or more warriors to draw into close formation,
placing more open or disordered opponents at a disadvantage (provided the
‘unit’ cannot be outflanked) and thus reducing each foe’s Action Points by
one if they engage.
Hidden Weapons Allows the user to utilise seemingly innocuous objects noted as part of the
style as deadly weapons, with no chance of accidental breakage despite
apparent delicacy (fans or musical instruments for example).
Intimidating Scream Style encourages frequent yells and bellows in combat to intimidate foes,
making any psychological resistance rolls inflicted on an opponent one grade
harder.
Iron Holds This unarmed style teaches techniques to maintain holds on an opponent.
Any opposed rolls to escape from the Grip Special Effect or Grappling are one
step harder. Unarmed Only.
Knockout This unarmed style emphasises powerful blows to the head to knock the
opponent unconscious. When using the Stun Location special effect on the
enemy’s head, the roll to resist is one grade more difficult. Unarmed Only.
Human (or human-like) opponents only.
Lancer This Combat Style emphasizes devastating charges with Lances or other
weapons. Performing a mounted charge with this combat style does not
incur the one step difficulty penalty.
Longshot The style emphasises accurate fire at extreme ranges. When firing ranged
weapons, use the row one step above the correct row for Distance. (ie. when
shooting at 125m., use the 101 – 120m. row).
Lunge Mastery of the rapier allows for lightning-fast strikes. This style allows usage
of the ‘Flurry’ Special Effect. Rapier Only.
Mancatcher The style grants its user an advantage when entangling or immobilising
opponents, making a foe’s opposed rolls to evade or break free one difficulty
grade harder.
Marksmanship This style focuses on accurate ranged fire and striking small targets. When
rolling a random Hit Location, the location struck may be shifted to an
adjoining Hit location. Ranged Weapons Only.
Mounted Combat Style allows rider to ignore the skill cap placed upon combat rolls by the Ride
skill.
Pavisier This combat style includes training in carrying a pavise that can be deployed
for protection. When carrying a pavise on the back it is considered to be
‘worn’ (one-half ENC). Wearing a pavise on the back allows for passive
blocking for attacks coming from the rear.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Trait Description
Pike-and-Shield This style allows a fighter in formation to use the shield’s Passive Blocking
ability on 2 locations against ranged attacks even though he is carrying a two-
handed weapon. Requires Formation Fighting. Pike and Buckler Only.
Poisoner The style includes training in using poison on weapons and delivering it
effectively to the target. The user of this Combat Style may use a Special
Effect to ‘Inject Poison’, in order to deliver an Injected poison to the target
on an unprotected area, ignoring any armour, but forfeiting a damage roll.
Inject Poison follows the same rules as Choose Location with regards to
usage with ranged weapons. The GM may rule that a sufficiently armoured
target has no unprotected areas and is therefore immune to Inject Poison.
Reload Drill This style includes heavily drilled actions for improving the reload times of
ranged weapons. Reduce Reload time of one weapon by one action. Rapid
Reload is no longer available as a Special Effect for that weapon.
Sea Legs Practitioners of this Combat Style are used to fighting on the unstable surface
of a sea-faring ship. They may ignore the penalty for ‘Fighting while on
unstable ground’ in this situation.
Shield Splitter This style emphasis an axe’s ability to break weapons and shields. When
using the Damage Weapon Special Effect, roll the weapon’s damage twice
and pick the best result. Axes Only.
Shield Wall* Allows a group of three or more shield users to overlap their protection,
adding one to the number of locations which can be protected with passive
blocking.
Showmanship This style emphasises exaggerated moves and flourishes intended to impress
an audience or taunt an opponent. Using this style in combat allows a
combatant to spend an available Special Effect to ‘put on a show’ for all
onlookers as a demonstration of prowess, humour or disdain. Roll an
appropriate skill (Combat Style, Perform, Dance, other) to determine the
effect. If used to impress an audience, a successful roll may sway the
audience to the fighter’s favour. If used to enrage or intimidate an opponent,
the opponent may resist with a Willpower roll, with a failure leading to a
penalty to actions at the GM’s discretion.
Siege Warfare The style permits its user to ignore the skill cap placed upon combat rolls by
the Athletics skill when making assaults whilst scaling walls or crawling
through tunnels.
Skirmishing The style permits launching ranged attacks whilst at a run (but not whilst
sprinting). Attack skill capped by Athletics skill.
Strong Pull This Combat Style emphasises strength training and techniques to maximise
a bow’s pull. Increase the Damage Modifier when firing the bow by one step.
Longbow or Recurve Bow Only.
Swashbuckling Style allows the user to engage in attacks and evades made whilst jumping or
swinging into (or disengaging from) combat, ignoring any skill cap placed on
it by the Athletics skill.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign

Trait Description
Throw Weapons Any nominal melee weapon in the style can also be thrown at no penalty to
skill, but when used in this way a weapon’s damage roll is halved.
Trained Beast Intended for styles which emphasise fighting in close coordination with an
animal companion (such as trained birds of prey, warhorses, pet wolves and
so on), the user may utilise any of his Action Points to defend against attacks
launched at his beast.
Unarmed Prowess Permits the user to treat his Unarmed blocks and parries as ‘Medium’ sized,
enabling him to better defend himself from armed opponents.
Unarmed Throws This unarmed style teaches techniques to use an opponent’s weight against
him and drop him prone. When using the Trip Opponent Special Effect the
Brawn, Evade or Acrobatics roll to avoid falling prone is one step harder.
Unarmed Only.
Volley Fire * This style includes extensive practice of unit-based volley fire. When using
volley fire as part of a unit against enemy formations (as opposed to direct
fire against individual targets), the user is always considered to be Aiming.
Any turns spent on further aiming have no effect.
Water Combat The style allows its user to ignore the skill cap placed on combat rolls by the
Swim skill.

* Requires everyone else in the group to also have this benefit, otherwise the coordinated effort fails to lack of one or more
participants being trained in the correct technique.
 90 Generic Combat Styles
for a Hyborian Age Runequest 6 Campaign
Combat Style Index
Assassin ............................................................. 15
Bailiff / Magistrate ............................................... 5
Beast Hunter........................................................ 5
Black Coast Corsair............................................. 13
Borderer / Forester .............................................. 5
Bossonian Longbowman ...................................... 8
Brigand / Bandit ................................................... 5
Caravaneer ........................................................ 12
Charioteer ......................................................... 10
Cimmerian Battleborn ........................................ 11
Cimmerian Chosen ............................................. 11
Cimmerian Freeman .......................................... 11
Cimmerian Hunter ............................................. 11
Cimmerian Thrall ............................................... 11
Citizen / Slave ...................................................... 3
Conscript / Slave Army ....................................... 10
Cultist ................................................................ 15
Darfari Brute ...................................................... 13
Darfari Cannibal ................................................. 13
Desert Nomad ................................................... 12
Enforcer ............................................................... 3
Fencer / Duelist ................................................... 4
Ghulistan Hillman .............................................. 12
Guardsman / Bodyguard ...................................... 4
Gunderland Pikeman ........................................... 8
Guttersnipe ......................................................... 3
Highborn / Courtier.............................................. 3
Horse Archer........................................................ 9
Hunter ................................................................. 5
Hyperborean Gaunt ............................................. 8
Iranistani City Militia .......................................... 12
Judicial Champion ................................................ 4
Khitan Alchemist-Engineer ................................. 14
Khitan Conscript ................................................ 14
Khitan Martial Artist........................................... 14
Knight / Man-at-Arms .......................................... 7
Knight of Poitain .................................................. 8
Kothic Spahi ......................................................... 8
Kozaki Freerider ................................................. 12
Kushite Champion .............................................. 13
Kushite Hunter ................................................... 13
Kushite Spearman / Impi .................................... 13
Kushite Witch Doctor ......................................... 13
Lancer / Cataphract ............................................. 9
Mamluk ............................................................. 10
Mamluk Bowman .......................................... 10
Mamluk Spearman ........................................ 10
Marine ................................................................. 6
Hyborian Marine.............................................. 6
Oriental Marine ............................................... 6
Marksman............................................................ 4
Mighty Archer of Turan ........................................ 9
Militia / Infantryman ............................................ 7
Archer / Bowman ............................................. 7
Crossbowman .................................................. 7
Halberdier........................................................ 7
Pikeman........................................................... 7
Spearman ........................................................ 7
Nemedian Adventurer .......................................... 8
Nordheimr Berserkar ......................................... 11
Nordheimr Carl .................................................. 11
Nordheimr Hunter ............................................. 11
Nordheimr Jarlsguard ......................................... 11
Nordheimr Reaver .............................................. 11
Nordheimr Thrall................................................ 11
Palace Guard ........................................................ 4
Patrolman / Outrider............................................ 5
Peasant / Herder .................................................. 5
Pictish Brave ...................................................... 15
Pictish Hunter .................................................... 15
Pictish Woad Warrior ......................................... 15
Pirate ................................................................... 6
Pit Fighter ............................................................ 3
Pugilist ................................................................. 3
Pygmy Headshrinker .......................................... 13
Ratcatcher ........................................................... 3
Sailor ................................................................... 6
Scout / Rider ...................................................... 10
Shanker................................................................ 3
Shemite Asshuri ................................................. 12
Siege Arbalister .................................................... 8
Skirmisher .......................................................... 10
Slave-Catcher ....................................................... 5
Slinger................................................................ 10
Spear Diver .......................................................... 6
Spy / Agent ........................................................ 15
Stygian Highborn ................................................ 10
Thug .................................................................... 3
Turanian Imperial Horseman ................................ 9
Turanian Miner .................................................... 9
Turanian Soldier ................................................... 9
Vendhyan Elephant Mahout ............................... 14
Vendhyan Kshatriya ........................................... 14
Vendhyan Rakhsha ............................................. 14
Watchman ........................................................... 4
Whaler ................................................................. 6
Wrestler............................................................... 4
Zingaran Bravo ..................................................... 4
Zingaran Freebooter............................................. 6