Quick answer

Choose a Character Box when you need a named Commander or unique operative that unlocks special abilities and objectives. Pick a Unit Box when you want to field standard troops, fill out your Allegiance's core, or add durable models for holding ground. Most armies need both, but your starting point depends on whether you want a leader first or a solid battle line.

What each box type does

Character Boxes contain a single named model with a distinct role, often a Commander or a specialist operative. They come with unique rules, upgrades, and often a Fate Deck tailored to their Allegiance. For example, The Other Side: Margaret Belle is a King's Empire Commander who uses shadow magic and poisoned steel to assassinate enemy specialists and Commanders. She doesn't fight where she's expected, making her ideal for players who want a surgical threat.

Unit Boxes (sold separately) contain multiple identical or similar models that form a squad. They provide the backbone of your army: standard infantry, support teams, or heavy weapons crews. Unit Boxes are generally cheaper per model and let you field the numbers needed to hold objectives and absorb damage. They lack the unique abilities of characters but are essential for board control and attrition.

Cost and value comparison

Character Boxes typically cost more per model because of the detailed sculpt, unique rules, and faction-specific accessories. Margaret Belle, for instance, is priced at USD 11.25 (down from USD 15.00). A Unit Box might contain three to five models for a similar or slightly higher price, giving you more bodies for the tabletop.

If you're on a budget and need to fill out your army quickly, Unit Boxes give you more raw presence. If you want a centerpiece model that can turn the tide of a game, a Character Box is worth the premium. Many players start with a Character Box for their Commander and then add Unit Boxes to build around them.

Army building strategy

In The Other Side, each army must include at least one Commander. That Commander often comes from a Character Box. After you have your leader, you'll want to add units that complement their playstyle. For instance, a Commander like Margaret Belle benefits from units that can draw enemy attention while she flanks. Standard infantry from Unit Boxes can serve as that distraction.

Don't overlook support items like Fate Decks. The Earth Fate Deck, themed for human Allegiances, gives you a Control Hand that helps turn planning and timing into decisive results. It's a small investment (USD 8.40) that can improve your entire army's consistency, regardless of which boxes you buy.

Trade-offs to consider

Character Boxes are less flexible in a list. You're locked into that specific model and its rules. If the model gets nerfed or you want to try a different playstyle, you may need to buy another Character Box. Unit Boxes are more interchangeable and can be used across different army configurations.

On the other hand, Character Boxes often include unique Fate Decks or tokens that you can't get elsewhere. They also tend to be more fun to paint and display. If you enjoy hobbying as much as playing, the extra detail in a Character Box is a plus.

Decision rules

  • Need a Commander?: If you lack a leader for your army, buy a Character Box. Commanders are required and provide unique abilities that shape your strategy. Start with a Character Box if you don't have a Commander yet.
  • Need to fill out your force?: If you already have a Commander and need more models to hold objectives or provide firepower, Unit Boxes are the economical choice. Unit Boxes give you more models per dollar for board presence.
  • Want a specialized threat?: If you want a model that can assassinate key enemy units or complete specific objectives, a Character Box like Margaret Belle delivers that focused power. Character Boxes excel at surgical roles but are less flexible.
  • Budget and hobby time?: If you have limited budget or painting time, Unit Boxes are faster to assemble and paint, and they give you more tabletop presence quickly. Unit Boxes are better for quick army building on a budget.

Product facts

  • The Other Side: Margaret Belle: The Crown's finest spy does not fight where the enemy expects her. Shadow magic and poisoned steel carry Margaret Belle to distant Objectives, vulnerable specialists, and opposing Commanders before she disappears back into the battle. Choose her when the plan requires one precise threat in exactly the wrong place for your opponent. Allegiance: King's Empire. Role: Commander. Margaret Belle is a prime example of a Character Box that gives you a unique Commander with a specific, high-impact playstyle. She's not a generalist; she rewards careful positioning and timing.
  • The Other Side: Earth Fate Deck: Put the resolve of Earth's armies behind every flip. This complete Fate Deck is themed for the human Allegiances defending and reshaping the world, with a Control Hand that lets you turn planning, nerve, and timing into decisive results. Theme: Earth Allegiances. Use: Complete Fate Deck for The Other Side. A Fate Deck like the Earth Fate Deck is a small purchase that can improve your army's performance regardless of which boxes you buy. It's a cost-effective way to upgrade your gameplay.

Which box is right for you?

Best for

  • Players who need a unique Commander or specialist operative to lead their army
  • Hobbyists who enjoy painting detailed centerpiece models with unique rules

Not for

  • Players who want to field a large number of models quickly and cheaply (choose Unit Boxes instead)
  • Players who prefer flexible, interchangeable units that can fit multiple army lists