I was dubious of VOR when it first hit the shelves which is why it took me a while to pick up a copy. I viewed it as FASA attempt at a Warhammer 40,000 and in a way it is but in others it's much, much more. The Maelstrom is a planet eating vortex that traps and eats planets, Earth is one of those unfortunate worlds. thrust into the eye of a cosmic hurricane with a multitude of alien races and other worlds. Pulled into a bitter struggle for survival! Lets start with the box contents;

Rulebook, a beautifully illustrated as is FASA's norm, comprehensive rulebook. There's enough information and background their to start a role-playing campaign. My one complaint with the rulebook is the layout and organization of the actual rules. But they play well where Vor comes into it's own is the campaign rules finally a tabletop game where characters gain experience and grow from battle to battle.

Scenario book. A basic introductory campaign to get you into the swing of the game.

10 man union infantry squad - An all metal 28mm infantry squad (very Imperial Guard)

A Growler pack (1 bull, 3 onehorns, 3 pups) Now I love these guys one of the best new races and miniatures in a tabletop game for ages. But if the main rules are anything to go by theres plenty more coming, I can't wait for the Shard, Golem and Pharon! Armies I must own. Another thing I like about Growlers is they're HUGE!

5 molded plastic walls - with a good paint job these guys are pretty good, if you're going for that ruined high-tech tabletop look.

Blast template- pretty standard, nothing really special And 2 D10

Just on a price margin you're better off buying the box set, than the rulebook and one army. This is a good value box set, recommended for tabletop fans who want something a bit different, again I love those campaign rules!

The background material is great if you wish to run a sci-fi rpg in a unique locale. I'm working on a version using the Alternity rules (which Wizards have now killed, hail to the Corpoarte Hasbro boys!)

In a summary a great product which has the potential to be an amazing one.

Style: 5 (Excellent!)
Substance: 5 (Excellent!)