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Miniatures Adventure => Future Wars => Topic started by: Silent Invader on May 31, 2021, 10:09:55 AM
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Silent Invader’s Rampant Sci-Fi project
Background (edited 27/2/23)
The project combines elements of or influences from my favourite SciFi sources, including:
The Expanse
Star Wars
Aliens
The Fifth Element
Raised by Wolves
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets
Serenity
Ghosts of Mars
Resident Evil
The current factions include:
- Reivers (mutant humans derived from or influenced by Serenity, Ghosts of Mars, Resident Evil)
- Marines (shorter humans influenced by the Colonial Marines from Aliens)
- Belters (taller humans derived from The Expanse, Raised By Wolves)
- Wookies (humanoids from Star Wars)
Other factions might be added, such as Twi’Lek, Mangalores and Xenomorphs
A bit of fluff….
The Galactic Powers are the self-styled managers (controllers) of all things law, finance, commerce and industry. Their power extends as far as the Asteroid Belt beyond which lie the Outer Reaches, which are the ‘Wild West’ of the Galaxy.
Reivers (Krakon Stargrind)
Humans who as off-Earth prisoners of the Galactic Powers were genetically-modified to perform labour in high-radiation and low-oxygen mining environments. Their services were contracted to (effectively they were enslaved to) the ‘Yutani. Mining Corporation’ (Y.). Having escaped penal servitude, they now survive in the Outer Reaches, raiding for supplies and captives. Cunning and easily enraged, they lack the neural capacity for strategic thinking but are competent with technical systems including weapons and vehicles.
Marines (Hasslefree Grymn)
Grey-haired, short in height and somewhat squat, the Marines are humans from a high-gravity planet. Strong of body and determined of spirit, naturally assertive but calm in adversity, they are contracted by the Galactic Powers to patrol and police the Outer Reaches.
Belters (Infinity Haqqislam)
Tall, fair-haired humans from the low gravity Asteroid Belt. The Belt was founded as a colony of the Galactic Powers but over time has increasingly pushed for its independence. The Belt is vulnerable to attack and so its society is highly militarised. The Belt began as, and still is, a primary source of rare minerals but has also developed into a trading hub for anything and everything.
Wookies (WotC Bendies)
Native to the forest planet Kashyyyk, the humanoid Wookies are distinguished from humans by their gigantism, hirsutism, and physical strength. While they are known for their strength, battle prowess, and penchant for losing their temper, they are also highly intelligent and possess a natural talent for mechanics. These abilities make Wookiees natural scouts and adventurers.
FYI the earlier pages of the thread jump about with various other names for these factions, as it’s taken a while for me to settle on what I want to do. Out of date names and references include:
Wookies : Sasqwatchen
Marines : Grimm, Grymn
Belters : Humans
Reivers : Reavers, Drones, Druuschan
Contents:
P.1 Where to find Druuschan
P.1 Druuschan fluff
P.1 Landers (3D Printing)
P.2 Grymn versus Druuschan( now Stargrind) versus Belters
P.2 Wookies
P.3 Wookie on a speeder gets Aviator sunglasses
P.3 Wookies painted
P.4 Bunker
P.5 Finished Grymn, Infinity & Stargrind mins
P.6 Finished lander and shuttle
P.6 More Grymn conversions
P.7 Completed conversions
P.7 More finished Grymn & Stargrind minis
P.7 WIP portable habitation units
P.7 A HF ‘light sabre’ conversion and some Grymn
P.8 Finished Grimm Close Combat, Reiver with light sabre, hab units, containers, power unit, downed Lander
P.8 Statted forces for first XR game
P.9 First game of Xenos Rampant
P.10 Terrain piece - pumping station
P.10 WIP Grymn conversions and OSHIROmodels skimmer
P.10 Background fluff
P.11 Painted Reiver skimmer
P.11 Painted generic scatter & droids
P.11 Painted Reivers - 2 units of berserkers
P11 Painted Mariness - 3 units
P.11 Pumping station finished
P.12 The art of John Eaves (Ghosts of Mars)
P.12 CorpSec Office wip
P.13 CorpSec Office finished
P.13 Belters and Battle Droids finished
Original first post below the line
Am getting myself organised for the release of Xenos Rampant, which I think might be out later this year.
Over the years I’ve started and stopped various Sci-Fi collections but recently discovered that I really like painting fantasy dwarves, so have purchased HF Grymn for the ‘good’ force (and no doubt they’ll be painted in Colonial Trooper style). The outstanding efforts of Inso, both here and at FoD, are inspirational.
When it comes to the ‘evil’ side, to facilitate solo play I want something that is fast and brutal but, having done it previously, am not drawn to Alien aliens, etc. I like the look of the HF Druuschan but they no longer seem to be carried by HF, so I’ve picked up what I can from EBay etc. As far as I can tell, only 5 variants were ever sold:
Drone 1
Drone 2
Stryker
Jotun A
Jotun B
I’ve managed to track down Drones and Strykers but no Jotuns.
Anyways, can anyone tell me any background - fluff etc ? I imagine the Druuschan as being somewhat like ‘not-quite-zombie’ Reavers from Serenity and I might use them in that context but am interested in other approaches.
Ta
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The HF Druuschan were picked-up by another company and there were some conversions done to them.Cant remember who got them though.Macrocosm might have had them and sold them on.
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They went to Krakon Games and are now in their Stargrind range, and there are also new, modified versions.
https://krakongames.com/product-category/science-fiction/stargrind/page/2/ (https://krakongames.com/product-category/science-fiction/stargrind/page/2/)
Fluff-wise, they look like they could be failed or defective genetically engineered infantry. I vaguely remember a Rogue Trooper story where the Norts attempted to create their own GIs, but they were messed up and monsterous.
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Thanks both that’s really useful, especially the news that the range is elsewhere 8)
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Tempted to grab some Drones from Krakon myself now lol
Cool that you can choose metal or resin, too.
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Tempted to grab some Drones from Krakon myself now lol
Cool that you can choose metal or resin, too.
I'm glad you linked them, Krakon's catalog has grown a lot since the last time I browsed through it.
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There’s a lot of stuff there! Some great critters. 8)
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The dude behind Krakon is awesome too.
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I vaguely remember something about them being the result of an infection spread by the implants they had, but it was a while ago and I may be getting mixed up with something else.
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I vaguely remember something about them being the result of an infection spread by the implants they had, but it was a while ago and I may be getting mixed up with something else.
That works rather well as fluff! Thank you 8)
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Unable to paint or game for the last 6 weeks or so my need for a hobby fix has been met by starting this new project (I resolved no new projects this year and this is already the second o_o).
Anyways, I’ve been acquiring Grymn (the HF space dwarfs) and which in anticipation of Xenos Rampant I’m putting into five teams of 5, tasked and kitted as
Command
Light Infantry
Light Infantry
Light Infantry (Missiles)
Heavy Infantry
I’ve really no idea if these will fit the Mersey troop classes when they are eventually revealed but it’s somewhere to start.
For those interested in how Kev White envisaged the Grymn might be organised, LAFer Inso has a most useful blog entry:
http://grymnoutthere.blogspot.com/2010/02/from-mouth-of-creator.html (http://grymnoutthere.blogspot.com/2010/02/from-mouth-of-creator.html)
So with teams of 5 sorted, how’d do they move about? I purchased an STL file of a small lander for a couple of pounds, then altered it to add a viewing slit and multi-gun. A friend (Dr Death) kindly printed off a test piece for me and utterly convinced by it I now have a resin printer on the way. :D
A unit of Light Infantry with their lander (the stalk will be replaced with clear Perspex in due course):
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/51/2031-220621082002-518361147.jpeg)
Given how the Rampant rules generally work, I figured it’d be more functional for each unit to have a lander specific to its role, so I made more modifications - once again helped by bits from Thingiverse and advice from friends - to create these variations:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/51/2031-220621081128.jpeg)
I have about 10 Druuschan though I’ll be getting more from Krakon Games idc; this 5 figure pack is available and could well be the basis for my own units:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/51/2031-220621082002-51856467.jpeg)
To distinguish the Druuschan transports, I’m inclined to give them a somewhat angular shuttle (as opposed to the soft, cuddly curves of the Grymn lander). This one I started from scratch, though once again odd bits from Thingiverse/elsewhere and advice from friends made a significant difference:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/51/2031-220621095309.jpeg)
It won’t be test printed until the printer arrives but hopefully it will work. I’ve left some flat surface area as I’m thinking the Druuschan will behave much like the Reavers from Serenity, so I might make some Grymn corpses to tie to the sides of the ships.
Here’s what it scales like with the Druuschan minis (I’ve borrowed a picture of someone else’s minis, might have been Dags ???):
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/51/2031-220621082002-518552078.jpeg)
Terrain-wise, I expect it’ll be summer Temperate so I can use much of my existing terrain to which I can add a sci-fi flavour.
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Very cool stuff. Those are both figure ranges that I've considered myself so am very keen to see this develop. You're making great strides with your software skills too. Im sure you won't be disappointed by your printer either.
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Cheers Steve and thanks for your help so far 8)
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Cool project. I like your choices of minis and vehicle designs. Looking forward to seeing that Lander in 3d.
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Thanks very much. I’ve been waylaid with matters 3D, learning quite a lot that is useful, and now have a clutch of printed vehicles.
A reminder of the Lander for the Grymn Light Infantry:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721155935-520941449.jpeg)
The role of the Lander is the Grymn is somewhat derived from the Lightweight (Airportable) Land Rover.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721161412-521021936.jpeg)
Carrying a driver plus 5 troops with little personal space or comfort, it’s manoeuvrable, relatively fast, and readily modified.
There are now variants for each of the Grymn troop types (light, heavy, Missile, command) plus I’ve also printed off crashed markers that will be suitably decorated.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721155935-520982467.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721155935-520991009.jpeg)
The Grymn are significantly smaller than their enemy, the Druuschan. The example is of Drone #1 who’s right arm will easily bend for variations in pose.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721155935-52100568.jpeg)
The Druuschan are in units of 10, travelling in a Shuttle.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721155935-521011142.jpeg)
The Shuttle is inspired by the Saracen APC, being larger and armoured, and in consequence much slower.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721161412-521041896.jpeg)
The Shuttle has been printed in two parts and joined. I shall be needing to print more of them, no doubt making slight improvements when doing so.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/52/2031-070721160004.jpeg)
I’ll be on to painting these soon.
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Splendid. :)
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Someone's been busy - good to see the fleet is coming along
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Brilliant stuff and nicely ambitious too. Good to see the forces taking shape.
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Great pieces - original, but with a lovely Gerry-Anderson-ish flair, especially the light ones.
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Yikes he is at it again...building an army (two actually) :o
Love ‘em Steve...there is something very satisfying about seeing a production line growing...have you started making pew pew noises with them yet ;)
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Getting Rogue Trader flying Rhino vibe from that lander.
Very cool.
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Thanks folks. The comments here and elsewhere have been really helpful in getting me this far. 8)
Interesting comment on the Grymn Lander having a Gerry Anderson vibe. I’ve converted a base vehicle that I purchased the STL file for and I think Chris is right about the vibe. It’s ‘cute’ image proportions are quite Thunderbirds.
Similarly the Druuschan Shuttle. My thoughts started with the Saracen APC (robust, chunky and clunky) then included NYC ambulance or SWAT truck (boxy) but I can’t deny that I also looked at images of the GW Rhino and it’s forebear (;)) the US M113.
:)
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Good progress :)
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A minor update to this project, which will soon be followed by a major one.
I’ve now expanded the project to include an Earther force (with Wookies in the offing too, assuming I blend in my residual Star Wars collection).
The Earthers are Infinity models (mostly from Haqqislam).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-160422101628.jpeg)
From left to right (obvs!):
Druschaan - intended as implant-enhanced infantry, a resulting infection generated a genetic mutation, which turned them into hyper-aggressive flesh-eaters
Earthers - humans whose near ancestors resided on Earth, now mostly mercenaries, traders and smugglers
Grymn - squat-humanoids originally from a high gravity planet, they are highly organised, very serious and consider themselves the ‘Colonial Police’ of the known systems.
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I wouldn't have thought it but those minis mix well. A lovely looking project, I look forward to more updates.
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I wouldn't have thought it but those minis mix well
Yes, I was very pleasantly surprised. Infinity have such a distinctive style that I thought they’d be ‘too much’ but I’m very happy with how they mix.
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Getting Rogue Trader flying Rhino vibe from that lander.
Very cool.
Now there’s a novel idea !!
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I’ve decided to add the Wookies to the project :o
First up though, WIP of the first unit of Earthers:
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111507-54960434.jpeg)
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111507-550651633.jpeg)
Minor conversions only, as a couple had ‘foot on rock’ (or similar), I also removed the knife from another, and replaced the officers head - originally masked - with a bald-headed plastic from I think Project Z. By the way, I quite like the coat on the officer, as it reminds me of Marcus from Raised By Wolves, though for colour scheme I think I’ll go for the green/yellow of the Athiests in RBW S3.
Next up ….. Wookies. As a non-humanoid race I still have doubts about including these in the project but I just love Wookies. These are all WotC soft plastics.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111507-550662325.jpeg)
There’s an interesting size difference!
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111508-550671030.jpeg)
And what could be more exciting than a Wookie wizzing around on a Speeder? ;D
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111508-55068402.jpeg)
Terrain-wise, I have quite a few bits from OSHIROmodelterrain, of which more another time.
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I like the ranges you're using and think the wookies fit in fine. The speeder riding wookie is great.
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Cheers Steve :)
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Excellent stuff 8)
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Awesome!
The speeder bike riding Wookie needs shades ;)
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Cheers chaps!
The speeder bike riding Wookie needs shades ;)
Brilliant idea!
Mirrored Aviators, obvs :D
Consider it done!
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Brilliant idea!
Mirrored Aviators, obvs :D
Consider it done!
And it is done….
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-190422173828.jpeg)
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Fuck yeah! Brilliant! lol
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lol
Needs a scarf…
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Needs a scarf…
lol
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That's pure awesomeness!
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You can almost hear Steppenwookie's 'Born to be Wild' playing in the background.
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Apologies for missing these replies - but thanks :)
I’ve now completed 11 Wookies, which if my uninformed expectations are correct, will give me 2 units of 5 plus a mobile gun platform for Xenos Rampant. All are WotC ‘bendies’.
Six of these minis are repaints, as their prior treatment had left them sticky to the touch, due I think to the water based varnish I’d used. I scrubbed that off, touched up the paint, varnished with solvent-based gloss Humbrol, then top-coated with solvent-based W&N Pro Matte, which seems to have done the trick.
Wookie on a BARC Speeder:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-160622081109-556731506.jpeg)
Team One:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-160622081109-556711202.jpeg)
Team Two:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-160622081109-556721467.jpeg)
The force so far:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-160622081109-556681458.jpeg)
I do have another 6 to finish, a third team of 5 and a ‘Jedi’ Wookie.
NB: These 11 take me to 119 figures finished so far this year
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Very cool 8)
The bike turned out great :)
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Very hairy!
Love the speeder bike :-*
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Thanks chaps!
Wookies are awesome! :D
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Wookietastic! lol
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Great to see the Wookies getting some love. That's interesting about the varnish leaving the repaints sticky.
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Wookiegasmic!
Thanks chaps
That's interesting about the varnish leaving the repaints sticky.
Yes, I was very surprised when I discovered that had happened. They seem fine now but I guess only time will tell.
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I’ve decided to add the Wookies to the project :o
First up though, WIP of the first unit of Earthers:
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111507-54960434.jpeg)
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/55/2031-170422111507-550651633.jpeg)
By the way, I quite like the coat on the officer, as it reminds me of Marcus from Raised By Wolves, though for colour scheme I think I’ll go for the green/yellow of the Athiests in RBW S3.
If you want to re-use that figure elsewhere, here are some decal options:
https://www.thewargameswebsite.com/forums/topic/decals-of-a-red-sun-like-the-mithraic-sol-in-raised-by-wolves/
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If you want to re-use that figure elsewhere, here are some decal options:
https://www.thewargameswebsite.com/forums/topic/decals-of-a-red-sun-like-the-mithraic-sol-in-raised-by-wolves/
Thanks very much CC, that’s really helpful. 8)
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I’ve been on a bit of a terrain splurge, during which I repainted a bunker entrance that will be used with this project:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-271022083222-56708153.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-271022083222-567091585.jpeg)
I’ve started painting:
Belters (human)
Grymn (dwarves)
Reavers (genetically engineered mutants)
And the large lander
So with Xenos Rampant coming out soon I ‘should’ have something for a game.
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Jolly Nice!
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Nice job on the bunker. I may have to pinch that idea if you don't mind?
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Thanks chaps and copy away. It is - of course - inspired by a certain StarWars bunker entrance so it’s not exactly original thinking on my part :D
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looking good. :)
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That's really quite good. The three barricades give it an additional bit of interest and useability.
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I also like the gridding on the floor of the entrance.
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Thanks folks. The gridding is just ‘nanny knitting’.
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Now that's a functional (and loads safer) bunker entrance! 8)
A really nice project; I especially like the conversion of those Infinity miniatures and the Hasslefree Space Mutants. I always thought they were rather limited (in their posing, etc), but you're making very good use of them!
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Thanks folks. The gridding is just ‘nanny knitting’.
That's a great term. I had heard that mesh referred to as "Granny Grating". I've used it quite a bit in the past.
For those unfamiliar with the material, It's not the best for paint adhesion being made of soft plastic, but if cleaned and lightly sanded paint sticks well enough especially plastic specific sprays such as Krylon fusion. It's also great that it comes in round shapes too (great for floor on tops of storage tanks and round buildings) and in black.
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Now that's a functional (and loads safer) bunker entrance! 8)
A really nice project; I especially like the conversion of those Infinity miniatures and the Hasslefree Space Mutants. I always thought they were rather limited (in their posing, etc), but you're making very good use of them!
Yes the limited poses of the Space Mutants is a tad frustrating but the arms are easily bent to create a little variation.
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That's a great term. I had heard that mesh referred to as "Granny Grating". I've used it quite a bit in the past.
For those unfamiliar with the material, It's not the best for paint adhesion being made of soft plastic, but if cleaned and lightly sanded paint sticks well enough especially plastic specific sprays such as Krylon fusion. It's also great that it comes in round shapes too (great for floor on tops of storage tanks and round buildings) and in black.
Granny Grating is probably the correct term lol
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That works well 8)
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Granny Grating is probably the correct term lol
Perhaps, but I think I might switch to Nanny Netting now. Actually they both sound like names in a folk tale.
"Granny Grating and Nanny Netting lived in tiny house, at the bottom of a wee hill, in a small estate, where little children often went missing..."
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lol
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That has a very Pratchetty sound to it. They must be colleagues of Granny Weatherwax for sure... :D
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Some rapid progress in the last week or so, with another 20 minis painted.
First up some Infinity, who will be my Belters:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-081122125814-56840833.jpeg)
Inspired by The Expanse and Raised by Wolves, I have another 20 to do.
Then some Hasslefree Grymn, who will be my quasi Aliens Colonial Marines:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-081122125814-568411321.jpeg)
I have another 35 or so of these to do, plus 8 landers.
Evil comes in the form of the Krakon Drones (formerly Hasslefree Druuschan) who as genetically modified escaped convict miners, are influenced by Serenity and Ghosts of Mars:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-081122125814-568391443.jpeg)
I need more of these, as in addition to the above I only have 4 ‘tanks’.
The Wookies have been posted previously, and here’s a size comparison of all 4 races so far:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-081122125814-568422200.jpeg)
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Grand 8)
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Nice! The Grymm are particularly good.
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Thanks chaps
The Grymm are particularly good.
I do love the little folk!
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I'll have to take another look at the Hasslefree Grymm, as I don't remember there being that many poses.
I have been looking at the GW Votann stuff, but I'm concerned about the height of them, especially next to the Wargames Atlantic figures. These look much better, much more like Squats :D
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I'll have to take another look at the Hasslefree Grymm, as I don't remember there being that many poses.
I have been looking at the GW Votann stuff, but I'm concerned about the height of them, especially next to the Wargames Atlantic figures. These look much better, much more like Squats :D
There is quite a range of them regards poses etc now.
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I'll have to take another look at the Hasslefree Grymm, as I don't remember there being that many poses.
Excluding conversions (eg an otherwise identical mini but with added helmet) and the walkers, but including what is presently out of stock, there are some 45 variants.
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Great stuff. :)
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Aye, looking good.
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Excluding conversions (eg an otherwise identical mini but with added helmet) and the walkers, but including what is presently out of stock, there are some 45 variants.
The Hasslefree Halloween sale runs to Monday 14, so I'll order a few samples as the weekend. Being squats, they're slightly cheaper than the other figures on the site :D
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Jolly Nice!
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Thank you :)
The Hasslefree Halloween sale runs to Monday 14, so I'll order a few samples as the weekend. Being squats, they're slightly cheaper than the other figures on the site :D
I’ve ordered a couple more to round off a unit
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A little bit of progress, with the first two ships finished.
For their terrestrial patrols, the Grimm use small Landers that are dropped from an interstellar Frigate.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101629-569181180.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101629-569191404.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101629-56920272.jpeg)
And with a short human Grimm, for size comparison:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101629-569211051.jpeg)
The Grimm are in squads of 5, with each Lander being weaponised according to its squad type (Command, Light Infantry, Heavy Infantry, Support infantry):
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101630-56922213.jpeg)
The Belters use Shuttles; these are much bigger vehicles that can accommodate up to 10 troopers (2 squads). The Shuttles include full life support systems for space travel, as well as being fully functional in a terrestrial environment.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101710-569231368.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101710-56924409.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101710-569252140.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101711-56926427.jpeg)
And with a tall human Belter, for size comparison:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/2031-181122101711-569271195.jpeg)
I’ve yet to settle on a ship design for the mutant human Reivers.
Next up in the paint queue are 3 more units of Grimm to fill the 3 other Landers, and some reduced model units of huge, enhanced Reivers (colloquially known as ‘Tanks’).
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Great stuff. Looking forward to seeing some games in progress :)
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Great stuff. Looking forward to seeing some games in progress :)
Thanks and me too :)
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Nicely done Sir!
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I like the evolution of this project, I'm looking forward to seeing more.
However it looks like you painted the white shuttle with a brush no? It looks ok but I reckon you'd be better with some rattle cans or an airbrush.
White is a bugger at the best of times, but by brush on something large like a vehicle is even worse.
Just my two bobs worth, hope I'm being constructive.
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Thanks chaps
I like the evolution of this project, I'm looking forward to seeing more.
However it looks like you painted the white shuttle with a brush no? It looks ok but I reckon you'd be better with some rattle cans or an airbrush.
White is a bugger at the best of times, but by brush on something large like a vehicle is even worse.
Just my two bobs worth, hope I'm being constructive.
Very constructive thanks. Yes, it’s a point others have also made and I do agree. Unfortunately I’m unable to use aerosols, spray guns etc. The only basis on which the finish is borderline acceptable to me is that it’s a Belter Shuttle, and so spends a lot of time being dirtied, scratched, damaged and otherwise mistreated in the harsh and dusty space that is the Asteroid Belt. This might sound like a hand-wave but it is actually a part of the back story. I do appreciate the point being raised. :)
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I like both of those very much.
The Grymm transport looks suitably squat and solid, the shuttle suitably cobbled together.
I played EVE Online, many moons ago, and the Minmatar faction (as ex-slaves of the Amarr faction) had a sort of Belter-ish vibe to them, players of non-Minmatar characters would describe Minmatar ships as "scrap welded together by rust." The shuttle has a bit of the same feel. I like it!
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I like both of those very much.
The Grymm transport looks suitably squat and solid, the shuttle suitably cobbled together.
I played EVE Online, many moons ago, and the Minmatar faction (as ex-slaves of the Amarr faction) had a sort of Belter-ish vibe to them, players of non-Minmatar characters would describe Minmatar ships as "scrap welded together by rust." The shuttle has a bit of the same feel. I like it!
Many thanks :). That’s all very interesting and certainly fits the vibe 8)
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A few more WIP Grymn conversions
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-231122182848-57400234.jpeg)
Left: Added slung SMG and belt knife to Antar (grenade launcher)
Centre: Added med pack to Khyli B (formerly loading, which reminds me she still needs a mag to the gun)
Right: Add SMG, belt knife and opened PDA to Ana B (formerly double pistols)
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A few more:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-241122144105.jpeg)
Left: Knut with the heavy gun is not much of a conversion just having superfluous SMG ammo pouches replaced with pistol and knife.
Centre: Karl (somehow I seem to have acquired 4 of these) has had his head turned and one of my own helmets added, plus his arm repositioned and binoculars added.
Right: Stefan has had his flamer removed, with SMG to left hand and a new hand to right from the spares box; on his back he has an Advanced Comms unit, for relaying communications with their Interstellar Frigate.
When these have had GS and paint, I’ll have 4 units of Grymn completed. A command (Leader, Forward Observation Officer, Medic, Advanced Comms, and Technician with PDA) plus 5-man squads of Light Infantry, Heavy Infantry (big guns) and Support Infantry (missiles).
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Great stuff :)
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Very impressive stuff.
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Wowzers ;D
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Thanks chaps :)
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And the conversions are done:
Various degrees of customisation to the Grimm:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-011222134739-57447556.jpeg)
And ‘gimp mask coal scuttle helmets’ to the larger of the Reivers (to match the standard-sized mutant penal miners) plus, as I want every mini in a unit to be different, I changed the legs on two of the three heavy infantry:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-011222134739-574461510.jpeg)
All of which are part of the pre-Xmas painting pile:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-011222134738-57440670.jpeg)
On the tray, the eagle-eyed will have spotted 5 robots. I’m not yet sure what they’re for, whether they’ll be objectives, decoration or in active play.
With these finished, I’m hoping for a Xmas Xenos Rampant game with
GRIMM
1 x command (5 minis)
1 x light infantry (5 minis)
1 x heavy infantry (5 minis)
1 x missileers (5 minis)
Each with a Lander (plus models for shot down and crashed craft)
REIVERS
1 x command (1 mini)
1 x berserkers (10 minis)
1 x heavy infantry (3 minis)
1 x hulk ‘tank’ (1 mini)
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Brill :)
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Thanks chaps
Very constructive thanks. Yes, it’s a point others have also made and I do agree. Unfortunately I’m unable to use aerosols, spray guns etc. The only basis on which the finish is borderline acceptable to me is that it’s a Belter Shuttle, and so spends a lot of time being dirtied, scratched, damaged and otherwise mistreated in the harsh and dusty space that is the Asteroid Belt. This might sound like a hand-wave but it is actually a part of the back story. I do appreciate the point being raised. :)
Have you tried stippling the paint on with a stiff stippling brush? I've seen a couple of examples where the chap has stippled paint on in layers (admittedly over a primer sprayed on with a rattle can) - each layer is a bit lighter in both colour and coverage so you get a bit of depth and no brush strokes. It seems to come out okay.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKXDhtCuSbg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKXDhtCuSbg)
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Looking good. :)
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Thanks chaps. Apologies for the late reply but I somehow missed the messages. I shall give stippling a try at some point though I doubt I need more than 1 Shuttle for the Belters, so with luck I won’t need to paint another white spacecraft!
In the meantime, I’ve been distracted painting the next units of Grimm (HF Grymn) and Reivers (Krakongames Stargrind, formerly HF Druuschan).
These are all for Xenos Rampant, though have yet to be statted up. Quite a few are conversions with details in prior posts.
First up my Grimm command, comprising an officer, comms, medic, FOO, and navigator.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103121-575242297.jpeg)
FWIW, the Grimm do have a system of rank, which is annotated to the rear of the helmet.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222104638.jpeg)
A heavy infantry squad:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103122-575261176.jpeg)
A missile and grenade launcher squad:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103122-57527332.jpeg)
The Grimm also have a few droids, who will be added to squafs that are still in hand: a gonk load carrier to be 1 of 3 in a ‘beer and ammo’ resupply squad, and a protocol and an astromech for an Executive unit (hint: it will include a young female dwarf with a light sabre).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103122-57528466.jpeg)
For the biologically-altered but escaped penal colony miners - the Reivers - I’ve also finished 3 more units, though these are, in XR terms, all of Reduced Model size (ie, less than 5 minis).
First up are actually two units, a super heavy ‘tank’ gun platform and the command figure, known as Haffabrain as that’s what he’s got (which is more than the rest). IDC, the command figure will likely gain a few minions to accompany him.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103148-575301222.jpeg)
And a unit of heavy infantry:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103148-57531232.jpeg)
Finally, here’s the two completed fighting forces (so far, as I hope to finish another 5 Grimm and 1 more Reiver before Xmas), which should give me enough to play with when I receive XR on Xmas Day. With the previously painted Grimm light infantry and Reiver berserkers, there are presently 4 units a side.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-141222103122-575292047.jpeg)
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Awesome!
Love the droids painted for battle! :)
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Cheers Nick. I suspect they’ll be a ‘find the droids with the secret message’ game. ;)
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The Grimm might need on-planet accommodation so I’ve prepped three Portable Habitation Units (essentially, converted but still readily transportable shipping containers, much like as used in present day conflict zones).
Shown grouped as a camp and then sized against a Lander (crashed) and a Grimm Colonial Marine:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-161222142821-575462127.jpeg)
Like the Lander, they have a ‘roller shutter’ door.
Some close ups (the containers are by OSHIROmodelterrain and the resin vents/fan/hatch are an ages-ago purchase from the now defunct Antenocittis Workshop):
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-161222142821-575451349.jpeg)
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Great stuff! 8)
I'm getting a serious deployment vibe from them, even unpainted...
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Love those. They’ll look terrific oainted :-*
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Nice job on those👍
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A thread full of cool eye candy! I love it.
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Thanks all :D
I did ponder whether their ‘squareness’ might be at odds with the ‘chunky but rounded’ style of the Grimm and their Landers BUT dwarves are nothing if not practical, and squared corners provide more interior space (and it’s not like the units need to be streamlined, etc).
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Some more WIP minis.
On the right an HF orc swordsman (Vadim) converted into a Reiver with a light sabre.
Also shown are a Grimm (HF Grymn) close combat squad, including a figure that was running with HMG and ammo box, now converted to axe and sword, and a previously helmet-less figure to which I’ve added one of my own helmets.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-181222213212.jpeg)
These are now in the paint queue and should be the last minis I finish this year.
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Love the lightsabre ‘ very kewl :-*
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Love the lightsabre ‘ very kewl :-*
Lol… thought you might. He’s also one of my favourite conversions. Though I did drop him, snapped the original acrylic rod, then had to drill out the stub to fit a replacement. I did curse. ::)
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Great progress :)
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Thanks (including for the rod ;)) :)
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I’m glad I gave you extra lol
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Lol. Indeed ;D
I’ve now finished multiple pieces…..
Vadim, a Reiver with a light sabre, converted from a HF fantasy figure:
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-281222142355-57709279.jpeg)
A squad of Close Combat Grimm, armed with pistols and a power axe:
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-281222142355-577111341.jpeg)
Transportation Containers from OSHIROmodelterrain:
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-281222142355-577121299.jpeg)
And various bits for the Grimm Task Force, including a power/comms/whatever unit made from a couple of OSHIROmodelterrain parts:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-281222142356-57713980.jpeg)
Three Portable Habitation Units made from OSHIROmodelterrain storage containers and a few Antenocitti parts:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-281222142418-577152241.jpeg)
And one of the Landers (a failed 3D print) used as a crash site marker:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-281222142356-577141555.jpeg)
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That all looks excellent! I especially like the conversion with the lightsaber.
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Most excellent! ;D
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Thanks chaps. Your feedback is most generous. :D
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The Grymm are most excellent troops and really well painted, but it’s that strange horror of the Reivers which leaves me speechless :o :o :o
Wow, man…those are great!
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Excellent stuff. I especially like the containers.
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They've turned out great 8)
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Thanks folks! :D
…. strange horror of the Reivers …..
That’s great to hear. They are very much influenced by:
- Serenity = Reavers
- Ghosts of Mars = Infected Miners
- Resident Evil: Extinction, etc = Various
Plus, no doubt, a shed-load of other movie influences that I’ve forgotten about
I’ve now statted-up my two forces for a first game. It does look like there’s a lot of info on the cards but that’s only because I’ve copied over the special rules, etc to avoid having to look them up mid game.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-020123081130.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-311222111644-57751598.jpeg)
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Another great thread Steve. Always good to see a project from planning to completion.
As other have said recently, those Portable Habitation Units are excellent and very convincing. 8)
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These are fantastic, and I agree that the Reivers are aces! :D
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Thanks folks! :D
That’s great to hear. They are very much influenced by:
- Serenity = Reavers
- Ghosts of Mars = Infected Miners
- Resident Evil: Extinction, etc = Various
Plus, no doubt, a shed-load of other movie influences that I’ve forgotten about
I’ve now statted-up my two forces for a first game. It does look like there’s a lot of info on the cards but that’s only because I’ve copied over the special rules, etc to avoid having to look them up mid game.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-311222111645-577522164.jpeg)(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-311222111644-57751598.jpeg)
Thanks for the explanation and stats! Serenity Reavers are a vastly underused thing in SF wargaming - the panic and horror hitting the population facing a Reaver attack are great moments in the show. Sadly a lot about them was never explained…why and how do they steer space ships etc. Your mixture of different sources also suits them fine. Brilliant enemy faction if you ask me. Great 👍!
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Hi Paul and thanks all :D
Regarding my Reivers (and I think, perhaps the Serenity Reavers too), some have more intellect than others. My Reivers have been ‘modified/mutated’ from human prisoners to make them more efficient at their mining task, whatever that is. It follows that some tasks require more brain and others more brawn (it’s no surprise that their leader is one of the smallest and is the least mutated). Some mining tasks require unthinking obedience and a total disregard of personal risk: thus the Grunts who constitute the mass of berserkers.
Btw the project is far from finished as I have 20 odd minis for another 2 berserker units, and I’ll probsbly get more plus some close combat heavies. I also have many more dwarves, humans, droids and Wookies to paint. Then there’s the terrain…… ;)
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Btw the project is far from finished [...]
Glad to hear! I always do enjoy following your threads! ;)
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Glad to hear! I always do enjoy following your threads! ;)
Me, too! And thanks for explaining!
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Thanks folks.
In terms of demonstrating that the project is unfinished, I’ve now specced both the Grimm and the Reivers as 48 point forces (12 and 13 units respectively). Admittedly I have a few more minis to buy.
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Thanks folks.
In terms of demonstrating that the project is unfinished, I’ve now specced both the Grimm and the Reivers as 48 point forces (12 and 13 units respectively). Admittedly I have a few more minis to buy.
Go for it! That’s the spirit!
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I’ve now played my first game of Xenos Rampant, using the bones of Scenario Alpha which is a Sweep and Clear operation.
As I was playing on a smaller board of roughly 75” square, I reduced the Grimm detachment to 3 units totalling 12 cost points, and the Reivers to 3 units totalling 13 points. Though the two detachments were of roughly the same size, the Reivers were more robust at 25 strength points versus 15 for the Grimm.
The setting was an ocean-side area of my planetary setting; light cover was provided by clumps of palm trees but otherwise the ground was open.
I played the Grimm whereas the actions of the Reivers were determined by Mr Spock (whose ancestor is Mr Babbage from The Men Who Would Be King). There were a few minor modifications to the scenario to accommodate Mr Spock’s thinking process, including that his ‘defeated’ units were not available for recycling back into the game.
Start: the table before serenity was rudely interrupted; dice were rolled to determine the respective start points
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123204830-577752497.jpeg)
Turn 1: the first units onto the table with the Reivers advancing
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123204830-577781178.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123204830-57779255.jpeg)
Turn 2: all the Grimm are on the table, with ‘berserk’ Reivers having closed to their left and the brute with a light sabre to their right; the Reiver leader has yet to arrive.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123204831-57780387.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123204831-57781952.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205530-57782740.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205530-577831256.jpeg)
Turn 3: the ‘close combat’ Grimm move into the cover of some palms while their SMG shooting colleagues open-up on the ‘berserk’ Reivers albeit without much effect; the Grimm leader then calls in fire support and takes out 3 of the Reivers ensconced behind the palms; the Reiver leader comes into the game and as the ‘brute’ has Hive Mind, he’s able to survive what was an otherwise unsuccessful bout of fighting by virtue of his +1 to Courage rolls.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205530-57784213.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205530-577851582.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205530-577861875.jpeg)
Turn 4: More shooting by the Grimm, more attacking by the Reivers; small losses here and there
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205944-577871111.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205944-577881566.jpeg)
Turn 5: much like Turn 4 but with the Reiver leader’s presence now having quite an effect on all Courage rolls, as he’s within 12” of the berserkers and the brute has Hive Mind; the Grimm commander realises that shooting will not take him out quickly enough, so instead calls down Fire Support but fails the activation
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205944-57789695.jpeg)
Turns 6-7: more shooting and fighting, with the Grimm repeatedly failing to call in Fire Support
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205944-577901208.jpeg)
Turn 8: success! Fire Support is called in with 9 hits out of 10, which is just enough to kill the Reiver Leader; in the subsequent Courage test the brute chooses to run from the table
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123205945-57791959.jpeg)
(https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?action-gallery;sa=view;id=57793)
Turn 9: with the remnants of the berserk unit being all that is left of the Reivers, spurred on by the cocktail of drugs being pumped around their bodies they make a fanatical charge that ultimately ends in them being shot down
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-050123210210-57793281.jpeg)
So a win for the Grimm. The Grimm destroyed or routed enemy units costing 3 and 2 points (it was an 8 point unit that chose to run away!), which according to the scenario earns them 2 Victory Points. As the Grimm held firm, the Reivers earned nil.
I shall probably play each of the scenarios as components of a campaign, though as I want to play my choice of units, I shall probably ignore the campaign system as detailed in the book and just compare progress through their totals of VPs.
As regards the game, my principal learning was that this was a learning experience. Pre-game I’d made changes to Mr Spock’s decision-making engine, though I expect I’ll make a few more revisions for Scenario Beta.
Playing both sides on my own, with everything going on I occasionally found that I’d forgotten to apply rules, such as taking the Firefight option, or charging the Reivers an Armour deduction for the Grimm’s use of armour-piercing rounds. This is less likely to happen next time.
All-in-all I very much enjoyed XR. The relentless pressure from the Reivers kept the Grimm behind cover while they brought their better shooting to bear. If the palm trees hadn’t been available to hide behind, it would likely have been a different outcome.
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Good stuff, it sounds like you had some fun with the rules and got your lovely models and terrain out.
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Yeah, sounds like you had some fun. And Mr Spock seems to have been a good opponent!
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I have yet to even read my copy, so I appreciate your AAR.
What changes to Mr Babage have you made/are you thinking of making?
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Brill :)
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Nice pics :D ;D
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Thanks all -it was a lot of fun, even without someone to gloat over or by gloated over by. ;)
The changes to Mr Babbage will be pretty obvious from reading the rules. Babbage does deal with the primitive tribes of the 19thC, which my Reivers are not so the changes I’ve made reflect that.
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I feel like I've seen a lot of overly detailed models and terrain lately. Your most recent work has been a breath of fresh air; everything is well executed, but it doesn't feel like it's too much, if that makes sense.
It's a reminder to myself that this hobby is about fun and telling cool stories on the tabletop :)
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Thanks all -it was a lot of fun, even without someone to gloat over or by gloated over by. ;)
Who would ever do such a thing :D
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I feel like I've seen a lot of overly detailed models and terrain lately. Your most recent work has been a breath of fresh air; everything is well executed, but it doesn't feel like it's too much, if that makes sense.
It's a reminder to myself that this hobby is about fun and telling cool stories on the tabletop :)
Thank you. :)
Much appreciated
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Not you of course :D
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That sabre Reiver conversion is incredible! :o Perfect thread for me to stumble on after cracking open my shiny new copy of Xenos Rampant :D
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That sabre Reiver conversion is incredible! :o Perfect thread for me to stumble on after cracking open my shiny new copy of Xenos Rampant :D
Sorry I missed this before! Thank you very much. Hope you enjoy your read of XR - I certainly did :)
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Something for another scenario, a pumping station.
This has been built using buildings, walls and other parts from OSHIROmodels, plus odds and sods from the bitz box. I expect that idc I’ll purchase more of the OSHIROmodels pieces, to expand the pumping station into a small settlement.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191211-579051643.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191211-579081.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191211-57909703.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191211-57910544.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191212-57911808.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191240-579122292.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191240-579132189.jpeg)
And primed to bind it all together (NB: the control room’s removable roof is elsewhere in this shot) :
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/57/2031-190123191241-579142223.jpeg)
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Looking really good. The ruined walls especially. ;D
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Splendido! 8)
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Liking that 8)
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Liking that 8)
Me too! 👍
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Thanks all - apologies for not having replied sooner (I thought I had o_o).
A bit more progress. I have 3 more units of Grymn on the painting table: a heavy Infantry unit, the exec unit, and the supply unit.
A few conversions to share, all HF minis:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-070223171201-58058744.jpeg)
The dwarf Executive Officer with the light sabre was originally a human child with a sword, who I’ve aged by emphasising cheekbones and adding breasts. The other two were light infantry who’ve had SMGs removed and the replacements slung on their backs; they’ll be from the ‘beer and bullets’ supply squad with a bag or box of kit in one hand and something motivating in the other (a thumbs up and a tankard of beer),
The three Reiver units will comprise 2 x 10 berserkers and a transport skimmer. The latter will have a single Reiver as fixed crew and will double-duty as a gun platform.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-070223171201-580571918.jpeg)
The skimmer is a resin product from OSHIROmodels, which was lightly converted using their engine pieces and a few other bits.
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Very cool 8)
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Nice use of the skimmer, it's a useful bit of kit.
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TjTs really nice :)
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Thanks chaps. Yes the skimmer is a lovely piece. As it’s for the ‘escaped penal colony mutant miners’ it’ll be some sort of mining vehicle that’s been gunned up (a ‘technical’ of sorts).
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While I plough my way through painting another 30 odd minis I thought I might add some background to my Rampant Sci-Fi project (which I’ve also now added to the first post, for context).
The project combines elements of or influences from my favourite SciFi sources, including:
The Expanse
Star Wars
Aliens
The Fifth Element
Raised by Wolves
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets
Serenity
Ghosts of Mars
Resident Evil
The current factions include:
- Reivers (mutant humans derived from or influenced by Serenity, Ghosts of Mars, Resident Evil)
- Marines (shorter humans influenced by the Colonial Marines from Aliens)
- Belters (taller humans derived from The Expanse, Raised By Wolves)
- Wookies (humanoids from Star Wars)
Other factions might be added, such as Twi’Lek, Mangalores and Xenomorphs
And the fluff….
The Galactic Powers are the self-styled managers (controllers) of all things law, finance, commerce and industry. Their power extends as far as the Asteroid Belt beyond which lie the Outer Reaches, which are the ‘Wild West’ of the Galaxy.
Reivers (Krakon Stargrind)
Humans who as off-Earth prisoners of the Galactic Powers were genetically-modified to perform labour in high-radiation and low-oxygen mining environments. Their services were contracted to (effectively they were enslaved to) the ‘Yutani. Mining Corporation’ (Y.). Having escaped penal servitude, they now survive in the Outer Reaches, raiding for supplies and captives. Cunning and easily enraged, they lack the neural capacity for strategic thinking but are competent with technical systems including weapons and vehicles.
Marines (Hasslefree Grymn)
Grey-haired, short in height and somewhat squat, the Marines are humans from a high-gravity planet. Strong of body and determined of spirit, naturally assertive but calm in adversity, they are contracted by the Galactic Powers to patrol and police the Outer Reaches.
Belters (Infinity Haqqislam)
Tall, fair-haired humans from the low gravity Asteroid Belt. The Belt was founded as a colony of the Galactic Powers but over time has increasingly pushed for its independence. The Belt is vulnerable to attack and so its society is highly militarised. The Belt began as, and still is, a primary source of rare minerals but has also developed into a trading hub for anything and everything.
Wookies (WotC Bendies)
Native to the forest planet Kashyyyk, the humanoid Wookies are distinguished from humans by their gigantism, hirsutism, and physical strength. While they are known for their strength, battle prowess, and penchant for losing their temper, they are also highly intelligent and possess a natural talent for mechanics. These abilities make Wookiees natural scouts and adventurers.
FYI the earlier pages of the thread jump about with various other names for these factions, as it’s taken a while for me to settle on what I want to do. Out of date names and references include (the main source of the minis is in brackets):
Wookies : Sasqwatchen
Marines : Grimm, Grymn
Belters : Humans
Reivers : Reavers, Drones, Druuschan
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Splendid (i'm sure it all reads well ;)) lol
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Splendid (i'm sure it all reads well ;)) lol
lol when I thought about who might read this let’s just say that you weren’t at the top of the list!!!!
In all honesty, it’s written down to keep me focussed as there’s so much that could be included that I’d easily lose my way.
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lol when I thought about who might read this let’s just say that you weren’t at the top of the list!!!!
lol
I just wanted to acknowledge it ;) lol
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While I plough my way through painting another 30 odd minis I thought I might add some background to my Rampant Sci-Fi project (which I’ve also now added to the first post, for context)....
Great set of influences and that skimmer looks really good.
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Many thanks…..and the Reiver skimmer is now painted.
When escaping from penal servitude with the ‘Yutani.Mining Corporation’, the Reivers made off with equipment that included this skimmer:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323142419-58261140.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323142419-58262113.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323142419-582632459.jpeg)
I’ve just finished painting 35 minis and a bunch of other stuff so this is the first update of hopefully many today.
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A slight diversion with some finished generic pieces. For the moment I’m painting the generic items in metallic but that might not last.
Some ‘gone to ground’ markers (pick axes and shovels from various plastic kits).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323153042-58264328.jpeg)
Some scatter storage, all resin casts by OSHIRO Model Terrain. The two stacks at the rear are from a while back, the front three stacks are new.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323153042-582652031.jpeg)
More set dressing in the form of a utility skimmer (also by OSHIRO mt) and two WotC droids.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323153043-58266393.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323153043-582671219.jpeg)
More to follow …..
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Good stuff 8)
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Ta.
Post 3 is for two completed units each of 10 ‘berserker’ Reivers.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323205654-58272483.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323205654-582711354.jpeg)
This brings my Reivers to 37 minis.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323205654-582681379.jpeg)
I’m waiting on an order from Krakon Games that will enable me to assemble another unit of 10 berserkers, a unit of 3 close combat heavies, and a walker/loader as a close combat super heavy, which will take the force up to 51 minis.
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My 4th and final update for today.
I’ve completed a further 3 units of Marines (previously called Grimm or Grymn).
X-Ray Squad, comprising of an Exec Officer with light sabre, her pet companion, her personal pilot, a protocol droid and an astromech droid,
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323211243-582731359.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323211243-5827449.jpeg)
Hotel Squad, of 5 heavy infantry, one with a flamer gun and all equipped with enviro units.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323211243-58277878.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323211312-582782003.jpeg)
Lima Squad, a supply unit with 3 gonks retasked as ‘pack droids’.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323211243-582751416.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323211243-582761690.jpeg)
These additions bring my completed Marines to 40 minis.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-050323212647.jpeg)
In addition to the above I have another 15 minis to finish: a light infantry squad, a missile squad, and a canine squad.
However, next up will be 5 more Infinity minis and 10 WotC Super Battle Droids, all to boost my force of Belters, plus painting of the pumping station terrain piece.
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Brill :)
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Lovely work, I particularly like those reaver units you’ve created! Nice seeing that line of minis being utilised so nicely!
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Thanks very much folks! 8)
A quick summation of completed minis, so far:
37 x Reivers
40 x Marines
05 x Belters
11 x Wookies
02 x Generic Droids
95 Total
And to do:
14 x Reivers
15 x Marines
31 x Belters (inclu Battle Droids)
06 x Wookies
66 Total
So I’m over half way to finishing stage 1, with just 6 of the 66 yet to buy.
Stage 2 will likely add a fair few ‘civilians’ of mixed races, but also Twi’Lek rebels (Star Wars) and CorpSec types (Ghosts of Mars) employed by the dreaded Yutani Mining Corporation.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-060323105802-582822125.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-060323110704.jpeg)
I also need to finish more structural terrain, with my settlement being based somewhat on that in Ghosts of Mars (for which the OSHIRO model terrain buildings are a very good proxy). To give an idea, I’ve ramped up the exposure on the following movie screenshot.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-060323105802-58283767.jpeg)
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Just caught up with this thread, Jolly Nice!
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Just caught up too. Awesome stuff! :)
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Thanks chaps
Meantime I’ve painted the pumping station.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112048-583131441.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112048-5831457.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112048-583152230.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112049-583161761.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112049-5831767.jpeg)
And with figures for scale:
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112125-583181197.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112125-583191848.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112125-58320254.jpeg)
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112126-5832193.jpeg)
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-090323112126-58322805.jpeg)
Obvs the above distracted me from working on the Belters and their Battle Droids :)
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I like that 8)
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Lovely job, looks superuberlush. :)
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That looks good, straight out of a Bad Batch episode.
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Thanks chaps - I’m afraid I didn’t get to watch Bad Batch :(
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John Eaves - a model maker and illustrator with an extensive movie pedigree - did the concept drawings for the mining settlement in John Carpenter’s Ghosts of Mars. For example:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-100323135816.jpeg)
As luck would have it, I chanced upon his blog, which has entries from 2009 and 2010 that discuss the brief and their execution.
The buildings were to have the look that they were dropped from a mold and have a gritty adobe type finish. John’s [Carpenter] point on the designs of things was distinguishing different places by the shadows they cast.
https://johneaves.wordpress.com/2009/09/01/art-of-john-carpenters-ghosts-of-mars-day-one/ (https://johneaves.wordpress.com/2009/09/01/art-of-john-carpenters-ghosts-of-mars-day-one/)
https://johneaves.wordpress.com/2010/10/01/john-carpenters-ghosts-of-mars-the-art-of-part-2/ (https://johneaves.wordpress.com/2010/10/01/john-carpenters-ghosts-of-mars-the-art-of-part-2/)
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I love that terrain. And the link to the blog reveals very nice food for the model builder!
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Thanks and yes, John Eaves is inspiring
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Some terrain progress that has further distracted me from painting Belters.
The WIP Corporate Security Office, which means I’m getting ahead of myself as I don’t yet have any CorpSec minis ……
The plan is to link together a few buildings for alleyways etc. Next steps will be a little bit of filling and then adding sand texture, followed by cabling and wiring.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163158-583442233.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163158-583451163.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163159-583461896.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163159-58347257.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163159-58348268.jpeg)
Obvs a CorpSec office needs holding cells (though I don’t plan to detail the interiors).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163234-583491084.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163234-583502333.jpeg)
An idea of how the various buildings will interlink:
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163235-58351895.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163235-583521316.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-110323163235-583531306.jpeg)
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I really like that :)
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Me too :)
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Looks like a good start, and those resin extras are a nice touch.
[...] though I don’t plan to detail the interiors [...]
I think a few bits and pieces to suggest the building's use - like the holding cells, or a front desk - is fine, and adds to the narrative of it. Too much though, and it limits play if nothing else.
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Great in progress shot. And I think it looks good!
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Thanks folks.
It’ll be branded as the CorpSec office so will be clear what it is. I’m not planning to play inside buildings so cell railings are just to segregate whatever minis might be parked in there.
Small amount of progress today. Sanding with 100 grit paper to round off a few square edges, then smearing on of pre-mixed Knaupf wall filler to fill gaps and reinforce weak areas.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-120323173243.jpeg)
I expect I’ll make a few more similar buildings….
Workshop
Cantina
Fuel Station
…… for the nucleus of a mining settlement.
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Looking great. Liking it very much :)
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That works really well, I like it.
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Wonderful stuff- great idea to use Eaves illustrations for inspiration.
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That really looks the business.
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Looks good, I'm looking forward to seeing it progress.
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Thanks all
Using external PVA, I’ve now glued very fine sand to the walls and a rougher grade to the ground.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-130323125204.jpeg)
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coming together nicely. :-*
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Thanks Nick
A small update, just for completeness.
After a black acrylic undercoat, I added the ‘solder’ cables and greenstuff junction boxes. The cables are fixed to the building with superglue (the layers of exterior PVA, sand and paint prevent the underlying foam from melting).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-170323082711.jpeg)
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And the CorpSec Office is finished!
Rather than show it in isolation, I’ve photoed it alongside the previously completed Pumping Station. Next up will be either the Fuel Depot or Engineering Shop.
I guess I will need to add signs to fully identify each building,
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-220323142733-584371735.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-220323142658-58434891.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-220323142658-584352403.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-220323142657-58432979.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-220323142658-584332336.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-220323142658-584362182.jpeg)
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Coming together really well. Can’t wait to see what’s next
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Lovely work, it really looks the part. I can see the Corpos skulking about there.
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Very nice Steve.
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That’s turned out very well Steve :-*
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Thanks chaps
I think it will be the Engineering Shop next
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A great terrain piece
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Nicely done :)
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Thanks very much :)
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Some more finished minis, taking me to 50 for the YTD.
This time it’s more Belters - the angsty citizens of the Asteroid Belt who won’t be told by anyone.
A second group of 5 x humans plus 2 groups of 5 x Battle Droids (the Belters are short of manpower, so prefer to deploy droids for close combat).
The humans are all Infinity minis, one quite heavily converted, with 4 from Haqqislam and 1 (bare arms female) from Ariadna.
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-300323151206-585411611.jpeg)
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-300323151206-58542587.jpeg)
The 10 Super Battle Droids will be fielded in 2 teams; they’re all WOTC bendies and while I swapped arms around intending to make them all different, I still managed to end up with 2 pairs of 2.
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-300323152815.jpeg)
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-300323151206-585441145.jpeg)
A photo of the 4 units so far.
(https://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/58/2031-300323151206-58543202.jpeg)
I have at least 2 more units of Belters to paint, one with jet packs and the other with missiles, and I’m contemplating another of heavy Infantry.
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I really like how you've tied the different ranges together with the painting scheme.
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I really like how you've tied the different ranges together with the painting scheme.
Yes. They blend together really well. Looking forward to seeing them on the tabletop
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Beautiful. What WOTC BTW?
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Thanks folks :D
What WOTC BTW?
Wizard of the Coast. The Star Wars softer plastics (bendies) some of which Scale well for 28mm.
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Some of which don't lol
Great additions :)
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I thank you :D