Lead Adventure Forum
Miniatures Adventure => The Conflicts that came in from the Cold => Topic started by: Hu Rhu on October 16, 2016, 06:22:12 PM
-
A casual conversation in the bar with a few wargaming chums and I had the idea for my next project - Ice Station Zebra.
I will be drawing most of my inspiration from the book rather than the film, although there will be a few touches from the film (and other ideas) included in the final game.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Cover%203_zpsmtwjglno.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Cover%203_zpsmtwjglno.jpg.html) (http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Cover%201_zpsadvlobqd.jpeg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Cover%201_zpsadvlobqd.jpeg.html) (http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Cover202_zpsv47eunmf.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Cover202_zpsv47eunmf.jpg.html)
Of course as most people know the action takes place in the Artic (giving me a chance to create some appropriate terrain boards) where a group of scientists at Drift Ice Station Zebra send an SOS. Given the poor weather, no planes can land so a US nuclear submarine carrying a 'Dr' Carpenter is despatched.
I shall base the weather station on something like this, but given that the book is set in 1959, it will be a little less modern.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station201_zpsn1t9tkyr.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station201_zpsn1t9tkyr.jpg.html)
I had to start somewhere, so I decided to start the game from when the submarine breaks through the ice and lands the rescue party. This would give me my first terrain board. I cast around on Ebay and soon had a toy submarine ready for conversion.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Toy%20Sub%201_zpsxbjw10bs.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Toy%20Sub%201_zpsxbjw10bs.jpg.html)
I then waterlined it (simple as it came in two halves - well almost) gave me this.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Toy_Sub_3_zpstt69kr2l.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Toy_Sub_3_zpstt69kr2l.jpg.html)
I then made up my first terrain board (each will measure 12" x 12", except the actual base which is on a 24" x 24" board). These are 9mm MDF base with a 10mm expanded foam top, glues together.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_1_zpsvlpketql.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_1_zpsvlpketql.jpg.html)
I then sketched out the hole for the submarine, cut it to size giving me a hole in the ice.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_1a_zps1uu4ncos.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_1a_zps1uu4ncos.jpg.html)
A little checking to see how it fitted up and voila, the first terrain square is starting to shape up.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_1b_zpshh5kpuws.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_1b_zpshh5kpuws.jpg.html)
The foam was then given a good going over with a hot wire cutter to break up the clean edges and glued to the base. Meanwhile the submarine will be going in for a complete makeover to become the USS Dolphin. The base obviously needs texturing and the water and ice effects but I am pleased with the start I have made.
More later.
-
Yes! Please tell me this is for the next BLAM? Pleeeeeease
-
Great idea, Gary. Never read the original book, but always loved the movie - that moment when they look up and see the Soviet paras' chutes blossoming in the sky... Terrifying. Sends a shiver down my spine even now...
'I don't care how you do, but GET ME THERE!'
Brilliant. Do it.
(It will make a lovely, unusual, glittery, snowy centrepiece for your Christmas dinner table too, of course ;))
-
Great game idea, hope you bought the best old range from the American company
-
Well, that's different 8) 8)
cheers
James
-
I may have to book a place on this at the BLAMiversery! :D
-
Yes! Please tell me this is for the next BLAM? Pleeeeeease
Well if you insist. ;)
Brilliant. Do it.
Ok.
Great game idea, hope you bought the best old range from the American company
Thanks - I you'll have to wait and see what turns up.
Well, that's different 8) 8)
Yes it is. I just hope that I can pull it off.
I may have to book a place on this at the BLAMiversery! :D
Feel free.
Thanks for the encouragement.
-
Excellent choice....
-
Woo hoo! I'm booking a place too, if that's OK? :D
-
I've actually got the book in my 'to read' pile, so I wil look forward to seeing how this pans out.
-
Excellent choice....
Thanks - lets hope I can do it justice.
Woo hoo! I'm booking a place too, if that's OK? :D
You can. Actually it was your game 'The Rim' which set me musing about a small exploration game, so thanks.
-
Thanks - lets hope I can do it justice.
You can. Actually it was your game 'The Rim' which set me musing about a small exploration game, so thanks.
Don't mention it :D
-
I love that film. I've lost count of how many times I've seen it. What scale are you using to fit in with that sub?
-
Thumbs up Gary - will watch progress with interest
-
Great idea! Looking forward to seeing more of this.
-
I echo everyone's sentiments. A cracking good film from my childhood that made me immediately want to get a white parka with furry hood. It would translate well into a wargames scenario.
Looking great so far... you could also use the Norwegian base from John Carpenter's 'The Thing' for inspiration or the derelict whaling station from Alien v Predator. These were of a more traditional wooden cabin type construction that would be in keeping with the 50's era you are trying to achieve. As for the ice block littered snow field - that's what styrofoam was made for!
There may well be figures out there from the Pulp and Cold War era ranges that will do, I don't know. You could conceivably get away with the Copplestone Polar explorers for the civilians. I'm not sure how much the Soviets will have changed in look and equipment between WWII and 1950's but in the absence of appropriate special forces of the period these WWII Soviets from Victory Force Miniatures might do at a pinch with the addition of more cold weather gear, particularly those funky red snow goggles etc.
http://pxhst.co/avaxhome/7e/61/001f617e_medium.jpeg
330601B Soviet leader directing w/ fur cap (winter)
330606B Soviet leader (winter)
330611B Soviet leader running directing (winter)
This is not really my period but I am really looking forward to seeing how this is takes shape...
-
Tiger Miniatures has some suitable figures in their cold weather gear.
-
I love that film. I've lost count of how many times I've seen it. What scale are you using to fit in with that sub?
I will be following the book story line, rather than the film, so don't expect Russian paratroopers. However it will be 28mm although the sub (which is a smaller scale - nearer 18mm) will be for visual effect only.
Thumbs up Gary - will watch progress with interest
Please do.
I echo everyone's sentiments. A cracking good film from my childhood that made me immediately want to get a white parka with furry hood. It would translate well into a wargames scenario.
Looking great so far... you could also use the Norwegian base from John Carpenter's 'The Thing' for inspiration or the derelict whaling station from Alien v Predator. These were of a more traditional wooden cabin type construction that would be in keeping with the 50's era you are trying to achieve. As for the ice block littered snow field - that's what styrofoam was made for!
There may well be figures out there from the Pulp and Cold War era ranges that will do, I don't know. You could conceivably get away with the Copplestone Polar explorers for the civilians. I'm not sure how much the Soviets will have changed in look and equipment between WWII and 1950's but in the absence of appropriate special forces of the period these WWII Soviets from Victory Force Miniatures might do at a pinch with the addition of more cold weather gear, particularly those funky red snow goggles etc.
http://pxhst.co/avaxhome/7e/61/001f617e_medium.jpeg
330601B Soviet leader directing w/ fur cap (winter)
330606B Soviet leader (winter)
330611B Soviet leader running directing (winter)
This is not really my period but I am really looking forward to seeing how this is takes shape...
Tiger Miniatures has some suitable figures in their cold weather gear.
Thanks for the tips on miniatures. I am planning on using a mix of Copplestone, Pulp Figures and Eureka. But I shall take a look at the Tiger miniatures as well.
-
Some inspiration for you
-
I can hear it now da da dah daah, da da dah daah, ping... ping...
that and the sounds of teeth chattering!
-
Brilliant idea, looking forward to seeing it develop ;D
-
Ok so no one else has said it so I suppose it has been left to me
COOL IDEA :D
Sorry
Book me a place at BLAM
-
Having not seen the film, I have no idea of the plot but can imagine the idea easily enough (I reckon...).
Sounds like a blast.
Great idea, mate.
8) 8)
-
After thinking about it, I see a very high jump for you. But I think it is very possible for you to make it. I try to go to it without any ideas from the film or the book, it should not influence me. A very good choice for a 10th anniversary.
-
I trust that the Russians will have those early model stealth jets. You know, the ones that morph back and forth between MiG-21s and Phantoms ;)
-
Ok so no one else has said it so I suppose it has been left to me
COOL IDEA :D
Sorry
Book me a place at BLAM
lol lol
Having not seen the film, I have no idea of the plot but can imagine the idea easily enough (I reckon...).
I have no idea about the plot either. But since I'm basing it on the book not the film, you aren't missing out, :D :D
I try to go to it without any ideas from the film or the book, it should not influence me.
That's the attitude. And then you also can't be disappointed either. :D :D
I trust that the Russians will have those early model stealth jets. You know, the ones that morph back and forth between MiG-21s and Phantoms ;)
Not based on the film but the book. So no planes (Russian or US). ;) Just a good old fashioned spy novel... with the odd twist or two. >:D >:D
Brilliant idea, looking forward to seeing it develop ;D
Thanks - so am I. It will be a challenge given that the terrain is all white.
Some inspiration for you
Thanks for the photos. I have collected quite a few but good shots are always useful, especially to get colurs and shapes right for the snow and ice.
-
Rich Clarke did a good lot of ice floes for one of his games set in the Arctic. I think it was in a TFL Special, perhaps last Xmas?
-
Rich Clarke did a good lot of ice floes for one of his games set in the Arctic. I think it was in a TFL Special, perhaps last Xmas?
Thanks for the heads up. I will try and find it.
-
Thanks for the heads up. I will try and find it.
It was the 2015 Christmas Special. There was a polar terrain article called 'Going with the Floe'.
http://toofatlardies.co.uk/blog/?p=5332#
It's still available here for £5 (I assume in pdf):
http://toofatlardies.co.uk/product/2015-christmas-special/
-
Thanks for the link.
-
Gary if you are looking for Snow Troopers you might want to look at these guys - their weapons might be too futuristic though
http://www.fouraminiatures.com/page2.htm (http://www.fouraminiatures.com/page2.htm)
(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j375/ErictheShed/sn7_zpsf668ab60.jpg)
and if you want vehicles -= lots of different types
http://www.daemonscape.com/contents/en-uk/d5_01.html (http://www.daemonscape.com/contents/en-uk/d5_01.html)
(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j375/ErictheShed/Ice%20Station%20Hamster/ice5_zpsf16ab92d.jpg)
-
This would be worth your while looking at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_COLDFEET
-
Gary if you are looking for Snow Troopers you might want to look at these guys - their weapons might be too futuristic though
http://www.fouraminiatures.com/page2.htm (http://www.fouraminiatures.com/page2.htm)
and if you want vehicles -= lots of different types
http://www.daemonscape.com/contents/en-uk/d5_01.html (http://www.daemonscape.com/contents/en-uk/d5_01.html)
Giles - Thanks for the heads up. I had seen the figures but as you say they are a little modern for the period I am trying to portray but they can be converted. The vehicle might work.
This would be worth your while looking at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_COLDFEET
Thanks. That is a weird coincidence. I had already considered the evacuation stage using something similar I had seen on a polar exploration film and of course there is the scene from Thunderball, where 007 is whisked into the air using the capture equipment. I will ponder what else might be useful from the link.
-
Brigade Games has an accessory set for its German Mountain Troops that might be of use: skis, snowshoes, picks:
http://brigadegames.3dcartstores.com/Accessory-Set-German-Mountain-Troops-1-set_p_375.html (http://brigadegames.3dcartstores.com/Accessory-Set-German-Mountain-Troops-1-set_p_375.html)
Ainsty Castings has this little snowmobile (in the vein of On Her Majesty's Secret Service):
http://ainstycastings.co.uk/product_info.php/cPath/59/products_id/701 (http://ainstycastings.co.uk/product_info.php/cPath/59/products_id/701)
-
Have a look on here for, well, everything.
http://www.copplestonecastings.co.uk/list.php?cat=4&sub=44&page=1
-
Already ahead of you. Copplestone, Pulp Figures, and Folorn Hope have provided me with almost all I need for miniatures. Other sources for buildings etc have almost been finalised.
-
Giles - Thanks for the heads up. I had seen the figures but as you say they are a little modern for the period I am trying to portray but they can be converted. The vehicle might work.
Thanks. That is a weird coincidence. I had already considered the evacuation stage using something similar I had seen on a polar exploration film and of course there is the scene from Thunderball, where 007 is whisked into the air using the capture equipment. I will ponder what else might be useful from the link.
I've read this book on it: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Project-COLDFEET-Mission-Station-Institute/dp/1557505144/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1476979235&sr=1-5&keywords=coldfeet which covers the whole thing pretty well. I've also run the whole operation as a roleplay which went well too details on my blog: https://spprojectblog.wordpress.com/2012/08/16/operation-cold-feet/
Hope that helps some.
-
I've read this book on it: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Project-COLDFEET-Mission-Station-Institute/dp/1557505144/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1476979235&sr=1-5&keywords=coldfeet which covers the whole thing pretty well. I've also run the whole operation as a roleplay which went well too details on my blog: https://spprojectblog.wordpress.com/2012/08/16/operation-cold-feet/
Hope that helps some.
Thanks again for the info. Again spookily similar to events I had already planned to introduce into the game.
-
Just to let you know that because of this I have bought a bunch of AM novels, Ice Station Zebra included.
I was just going to read this one to get a feel for it, but at £8 for ten, posted, it would have been rude not to.
Only 300 pages or so each, as well, so light reading.
With the added bonus of a change from my usual fare.
;)
-
Just to let you know that because of this I have bought a bunch of AM novels, Ice Station Zebra included.
I was just going to read this one to get a feel for it, but at £8 for ten, posted, it would have been rude not to.
Only 300 pages or so each, as well, so light reading.
With the added bonus of a change from my usual fare.
;)
And an extra bonus thinking that you will have worked out the plot for my game ;) - Well not exactly. I only said it was based on the book - not following it. :D :D
-
And an extra bonus thinking that you will have worked out the plot for my game ;) - Well not exactly. I only said it was based on the book - not following it. :D :D
I would expect no different from a shifty bloke carrying the 'fifth sheet'....
;)
-
Hi Gary,
Have you seen the Ice Station Lima range at Tiger Miniatures, I came across them whilst looking at their miners for my Apache game.
http://www.tigerminiatures.co.uk/page5.htm
The civilians look like they could be useful. The military figures are armed with bolt action rifles Lee Enfileds by the look of them, so could be the right period?
-
Have you seen the Ice Station Lima range at Tiger Miniatures
The HLBS range on the same site looks useful too - particularly the pack of skiers.
-
Hi Gary,
Have you seen the Ice Station Lima range at Tiger Miniatures, I came across them whilst looking at their miners for my Apache game.
http://www.tigerminiatures.co.uk/page5.htm
The civilians look like they could be useful. The military figures are armed with bolt action rifles Lee Enfileds by the look of them, so could be the right period?
Funny enough I was going to send you the link to the miners. :o
The HLBS range on the same site looks useful too - particularly the pack of skiers.
They are a good set. Although no skis are mentioned in the book, I might be able to fit them in.
-
I have been experimenting with various combinations of materials to give me a good representation of snow. I trolled through all the tutorials I could find and decided to try some out. After a few attempts I think I have found my preferred method.
I found this product as I was looking for some snow paint.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow20Tex20Paint_zpswga5cpe1.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow20Tex20Paint_zpswga5cpe1.jpg.html)
It comes as a paste which you can trowel on using a small pallette knife and looks like this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow20Test202_zpsmve4qhsh.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow20Test202_zpsmve4qhsh.jpg.html)
Which is not a great look but once I played around with various bases and methods of applying it, I got this look:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow20Test201_zpsmqk7d8sx.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow20Test201_zpsmqk7d8sx.jpg.html)
I am now playing around with various sealants such as spray varnish to see what the final coating will look like, but so far I think it looks very realistic.
I am trying to make the boards as realistic as possible whilst being at the same time playable on. I want this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow_Field_1_zps7euh7en9.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snow_Field_1_zps7euh7en9.jpg.html)
So I came up with this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_2_zpsgrc7fhd1.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_2_zpsgrc7fhd1.jpg.html)
Once this is primed, painted and snowed I am hoping that it will give me what I need.
Finally I continue to work on the submarine, adding a base to the waterlined model and using some filler to smooth off the rough edges. Then it got a coat of primer and then a coat of black. It still needs some waterslide transfers and of course some weathering.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Toy_Sub_5_zpsqabwuyla.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Toy_Sub_5_zpsqabwuyla.jpg.html)
More to follow including the primed figures and some wildlife.
-
You're making great progress with this already.
-
You're making great progress with this already.
Indeed.
8)
He aint taking no prisoners.....
;)
-
You're making great progress with this already.
Actually, I'm a little frustrated in how slow things have been going - mostly to waiting for things to arrive. It seems that each thing I do is held up for postage or modelling shops having only small stocks of what I need. However things have started to arrive so I hope to have a greater output next week.
He aint taking no prisoners.....
;)
Well not until BLAM :D :D
-
It's looking great so far!
-
Excellent start, my BLAM 2016 project is still in the planning stage ;)
Although the miners arrived this week, so at least I am partially up and running. :)
-
Excellent start, my BLAM 2016 project is still in the planning stage ;)
Although the miners arrived this week, so at least I am partially up and running. :)
Well, you are little late with that one, sir....
;D
-
Well, you are little late with that one, sir....
;D
lol lol
-
I have finished off one of the terrain boards.
I started with this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_2_zpsgrc7fhd1.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_2_zpsgrc7fhd1.jpg.html)
Then I gave it a couple of coats of thinned filler to produce this, which gave me both the primer that I needed and toned down the blue to a more ice-like colour:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_2a_zps7r4achd3.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain_Board_2a_zps7r4achd3.jpg.html)
Then I added the Snow Tex spreading it first with a small pallette knife and then using a stiff brush to stipple the snow effect into the shape that I wanted. The end result looks like this.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain20Board203d_zpsc05agmaa.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain20Board203d_zpsc05agmaa.jpg.html)
And here is a close-up shot.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain20Board203b_zps5yccv35a.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain20Board203b_zps5yccv35a.jpg.html)
I will let it dry completely and then give it a couple of coats of varnish to seal the board. All I then need to do is paint the edges and number them. This allows me to put them together in the same order each time, which will become important (and clearer) later.
One down and 12 to go!! :-[
-
That has come out really well, mate.
Love it!
:-* :-*
One down and 12 to go!! :-[
Bloody hell!
:o
-
That does look very effective.
-
Great start, Garry. So, it seems that you will do two games next year at BLAM ;) the first is ready in December or January???
-
Makes me cold just looking at it!
-
That's a really pleasing effect with the snow texture and the blue coming through. 13 tiles? Hmmm, that's an odd number. I'm curious ???
-
That's a really pleasing effect with the snow texture and the blue coming through. 13 tiles? Hmmm, that's an odd number. I'm curious ???
Well, that sub has to poke its moosh up at some point, I guess....
-
Coming together nicely 8)
cheers
James
-
Well, that sub has to poke its moosh up at some point, I guess....
Ah, you could be on to something.
-
13 tiles? Hmmm, that's an odd number. I'm curious ???
Well, that sub has to poke its moosh up at some point, I guess....
Ah, you could be on to something.
Good guessses but I am afraid you are both wrong. ??? ??? I did consider making a replacement tile for the sub either before it surfaced but it wasn't worth the effort and besides the game needs a reference point otherwise there would be an awful lot of white. lol lol
All thirteen tiles will be on the table at the same time, all connected and all on the same plane (i.e. not under or overground). I'll leave you to puzzle it out. :D :D :D
That has come out really well, mate.
Love it!
:-* :-*
Coming together nicely 8)
cheers
James
That's a really pleasing effect with the snow texture and the blue coming through.
Thanks guys. I'm quite pleased with the results. A couple more boards primed tonight, so I should be able to show you how they begin to fit together later this week.
Also managed to prime the wildlife and the miniatures but they are on the back burner until most of the terrain boards are finished.
-
All thirteen tiles will be on the table at the same time, all connected and all on the same plane (i.e. not under or overground). I'll leave you to puzzle it out. :D :D :D
A 2x2 in the centre surrounded by the 12 one foot tiles...?
I assume so that it can all be transported more easily and add modularity.
???
-
A 2x2 in the centre surrounded by the 12 one foot tiles...?
I assume so that it can all be transported more easily and add modularity.
???
Or 3x3 with 1 tile located in the centre of each group of three
-
love the snow stuff...is it bought online?
Excellent start, my BLAM 2016 project is still in the planning stage ;)
Although the miners arrived this week, so at least I am partially up and running. :)
Miners? Is this going to be a battle between Scargill and Mrs T?
-
love the snow stuff...is it bought online?
You can get it online but I picked mine up from the local arts and craft shop.
-
Here is an update of my submarine terrain tile.
First is the picture of the polyanna (ice hole) where the submarine will surface.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile1_zpsyaf2kibe.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile1_zpsyaf2kibe.jpg.html)
Then a shot with the submarine in place.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile2_zps0ih6ryo5.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile2_zps0ih6ryo5.jpg.html)
Here from a better angle.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile4_zpsa6wevlca.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile4_zpsa6wevlca.jpg.html)
And finally a close up.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile3_zpsu6ahwcit.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Terrain_Tile3_zpsu6ahwcit.jpg.html)
I still need to weather the submarine (I was waiting for the decals to arrive), pour in the realistic water and then finish the base with snow tex. I should have the first done by the end of the day and the water poured. I then need to wait about 48 hours for it to cure properly before adding the sow effects.
I was going to glue the submarine to the board before adding the water effects, but I want the option of the submarine not being on the board at some stages in the game. I could create another tile to swap out with the sub but I could also just rest the sub on the water. What do you think?
-
It looks great, mate.
Most effective.
:-* :-*
How about making the hole with water effects and then make the sub on a separate base with with water effects so that it 'slots' in the gap on top...?
That way you can use it with or without.
;)
-
Hu Rhu, it's a great project, please keep us posted! ;)
I've just bought the same toy submarine to be used in my megavilain secret lair somewhere in Antarctic! :)
-
Ohhh! Thats nice! Great work Gary! :-*
-
Ok, board ready in November, playtested in December. Great, Garry. This is as effective as Giles. Did you start a kind of competition?
-
It looks great, mate.
Most effective.
:-* :-*
How about making the hole with water effects and then make the sub on a separate base with with water effects so that it 'slots' in the gap on top...?
That way you can use it with or without.
;)
Good idea. I'll have a think about how I could do that.
Hu Rhu, it's a great project, please keep us posted! ;)
I've just bought the same toy submarine to be used in my megavilain secret lair somewhere in Antarctic! :)
Thanks for the encouragement. Good luck with the sub. Careful it's a bit brittle.
Ohhh! Thats nice! Great work Gary! :-*
Thanks.
Ok, board ready in November, playtested in December. Great, Garry. This is as effective as Giles. Did you start a kind of competition?
Just making hay whilst the sun shines. Board may be ready in November but there is a whole host of figures etc to paint as well as the whole Weather Station to build. I reckon on Jan 21 to be complete. 8) 8) ;)
-
Just making hay whilst the sun shines. Board may be ready in November but there is a whole host of figures etc to paint as well as the whole Weather Station to build. I reckon on Jan 21 to be complete. 8) 8) ;)
Well then, that would be your game for Friday sorted out.
Which will leave you plenty of time to make one both for Saturday and Sunday as well, wouldn't it?
:D
Between you and James you should have everything covered for next year and the rest of us can have a rest.
;)
-
Good luck with the sub. Careful it's a bit brittle.
Hu Rhu, thanks for the tip! Everything gets a bit brittle in sub zero temperatures! ;)
-
Ok, board ready in November, playtested in December. Great, Garry. This is as effective as Giles. Did you start a kind of competition?
I haven't even started yet... :(
-
I haven't even started yet... :(
Don't worry. With your speed you'll crack it in two weeks. :D
Today I finished all the outer boards and have assembled them along with the main board to show you what the whole thing looks like. There are 12 outer boards each of 1' x 1' and the main board (bottom right) of 2' x 2'.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204_zpse2esrll6.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204_zpse2esrll6.jpg.html)
Here are a few shots of the outer boards showing the thin ice, crevasses and open water sections.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204d_zpsf6vurdhp.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204d_zpsf6vurdhp.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204c_zpsxidncwhg.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204c_zpsxidncwhg.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204b_zpsevp6krw6.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204b_zpsevp6krw6.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204a_zpsmlgepb2k.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Terrain%20Board%204a_zpsmlgepb2k.jpg.html)
Finally here is a shot of the main board showing where I am going to position the buildings and supporting infrastructure.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Ice%20Station%20Zebra%201_zpsaj6wla74.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Ice%20Station%20Zebra%201_zpsaj6wla74.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Ice%20Station%20Zebra%202_zpsylwr2f5y.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Ice%20Station%20Zebra%202_zpsylwr2f5y.jpg.html)
The buildings will be mounted on a fixed base but the outer shell of the building will lift off allowing unfettered access to the models to enter and explore. The buildings will include sleeping quarters, stores, garages and the radio shack. Also around the base will be the fuel storage tanks (shown) and the generators and radio masts as well as a whole load of other stuff not shown here.
The actual buildings themselves will be a mixture of scratch built and converted commercially bought structures. They are are on hold right now as hopefully they will emerge as Christmas presents.
However I am going to turn my attention to painting the figures and the wild life.
-
That looks great!
Really capturing the feel.
8) 8)
-
Nice work on the boards really starting to feel the cold
-
That looks great. :)
-
Getting better and better! ;)
-
Looks bloody good, but I can`t help but think that your terrain is also crying out for a game of the "The Thing!" o_o also!
If this has been remarked on before my apologies ;)
Ice Station Zebra was always one of my favourite Alistair McLean books
Glen
-
Splendid Gary. Will there be penguins / seals / polar bears? 8)
-
That looks great!
Really capturing the feel.
8) 8)
Thanks - the feel is really important and hopefully it will come out in the game.
Nice work on the boards really starting to feel the cold
Wait until the blizzard starts blowing in the game. ;) ???
Getting better and better! ;)
Cheers
Looks bloody good, but I can`t help but think that your terrain is also crying out for a game of the "The Thing!" o_o also!
If this has been remarked on before my apologies ;)
Ice Station Zebra was always one of my favourite Alistair McLean books
Glen
It could be adapted for 'The Thing' but it would need more buildings and people. Maybe a spin off. :D
Splendid Gary. Will there be penguins / seals / polar bears? 8)
Thanks - Been watching Arctic Live by any chance have we??? :D :D
The answer is No (Arctic), Yes and Yes and more. :D :D
-
I'm really looking forward to this already.
-
I think it looks splendid, yu've captured the essence of the terrain really well. ;D
Can't wait, only 11 months to go! lol
-
I think it looks splendid, yu've captured the essence of the terrain really well. ;D
Can't wait, only 11 months to go! lol
Watch it you'll get in trouble. Saying things like That
-
Ha, I realised Gerry's Plan. He will show the board for a testgame at the salute.... ;)
-
Who's. Gerry? Or is that the German way of spelling Gary lol
-
Who's. Gerry? Or is that the German way of spelling Gary lol
lol
Are you not fluent in Dirkish yet?
;)
-
Who's. Gerry? Or is that the German way of spelling Gary lol
:o Yes, it the short form of Gerald. So, sorry, next time I use the right spelling (Gary).
@Mason: it is called Denglish...
-
Gerry? lol lol that gave me a good laugh.
-
Gerry? lol lol that gave me a good laugh.
Why?
-
Why?
Because Gary doesn't look like a Gerry. It makes me think of an old British sitcom called The Good Life where one of the characters was called Jerry.
-
Because Gary doesn't look like a Gerry. It makes me think of an old British sitcom called The Good Life where one of the characters was called Jerry.
Over here in Germany we have a well known cloth company called Gerry Weber. He is also supporting a big tennis tournament in Stuttgart. Never heard of this show called "the good life". We only know the America show called "the good wife" ;)
-
Because Gary doesn't look like a Gerry. It makes me think of an old British sitcom called The Good Life where one of the characters was called Jerry.
Ahh, Felicity Kendal ;D
-
Ahh, Felicity Kendal ;D
He certainly does not look like her!
-
He certainly does not look like her!
Although he was recently in Surbiton......
-
Although he was recently in Surbiton......
Are you suggesting the 'Batman/Bruce Wayne thing'???
You may be on to something as I have never seen Gary and Felicity Kendall in the same room at the same time either.....
-
Hu Ru, those boards look great. Any chance that next time you have your camera out you could take pictures with some figures included, especially near the sub? They don't have to be on topic arctic types; any figure that gives an idea of scale will do - even Batman or, if anyone makes one in 28mm, Felicity Kendall.
-
if anyone makes one in 28mm, Felicity Kendall.
You never know...
Great board!
-
Are you suggesting the 'Batman/Bruce Wayne thing'???
You may be on to something as I have never seen Gary and Felicity Kendall in the same room at the same time either.....
Mason, I never saw you and Boy George in the same Room....
@Gary: your first picture is very outstanding. Hope to play this board next year.
-
lol lol lol
But I bet you have seen Boy George alone on more than one occasion, eh?
;D
-
I don't mind being compared to Felicity Kendall but Boy George!!!!
I will take a couple of shots of the submarine tile with some figures tonight.
-
Hu Ru, those boards look great. Any chance that next time you have your camera out you could take pictures with some figures included, especially near the sub? They don't have to be on topic arctic types; any figure that gives an idea of scale will do - even Batman or, if anyone makes one in 28mm, Felicity Kendall.
As requested here are a couple of comparison shots near the sub. Figure is from Pulp Miniatures and will eventually be Dr Carpenter.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Figure_Comparison_2_zpsnjgxjeu3.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Figure_Comparison_2_zpsnjgxjeu3.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_and_Figure_Comparison_1_zpss8q1a98h.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_and_Figure_Comparison_1_zpss8q1a98h.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Figure_Comparison_3_zps8ijxd3pi.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub_Figure_Comparison_3_zps8ijxd3pi.jpg.html)
As you can see the sub is not to 1/56 scale. If it was it would be larger than the board, but I think it portrays enough of the character to be plausible for the game, bearing in mind it is acting as the start point (and potentially the end point) of teh game.
-
Thanks, Hu Ru. It certainly does its job in gaming terms.
-
Just come back to this thread and haven't you been busy sir - it looks fabulous
-
Just come back to this thread and haven't you been busy sir - it looks fabulous
Thanks Giles. The project is on hold at the moment as I decide what to tackle next.
The buildings will probably be scratchbuilt but there are some components that I am waiting for which I am told will be arriving at Christmas and I am under strict instructions not to purchase anything until then.
In the meantime I have the miniatures and wildlife acquired and primed along with some other terrain pieces waiting on the painting table, but I am currently painting up figures to finish another project - Punic Wars.
So not another update planned until the end of the month.
-
Even if the sub is not 1/56 it works well. Looking forward to see, which figures you will use.
-
Can't wait to see this come together! 8)
-
Even if the sub is not 1/56 it works well. Looking forward to see, which figures you will use.
Dirk,
I plan to use a mix of Copplestone and Pulp Figures for the explorers and the stranded station crew. The wild life are a mix of Copplestone and Folorn Hope. I will post a couple of primed figures later to give you a feel of what I am doing.
Can't wait to see this come together! 8)
Thanks - neither can I. ;D
-
Great progress Gary. Always good to see a project with such ambition start to take shape :)
-
Looking forward to seeing this come together!
-
Looking good :-*
-
Excellent stuff Gary, coming on in leaps and bounds
-
This entire thread has given me a chill.
Fantastic board so far.
-
Coming along nicely
-
Great progress Gary. Always good to see a project with such ambition start to take shape :)
Looking forward to seeing this come together!
Looking good :-*
Excellent stuff Gary, coming on in leaps and bounds
This entire thread has given me a chill.
Fantastic board so far.
Coming along nicely
Thanks for all the encouragement chaps. I have had a busy few weeks at work so not had time to add anything until now. I started painting the first few figures today so should have something to show by the end of the week.
-
No need to explain gaps between progress - I'm sure we all know the pressures of real life, and the need to attend to real world matters, first :)
We are just happy to get updates on inspiring stuff like this, be they more or less frequent (at least, I am)!
-
+1 ;)
-
I have just finished painting the four figures that constitutes the rescue party. Here is a group shot of the 4:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorers201_zpsq3tvkdul.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorers201_zpsq3tvkdul.jpg.html)
And here they are individually.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer201_zpsvtnbbrnx.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer201_zpsvtnbbrnx.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer202_zpsno5yuyxj.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer202_zpsno5yuyxj.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer203_zpsrp8shvcc.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer203_zpsrp8shvcc.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer204_zpsvo9c4cgo.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Explorer204_zpsvo9c4cgo.jpg.html)
Next up will be of the wildlife that they might come into with contact during their rescue attempt.
-
Great work, sir.
Lovely brushwork and those bases blend in with boards really well.
Top result all round.
:-* :-*
-
That snow works extremely well! :)
The Pulp Figures mountaineers are a good choice for a well-equipped polar rescue party - very fitting clothing and gear!
-
I like those, I like those a lot.
-
This is great! Every step on your way to BLam 2017 is very exciting and great. A break is always hard for your audience.
-
Great work, sir.
Lovely brushwork and those bases blend in with boards really well.
Top result all round.
:-* :-*
Thanks. I was quite pleased with them.
That snow works extremely well! :)
The Pulp Figures mountaineers are a good choice for a well-equipped polar rescue party - very fitting clothing and gear!
Yes the snow effect is just what I was looking for.
I like those, I like those a lot.
Thanks.
This is great! Every step on your way to BLam 2017 is very exciting and great. A break is always hard for your audience.
It's a long way to BLAM 17. (There's a song in there somewhere ::)). Sorry to make you wait.
-
Hu Rhu , great brushwork - and "snow work" as well! CONGRATULATIONS :)
I also liked very much your choice of colors! ;)
-
Nicely done Gary! They look suitably cold. :-*
-
Hu Rhu , great brushwork - and "snow work" as well! CONGRATULATIONS :)
I also liked very much your choice of colors! ;)
Thanks very much. I wanted the colours to be a suitable contrast to all the white on the board. Hopefully they and the buildings/camp features will provide that.
Nicely done Gary! They look suitably cold. :-*
Thanks. Hopefully the game will also provide moments of 'chilling' to the players.
-
Beautiful paint-jobs - my only comment would be to paint the hands of the gentleman with the binoculars to look like gloves. As it is, it looks like he's taken them off, which is a bad idea in the high Arctic!
-
Great paintwork Gary.
-
Beautiful paint-jobs - my only comment would be to paint the hands of the gentleman with the binoculars to look like gloves. As it is, it looks like he's taken them off, which is a bad idea in the high Arctic!
Thanks. I agree about taking one's gloves off in the Arctic but I love the pose. I don't think that his hands would have painted well as gloves and I was not in the mood to do conversions.
Great paintwork Gary.
Thanks Mark.
-
Beautiful paint-jobs - my only comment would be to paint the hands of the gentleman with the binoculars to look like gloves. As it is, it looks like he's taken them off, which is a bad idea in the high Arctic!
Hard times need hard guys - believe me ;) lol
-
Lovely stuff! It's all shaping up rather nicely!
Thanks. I agree about taking one's gloves off in the Arctic but I love the pose. I don't think that his hands would have painted well as gloves and I was not in the mood to do conversions.
Big mitts are a pain in the ass for any work which requires fine movements. Realistically he'd probably be wearing some sort of thin liner gloves under those heavy mitts. You possibly could have gotten away with painting them black, or a natural wool colour (Who doesn't love dachsteins!). However as it is I think the models look pretty amazing!
-
Lovely stuff! It's all shaping up rather nicely!
Big mitts are a pain in the ass for any work which requires fine movements. Realistically he'd probably be wearing some sort of thin liner gloves under those heavy mitts. You possibly could have gotten away with painting them black, or a natural wool colour (Who doesn't love dachsteins!). However as it is I think the models look pretty amazing!
I was going to say the same thing. I always had my dachstein mitts on bungies (with a goretex mitt cover) so I could drop them off to do any intricate stuff and I'd always have some liners on just to stop the cold for a few minutes. I lost one of my best krabs down a gulley trying to mess on with mitts. I'm sure they've stopped frostbite in the past though!
-
.... I lost one of my best krabs down a gulley ....
Oooh!
Sounds painful.
;D
-
Oooh!
Sounds painful.
;D
It is! I've had a similar experience, only I'd given a friend my best Krab, which she then lost...
lol true store though!
-
It is! I've had a similar experience, only I'd given a friend my best Krab, which she then lost...
lol true store though!
A mate lost a cam that way when another mate's wife was seconding for him. It's probably the most expensive bit of kit any of us ever lost. I think it was new too.
-
I was going to say the same thing. I always had my dachstein mitts on bungies (with a goretex mitt cover) so I could drop them off to do any intricate stuff and I'd always have some liners on just to stop the cold for a few minutes. I lost one of my best krabs down a gulley trying to mess on with mitts. I'm sure they've stopped frostbite in the past though!
Any chance you could repeat that in plain English? :)
-
Any chance you could repeat that in plain English? :)
There is no such thing as plain English when they get going.
;)
It roughly translates that they keep losing shit when wearing mittens.....
-
Any chance you could repeat that in plain English? :)
:) Basically Paul 's right, the big woolly mitts are great for keeping your hands warm but they're not good for trying to use climbing karabiners, etc so we wear thin liners underneath them so that our hands don't freeze when we take the mitts off. The mitts are often on elastic cords so that we don't loose them.
-
As if we needed a reminder on Winter!!!
BRRRR, that's some chilly looking adventurers.
Very nice brushwork, and the terrain is stellar.
-
Always found pure silk warmest for a liner but a bit slippy for climbing gear though.
-
Always found pure silk warmest for a liner but a bit slippy for climbing gear though.
That's why Yvon Chouinard invented the PPL liners with rubberized surface back in the early 70s! ;)
-
Much as I love the stories about
oven gloves mittens, you will notice that two models have dropped theirs. I am not a stickler for historical/medical accuracy when it comes to wargaming. Besides I wanted to get better at painting flesh so I opted for that rather than real life.
Anywho here are the next offerings - some wildlife that the rescue party may (or may not) come into contact with during their trek.
First up are some walrus. I was trying for this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Walrus%201_zps2xpfbjdu.jpeg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Walrus%201_zps2xpfbjdu.jpeg.html)
And got this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Walrus_4_zpszzxvbybe.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Walrus_4_zpszzxvbybe.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Walrus_3_zpsf98fr2tf.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Walrus_3_zpsf98fr2tf.jpg.html)
And a polar bear. I was trying for this.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Polar20Bear203_zpsobf8a720.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Polar20Bear203_zpsobf8a720.jpg.html)
And got this:
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Polar_Bear_7_zpsset561cy.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Polar_Bear_7_zpsset561cy.jpg.html)
Here is what you don't want to happen in the game.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Polar_Bear_8_zpsewj5ncp9.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Polar_Bear_8_zpsewj5ncp9.jpg.html)
I still have some seals to paint up and of course some huskys.
-
That walrus is a work of art! Really nice work Gary :-) the polar bear ain't half bad either :-)
-
Yup, that walrus is great. The paintjob works very well indeed.
-
Great looking animals.
love them.
-
Wonderful impressionistic walruses! I hear they can be nasty beggars if you tick them off.
-
Very nice figures and great painting, Gary.
-
Nailed both of those animals- great work.
-
THAT is a Polar Bear, CONGRATULATIONS!
GREAT JOB on the walruses as well!
;)
-
Are they from Forlorn Hope? They're very decent looking figures.
-
That walrus is a work of art! Really nice work Gary :-) the polar bear ain't half bad either :-)
Yup, that walrus is great. The paintjob works very well indeed.
Great looking animals.
love them.
Thanks very much.
Wonderful impressionistic walruses! I hear they can be nasty beggars if you tick them off.
Something for the players to remember!!
Very nice figures and great painting, Gary.
Nailed both of those animals- great work.
Cheers
THAT is a Polar Bear, CONGRATULATIONS!
GREAT JOB on the walruses as well!
;)
Thanks. I am thinking of giving the Polar Bear a very light drybrush of light tan to try around the haunches to try and emulate the picture.
Are they from Forlorn Hope? They're very decent looking figures.
Walrus from Folorn Hope and the Bear from Copplestone (via Northstar).
-
Walrus from Folorn Hope and the Bear from Copplestone (via Northstar).
They are? I could not find them there...
-
Walrus from Folorn Hope and the Bear from Copplestone (via Northstar).
They are? I could not find them there...
Sorry the Walrus are also from Copplestone. It was the seals I got from Folorn Hope.
-
That Copplestone polar bear is a true anatomically correct one, as opposed to specimens from other manufacturers such as Fenris Games. The walruses are top notch as well; I am looking forward to see them pulp-style ambushing the poor rescue group! :) (walrus tongue is considered a delicacy, BTW!)
(http://admin.highdefdigest.com/picture/original/45883)
-
But is the walrus named Paul?
:D
The walrus looks good! Maybe just a very thin brownish wash on the flanks of the bear to get that yellow/tan colouring polar bear fur gets?
-
Great loooking game.
I'm going for a different playing surface concept for our BLAM Arctic game. My blue foam has arrived safely, so it will soon be time to start cutting some ice!
-
Having been away from the project for a couple of months due to other commitments, I have started to re-visit it. I have painted a few figures and some more scenery/game items. These represent either assistance to the players or hazards depending on how interaction pans out.
First up are some innuit hunters. Figures are from Copplestone.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Innuit204_zpszk77uco8.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Innuit204_zpszk77uco8.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Innuit203_zpswtnltssi.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Innuit203_zpswtnltssi.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Innuit202_zpsnkjt2mxz.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Innuit202_zpsnkjt2mxz.jpg.html)
There is a fourth figure but the photograph was so blurred that I need to do it again.
Obviously they need somewhere to have come from so their home from home - an igloo. Model is from Frontline Wargaming.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Igloo_zpspo73hu29.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Igloo_zpspo73hu29.jpg.html)
Next something that every Arctic expedition needs is transport. This is a snow-cat again from Copplestone. The explorers obviously don't have room for it in a submarine but they can find it at the Weather Station.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snowcat_zpssud6lyco.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Snowcat_zpssud6lyco.jpg.html)
And finally for those of you pinning for the Russian paratroopers from the film, the baddies. Actually they represent the 'other faction' so not strictly Russians but who they are you will have to wait to find out. Copplestone figures again.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Russian203_zpsyqam1qgg.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Russian203_zpsyqam1qgg.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Russian201_zpscbjj4ckv.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Russian201_zpscbjj4ckv.jpg.html)
Next up on the painting table are the weather station personnel (or at least the survivors) and after that I will be doing the actual weather station buildings and paraphanelia.
-
Nice additions and a mystery,whats not to like :)
-
Nice.
Love the sno cat.
-
Can't wait to play this!
-
Wonderful. This year Ice Station Zebra, next year The Thing and then new swabia???? This board is so full of ideas... Great Work
-
Good to see you back at this project. :)
-
Aaaaahhh - Copplestone :)
Now we can relax...
Great additions, Gary.
-
He 's back on the ice!
Great stuff, Gary.
8) 8)
Really looking forward to you starting on the base itself.
:D
-
He 's back on the ice!
Great stuff, Gary.
8) 8)
Really looking forward to you starting on the base itself.
:D
Ok so it's been a while but I have started on the base buildings. It took me a while to figure out how to construct the buildings so that from the outside you couldn't easily see what they contained but when the players (miniatures) entered them it was instantly recognisable.
So here is the prototype building constructed from MDF based on the Stalag range of buildings from EBOB.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Stores_Hut_zpshej4r6ql.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Stores_Hut_zpshej4r6ql.jpg.html)
Each building will be constructed on a base which when the rescue party enter the building teh outer shell will lift off revelaing the interior. Here is the bare base.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Stores_Hut_Base_zpskhgwz5ng.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Stores_Hut_Base_zpskhgwz5ng.jpg.html)
I will add the interior fixtures and fittings so they are fixed to the base, and of course blend in the base to the terain board so that the whole thing looks the part.
Here is what a finished building will look like on a sample terrain board without, its base but it hopefully will give you an idea of the look of the thing.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Stores_Hut_Sample_Placement_zpsdu9tcjqx.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Stores_Hut_Sample_Placement_zpsdu9tcjqx.jpg.html)
Now to finish off the other 4 buildings plus the external paraphanelia of a weather station. Hope you like the idea so far.
-
Hope you like the idea so far.
Oh, I do.
Most certainly.
:)
-
Looking good. I really want to play this!
-
Looks great, I look forward to following this project :)
-
Oh, I do.
Most certainly.
:)
So do I and I also want to play :)
-
Hope to play it, it all looks so fantastic.
-
Thanks for the support. I managed to get the rest of the buildings built over the weekend and painted but sadly no time for photos. I am away all of this week but next weekend I will be showing the whole layout of the weather station board. After that I will make a start on the interiors plus the rest of the external paraphenalia and debris that one might expect to see lying around. Radio masts, weather balloons, that sort of thing.
-
So I have built and part painted the buildings that make up 'Ice Station Zebra'. They need weathering and of course the board itself needs a complete makeover to add the ice and snow. However that part can wait until I have finished the actual buildings. I thought I would give you a taste of what it will look like once it is finished.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_5_zpssiipecbg.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_5_zpssiipecbg.jpg.html)
As you can see each of the buildings is painted a different colour. This allows me to match the 'clue cards' to each building and also adds a little splash of colour to an otherwise very white board.
The buildings include an accommodation block, stores, garages, radio shack and of course the weather station. I will let you guess which is which.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_4_zpscfz8pp7e.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_4_zpscfz8pp7e.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_6_zpspqcjbcgj.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_6_zpspqcjbcgj.jpg.html)
Here is a close up of one set of buildings. As you can see one is burnt out - but which one?
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_3_zps7fpumlfz.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_3_zps7fpumlfz.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_1_zpshg2otcfm.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Station_Board_1_zpshg2otcfm.jpg.html)
Next up is to finish off the building bases and make the radio masts and satellite dishes so that they can all be stuck to the board. After that, I will finish off the board and texture it. More to follow in a few days.
Hope you like it.
-
I do like it :)
Those buildings really look the part.
Looking forward to seeing them in snowy situ.
-
What a cracking project. Keep up the good work. :o
-
Great project. I really like your approach to this.
-
Great project. I really like your approach to this.
I agree.
The different coloured buildings is a nice touch, opening quite up a few possibilities for GM'ing as you say.
Very clever.
:D
Nice work, mate.
I am really looking forward to this.
It will be like 'Poirot in the Snow', I reckon.
;)
-
Coming together nicely. This could be my BLAM highlight this year. :)
-
What a cracking project. Keep up the good work. :o
Great project. I really like your approach to this.
Thanks
I agree.
The different coloured buildings is a nice touch, opening quite up a few possibilities for GM'ing as you say.
Very clever.
:D
Nice work, mate.
I am really looking forward to this.
It will be like 'Poirot in the Snow', I reckon.
;)
That's exactly what it will be but with a little more 'Harry Palmer' from 'The Billion Dollar Brain'
Coming together nicely. This could be my BLAM highlight this year. :)
Not sure about that but I'll do my best. :D
I do like it :)
Those buildings really look the part.
Looking forward to seeing them in snowy situ.
And here they are!!
I have finally finished the terrain board for the actual weather station.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_9_zpsubgr8txz.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_9_zpsubgr8txz.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_8_zps3bqjfbc5.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_8_zps3bqjfbc5.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_7_zpszwf7v4b6.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_7_zpszwf7v4b6.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_6_zpsdqhewzws.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_6_zpsdqhewzws.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_5_zpsvr5qgwov.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_5_zpsvr5qgwov.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_4_zps9em8p1cq.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_4_zps9em8p1cq.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_3_zpswy3izlq6.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_3_zpswy3izlq6.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_2_zpskpnpyz4b.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_2_zpskpnpyz4b.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_1_zps6z0ph74z.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/ISZ_Base_1_zps6z0ph74z.jpg.html)
Next up are the Ice Station Zebra survivors. Hope you like.
-
Brilliant, sir.
I really like the look of the place.
8) :-* 8)
Looking forward to this even more now!
:D
-
Brrr! I feel cold just looking at it. :)
-
Can't wait to give it a go. I really hope we're not running games at the same time.
-
Fantastic. Can't wait to see the next step, it is a great project.
-
Looks just great :-*
Looking forward to seeing this up at Blam :)
Cheers
Keith
-
Excellent Gary. Very evocative.
-
I have been watching the progress on this and it has come together beautifully.
-
I hope you found a mini of a wild-looking bearded man wearing nothing but a hospital smock and kleenex boxes on his feet to serve as one of your rescueable survivors.
-
Excellent.
Brrr! I feel cold just looking at it. :)
Just putting the heating on.
-
Looks just great :-*
Looking forward to seeing this up at Blam :)
Cheers
Keith
Yep agreed, sitting here on a warm summers day, I suddenly feel cold! ;)
-
I hope you found a mini of a wild-looking bearded man wearing nothing but a hospital smock and kleenex boxes on his feet to serve as one of your rescueable survivors.
Never mind a mini, you will probably see a few photos of 1:1 scale examples of something very similar taken at BLAM....
;D
-
Never mind a mini, you will probably see a few photos of 1:1 scale examples of something very similar taken at BLAM....
;D
lol
Well if Giles wasn't specific in his Blam newsletter about dress code what do you expect,I won't be making the same mistake this year ;) :D
-
Nicely done Gary! That looks excellent! :-*
-
CONGRATULATIONS!!! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
-
Awsome until now! :-*
I'm sure you are preparing more surprises and eye candies!
Eager to see the continuation!
-
This is really amazing. :-*
What technique did you use for the snow?
-
Awsome until now! :-*
I'm sure you are preparing more surprises and eye candies!
Eager to see the continuation!
I hope to have some more done this weekend.
CONGRATULATIONS!!! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Thank you.
This is really amazing. :-*
What technique did you use for the snow?
Thanks. For the board construction have a look at pages 3 and 4 of the thread. It covers the product I used and the board construction.
-
Awesome Sauce - that looks really good.
-
Here are some shots of the interiors of the buildings. Furniture is a mix of Ainsty, Crooked Dice, Copplestone and Frontline.
The garage
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Garage20Interior_zpsvtnnmnpo.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Garage20Interior_zpsvtnnmnpo.jpg.html)
The Stores
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Stores20Interior_zpsbtvx1qtu.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Stores20Interior_zpsbtvx1qtu.jpg.html)
The radio hut
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Radio20Shack20Interior_zpsq5pgigpj.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Radio20Shack20Interior_zpsq5pgigpj.jpg.html)
The Accoommodation
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Accommodation20Interior_zpsppj6f4vd.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Accommodation20Interior_zpsppj6f4vd.jpg.html)
Here is a shot of the rescue party preparing to leave the Ice Station with the Snowcat.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Rescue20Party20and20Snowcat_zpsfrma7apn.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Rescue20Party20and20Snowcat_zpsfrma7apn.jpg.html)
Here is a shot of some WIP figures. They represent the survivors of the disaster at the Ice Station.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Survivors20and20Snowcat_zpsrmfrcmli.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Survivors20and20Snowcat_zpsrmfrcmli.jpg.html)
They are the next in line to be completed and then I will start the interior scenery. The rules and cards are in progress and hopefully I will be on track for BLAM. ??? ???
-
Looking good, mate.
Those interiors will look great when painted up.
:-*
I love the idea of the 'lift-off' buildings which make the interiors very accessible.
A cracking idea.
8) 8)
-
:-*
This is looking really great, Gary.
-
:-* :-* :-*
Such a cool project!!
:D ;)
-
Excellent.
-
Looking good, mate.
Those interiors will look great when painted up.
:-*
I love the idea of the 'lift-off' buildings which make the interiors very accessible.
A cracking idea.
8) 8)
:-*
This is looking really great, Gary.
:-* :-* :-*
Such a cool project!!
:D ;)
Excellent.
Thanks for the supportive comments chaps.
Next up are two of the 'survivors' of the Ice Station incident.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Survivor201a_zpsuhuzn2ja.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Survivor201a_zpsuhuzn2ja.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Survivor202a_zpspbruskjn.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Survivor202a_zpspbruskjn.jpg.html)
And then a husky belonging to the Eskimos. He may or may not make an appearance during the game.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Husky201_zpsizekfqtu.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Husky201_zpsizekfqtu.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Husky202_zpsml0dilzm.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Husky202_zpsml0dilzm.jpg.html)
Next up are the interiors. Hope you like.
-
Coming along nicely, mate.
8) 8)
And then a husky belonging to the Eskimos. He may or may not make an appearance during the game.
He 'may' well do if you intend to make this work as Outpost #31 too.
;)
-
Coming along nicely, mate.
8) 8)
He 'may' well do if you intend to make this work as Outpost #31 too.
;)
Well I had thought about a little cross over for a future game but I will leave the 'other thing' out of it for this one.
I think this is starting to look a contender to join the pantheon of amazing threads. I am thinking of Gamer Mac's Zeppelin, Hammers' Chicken Race, Noferatu and a couple of others?
That is a very nice compliment but I really don't consider myself in that league.
-
This is an amazing project, brilliant backstory, setting, board, buildings and minis!
-
Well I had thought about a little cross over for a future game but I will leave the 'other thing' out of it for this one.
I was thinking of the future as this is far too good to not utilise as much as possible.
Bearing in mind the source material for this game, you do not need any further shenanigans.
;)
-
I was thinking of the future as this is far too good to not utilise as much as possible.
Bearing in mind the source material for this game, you do not need any further shenanigans.
;)
No quite enough shenanigans as it is. As for the future, well I had considered what I could use the boards for and I have to say (other than Frostgave) I had considered 'The Thing', maybe a 'Race to the North Pole' or some simliar Pulp game scenario. All ideas welcomed. :D :D
I'd just have to lose the sub, add a few more huskies.... ;) ;)
-
If you consider the terrain more as snow the possibilities grow:
Plenty of Bond.Spy-Fi options should be plausible, but a few other more 'fantastical' settings could be Hoth, Narnia, The Golden Compass or scenarios featuring Santa are some of the things that popped into my mind first of all.
How about adding some trees and going for WW2 Finland or a similar setting?
-
Well I had thought about a little cross over for a future game but I will leave the 'other thing' out of it for this one.
I was going to ask you that! lol
-
Great minds think alike.
I was just thinking this setup would be perfect for a "Thing" scenario.
-
Great minds think alike.
I was just thinking this setup would be perfect for a "Thing" scenario.
And Shoggoths and Giant Albino Penguins...
Well, 2/3rds of the film versions of The Thing, the book and HPL's original are in Antarctica.
-
I am much more inclined to Pulp or Spy-Fy so a James Bond scenario or similar would work well. I like the idea of adding some trees and making it Finland but I would prefer a 'Harry Palmer' style of game. I'd have to lose both the submarine and the camp though.....
-
A great project and so well executed. :-*
And when I first saw it I said "The Thing" immediately.
-
Exactly what Furt said! lol
-
It's been a while since I updated the project. :(
I have made some considerable progress to bring the project to its conclusion ready for BLAM 17. Here is some shots of the latest stuff.
I have finally finished the interiors. First up the Accommodation.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Accom_Interior_zps4g1bloay.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Accom_Interior_zps4g1bloay.jpg.html)
Next the Stores.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Store_Interior_zpskjtmoemr.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Store_Interior_zpskjtmoemr.jpg.html)
The Garage.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Garage_Interior_2_zpsnvrfyiqo.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Garage_Interior_2_zpsnvrfyiqo.jpg.html)
The Radio Shack.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Radio_Shack_Interior_zpsqtxu84ev.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Radio_Shack_Interior_zpsqtxu84ev.jpg.html)
Here are some more survivors, this time on skis.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Skiers_zpsltlcsd3l.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Skiers_zpsltlcsd3l.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Blue20Skier_zpsb3tfjwm2.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Blue20Skier_zpsb3tfjwm2.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Red20Skier_zpsecrz8sz5.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Red20Skier_zpsecrz8sz5.jpg.html)
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Yellow20Skier_zpsf4cxbzrf.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Yellow20Skier_zpsf4cxbzrf.jpg.html)
I have just completed the character cards, the event cards, and the clues as well as the character sheets.
I will produce shots of those after the game at BLAM.
Hope you like them.
-
Can't wait to play this. We're running games at the same time on Thursday but put me down for the Saturday session please!
-
Bloody brilliant, mate.
:-* :-*
Can't wait to play this. We're running games at the same time on Thursday but put me down for the Saturday session please!
I have the same issue but the other way around.
Can I book a 'Thursday' slot please?
:D
-
That looks really amazing - well done :-*
-
definitely looking forward to seeing this in the flesh
-
You put a great amount of work, but it pays off! :-*
Also your skier figures look so realistic! Many congrats!
-
Looks great :-*
I'm looking forward to trying this game out :)
-
Fantastic! Can't expect to see it alive!
-
It's a so AWESOME build that someone has to make a movie about it! :-*
-
I had the pleasure of gaming on this today and have to say that it was one of the most original games that I have played in a very long time, as well as being a great treat for the eyes.
Top job, mate!
8) 8)
-
I had the pleasure of gaming on this today and have to say that it was one of the most original games that I have played in a very long time, as well as being a great treat for the eyes.
Top job, mate!
8) 8)
Definitely. The set up was fantastic and the gameplay was very original.
-
Turned out really well.
-
OK - less of the teasers. Let’s have some DETAILS...! I’m all agog about the gameplay.
Impatiently
Doug
edit: and LOTS of photos...!
-
I had the pleasure of gaming on this today and have to say that it was one of the most original games that I have played in a very long time, as well as being a great treat for the eyes.
Top job, mate!
8) 8)
All of the above. Hugely enjoyable. ;D
-
excellent fun - thanks for taking the time and trouble Gary - it also looked superb - especially the Walrus on heat :D
-
ok, here ist the video:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/978lo9bryevoucf/zebra.mp4?dl=0
-
Very good Dirk, great soundtrack.
-
Dirk,
Thanks for the video. Very cinematic. :D
I will be adding an AAR (or something) about the game play as soon as I have assembled the photos in some meaningful order.
-
Amazing board, really inspiring!
-
This last part of the thread will describe how the game played out at BLAM over the weekend of 12-15 Oct. The game was played 5 times with 20 out of the 27 people attending managing to get a game. Hopefully they all enjoyed it.
For those who haven't been following the thread the game is based on the spy novel 'Ice Station Zebra' by Alistair Maclean. Set in the late 1950s the plot is that a British agent is sent to the Arctic to carry out an investigation into a SOS recieved from a British Weather Tracking Station. He is transported in one of the first US nuclear submarines which surfaces near the base. The game follows the basic premise of the book but has added a whole host of additional stuff to make the game exciting. It is a RPG based wargame with a bit of sleuthing thrown in.
The board looks like this - with the Ice Station in the SE corner of the board and the US Submarine in the NW corner.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub20to20Base_zpsqgdfoazz.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Sub20to20Base_zpsqgdfoazz.jpg.html)
The rescue party were each given a character card, which gave them the background of the game, their character details, their objectives and any special attriubutes that they had. They also had a small amount of equpment, some specific to the character (such as a first aid kit with the medic) and others to be shared amongst them.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Character20Card_zpsbeghh26o.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Character20Card_zpsbeghh26o.jpg.html)
The game was divided into 4 phases - the first to get to the Ice Station, the second to carry out the investigation, thirdly to get themselves plus any survivors back to the submarine. The last part involved them declaring what they think happened and who was the villain. This last piece decided who actually won the game.
In most cases the players had to cooperate in order to survive but they always had the option to work alone or even against the others if their character sheet allowed it. Given that the 4 ccharacters represented the British Secret Service, US Naval Intelligence, the CIA and a sleeper KGB agent, no one knowing that the others were also spies, the game was already set with a whole lot of intrigue.
Once they had worked out their plan, the party set off from the submarine. This shot is deliberately darkened to represent the poor light conditions they were travelling under.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20The20Rescue20Party_zpsphs92sgh.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20The20Rescue20Party_zpsphs92sgh.jpg.html)
Now as anyone knows about my games, there are always twists and turns. The first one represented the actual movement. Although the tiles were laid out in a grid pattern (as per the left hand diagram below), the party did not move directly across the board. As the party crossed from tile to tile the figures were moved in accordance with the right hand pattern. This represented the poor light, the blizzard and of course the fact that hand held compasses do not work at the North Pole.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shot20Board20Layout_zpsy706nmmw.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shot20Board20Layout_zpsy706nmmw.jpg.html)
In fact the only clues they had as to how to navigate their way to the station was a radio direction finder (which gave them their position relative to the submarine) and the knowledge that the Ice Station was to the SE of the submarine. In another twist they were told the battery had a limited (but unspecified) life.
The other twist was the hazards that they might encounter in the Arctic. The first was the cold itself. I kept a counter of each turn the party were outside any shelter using seals as counters. For every 6 turns they lost a health point.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Turn20Markers_zpslnsn4wtt.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Turn20Markers_zpslnsn4wtt.jpg.html)
Finally there the random events that might happen represented by event cards. These were turned over at the start of each turn and played accordingly.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Event20Cards_zpsdqnzlekx.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Event20Cards_zpsdqnzlekx.jpg.html)
The Thin Ice and Crevasse cards were designed to strip away some health but all the parties opted to rope themselves together which negated some of the effects, but in consequence they travelled more slowly, thus incurring more cold weather effects.
The others were encounter events, which weren't in the book but I wanted to add into the game, partly because they could have happened, but mostly I loved the Copplestone figures and couldn't resist adding them to the game.
The Innuit encounter required them to communicate in sign language. If they managed to speak to the Innuit they could ask them questions and also get any member who had fallen through the ice warmed up. The downside was if they failed then the Innuit would attack them. Two rifle armed Innuit and a Husky take a lot of beating.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Innuit20Encounter_zpshv63tjdt.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Innuit20Encounter_zpshv63tjdt.jpg.html)
The second encounter was with a Polar Bear. All the goups met him but surprisingly his hunting skills (i.e. his dice rolling) was very poor and he only managed to inflict minor wounds on one character in each group. Shouts of "SHOOT THE BEAR" rang out each time he was encountered, which added to the excitement as character after character missed his shots with the bear inffectually mauling one of the party.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Bear20Encounter203_zps0pnol2il.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game20Shots20Bear20Encounter203_zps0pnol2il.jpg.html)
More to follow in the next post.
-
The next bit happened when they finally arrived at the Ice Station.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game%20Shots%20Bear%20Encounter_zpsiybelgoy.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Game%20Shots%20Bear%20Encounter_zpsiybelgoy.jpg.html)
The rescuers, spoke to the surviviors to discover what they could of the disaster, which turned out to be a fire in the generator room, resulting in losing all power to the base, hence the SOS call.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Rescue20party20and20base_zps0ghq0c8y.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Rescue20party20and20base_zps0ghq0c8y.jpg.html)
The party then split up moving from room to room, using their 'investigative skills' - a series of dice rolls - to discover clues. Each room had a description and a number of clues to be discovered (usually 3). Each turn they searched became harder and some left with little or no clue (excuse the pun) about what transpired in some of the rooms. Once they had searched all the rooms, the characters re-assembled where they could exchange information. Some people were more forthcoming than others, which helped fill in some of the gaps. However no player discovered all the clues.
This shot shows Leading Seaman Zabrinski (background) searching one of the buildings, whilst Petty Officer Rawlings questiones two of the survivors.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Meeting20the20survivors_zpsgo8rbbds.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Meeting20the20survivors_zpsgo8rbbds.jpg.html)
Once they had done enough sleuthing, the party made their way back to the submarine. Given they had worked out some of the navigation issues the move back was failry uneventful, none of the groups drawing the Ambush card. This would have pitched them against two Russian Spetznatz (potentially with Innuit allies) which would have almost certainly killed off some of the players.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s540/garybourne/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Russian203_zpsyqam1qgg.jpg) (http://s1304.photobucket.com/user/garybourne/media/Ice%20Station%20Zebra/Russian203_zpsyqam1qgg.jpg.html)
As it was the players final task was to write down the answers to 7 questions, based on what they had found or worked out. The winner was anyone who worked out the name of the traitor (for the record it was Dr Fox the second in command of the Ice Station). In the event of a tie I had three count back options to split tied answers, the last one being a dice roll. This had to be used only once, on the final game of the weekend.
Once the game was over I swore the players to secrecy about the plot, characters and outcomes, as other players who overheard discussions in the bar would have their enjoyment spoilt. Everyone was good to their word with the last group playing 2 days after the first game and being none the wiser despite being in close proximity with the other 16 players for three and a half days.
Overall I have had a blast making this project come to life and running the game. It has been a very different route for me but I hope that you have enjoyed what I have had to offer along the way.
Finally if anyone wants a copy of the rules and cards drop me a pm and I will be happy to share them with you.
-
This was a great experience and most enjoyable with a definite RPG element. I was one of the very secretive players but that was because I was an MI6 agent and trusted no-one! Thanks for the game Gary.
-
Sounds as brilliant as it looks....
Doug
-
I agree - it looks like your effort was rewarded with a whole weekend of fun games.
-
Fantastic board, figures and game leading. Such an interesting and entertaining concept, would love to have played. You should be proud :)
-
This was a great experience and most enjoyable with a definite RPG element. I was one of the very secretive players but that was because I was an MI6 agent and trusted no-one! Thanks for the game Gary.
Ditto, although I was a Naval Intelligence Officer who happened to be in the same group as Malamute, and NOBODY in the right mind would trust HIM!
:D
-
Sounds like a great game Gary! Now I’m sorry I missed it! :-[
-
Looks incredible!
-
What an amazing effort. It must have been a blast to play.
-
What a thrilling game! And your whole project so brilliantly executed! Congratulations!
-
Sounds as brilliant as it looks....
Doug
I agree - it looks like your effort was rewarded with a whole weekend of fun games.
Fantastic board, figures and game leading. Such an interesting and entertaining concept, would love to have played. You should be proud :)
Thanks for the compliments.
Sounds like a great game Gary! Now I’m sorry I missed it! :-[
I'm sorry too that you weren't able to make the weekend. I love your games.
Looks incredible!
What an amazing effort. It must have been a blast to play.
What a thrilling game! And your whole project so brilliantly executed! Congratulations!
Thanks very much chaps. It was a blast to run it and most people seemed to enjoy the concept. It is such a shame to have to pack it all away, but new projects demand my time now.
-
That's a fantastic game and what a spread!
-
Me thinks this great game deserves a grand finale with some more pics!
-
That's a fantastic game and what a spread!
Thanks. It was pity you were unable to make BLAM.
Me thinks this great game deserves a grand finale with some more pics!
I'd love to oblige but that's all the pics I have. I was so busy running the game that I didn't have time to take any more.
-
This seems to have been an amazing experience for everyone who got to play!
-
Ditto, although I was a Naval Intelligence Officer who happened to be in the same group as Malamute, and NOBODY in the right mind would trust HIM!
:D
Kettle, pot, black springs to mind ;) :D
-
It was great fun -
as the sole Brit in our party I played the British Officer accompanied by my American colleagues (actually German & Irish). They decided that I would lead the line across the Ice (guess who fell into the crevasses).
Dirk (our Germanic/American Officer) brought along a suitable dose of paranoia with the belief that behind every iceberg, Walrus and Eskimo a commie was hiding - :D
-
It was great fun -
as the sole Brit in our party I played the British Officer accompanied by my American colleagues (actually German & Irish). They decided that I would lead the line across the Ice (guess who fell into the crevasses).
Dirk (our Germanic/American Officer) brought along a suitable dose of paranoia with the belief that behind every iceberg, Walrus and Eskimo a commie was hiding - :D
Ha, there are always commies in this games, believe me...
-
Ha, there are always commies in this games, believe me...
Yep, we had one.
Called himself Dave....
;)