In the last year or so I don’t seem to have achieved a great deal in terms of gaming... I’ve started several new projects, i.e. Napoleonics, Age of Arthur and Saxons & Vikings. I’ve painted a few more WW1 figures, along with adding some bits and pieces to my Roman and Celt armies, i.e. a unit of legionaries and some chariots and fanatics. However, little if anything can be viewed as completed.
Looking back across the blog it averages out at approx 7 ‘properly’ painted and 5 dipped figures per month! Crumbs ... adding it up like that is quite depressing. Not exactly productive is it!?
I think the main issues have been that I’ve been too easily distracted by new projects and that too little time has been spent with a brush in my hand getting paint on what I already own. I could waffle on about how things have been hectic, etc, etc, but that would for the most part just be a long list of excuses. I need to make time for my hobby. I also need to decide on painting priorities and then stick to them!
Thanks to all my readers. Hope you're all having a good festive season.
Matt
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
Monday, 29 November 2010
Basing Napoleonic Battalions
Things here in the blog have been fairly quiet recently ... that's because the real world has been exceedingly hectic, leaving very little time for any gaming stuff. However, I have found a few moments to experiment with how to base up my Napoleonic forces. The basic choice was between 20mm x 20mm and 15mm x 20mm.
(click for a larger image)
Here are some Perry's based 20mm x 20mm with 24 in a battalion. That's a frontage of 240mm.
(click for a larger image)
Next we have 15mm x 20mm with 30 in a battalion giving a frontage of 225mm (i.e. fairly similar area to the 24 man unit above).
(click for a larger image)
Now for some comparisons. Front unit is 20mm x 20mm, rear 15mm x 20mm. The painted figures are mostly Front Rank.
(click for a larger image)
Now swapped around to remove any bias.
(click for a larger image)
Both here are 20mm x 20mm.
(click for a larger image)
Again, swapped to give a balanced view.
For a while I was tempted to go with the 30 man battalions as the denser formation looks quite imposing but after further consideration I settled on 24 man battalions based on a 20mm frontage, mostly 4 on a 40mm x 40mm base. This is mainly because I'll need to buy and paint less figures, yet the result is still good. Plus there seems to be a trend with rules these days that a variety of basing systems can be catered for, especially if both armies are based in the same manner.
(click for a larger image)
Here are some Perry's based 20mm x 20mm with 24 in a battalion. That's a frontage of 240mm.
(click for a larger image)
Next we have 15mm x 20mm with 30 in a battalion giving a frontage of 225mm (i.e. fairly similar area to the 24 man unit above).
(click for a larger image)
Now for some comparisons. Front unit is 20mm x 20mm, rear 15mm x 20mm. The painted figures are mostly Front Rank.
(click for a larger image)
Now swapped around to remove any bias.
(click for a larger image)
Both here are 20mm x 20mm.
(click for a larger image)
Again, swapped to give a balanced view.
For a while I was tempted to go with the 30 man battalions as the denser formation looks quite imposing but after further consideration I settled on 24 man battalions based on a 20mm frontage, mostly 4 on a 40mm x 40mm base. This is mainly because I'll need to buy and paint less figures, yet the result is still good. Plus there seems to be a trend with rules these days that a variety of basing systems can be catered for, especially if both armies are based in the same manner.
Monday, 1 November 2010
Painted British Artillery
I've been rather under the weather recently, hence the lack of blog posts however here's a few pics of something I finished a while back. It's a British Royal Artillery 9lb-er. Figures from Front Rank, paints mostly Foundry.
(click for a larger image)
Don't ask why I based the crew individually rather than on the same base as the cannon - I suppose it's just habit.
(click for a larger image)
Wasn't too sure about the colour for the gun carriage but after doing a spot of research I realised that others have used a wide range of blue-greys so I opted for Foundry Night Sky Mid and then Light.
(click for a larger image)
I really like the small extras such as the powder barrel and spare shot. I think it adds an extra level of interest.
(click for a larger image)
Now I'm working on a batch of Perry's Plastic British Redcoats (http://www.perry-miniatures.com/index2.html) and my word they're splendid figures. Plus at £15 for a box of 36, a real bargain too.
(click for a larger image)
Don't ask why I based the crew individually rather than on the same base as the cannon - I suppose it's just habit.
(click for a larger image)
Wasn't too sure about the colour for the gun carriage but after doing a spot of research I realised that others have used a wide range of blue-greys so I opted for Foundry Night Sky Mid and then Light.
(click for a larger image)
I really like the small extras such as the powder barrel and spare shot. I think it adds an extra level of interest.
(click for a larger image)
Now I'm working on a batch of Perry's Plastic British Redcoats (http://www.perry-miniatures.com/index2.html) and my word they're splendid figures. Plus at £15 for a box of 36, a real bargain too.
Sunday, 3 October 2010
Napoleonic Figures ... Plastic vs Metal
The last year or two has seen a big increase in the variety of plastic figures available for this era, principally Victrix and Perry Miniatures. I believe that this can only be a Good Thing. I'm aware that some gamers have a slightly sniffy approach to plastics, seeing them as somehow not quite proper figures, or perhaps as figures for less serious collectors!? To be honest, I don't really understand that view. In fact, it does seem that the new plastic ranges have been well received and are proving popular.
I happen to like both metal and plastic figures. In terms of metal I have a mix of Front Rank and Foundry, around 50 figures that I collected ages ago with a view to playing some skirmish level games. Both manufacturers figures are excellent although being at either end of the 28mm scale they do not mix too well. I would be more than happy to expand my collection using either range.
However, the big factor for me is quite simply cost. I'd like to build a fairly large collection but at £1+ per infantry figure and around £3 per figure for cavalry that's just not feasible. That's why I've decided to head along the plastic route for most of my collection, both British and French. I'll be using mainly Perry's, with some Victrix for variety. My 24 man battalions will cost £10-12 each as opposed to £24-30 in metal from Front Rank, or more if from Foundry. I've ordered a few Front Rank to top up my existing collection to make full units, and I've ordered 2 boxes of Perry British redcoats that I'll make 3 x 24 figure battalions from.
A downside to plastics is the sometimes fiddly construction. The few Victrix figures I've built were quite tricky, so I'm hoping the Perry figures will be a little easier. Maybe it was due to the fact that it was Victrix's first boxed set and that they tried just a little too hard to give lots of variety. I'll be getting a box or two of the French Line infantry and Grenadier Guards - perhaps these will be easier to build? If you have some then please do comment with your opinion.
A plus point for plastics is that I find less need to varnish them, based on my experience with other ranges. It's quite hard to chip or scratch paint from plastic figures. Additionally, conversions are generally simpler too.
So that's the plan - mainly plastic with a few metals for variety, e.g. command figures, or units not available in plastic.
I happen to like both metal and plastic figures. In terms of metal I have a mix of Front Rank and Foundry, around 50 figures that I collected ages ago with a view to playing some skirmish level games. Both manufacturers figures are excellent although being at either end of the 28mm scale they do not mix too well. I would be more than happy to expand my collection using either range.
However, the big factor for me is quite simply cost. I'd like to build a fairly large collection but at £1+ per infantry figure and around £3 per figure for cavalry that's just not feasible. That's why I've decided to head along the plastic route for most of my collection, both British and French. I'll be using mainly Perry's, with some Victrix for variety. My 24 man battalions will cost £10-12 each as opposed to £24-30 in metal from Front Rank, or more if from Foundry. I've ordered a few Front Rank to top up my existing collection to make full units, and I've ordered 2 boxes of Perry British redcoats that I'll make 3 x 24 figure battalions from.
A downside to plastics is the sometimes fiddly construction. The few Victrix figures I've built were quite tricky, so I'm hoping the Perry figures will be a little easier. Maybe it was due to the fact that it was Victrix's first boxed set and that they tried just a little too hard to give lots of variety. I'll be getting a box or two of the French Line infantry and Grenadier Guards - perhaps these will be easier to build? If you have some then please do comment with your opinion.
A plus point for plastics is that I find less need to varnish them, based on my experience with other ranges. It's quite hard to chip or scratch paint from plastic figures. Additionally, conversions are generally simpler too.
So that's the plan - mainly plastic with a few metals for variety, e.g. command figures, or units not available in plastic.
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Black Powder
Battles with Model Soldiers in the Age of the Musket (1700-1900)
Let me get straight to the point ... this is one of the best rulebooks I have ever purchased. Hardback and 182 pages. It's beautifully produced with lavish illustrations and superb photos throughout. The style of writing is light hearted and jovial without being comical. Rules are clearly explained along with the authors views on how gentleman should play wargames.
Let me dispel a few potential myths about needing large tables, lots of figures and whether the rules are 'rules' or merely 'guidelines'.
Firstly, large tables are not essential as the authors give guidance on scaling movement and weapon ranges for smaller tables. Distance is generally calculated in blocks of 6" or 12" so a simple adjustment for a smaller table, e.g. halving distances, is very easy. This view was supported when I asked about table size on the WAB forum.
Secondly, lots of figures in huge units (whilst desirable) are not essential. Units are classed as Tiny, Small, Standard or Large. The authors view of Standard is approx 30-36 but again they give guidance that the size classifications can easily be adjusted to suit your collection. So battalions of 12, 16, 20, etc are perfectly ok.
Thirdly, this book is definitely a complete set of rules. Like all rules there's bound to be occasions where the rules do not fully cover a particular situation, so like all rules a little bit of player common sense is required. I also feel that they are quite elegant and will prove to be rather subtle. Whilst I have yet to play a game I get the impression that with these rules you'll feel more like you're fighting a historical miniature battle rather than playing a game. Particularly with the orders phase where players are encouraged to give orders very much in the style of their historical counterparts.
These rules have *really* inspired me to properly get in to gaming Napoleonics. I feel that they'll suit my own relaxed style of play very well indeed. So much so in fact, that I've ordered some more figures from Front Rank, plus a couple of boxes of Perry British - huzzah!
At just £21 (incl free delivery) from Amazon, this book is well worth adding to your collection, even if you're only an occasional gamer. Whether it's the battles of Malborough, the '45 rebellion, the Age of Napoleon & Wellington, or just the Thin Red Line fighting Queen Victoria's enemies in far flung places - anyone with an interest in the black powder era will find the book a fascinating read.
Let me get straight to the point ... this is one of the best rulebooks I have ever purchased. Hardback and 182 pages. It's beautifully produced with lavish illustrations and superb photos throughout. The style of writing is light hearted and jovial without being comical. Rules are clearly explained along with the authors views on how gentleman should play wargames.
Let me dispel a few potential myths about needing large tables, lots of figures and whether the rules are 'rules' or merely 'guidelines'.
Firstly, large tables are not essential as the authors give guidance on scaling movement and weapon ranges for smaller tables. Distance is generally calculated in blocks of 6" or 12" so a simple adjustment for a smaller table, e.g. halving distances, is very easy. This view was supported when I asked about table size on the WAB forum.
Secondly, lots of figures in huge units (whilst desirable) are not essential. Units are classed as Tiny, Small, Standard or Large. The authors view of Standard is approx 30-36 but again they give guidance that the size classifications can easily be adjusted to suit your collection. So battalions of 12, 16, 20, etc are perfectly ok.
Thirdly, this book is definitely a complete set of rules. Like all rules there's bound to be occasions where the rules do not fully cover a particular situation, so like all rules a little bit of player common sense is required. I also feel that they are quite elegant and will prove to be rather subtle. Whilst I have yet to play a game I get the impression that with these rules you'll feel more like you're fighting a historical miniature battle rather than playing a game. Particularly with the orders phase where players are encouraged to give orders very much in the style of their historical counterparts.
These rules have *really* inspired me to properly get in to gaming Napoleonics. I feel that they'll suit my own relaxed style of play very well indeed. So much so in fact, that I've ordered some more figures from Front Rank, plus a couple of boxes of Perry British - huzzah!
At just £21 (incl free delivery) from Amazon, this book is well worth adding to your collection, even if you're only an occasional gamer. Whether it's the battles of Malborough, the '45 rebellion, the Age of Napoleon & Wellington, or just the Thin Red Line fighting Queen Victoria's enemies in far flung places - anyone with an interest in the black powder era will find the book a fascinating read.
Sunday, 26 September 2010
Newly Painted British Redcoats
At last ... some new painting!
I've been working on 8 British Napoleonic Light Infantry that will (when combined with some of my existing skirmish collection) give the first half-battalion of my British force.
Here's the first four. Two firing, one loading and one sergeant to direct his men. All Front Rank figures.
(click for a larger image)
Here's the other four. In the foreground are 4 of my skirmish figures.
(click for a larger image)
Painting these figures has been fairly easy and, more importantly, really enjoyable. My skirmish figures were painted years ago and took me ages which effectively put me off collecting larger forces. However I now seem to have figured out a good style that I'm happy with and that doesn't take too long to paint. The latest figures took around 1.5 hours per figure. It's a mix of the Foundry one and two colour styles.
Basically, the painting scheme is
Black undercoat
Shako, boots, cartridge pouch, etc - quick and very light drybrish with mid grey
Metal - (Bayonet, barrel, etc) GW Chainmail or Shining Gold
Skin - Foundry Flesh Shade then Mid
Red - Foundry Redcoat Shade then Mid (Scarlet works very well too)
Blanket - GW Codex Grey then Fortress Grey (Foundry Arctic grey shade/mid would be ideal)
Musket - Foundry Conker Brown Shade then Mid
White - GW Fortress Grey then White
Plume - Foundry Forest Green Shade then Mid
Facings - White then Yellow
The trick is not to worry too much about every little detail. No piping or buttons, etc. Also, leave plenty of the black showing at the edges as this (a) makes it easier to paint areas as less neatness is required and (b) delineates the red, white, etc more clearly when viewed from 2 or 3 feet away, i.e. wargaming distance. It's all about painting quickly and for effect. Up close they are rather untidy compared to my EIR for example, especially the highlighting which is basically semi-random splodges. But en-masse, on the table, at wargaming distance they'll look great. Basing will be six to a base arranged 3 x 2, so a 24 man unit will be on 4 bases.
Next post ... I'll be giving my thoughts about the Black Powder rules.
I've been working on 8 British Napoleonic Light Infantry that will (when combined with some of my existing skirmish collection) give the first half-battalion of my British force.
Here's the first four. Two firing, one loading and one sergeant to direct his men. All Front Rank figures.
(click for a larger image)
Here's the other four. In the foreground are 4 of my skirmish figures.
(click for a larger image)
Painting these figures has been fairly easy and, more importantly, really enjoyable. My skirmish figures were painted years ago and took me ages which effectively put me off collecting larger forces. However I now seem to have figured out a good style that I'm happy with and that doesn't take too long to paint. The latest figures took around 1.5 hours per figure. It's a mix of the Foundry one and two colour styles.
Basically, the painting scheme is
Black undercoat
Shako, boots, cartridge pouch, etc - quick and very light drybrish with mid grey
Metal - (Bayonet, barrel, etc) GW Chainmail or Shining Gold
Skin - Foundry Flesh Shade then Mid
Red - Foundry Redcoat Shade then Mid (Scarlet works very well too)
Blanket - GW Codex Grey then Fortress Grey (Foundry Arctic grey shade/mid would be ideal)
Musket - Foundry Conker Brown Shade then Mid
White - GW Fortress Grey then White
Plume - Foundry Forest Green Shade then Mid
Facings - White then Yellow
The trick is not to worry too much about every little detail. No piping or buttons, etc. Also, leave plenty of the black showing at the edges as this (a) makes it easier to paint areas as less neatness is required and (b) delineates the red, white, etc more clearly when viewed from 2 or 3 feet away, i.e. wargaming distance. It's all about painting quickly and for effect. Up close they are rather untidy compared to my EIR for example, especially the highlighting which is basically semi-random splodges. But en-masse, on the table, at wargaming distance they'll look great. Basing will be six to a base arranged 3 x 2, so a 24 man unit will be on 4 bases.
Next post ... I'll be giving my thoughts about the Black Powder rules.
Sunday, 19 September 2010
Musings on British Redcoats
Their coats are definitely red, but exactly which red? Yes, I have a bunch of British Napoleonic infantry on the painting table and I'm in a quandary about how to paint their jackets. I've used Foundry Bright Red but the result is too pink for my liking. I appreciate that the vagaries of supply, combined with the rigours of campaigning in all weather, would result in anything from pink through to dark red or brown, but on the tabletop I want them to look red. In an attempt to solve the problem I've ordered some more paints from Foundry ... Scarlet and British Redcoat. Hopefully these will solve my dilemma. I also ordered a palette of French Blue. Why not eh?
So you can see that I'm getting some sort of Napoleonic project off the ground (again). The big difference this time is my approach to painting. I'm keeping it simple, clean and bright. No worrying about each and every buckle and button. This should make progress faster and help with motivation. We shall see. I did consider dipping the miniatures as that proved very successful with my Celt army but after reviewing the few test miniatures I decided that the finished article was a little too drab. So I'll be using a basic colour scheme painted in a more conventional style.
Also I'm not following my original plan for recreating the Light Division. This is because I want a more general purpose British force for the Peninsular War, something along the lines of:-
1st Brigade
British Light Infantry
British Line Infantry
Detachment of Rifles
2nd Brigade
British Line Infantry
Portuguese Line Infantry
Detachment of Rifles
plus
Regiment of Hussars or Light Dragoons
Royal Artillery Battery
This is approx 140 figures and I have around 20 or so already painted with another 8 on the painting table. Initially they'll be 24 man battalions, based on four bases 3 x 2. Then they can be increased to 30 man battalions simply by adding another base.
As for the composition of the French force ... I'm still not exactly sure but it will similar to the British.
Rules
I have the Foundry ruleset 'Napoleon' which would be okay, although needing some clarification in a number of areas. It's a great looking publication but the manner in which the rules are described make them hard to follow in places plus it would require quite a few cards and counters to be placed on the table. A big part of this era is the visual spectacle of all the splendid uniforms, so having the table littered with cards/tokens is far from ideal.
So I'll probably be ordering the Black Powder rules by Messrs Priestley and Johnson. When they were released there was some speculation that these rules required huge table and similarly huge armies but this is not necessarily the case according to the chaps on the WAB forum. I posted a question here and got some favourable replies. Scaling the movement to fit my 6x4 should be easy. Naturally, bigger armies and tables would be better but you have to start somewhere.
Hope to have some new painting to show off in a few days.
So you can see that I'm getting some sort of Napoleonic project off the ground (again). The big difference this time is my approach to painting. I'm keeping it simple, clean and bright. No worrying about each and every buckle and button. This should make progress faster and help with motivation. We shall see. I did consider dipping the miniatures as that proved very successful with my Celt army but after reviewing the few test miniatures I decided that the finished article was a little too drab. So I'll be using a basic colour scheme painted in a more conventional style.
Also I'm not following my original plan for recreating the Light Division. This is because I want a more general purpose British force for the Peninsular War, something along the lines of:-
1st Brigade
British Light Infantry
British Line Infantry
Detachment of Rifles
2nd Brigade
British Line Infantry
Portuguese Line Infantry
Detachment of Rifles
plus
Regiment of Hussars or Light Dragoons
Royal Artillery Battery
This is approx 140 figures and I have around 20 or so already painted with another 8 on the painting table. Initially they'll be 24 man battalions, based on four bases 3 x 2. Then they can be increased to 30 man battalions simply by adding another base.
As for the composition of the French force ... I'm still not exactly sure but it will similar to the British.
Rules
I have the Foundry ruleset 'Napoleon' which would be okay, although needing some clarification in a number of areas. It's a great looking publication but the manner in which the rules are described make them hard to follow in places plus it would require quite a few cards and counters to be placed on the table. A big part of this era is the visual spectacle of all the splendid uniforms, so having the table littered with cards/tokens is far from ideal.
So I'll probably be ordering the Black Powder rules by Messrs Priestley and Johnson. When they were released there was some speculation that these rules required huge table and similarly huge armies but this is not necessarily the case according to the chaps on the WAB forum. I posted a question here and got some favourable replies. Scaling the movement to fit my 6x4 should be easy. Naturally, bigger armies and tables would be better but you have to start somewhere.
Hope to have some new painting to show off in a few days.
Sunday, 12 September 2010
WAB2.0 and ... The Painting Block
Warhammer Historical (aka Forge World) must be doing something ... I just can't figure out exactly what that might be ... ???
WAB2.0 came out around April this year and five months later we're still none-the-wiser about what else is coming along for WAB. That's assuming there is some sort of plan. It seem obvious to me that a re-launch of a ruleset should be fairly quickly followed up with supplements to fill in some of the gaps in the WAB range. Some of these supplements have (according to those in the know) been written for quite some time. Now, I know turning a finished document in to a published book takes time, money and effort but after five months you would have expected some hints from WHW/FW about what's in the pipeline?
Even the launch of WAB2.0 seemed a bit disorganised with very little in the way of advertisement. I can't help but feel that it was a little rushed. There's quite a few typos and, given the level of discussion on the WAB forum, still a lot of grey areas in the rules. Credit should be given to those involved in getting an errata out fairly quickly but there's still plenty to resolve. Plus the production quality of the book (i.e. artwork, photos, painting guide, etc) could have been so much better.
However, all this doesn't mean that I've given up with WAB, but I am a little concerned about where WAB might be headed. I enjoy playing the game and would like to see it more actively supported by WHW. There's quite a few other rulesets out there (Crusader, Impetus, FoG) plus new rules on the way, like an ancients version of Blackpowder, and Phil Hendry's Augustus to Aurelian. WAB cannot simply assume that players will continue to play it without new material to generate continued interest. It's certainly making me wonder about other rules.
As for the other half of the title ... well I've really been struggling for the last three or four weeks to find the motivation to pick up a brush. To be fair it's been *really* bonkers at work, long hours, etc. But that's partly an excuse if I'm honest. I just seem to have lost the joy in terms of painting. I've got a bunch of BTD Auxlia on the painting table - really nice figures - but I just can't be bothered!?
After giving it some thought I've decided on a new plan. For a while I'm just going to paint whatever figures take my fancy with no real thought as to what unit or army they'll belong to. In fact I'm going to forget about trying to get a particular unit done by a certain date, or trying to get X points painted in Y weeks, etc. This is supposed to be a hobby.
WAB2.0 came out around April this year and five months later we're still none-the-wiser about what else is coming along for WAB. That's assuming there is some sort of plan. It seem obvious to me that a re-launch of a ruleset should be fairly quickly followed up with supplements to fill in some of the gaps in the WAB range. Some of these supplements have (according to those in the know) been written for quite some time. Now, I know turning a finished document in to a published book takes time, money and effort but after five months you would have expected some hints from WHW/FW about what's in the pipeline?
Even the launch of WAB2.0 seemed a bit disorganised with very little in the way of advertisement. I can't help but feel that it was a little rushed. There's quite a few typos and, given the level of discussion on the WAB forum, still a lot of grey areas in the rules. Credit should be given to those involved in getting an errata out fairly quickly but there's still plenty to resolve. Plus the production quality of the book (i.e. artwork, photos, painting guide, etc) could have been so much better.
However, all this doesn't mean that I've given up with WAB, but I am a little concerned about where WAB might be headed. I enjoy playing the game and would like to see it more actively supported by WHW. There's quite a few other rulesets out there (Crusader, Impetus, FoG) plus new rules on the way, like an ancients version of Blackpowder, and Phil Hendry's Augustus to Aurelian. WAB cannot simply assume that players will continue to play it without new material to generate continued interest. It's certainly making me wonder about other rules.
As for the other half of the title ... well I've really been struggling for the last three or four weeks to find the motivation to pick up a brush. To be fair it's been *really* bonkers at work, long hours, etc. But that's partly an excuse if I'm honest. I just seem to have lost the joy in terms of painting. I've got a bunch of BTD Auxlia on the painting table - really nice figures - but I just can't be bothered!?
After giving it some thought I've decided on a new plan. For a while I'm just going to paint whatever figures take my fancy with no real thought as to what unit or army they'll belong to. In fact I'm going to forget about trying to get a particular unit done by a certain date, or trying to get X points painted in Y weeks, etc. This is supposed to be a hobby.
Friday, 3 September 2010
Smaller games... some thoughts
We've been playing a series of fairly small games recently (approx 800pts per side) in order to get a better understanding of the 'new' WAB 2.0 rules.
Armies were
Early Imperial Romans
o 15 Legion C/S/M
o 15 Legion C/S/M
o 15 Auxilia (+javelins) L/S/M
o 9 Auxilia Archers
o 9 Celt Skirmishers
British Celts
o Chieftain (General)
Army Standard Bearer
22 Warriors L/S/M
o Chieftain
23 Warriors L/S/M
o 24 Warriors L/S/M
o 9 Light Cavalry L/S/M
o 9 Slingers (+buckler)
These forces were chosen as they're large enough to give a 'proper' battle, playable on a 4' x 3' table, games take around an hour to play and they have a good mix of special rules (e.g. warband, stubborn, etc) without being overwhelming.
You can see a short battle report of one of the games on the WAB forum at
http://wabforum.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=66&t=8377&p=86033#p86033
The first couple of games were fairly convincing wins for the Celts. The Romans just didn't seem to have enough numbers to repel, or even hold, the barbarian horde. However, to be fair the Celts rarely failed any warband tests so they were able to manoeuvre freely (as well as the new warband rules allow!?) for a more co-ordinated attack. Also, after the first game the warbands were re-organised to be 6x4 rather than 8x3. Making them deeper seemed to give them more staying power thus allowing them to beat the Romans in a protracted fight.
Another factor has been the formation of the Legionary units. Fielding them 5x3 doesn't give them the stamina (i.e. ranks) for a protracted fight, nor does the narrow frontage allow enough attacks in the first round (with Heavy Throwing Spears) to blunt the warband's charge. Just 2 casualties from slingers - a surprisingly common occurence - and they lose a rank. Plus, if a charging warband manages to inflict 3-4 casualties then that drastically reduces the ability of the Romans to hit back in that vital first round of combat.
This led to the Legions being fielded 6 or even 7 models wide, so only one rank. The result was definitely better for the Romans - though in the end the battle was still a narrow victory for the Celts.
Better use of the Roman allied skirmishers also led to improved results for Rome's finest. Quickly getting the skirmishers close to the Celt line so that they can pelt them with javelins, and keeping them near so that any warband failures cause the Celt line to become disorganised, is vital.
What seems fairly clear is that the Romans need more troops capable of holding or turning flanks, i.e. some skirmishing Auxilia or, even better, Auxilia Cavalry. This would make the Celt attack less co-So guess what's going on to the painting table next?
All in all, I like the new WAB rules and playing a series of smaller games is definitely helping in terms of faster play and less looking things up in the rulebook. Plus it's jolly good fun to push a few toy soldiers around the table.
Armies were
Early Imperial Romans
o 15 Legion C/S/M
o 15 Legion C/S/M
o 15 Auxilia (+javelins) L/S/M
o 9 Auxilia Archers
o 9 Celt Skirmishers
British Celts
o Chieftain (General)
Army Standard Bearer
22 Warriors L/S/M
o Chieftain
23 Warriors L/S/M
o 24 Warriors L/S/M
o 9 Light Cavalry L/S/M
o 9 Slingers (+buckler)
These forces were chosen as they're large enough to give a 'proper' battle, playable on a 4' x 3' table, games take around an hour to play and they have a good mix of special rules (e.g. warband, stubborn, etc) without being overwhelming.
You can see a short battle report of one of the games on the WAB forum at
http://wabforum.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=66&t=8377&p=86033#p86033
The first couple of games were fairly convincing wins for the Celts. The Romans just didn't seem to have enough numbers to repel, or even hold, the barbarian horde. However, to be fair the Celts rarely failed any warband tests so they were able to manoeuvre freely (as well as the new warband rules allow!?) for a more co-ordinated attack. Also, after the first game the warbands were re-organised to be 6x4 rather than 8x3. Making them deeper seemed to give them more staying power thus allowing them to beat the Romans in a protracted fight.
Another factor has been the formation of the Legionary units. Fielding them 5x3 doesn't give them the stamina (i.e. ranks) for a protracted fight, nor does the narrow frontage allow enough attacks in the first round (with Heavy Throwing Spears) to blunt the warband's charge. Just 2 casualties from slingers - a surprisingly common occurence - and they lose a rank. Plus, if a charging warband manages to inflict 3-4 casualties then that drastically reduces the ability of the Romans to hit back in that vital first round of combat.
This led to the Legions being fielded 6 or even 7 models wide, so only one rank. The result was definitely better for the Romans - though in the end the battle was still a narrow victory for the Celts.
Better use of the Roman allied skirmishers also led to improved results for Rome's finest. Quickly getting the skirmishers close to the Celt line so that they can pelt them with javelins, and keeping them near so that any warband failures cause the Celt line to become disorganised, is vital.
What seems fairly clear is that the Romans need more troops capable of holding or turning flanks, i.e. some skirmishing Auxilia or, even better, Auxilia Cavalry. This would make the Celt attack less co-So guess what's going on to the painting table next?
All in all, I like the new WAB rules and playing a series of smaller games is definitely helping in terms of faster play and less looking things up in the rulebook. Plus it's jolly good fun to push a few toy soldiers around the table.
Friday, 13 August 2010
British Celt Chariots
Rather than go around in circles trying to decide what to do next I thought I'd finish off something I started a while back... three celt chariots. So here are a few pics.
(click for a larger image)
As with all my other Celts these are mostly block colours followed by Army Painter dip (Strong Tone).
(click for a larger image)
The armour and flesh are given two coats - a base and a quick highlight.
(click for a larger image)
These are GB's splendid Celt Chariots, which look fine alongside my three Warlord chariots.
(click for a larger image)
I may order one further chariot from either Warlord or GB to act as a chieftain for the unit. A unit of seven including a character should be more than capable of holding their own on the battlefield.
(click for a larger image)
For this figure I just had to mount the driver standing on the yoke pole!
(click for a larger image)
I did consider adding reins ... ;-)
Hope you like 'em.
(click for a larger image)
As with all my other Celts these are mostly block colours followed by Army Painter dip (Strong Tone).
(click for a larger image)
The armour and flesh are given two coats - a base and a quick highlight.
(click for a larger image)
These are GB's splendid Celt Chariots, which look fine alongside my three Warlord chariots.
(click for a larger image)
I may order one further chariot from either Warlord or GB to act as a chieftain for the unit. A unit of seven including a character should be more than capable of holding their own on the battlefield.
(click for a larger image)
For this figure I just had to mount the driver standing on the yoke pole!
(click for a larger image)
I did consider adding reins ... ;-)
Hope you like 'em.
Saturday, 7 August 2010
A Quick Update
Wargaming confusion reigns... I've just returned from a one week holiday on Hadrian's Wall and it's been absolutely brilliant! However, it's put me in to something of a spin. Before the hols I was just starting on my Age of Arthur / Dark Ages project with Saxons and Vikings, but even so my attention was being drawn towards my partially complete WW1 BEF force. So much so that I even took some BEF on hols to paint - though there was too little spare time to wield a brush!? Now I return from hols full of inspiration for Rome and the conquest of the British Tribes.
Oh, what is a chap to do next?
I'd really like to get my WW1 BEF in some sort of battle ready order, particularly as Rob at Scarab is looking at producing his own WW1 rules and I'd really like to be involved with that. Yet, I'm drawn back to all things Roman and Celtic. But the newly started AoA project demands my attention too.
I intend to take a day or two "off" to let things settle before I decide which way to go.
Also, I hope to publish a series of short articles on the blog about the Roman sites I've recently visited.
Cheerio
Oh, what is a chap to do next?
I'd really like to get my WW1 BEF in some sort of battle ready order, particularly as Rob at Scarab is looking at producing his own WW1 rules and I'd really like to be involved with that. Yet, I'm drawn back to all things Roman and Celtic. But the newly started AoA project demands my attention too.
I intend to take a day or two "off" to let things settle before I decide which way to go.
Also, I hope to publish a series of short articles on the blog about the Roman sites I've recently visited.
Cheerio
Saturday, 24 July 2010
More Arthurians Painted
Amazingly (for me) I've managed to paint up a few more Arthurians from Gripping Beast. This time it's some Commanipulares/Teulu types.
(click for a larger image)
I've nicknamed this one 'Arthur' ... can't think why?
(click for a larger image)
The shield is plain white as I intend to get some LBMS transfers. I did try painting one free-hand but it looked ... ridiculous.
(click for a larger image)
The blond hair/beard on this one was GW Sankebite Leather, GW Bubonic Brown, GW Bleached Bone.
(click for a larger image)
You just can't beat painting figures with lots of chainmail and armour :-)
(click for a larger image)
Having bought another 12 palettes of Foundry paint in their recent new website 20% sale (12 palletes = £72 = free postage), I thought I'd try out a splash of colour here. The helmet plume/crest is Foundry Royal Purple, whilst the tunic is Foundry Deep Blue.
(click for a larger image)
I felt that as higher status warriors they would be more likely to have expensively coloured clothing... ?
(click for a larger image)
The red is a bit powerful perhaps (maybe it's a new tunic?) - it's GW Merchrite Red followed by Foundry Bright Red Shade/Mid. Further figures will use Foundry Madder Red or Brick Red to give a more natural colour.
(click for a larger image)
Next on the painting table are some Artizan Arthurians, the armoured chaps with spears.
(click for a larger image)
I've nicknamed this one 'Arthur' ... can't think why?
(click for a larger image)
The shield is plain white as I intend to get some LBMS transfers. I did try painting one free-hand but it looked ... ridiculous.
(click for a larger image)
The blond hair/beard on this one was GW Sankebite Leather, GW Bubonic Brown, GW Bleached Bone.
(click for a larger image)
You just can't beat painting figures with lots of chainmail and armour :-)
(click for a larger image)
Having bought another 12 palettes of Foundry paint in their recent new website 20% sale (12 palletes = £72 = free postage), I thought I'd try out a splash of colour here. The helmet plume/crest is Foundry Royal Purple, whilst the tunic is Foundry Deep Blue.
(click for a larger image)
I felt that as higher status warriors they would be more likely to have expensively coloured clothing... ?
(click for a larger image)
The red is a bit powerful perhaps (maybe it's a new tunic?) - it's GW Merchrite Red followed by Foundry Bright Red Shade/Mid. Further figures will use Foundry Madder Red or Brick Red to give a more natural colour.
(click for a larger image)
Next on the painting table are some Artizan Arthurians, the armoured chaps with spears.
Saturday, 10 July 2010
First Athurian Figures Painted!
As promised ... here are some pics of my first complete (apart from the bases!) Arthurian figures. These are from the Gripping Beast Arthurian range link. Pack ABR04 to be precise. I haven't completed the bases as I'd like to try out something slightly different from my usual recipe of GW Bestial/Vomit/Bleached Bone.
I've really enjoyed painting these. The colours were mostly Foundry apart from the metallics which are GW.
(click for a larger image)
I've kept the shields plain as I see these as lower status warriors who wouldn't spend a lot of time decorating their shields, perhaps just leaving the leather cover unpainted or painting them in plain colours.
(click for a larger image)
The cloaks were a bit tricky to start with but just letting your brush follow the natural contours seems to work fine.
(click for a larger image)
The backs of the shields are simplay painted GW Scorched Brown followed by GW Bestial Brown (thinned slightly) painted in stripes to give the impression of wooden boards.
(click for a larger image)
For plain shields I found that painting the colours on in a "circular" style works much better than "up and down". Leave more of the darker base and mid coat showing near the centre.
(click for a larger image)
The spear poles are just painted in one colour as I find the wood grain effect really tricky to get just right, plus it takes ages. I'll be painting the poles in a variety of browns, from the pale brown of a newly made spear to the darker brown of a trusty heirloom.
(click for a larger image)
Hair and beards were mostly done by drybrushing greys and browns.
(click for a larger image)
(click for a larger image)
(click for a larger image)
(click for a larger image)
Next up will be a group of more heavily armed and equipped Romano-British Commanipulares.
I've really enjoyed painting these. The colours were mostly Foundry apart from the metallics which are GW.
(click for a larger image)
I've kept the shields plain as I see these as lower status warriors who wouldn't spend a lot of time decorating their shields, perhaps just leaving the leather cover unpainted or painting them in plain colours.
(click for a larger image)
The cloaks were a bit tricky to start with but just letting your brush follow the natural contours seems to work fine.
(click for a larger image)
The backs of the shields are simplay painted GW Scorched Brown followed by GW Bestial Brown (thinned slightly) painted in stripes to give the impression of wooden boards.
(click for a larger image)
For plain shields I found that painting the colours on in a "circular" style works much better than "up and down". Leave more of the darker base and mid coat showing near the centre.
(click for a larger image)
The spear poles are just painted in one colour as I find the wood grain effect really tricky to get just right, plus it takes ages. I'll be painting the poles in a variety of browns, from the pale brown of a newly made spear to the darker brown of a trusty heirloom.
(click for a larger image)
Hair and beards were mostly done by drybrushing greys and browns.
(click for a larger image)
(click for a larger image)
(click for a larger image)
(click for a larger image)
Next up will be a group of more heavily armed and equipped Romano-British Commanipulares.
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
Thoughts on Age of Arthur armies
As mentioned before, I'm starting to collect a Age of Arthur Saxon army with a view to adding some GB plastic Thegns (when available) in order to make the army in to later Saxon horde suitable for taking on those fearsome Vikings (think Bernard Cornwell's "Alfred" series and you'll be about there). However, when collecting an army I also like to think about collecting a suitable opposing force so as to give easy access to historical match ups.
When I first considered collecting for Age of Arthur it was the Romano-British that caught my eye but having thoroughly reviewed the lists and talked with a few other players I feel that it may lead to a rather defensive mind-set. Since I'll be forming plenty of Shieldwalls with my later Saxons I fancied something a bit more dynamic. The British & Welsh Kingdoms (B&WK) lists meets this requirement quite nicely! I already have a small collection of GB and Artizan figures suitable for Teulu and Combrogi so they'll be the start of this army. These are now on the painting table and I'm really looking forward to painting them. As for the Saxons, well I haven't actually got any suitable figures as yet but once the B&WK figures are nearly done then I'll order a Duguth unit deal from GB. Those Early Saxon figures are splendid. In fact my B&WK figures would do nicely in the Saxon line, as page 96 of AoArt shows some of these figures (the armoured ones) in Saxon units. Such are the benefits of dark ages gaming.
Anyway, I have ordered a copy of Shieldwall (for the later variant of the army), plus I've ordered 200 20x20mm 1.5mm plywood bases from Fenris Games (highly recommended!), so things are moving forward slowly. Buying lists and bases before the figures ... sounds a bit "cart-before-the-horse"... no, I'm just being organised ;-)
Shields are still something of a puzzle as I'd really like to try out painting some free-hand designs but (a) it will take ages, and (b) I'm not sure my painting skills are up quite to it. Perhaps I'll try a few ... then get on to LBMS!? I've also been giving some thought towards what sort of scenery will be required as a few good items on the table really give the battlefield the right atmosphere for the era being played.
Next time I post, work permitting, I hope to show you my first dark ages figures.
When I first considered collecting for Age of Arthur it was the Romano-British that caught my eye but having thoroughly reviewed the lists and talked with a few other players I feel that it may lead to a rather defensive mind-set. Since I'll be forming plenty of Shieldwalls with my later Saxons I fancied something a bit more dynamic. The British & Welsh Kingdoms (B&WK) lists meets this requirement quite nicely! I already have a small collection of GB and Artizan figures suitable for Teulu and Combrogi so they'll be the start of this army. These are now on the painting table and I'm really looking forward to painting them. As for the Saxons, well I haven't actually got any suitable figures as yet but once the B&WK figures are nearly done then I'll order a Duguth unit deal from GB. Those Early Saxon figures are splendid. In fact my B&WK figures would do nicely in the Saxon line, as page 96 of AoArt shows some of these figures (the armoured ones) in Saxon units. Such are the benefits of dark ages gaming.
Anyway, I have ordered a copy of Shieldwall (for the later variant of the army), plus I've ordered 200 20x20mm 1.5mm plywood bases from Fenris Games (highly recommended!), so things are moving forward slowly. Buying lists and bases before the figures ... sounds a bit "cart-before-the-horse"... no, I'm just being organised ;-)
Shields are still something of a puzzle as I'd really like to try out painting some free-hand designs but (a) it will take ages, and (b) I'm not sure my painting skills are up quite to it. Perhaps I'll try a few ... then get on to LBMS!? I've also been giving some thought towards what sort of scenery will be required as a few good items on the table really give the battlefield the right atmosphere for the era being played.
Next time I post, work permitting, I hope to show you my first dark ages figures.
Friday, 4 June 2010
Saxons, Vikings & Normans
I've been fairly well focussed on Romans and Celts for ages now, so I think it's time for something a little different.
Vikings
Gripping Beast's new plastic and metal range have really ticked all the boxes for me. Top notch figures with the maintsay of the army available in plastic at a very reasonable £18 for 44 figures. A decent sized force for WAB should cost less than £100. The figures look like they'll be so much fun to paint.
Saxons
In addition to their Vikings, GB have plans to make a boxed set of plastic Thegns available later this year! But my aims for an army are a little more ambitious than just 11th century Saxons... Regular readers (thank you!) may recall that I keep blathering on about Age of Arthur. It's probably my favourite supplement, even though I don't actually play it yet. Well, I see this as my opportunity to get in to Dark Ages gaming properly. I could collect a 6th - 7th century Saxon army based around the Heptarchy or Anglian lists using mainly GB's excellent Early Saxon range, plus a few of the superb Musketeer Saxons. This could then easily become a later, ie 8th - 11th century, Saxon force with the addition of a few Dane-axe wielding thegns and some chaps in Norman-esque style helmets. Basically two armies for the price of one plus a few extra figures. The Early Saxon Duguth, Geoguth and Ceorls will do good service as Ceorls and Fyrd in the later Saxon battle line.
Normans
I've always been fascinated by the Normans. Aged 7 I visited Hastings only to be disappointed to find that the field was not covered in Saxon / Norman dead!? I've seen the Bayuex tapestry twice. I've been all over Normandy on several holidays - wonderful place - can't wait to visit again. But if you get the chance to visit Duke William's castle at Falaise... then don't as it's awful. Anyway ... it now looks like a new company Conquest Games will be releasing a range of plastic Norman cavalry. Check out some pics here. Then there's always the excellent ranges from Perry's and Gripping Beast too.
It will of course be Warhammer Ancient Battles, so I'd better order a copy of Shieldwall soon!
Happy gaming!
Vikings
Gripping Beast's new plastic and metal range have really ticked all the boxes for me. Top notch figures with the maintsay of the army available in plastic at a very reasonable £18 for 44 figures. A decent sized force for WAB should cost less than £100. The figures look like they'll be so much fun to paint.
Saxons
In addition to their Vikings, GB have plans to make a boxed set of plastic Thegns available later this year! But my aims for an army are a little more ambitious than just 11th century Saxons... Regular readers (thank you!) may recall that I keep blathering on about Age of Arthur. It's probably my favourite supplement, even though I don't actually play it yet. Well, I see this as my opportunity to get in to Dark Ages gaming properly. I could collect a 6th - 7th century Saxon army based around the Heptarchy or Anglian lists using mainly GB's excellent Early Saxon range, plus a few of the superb Musketeer Saxons. This could then easily become a later, ie 8th - 11th century, Saxon force with the addition of a few Dane-axe wielding thegns and some chaps in Norman-esque style helmets. Basically two armies for the price of one plus a few extra figures. The Early Saxon Duguth, Geoguth and Ceorls will do good service as Ceorls and Fyrd in the later Saxon battle line.
Normans
I've always been fascinated by the Normans. Aged 7 I visited Hastings only to be disappointed to find that the field was not covered in Saxon / Norman dead!? I've seen the Bayuex tapestry twice. I've been all over Normandy on several holidays - wonderful place - can't wait to visit again. But if you get the chance to visit Duke William's castle at Falaise... then don't as it's awful. Anyway ... it now looks like a new company Conquest Games will be releasing a range of plastic Norman cavalry. Check out some pics here. Then there's always the excellent ranges from Perry's and Gripping Beast too.
It will of course be Warhammer Ancient Battles, so I'd better order a copy of Shieldwall soon!
Happy gaming!
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Two Battles - Romans vs Celts
As promised, here are some pics of the recent games with my friends Jim and Adam. The window at the other end of the room made taking pics a bit tricky but hoprefully you'll enjoy the action.
Here's the deployment for the first game. Not too much in the way of scenery as we wanted to keep things simple for our first game of WAB2.0. Jim took charge for Rome and deployed carefully around the hill, whilst Ad became a hairy barbarian and made full use of the 6'x4' table width. Actually, I forgot that in a pitched battle the army must not deploy within 12" of the edge ... oh well, only the first of what proved to be quite a few forgotten rules!
(click for a larger image)
A close up of the Roman line.
(click for a larger image)
Some Ancient British who were very keen to take on the might of Rome.
(click for a larger image)
Watch out for the nudey-men!
(click for a larger image)
Here we are in turn 2 I think. The Roman ballista and bowmen had made very impact on the Celt lines as they rushed forwards. Even the Romans own Celt skirmishers decided they'd had enough. The chariots thundered into the right flank of the Romans but the line held firm.
(click for a larger image)
The chariots are beaten off whilst on the other flank some very brave light cavalry took on a large unit of Auxilia. The main line of Celts wavered a bit instead of getting stuck in.
(click for a larger image)
C-h-a-r-g-e!
(click for a larger image)
A turn or two later and we can see than the head on attack by some of the British was eventually repulsed at both ends of the line, but it was a close run thing.
(click for a larger image)
Another attack by the British but it fails to overwhelm the Romans.
(click for a larger image)
Near the end of the game and things got a bit complicated. However the disciplined staying power of the Romans carried the day! It was a close game and very enjoyable.
(click for a larger image)
Battle number two and a Roman supply column has been ambushed by a strong British force.
(click for a larger image)
Sensibly, the Romans all headed for one half of the Celt army.
(click for a larger image)
Now, apologies 'coz I forgot to take any more pics of this battle but I can assure you that it was rather one-sided. The Romans thrashed one half of the Celt army before the other could cross the table. After that it was clear the Romans had soundly beaten off the ambush.
All good fun, though the first game was by far the best. Scenarios are tricky things to get right.
We were playing WAB2.0 but in reality it was more a mixture of WAB1.5 and 2.0. Hey - I did only get the rules a few days before!
Here's the deployment for the first game. Not too much in the way of scenery as we wanted to keep things simple for our first game of WAB2.0. Jim took charge for Rome and deployed carefully around the hill, whilst Ad became a hairy barbarian and made full use of the 6'x4' table width. Actually, I forgot that in a pitched battle the army must not deploy within 12" of the edge ... oh well, only the first of what proved to be quite a few forgotten rules!
(click for a larger image)
A close up of the Roman line.
(click for a larger image)
Some Ancient British who were very keen to take on the might of Rome.
(click for a larger image)
Watch out for the nudey-men!
(click for a larger image)
Here we are in turn 2 I think. The Roman ballista and bowmen had made very impact on the Celt lines as they rushed forwards. Even the Romans own Celt skirmishers decided they'd had enough. The chariots thundered into the right flank of the Romans but the line held firm.
(click for a larger image)
The chariots are beaten off whilst on the other flank some very brave light cavalry took on a large unit of Auxilia. The main line of Celts wavered a bit instead of getting stuck in.
(click for a larger image)
C-h-a-r-g-e!
(click for a larger image)
A turn or two later and we can see than the head on attack by some of the British was eventually repulsed at both ends of the line, but it was a close run thing.
(click for a larger image)
Another attack by the British but it fails to overwhelm the Romans.
(click for a larger image)
Near the end of the game and things got a bit complicated. However the disciplined staying power of the Romans carried the day! It was a close game and very enjoyable.
(click for a larger image)
Battle number two and a Roman supply column has been ambushed by a strong British force.
(click for a larger image)
Sensibly, the Romans all headed for one half of the Celt army.
(click for a larger image)
Now, apologies 'coz I forgot to take any more pics of this battle but I can assure you that it was rather one-sided. The Romans thrashed one half of the Celt army before the other could cross the table. After that it was clear the Romans had soundly beaten off the ambush.
All good fun, though the first game was by far the best. Scenarios are tricky things to get right.
We were playing WAB2.0 but in reality it was more a mixture of WAB1.5 and 2.0. Hey - I did only get the rules a few days before!
Friday, 14 May 2010
Latest Painting ... EIR and Celts
I've been fairly busy with the brush recently, mainly because this weekend I have friends visiting for a relaxing weekend of chatting, wargaming, beer and good food. We'll also be trying out the new WAB2.0 rules for the first time!
One of the games I'm running will be an ambush scenario where the Celts take on a Roman supply column. This means I'll need some "baggage". So here's the pack horses. There's also a wagon on to which I'll put some boxes and barrels.
(click for a larger image)
The horses were painted by my wife using her drybrush/highlight technique, rather than the dip.
The cart horse is still to be painted but here's the wagon. Sprayed white white a coat of Foundry Tan then dipped. Metals parts are GW Black followed by GW Mithril Silver.
(click for a larger image)
In order to quickly get a fourth cohort of Romans ready I ordered another sprue from Warlord and painted/dipped them.
(click for a larger image)
You may notice a few veterans in the group. To avoid the 'heavy armour' look I painted the arm armour (I forget its proper name - doh!?) as if it were cloth. Looks ok to me.
Here's a close up of the command group. Obviously I need to add the shields.
(click for a larger image)
Now for some more Celts...
Please do not adjust your set! It's a 15mm Essex Celtic Chariot. Had the figure for a while and just wanted to see what it would look like with a quick paint job and some dip.
(click for a larger image)
The other side.
(click for a larger image)
Here's the start of a unit of fanatics. Quite a mix of manufacturers - the leader (holding a severed head) is a Warlord model. The two figures either side are the GB naked fanatic command group, whilst the other three figures are from Essex.
(click for a larger image)
A close up of the command group.
(click for a larger image)
Whilst at Essex minis I also picked up these Celt slingers.
(click for a larger image)
I'll post up scenarios, battle reports and pics of the games as soon as I can find the time.
One of the games I'm running will be an ambush scenario where the Celts take on a Roman supply column. This means I'll need some "baggage". So here's the pack horses. There's also a wagon on to which I'll put some boxes and barrels.
(click for a larger image)
The horses were painted by my wife using her drybrush/highlight technique, rather than the dip.
The cart horse is still to be painted but here's the wagon. Sprayed white white a coat of Foundry Tan then dipped. Metals parts are GW Black followed by GW Mithril Silver.
(click for a larger image)
In order to quickly get a fourth cohort of Romans ready I ordered another sprue from Warlord and painted/dipped them.
(click for a larger image)
You may notice a few veterans in the group. To avoid the 'heavy armour' look I painted the arm armour (I forget its proper name - doh!?) as if it were cloth. Looks ok to me.
Here's a close up of the command group. Obviously I need to add the shields.
(click for a larger image)
Now for some more Celts...
Please do not adjust your set! It's a 15mm Essex Celtic Chariot. Had the figure for a while and just wanted to see what it would look like with a quick paint job and some dip.
(click for a larger image)
The other side.
(click for a larger image)
Here's the start of a unit of fanatics. Quite a mix of manufacturers - the leader (holding a severed head) is a Warlord model. The two figures either side are the GB naked fanatic command group, whilst the other three figures are from Essex.
(click for a larger image)
A close up of the command group.
(click for a larger image)
Whilst at Essex minis I also picked up these Celt slingers.
(click for a larger image)
I'll post up scenarios, battle reports and pics of the games as soon as I can find the time.
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