tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1816309081608356672024-03-13T12:33:03.422-07:00The Rural GamerJeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-32850151339849404102012-05-14T09:20:00.000-07:002012-05-14T09:20:01.758-07:002011 Dice Tower Award Nominees Announced<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm a little late on this one, but I wanted to let you all know that <b>The Dice Tower</b> has released it's nominee's for the <b>2011 Dice Tower Gaming Awards</b>.<br />
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A committee comprised of over 40 prominent podcasters and bloggers has come up with a list of the best games published in 2011.<br />
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<i>The winners will be announced the first week of July</i>. Congratulations to all the nominees! 2011 was really a banner year for boardgames and that is reflected in this list.<br />
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I'm not sure how <b>Tom Vassel</b> and the <b>Dice Tower</b> crew would feel about the list being reposted here, so I shall err on the side of caution and direct you to the list on their site. You can find all of the 2011 nominee right <a href="http://www.dicetower.com/dice_tower_awards/2011-awards.html" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a>.<br />
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<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-46611637713737054372012-05-11T05:08:00.004-07:002012-05-11T05:08:54.522-07:00Kickstarter Craziness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you've been following the world of boardgames recently you would be hard pressed to have missed the craziness (aka awesomeness) on <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/"><b>Kickstarter</b></a> between <b>Steve Jackson Games' Ogre Designer Edition</b> and <b>CoolMiniorNot's Zombicide</b>.<br />
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Both companies set modest <b>$20,000</b> funding goals. Both companies have brought in considerably more than they asked for, and probably more than they expected. <br />
<br />If you are not familiar with <b>Kickstarter</b>, a) where have you been for the past year? and b) it's an online crowd funding site for creative projects of all sorts. And, I mean...all sorts. Ideas that might never have seen the light of day are finding their shot via <b>Kickstarter</b>. Generally, prospective entrepreneurs present their project on the site, set the funding goal they need to achieve to be able to go into production on whatever their project is and people all around the world have 30 days to back the idea with their hard earned cash.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/coolminiornot/zombicide" target="_blank"><b>Zombicide</b></a>, a co-production between <b>CoolMiniorNot</b> and <b>Guillotine Games</b>, is a boardgame of the Zombie apocalypse. The funding window for the game closed 4 days ago (as I type this). They needed <b>$20,000</b> and received a whopping <b>$781,597</b>!<br />
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Go ahead. Pick your jaw off the floor. That's pretty amazing, ain't it? Nearly $800,000! Now, you may be wondering (again, if you are one of those few unfamiliar with the juggernaut that is <b>Kickstarter</b>) what are they going to do with all that extra money? That's where "Stretch Goals" come in. Stretch Goals are set for funding levels over and above the minimum funding needed to advance the project forward. For example, in the case of <b>Zombicide</b>, there are a host of extra miniatures being offered at various funding levels. It seemed to me that the sweet spot was to back the game for $100. The game is expected to retail for $89. But, at the $100 level they were offering a whole boatload of really cool stuff. It was killing me that I didn't have a spare hundo laying around to toss their way, or else I would've!<br />
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<b>Zombicide</b> looks really, really cool. And, that is coming from someone who is pretty much sick to death of the zombie theme in games (not to mention other media). Check out the information on their <b>Kickstarter</b> page.<br />
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Another boardgame that is going gangbusters on <b>Kickstarter</b> is the new edition of <b>Ogre</b> from <b>Steve Jackson Games</b>. I remember first playing <b>Ogre</b> sometime in the late 1970s. A neighbor around the corner had the first edition of the game. It was a tiny thing that came packaged in a little ziplock baggie. The game was played on a small hex map with cardstock counters representing the various units. I honestly don't remember much aside from simply playing, and enjoying, the game. But, I do remember it!<br />
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Then, a couple years back at the <b>Origins Game Fair</b> in Columbus, Ohio, I saw a table set up in the <b>Miniatures Hall</b> with some folks playing the <b>Ogre Miniatures Game</b>. It instantly awoke some nostalgia in me and I wanted to pick up the game. Unfortunately, it was out of print. The <b>Adventure Retail</b> booth, which houses <b>SJG</b> product at <b>Origins</b>, was selling boxed sets of the minis - but not the main ones. They were long sold out. Upon returning home I did some research online and found that <b>Steve Jackson</b> was in the planning stages for a new edition of <b>Ogre</b>, and had been for sometime. So, I thought, I'd wait.<br />
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And, then the <b>Kickstarter</b> campaign launched....and, boy, did it launch! As I mentioned, they were looking to raise $20,000. As of this writing there is 6 hours remaining on the campaign and they have raised <b>$851, 243</b>! This game is going to be massive. And, as a result of the incredible success of the campaign <b>Steve Jackson Games</b> has committed to an expansion, bringing back the miniatures and giving another <b>SJG</b> classic, <b>Car Wars</b>, the deluxe treatment as well! Fantastic!<br />
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The <b>Kickstarter</b> campaign has garnered a lot of attention for <b>Steve Jackson Games</b>. They were profiled by Inc. magazine, among others. Many in the business world were praising them for how they ran the campaign. There's been a lot of controversy regarding <b>Kickstarter</b>, especially in the gaming community. Is it a good thing? Is it a bad thing? Well, for <b>Steve Jackson Games</b> it certainly appears to be a good thing. And, for a lot of gamers who have been wanting a new edition of <b>Ogre</b> (like me!) it is a great thing! I cannot wait to get my hands on this massive game!<br />
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I only wish, again, I could have backed it at a higher level - but I threw my $1 into the kitty so I would be able to order a T-shirt later. Now I just need to save up for the game itself which is expect to clock in at $100!<br />
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So, fellow gamers, it looks like we've got two fantastic games headed our way soon! Keep your eyes peeled for <b>Zombicide</b> from <b>CoolMiniorNot</b> and <b>Ogre: Designer's Edition</b> from <b>Steve Jackson Games</b>!<br />
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<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-39521487675433893992012-04-30T11:37:00.000-07:002012-04-30T11:37:09.378-07:00Release the Hordes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been looking forward to the month of May for quite awhile now for several reasons. <b>The Avengers</b> comes out this weekend. The <b>Origins Game Fair</b> is later this month. But, another reason that I've been excited for May is the scheduled release of the <b>Trollblood Warpack</b> starter box featuring plastic models instead of metal. And, that means I will finally be playing me some <b>Hordes</b>!<br />
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<b>Hordes</b>, of course, comes from the creative minds at <b>Privateer Press</b>. <b>Privateer Press</b> also produces the mega-popular <b>Warmachine</b> miniatures game. I've been circling <b>Warmachine</b> since around 2005 or so. I loved the look of the steampunk-y fantasy world that <b>Privateer</b> had created. That's huge for me. The world of the game is really, at the end of the day, more important to me than the actual mechanics of the game. The world of the <b>Iron Kingdoms</b> that <b>Privateer</b> first introduced to the gaming world through some D20 RPG supplements was unlike anything games had seen up to that point.<br />
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But, for some reason, I just couldn't get into <b>Warmachine</b>. The game didn't seem to have much traction in the area, and I found myself less and less interested in assembling metal models. I especially didn't want to work on models that you had to pin in order to keep them together. So, I moved on to other games.<br />
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<b>Privateer Press</b> soon introduced us to <b>Hordes</b>, a complimentary game based more in the wilds of the <b>Warmachine</b> world. I still remember seeing the <b>Next Big Thing</b> ads on the back of <b>No Quarter</b> magazine that was promised to be unveiled at <b>Gen Con</b> of that year. <b>Hordes</b> was an amazing expansion to the world and introduced several new factions including the monstrous <b>Trollkin</b> and their ilk. But, I still didn't want metal. So, no <b>Hordes</b> for me.<br />
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Flashforward to the present. <b>Privateer Press</b> has, in the past couple years, started producing some of their kits in plastic, much to my pleasure. Now, I had been hoping that <b>Privateer</b> would produce a plastic starter box for the <b>Retribution of Scyrah.</b>..at which point I'd start playing <b>Warmachine</b>. But, apparently, for some reason, it appears <b>Retribution</b> isn't fated to get such a starter. But, then I saw that plastic starters were starting to come out for <b>Hordes</b> as well, and the <b>Trollkin</b> started calling to me.<br />
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According to the <b>War Store</b>, the plastic warpack for the <b>Trollbloods</b> is due out on May 9th. That is just around the corner! I've got my fingers crossed that date is accurate.<br />
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So, if everything aligns just right, this is the month that I will finally be delving into the world of <b>Hordes</b>! And, I cannot freakin' wait!<br />
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<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-84871318206681815272012-04-28T13:31:00.002-07:002012-04-28T13:31:51.583-07:00Games Workshop Comes to Columbus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today was the Grand Opening of the <b>Games Workshop</b> store in Columbus, Ohio. It's a pretty small store in one of the strip malls along Sancus Boulevard in the Polaris area. But, small though it may be it was packed full of product and excited fans this afternoon when the doors opened early just before noon.<br />
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I arrived about a quarter 'til noon on this unseasonably chilly and wet April morning. But there were still about 30 dedicated <b>GW</b> players huddled in line waiting to check out the new store and meet the staff there. That number increased once the doors opened and soon the place was just packed. It made it a bit difficult to move around and check out the various offerings, but it was great to see so many folks come out for the opening event.<br />
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Up front, near the windows, was an Order Point station. Need to order something that the store is out of stock on? No problem. You can take care of that right on this handle terminal. Need an item that's only available online? No problem. Again, you can order it here and have it shipped right to the store. Very convenient.<br />
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With several items only available online currently, this is a very handy service offered by the store. You can order your online items, and come in and buy them together with in stock items at the store in one handy transaction.<br />
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There were several events scheduled to take place today. There was a <b>Conversion Contest</b> to test your model making skills and creativity; a <b>Space Marine Painting Contest</b> and scenarios for <b>Warhammer Fantasy</b>, <b>40K</b> and <b>Lord of the Rings</b>.<br />
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Speaking of <b>Lord of the Rings</b>: one of the reasons I'm excited about the store is that other stores in the area don't carry much of the <b>Games Workshop Lord of the Rings Strategy Battles Game</b> line at the moment. I expect we'll see some upswing as we get closer to the release of <b>The Hobbit</b> (pt 1) this December, but right now it's difficult to find product in stores. So, seeing shelves full of <b>LOTR</b> models did my heart good. I'd love to get into this game. Ironically, they did not have the core rulebook for the <b>Strategy Battles Game</b> in stock. They did, however, have the recently released army books as well as the other previously released supplements.<br />
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I'm really jonesin' to pick up the <b>Mines of Moria</b> set soon.<br />
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There were three tables set up for games. These aren't full-sized tables. I expect these will utilized more for teaching new players how to play, or possibly some small in store gaming events. Either way, it's great to see some playing space given the relatively small size of the shop.<br />
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Merchandise surrounds you on the two side walls and the far back wall (the storefront, of course, is dominated by windows). There is a display case just inside the front door containing a variety of painted models. Some beautiful work there.<br />
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In additional to models for the three core games, there was a large selection of paints and hobby supplies. There was also a nice selection of <b>Black Library</b> novels (which seemed to skew more towards <b>40K</b>, but I expect those novels are bigger sellers than the Fantasy ones). I even saw some books from <b>Forge World</b>, which should make those a bit more obtainable for local players.<br />
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I'm sure there's the question in the minds of some players and retailers of how the presence of this store will affect other local game stores. That's a valid concern and one that, as a former game retailer myself, I get. I think, however, that the location is far enough from existing shops that it shouldn't adversely affect sales in the area. The limited playing space means that players will still be hitting thier usual haunts for regular games and tournaments. Hopefully the store can be a place that helps to create new players to feed into the local gaming communities of Central Ohio.<br />
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As a newbie <b>Games Workshop</b> player, I'm pretty excited to see this store open. I'm looking forward to getting in there soon and speaking more with the manager, Josh, about the store and what he hopes to see in the future.<br />
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<b>Games Workshop</b> is located at: <b>8653 Sancus Blvd, Columbus, Ohio</b>. Their phone # is: <b>1-800-394-4263</b>. Like them on <b>Facebook</b> at: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GWCapellaCentre"><b>www.facebook.com/GWCapellaCentre</b></a><br />
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And, tell 'em <b>The Rural Gamer</b> sent ya! <br />
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<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-15703020494237127482012-04-26T13:11:00.003-07:002012-04-26T13:11:38.432-07:00This and That...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, it has certainly been awhile since my last posting to <b>The Rural Gamer</b>. I'm still rural. And, I'm still gaming ('though not nearly enough as I'd like). But, life has it's ways of redirecting your priorities and that's what's been going on here.<br />
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Just to catch you all up to speed, I'm neck deep in a job search. Some of you may know that I used to be a pastor, and am looking to do so again. That's where the majority of my time has been dedicated lately. The search began in earnest this past January, which - amazingly enough - is when I last posted here. Funny how that works out. The search goes on, but I'm making a concerted effort to keep blogging about all things gaming...from a more rural perspective.<br />
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I've gotten several games lately that I've yet to get to the game table: <b>Mage Knight</b> from <b>Wizkids</b>, <b>War of the Ring 2ed</b> from <b>Ares Games</b> as well as the new <b>Wings of Glory WW2 Starter</b> from <b>Ares Games</b>. I hope to get those to the table soon. I'm dying to play <b>War of the Ring</b> especially, and so glad to finally have that in my collection.<br />
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I have played a little <b>Lord of the Rings: The Card Game</b> from <b>Fantasy Flight Games</b>, <b>Summoner Wars</b> from <b>Plaid Hat Games</b> and got to play <b>Wizards of the Coast's Castle Ravenloft</b> boardgame just this past week. Those were all good times!<br />
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I'm finally going to be getting into <b>Hordes</b> with the impending release of the plastic <b>Trollbloods Warpack</b> starter box in early May. I've had the books for ever, but have just been waiting for the plastics. Yeah, I'm one of those weird gamers who prefers plastic to metal. Maybe it's from my toy collecting background, I don't know. But, yeah, plastic is where it's at for me when it comes to games, with resin being a close second and metal a distant third (or necessary evil).<br />
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Convention Season is rapidly approaching. For me that means <b>Origins Game Fair</b> in <b>Columbus, Ohio</b> and <b>Gen Con</b> in <b>Indianapolis, Indiana</b>. I expect to be at both shows covering them for <b>The Rural Gamer</b> and <b>Action Figure Insider</b> (the other place I hang my writer's cap online). I'm very much looking forward to both shows.<br />
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And, lastly, this coming Saturday sees the Grand Opening of Columbus, Ohio's very own <b>Games Workshop</b> store. The store opens <b>Saturday, April 28th</b> at <b>noon</b> and is located at <b>8653 Sancus Blvd</b> (which is between Polaris and Lazelle). Come on out for the opening festivities if you are a local <b>GW</b> player or just want to check it out!Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-38806296592313589052012-01-05T13:09:00.000-08:002012-01-05T13:25:56.030-08:00Champions Clash in 2012<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKb5M_17yuZz777Lw_1qUsU8U-CrNMHNDKLeXZWgQi3ZAPksh-Pri-uaZptZ1qqSEPTt-bK1dQfVl4TDg35mpC79KOMp1vw3DlL4rJiRKsEOO_kzL9K4fe72HbBzA69BomeONJL_ON8Cd/s1600/coc_3d_box_smd_0.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKb5M_17yuZz777Lw_1qUsU8U-CrNMHNDKLeXZWgQi3ZAPksh-Pri-uaZptZ1qqSEPTt-bK1dQfVl4TDg35mpC79KOMp1vw3DlL4rJiRKsEOO_kzL9K4fe72HbBzA69BomeONJL_ON8Cd/s320/coc_3d_box_smd_0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694262256097648050" border="0" /></a><br />I'll admit it. I'm on a bit of a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warcraft</span> kick right now. I've long been a fan of the original <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warcraft</span> computer real-time-strategy games. I recently dug out <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warcraft III</span> and have been enjoying the heck out of playing that. I dig the world and lore of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Azeroth</span> and the look and feel that <span style="font-weight: bold;">Blizzard Entertainment</span> has created for the world of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warcraft</span>.<br /><br />Thanks to a friend dumping his collection of old <span style="font-weight: bold;">Upper Deck World of Warcraft TCG </span>cards on me, I've got a bunch of cards but have never played the TCG. Always thought I might try it, but the opportunity never arose...and frankly, I never put much effort into seeking it out.<br /><br />I loved the entirely too-shortlived <span style="font-weight: bold;">World of Warcraft Miniatures Game</span> (also from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Upper Deck</span>). But, sadly the game seemed to be mishandled and died a premature death.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cryptozoic.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cryptozoic</span></a> took over the TCG when <span style="font-weight: bold;">Upper Deck</span> lost the license a couple years back, and from all appearances seem to be doing a great job with it. It remains tempting. But, then <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cryptozoic</span> announced an all-new <span style="font-weight: bold;">World of Warcraft</span> card game for 2012: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Clash of Champions</span>, a <span style="font-style: italic;">deck building</span> game. Here's what <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cryptozoic</span> says about the game:<br /><br /><div class="content"> <p> <em></em></p><blockquote><p><em>World of Warcraft:</em> <em>Clash of Champions</em> takes deck-building games to a whole new level!</p> <p> Players take on the role of some of the most iconic Heroes of the Warcraft universe, including <strong>Thrall</strong>, <strong>Jaina</strong>, <strong>King Varian</strong>, <strong>Garrosh</strong>, <strong>Sylvanas</strong>, and <strong>King Magni</strong>. When Epic Raid Bosses like <strong>Onyxia</strong>, <strong>Ragnaros</strong>, and <strong>The Lich King</strong> are defeated, your Heroes level up! Each Hero comes with four special cards that are unique to that Hero. When your Hero levels up, you get to add one of these exclusive cards to your deck. Every game plays out differently, and every Hero provides a new, customizable game experience!</p> <p> Acquire Epic Loot, defeat monsters, and take on Raid Bosses that strike fear into the hearts of mortal men!</p></blockquote><p></p><p>Sounds pretty cool to me, actually! Part of what keeps me out of the TCG is the long history the game already has. Here's the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of something. The game is supposed to retail for <span style="font-weight: bold;">$44.99</span> but you get a bunch of stuff for the money:</p><ul><li> 423 Game Cards <ul><li> 24 Unique Hero Ability Cards</li><li> <div> 56 Starting Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 126 Item Cards (9 each of 14 different cards)</div> </li><li> <div> 126 Monster Cards (9 each of 14 different cards)</div> </li><li> <div> 3 Gathering of Legends Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 9 Epic Boss Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 32 Boss Loot Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 20 Poison Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 26 Randomizer Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 1 Deleted Stack Card</div> </li></ul> </li><li> <div> 6 Oversized Hero Cards</div> </li><li> <div> 1 Rulebook</div> </li></ul><p>I'm definitely going to keep my eye on this one!</p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Clash of Champions</span> can be played in 30 minutes with 2-4 players. I admit I'm disappointed there is no solo mode, as that would ensure it getting to the table more often. It's due out in early 2012. I believe I heard a February date bandied about, but in the gaming world the release date is the date you actually see it in your local shop!</p><p>So, if you're a fan of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warcraft</span> franchise, or of deck-building games, keep a lookout for <span style="font-weight: bold;">World of Warcraft: A Clash of Champions</span>.<br /></p></div>Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-81769570006484334122011-12-09T05:32:00.000-08:002011-12-09T05:53:38.274-08:00Will Mars Attack the Tabletop in 2012?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLF7to9_WQgGosVGJJSQoH50HTQXZ1PYRAuIj-rkoHHSQ1BPTDemytnDnb90hGsk2BhFnHWgaVQZv1KU_PapRQgb_vCCNp0ye6MeW9Td8ZUqhbfDUyR5blon0buGtf4ezGfhJgoG-FT4b/s1600/IDWteaser.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 314px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLF7to9_WQgGosVGJJSQoH50HTQXZ1PYRAuIj-rkoHHSQ1BPTDemytnDnb90hGsk2BhFnHWgaVQZv1KU_PapRQgb_vCCNp0ye6MeW9Td8ZUqhbfDUyR5blon0buGtf4ezGfhJgoG-FT4b/s320/IDWteaser.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684121318947524754" border="0" /></a>Topps is looking to bring their <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mars Attacks</span> property back in a big way in 2012. It's the 50th Anniversary of the creepily cool trading card series that was the inspiration of the 1996 movie directed by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tim Burton</span>, and Topps wants to celebrate.<br /><br />According to the press release "major product launches" are planned throughout 2012 and beyond. I, for one, am looking forward to what's coming our way. Already announced are a comic book series from <span style="font-weight: bold;">IDW</span> and a new toyline from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mezco</span>.<br /><br />But, the reason I am mentioning any of this here is the (completely unfounded) hope that <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mars Attacks</span> could make it's way to the tabletop in some form. Some may argue that it already has. Unofficially, anyways. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Martians!!!</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Twilight Creations</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Invasion from Outer Space</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Flying Frog Productions</span> owe heavily to the original artwork from the trading cards. But, I'm hoping from something new. Something licensed. And, of course, something <span style="font-weight: bold;">good</span> (not saying the other games aren't good).<br /><br />I think <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span> would be a fantastic fit for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mars Attacks</span>...but, given the history between <span style="font-weight: bold;">Topps</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> I don't know if that would happen. But, it could be very cool. A board game could be cool, depending upon the publisher.<br /><br />All I know is that in 2012 I am going to be reading <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mars Attacks</span> comics, collecting a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mars Attacks</span> toyline and wanting to play a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mars Attacks</span> game. I just hope someone in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Topps</span> licensing department is thinking the same thing!<br /><br />Anyone interested in following the relaunch of this classic property should check out the official <span style="font-weight: bold;">Facebook</span> page found right <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarsAttacks"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-69082139528765511492011-11-29T08:45:00.000-08:002011-11-29T09:27:18.668-08:00Flying the Unfriendly SkiesFirst off, allow me to apologize for the sporadic updates lately here at <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rural Gamer</span>. I started working at a local bookstore, and after three years of not work it's taken some time to adjust to the schedule and managing that along with family life, and winding down livestock season here on our little farm. But, I'm striving to keep this place updated and relevant. With that being said...<br /><br />There seems to be a glut of games coming out between now and the end of the year that I've been really excited about. That, of course, has it's good points and it's bad points. On the good side of things, it's more games! Yea! On the bad side of things, I need to have the money to spend on said games...and there's this little holiday called Christmas that's barreling down on us like a freight train. It can be a dilemma.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4aXViCdfTfg-j_hyphenhyphen_Z9DzZBwTWN-sGCLj-SPcxsZZGRpTxNeRTgzT3M5B7fhT7fNKc7TNzuRvsDQozFvRvkSaE3qE8mSXOq672l3BQ7s3QP9uexwNwK42cW3NDrXlYl-OsqHTWj7Y7GLi/s1600/ag_wog_ww1start.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 316px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4aXViCdfTfg-j_hyphenhyphen_Z9DzZBwTWN-sGCLj-SPcxsZZGRpTxNeRTgzT3M5B7fhT7fNKc7TNzuRvsDQozFvRvkSaE3qE8mSXOq672l3BQ7s3QP9uexwNwK42cW3NDrXlYl-OsqHTWj7Y7GLi/s320/ag_wog_ww1start.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680469893397707474" border="0" /></a>However, topping that list is the latest version of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span>, now called <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span>, a game of aerial combat set in either WWI or WWII, was originally produced by Italian game company <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nexus</span>, and brought to the US market by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy Flight Games</span>. A year or so back the rights reverted back to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nexus</span>, and they formed a new company <span style="font-weight: bold;">NG International</span> and distributed their games worldwide themselves. However, that was to be short lived as <span style="font-weight: bold;">NG International</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nexus</span> folded earlier this year.<br /><br />Out of the ashes was born <a href="http://www.aresgames.eu/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span></a>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span>, as I've previously blogged about, bought the rights to produce the <span style="font-weight: bold;">War of the Ring</span> boardgame, and then in September they announced they'd be bringing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span> back to the market under the new title, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span>. It was promised the new game would be fully compatible with previously released products.<br /><br />The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Starter Box</span> for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span> was originally targeted for a November release, which slipped into December and currently the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span> website is listing it as coming out in January. While I can't wait to get the game in my hot little gamer hands, this is not a problem. It puts it past Christmas, which is a good thing financially. Also, I would rather wait for a game produced correctly, than something rushed to market prematurely.<br /><br />The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Starter Box</span> is set in the WWII period, and features 4 planes. On the Allied side we have the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Curtis P-40 Warhawk</span> and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Yakovlev Yak-1</span>, and for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Axis</span> powers there are the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Reggiane Re.2001 Falco II</span> and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien</span>. Additional plane models will follow.<br /><br />(<span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span> is also currently at work on the <span style="font-weight: bold;">World War I</span> version of the game, as well as a naval battle game called <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sails of Glory</span> due out in 2012. The initial focus of the game is said to be in the Napoleonic Wars era.)<br /><br />Of course, one of the biggest obstacles to getting into any new game is finding other people with whom to play. Thankfully, that's where the good folks at the <a href="http://www.wingsofwar.org/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory Aerodrome</span></a> come in. The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Aerodrome</span> is an absolutely <span style="font-style: italic;">fantastic</span> site devoted to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span>/<span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span>. Through this site you can find other players all around the world. Fortunately for me there seems to be a veritable hotbed of Ohio-based players. So, if you are at all interested in this game, you need to do yourself a favor and check out the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Aerodrome</span>. You'll be glad you did.<br /><br />Look for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory WWII Starter Set</span> in stores in <span style="font-weight: bold;">January 2012</span>. You can download the new rulebook on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares'</span> website <a href="http://www.aresgames.eu/get/WGS001-Rulebook_EN_web.pdf"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-56943068351640238972011-11-21T14:52:00.000-08:002011-11-21T15:23:27.569-08:00There and Back Again<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjeL3T7z5imTNvLuquwAMkNRHFzzU1D-X3R67Vnhkg2QuvIgVCfL2ZGk_FyyZ29SSFmR4CVu76tqYbQ0WgodhcXaha6gJR2HSaO5Ec-zmPoZeHaBqbMbV71cJ20Wexg3Pmga4oTkeQKXkS/s1600/wk_lotrclix_logo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjeL3T7z5imTNvLuquwAMkNRHFzzU1D-X3R67Vnhkg2QuvIgVCfL2ZGk_FyyZ29SSFmR4CVu76tqYbQ0WgodhcXaha6gJR2HSaO5Ec-zmPoZeHaBqbMbV71cJ20Wexg3Pmga4oTkeQKXkS/s320/wk_lotrclix_logo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677588389594550194" border="0" /></a>Gaming of all kinds gains inspiration from a variety of sources either directly or indirectly. Perhaps nothing has influenced gaming more than <span style="font-weight: bold;">J.R.R. Tolkien's</span> epic saga <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lord of the Rings</span>.<br /><br />The original <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dungeons and Dragons</span> role-playing game, back in the 1970s, was heavily influenced by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tolkien's</span> fantasy setting. Humans, dwarves, elves, orcs and halflings co-mingling in a fantastical milieu full of magic, dragons and the eternal struggle between good and evil can all be traced to the stories of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tolkien</span> (which in turn had their own influences, but that's neither here nor there right now).<br /><br />The latest game to be directly spawned out of the stories of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Middle Earth</span> is <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lord of the Rings Heroclix</span> by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span>. While some may have rolled their eyes at the announcement, I was pretty darn excited by it. You see, back in 2003 <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sabretooth Games</span> (a now defunct subsidiary of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Games Workshop</span>) released <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lord of the Rings Tradeable Miniatures Game</span>. I was just starting to get back into gaming, and was already a fan of Wizkids' Heroclix game. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Games Workshop</span> had already released their <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lord of the Rings Strategy Game</span>, but I wasn't interested in painting up miniatures at that point. <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lord of the Rings TMG</span>,with it's pre-painted miniatures, seemed right up my alley.<br /><br />Through the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sabretooth</span> forums I was able to find another local player, and we would meet up periodically at a local game store and have a great time playing the game. But, the game didn't last long and soon passed the way of many a collectible game.<br /><br />So here we are a good 8 years later, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> is bringing out a new <span style="font-weight: bold;">LOTR</span> game feature pre-painted miniatures and using their <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span> ruleset.<br /><br />The only downside is it was originally supposed to be released next week, but got pushed back to the first week of December.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> also has a <span style="font-weight: bold;">LOTR</span>-based boardgame in the works where players take on the role of the black riders trying to track down the Fellowship and stop them before they reach Mount Doom. I believe this one is slated for an early 2012 release.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_STtYxd-B5TdDVpn5STX0MPrjL_AQQtjq22pB2p7mN3wg6xUJet_ptPSfkUEYhCvZrEm53WPqZz5VhEG7SuZJDb-0AdztYsYh_HJGEMuqNA6Jcn1gaMks0X2TQFo5h9ZAfIq44e17SCs/s1600/ares_waroftheringbox"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_STtYxd-B5TdDVpn5STX0MPrjL_AQQtjq22pB2p7mN3wg6xUJet_ptPSfkUEYhCvZrEm53WPqZz5VhEG7SuZJDb-0AdztYsYh_HJGEMuqNA6Jcn1gaMks0X2TQFo5h9ZAfIq44e17SCs/s320/ares_waroftheringbox" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677592557798433858" border="0" /></a><br />On the subject of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tolkien</span>-inspired games, newcomer <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> is releasing an updated version of the classic, and well-regarded, boardgame <span style="font-weight: bold;">The War of the Ring</span>. This is another game that I've wanted for years, but it was out-of-print. So, I'm really happy to see <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span> releasing a new edition of the game. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span> has been publishing a series of articles on their site chronicling the development of this new edition. <span style="font-weight: bold;">War of the Ring</span> is expected to be in stores in <span style="font-weight: bold;">December</span>. You can check those out here: <a href="http://www.aresgames.eu/games/war-of-the-ring-line"><span style="font-weight: bold;">http://www.aresgames.eu/games/war-of-the-ring-line</span><br /></a><br />Between <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lord of the Rings Heroclix</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">War of the Ring</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lord of the Rings Strategy Game</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lord of the Rings Living Card Game</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">The One Ring RPG</span> it's a fantastic time for gamers who are fans of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tolkien</span>, and gamers in general!Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-79549250992359997282011-09-30T10:54:00.000-07:002011-09-30T11:09:03.949-07:00DC Fans! Wizkids Wants Your Input!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="font-weight: bold;" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-HF7M-1UuynxZgXffa85dYAhyRpqa6RSPyTBuPjJe-9HqTmgOAf_Se8TcjO_YIroc76y7KpSPEMwMkM9PMkChj7CABDcYKB3Tb8_1by9k08PWYFmCdZ-xUElPulnSQCi3CIU2j76WTsz/s1600/DC-FanVote-sml.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-HF7M-1UuynxZgXffa85dYAhyRpqa6RSPyTBuPjJe-9HqTmgOAf_Se8TcjO_YIroc76y7KpSPEMwMkM9PMkChj7CABDcYKB3Tb8_1by9k08PWYFmCdZ-xUElPulnSQCi3CIU2j76WTsz/s320/DC-FanVote-sml.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5658212850564962898" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> is looking to the fans to see which character should be included in the next <span style="font-weight: bold;">DC</span>-themed <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span> set due out in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summer 2012</span>!<br /><br />The first round of voting, which includes 12 characters, is open now and closes on October 5. Round One will narrow the field down to 6 characters. Round Two will narrow the choices down to 3 characters. Finally, the last round of voting will choose the character to appear in the next set.<br /><br />The initial choices are: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Big Barda</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amazo</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Captain Atom</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fire</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kanjar Ro</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Starfire</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Star</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gentleman Ghost</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kyle Raynor</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Blue Lantern</span>), <span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Tornado</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sand</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thorn</span>. Who will make the cut? The choice is up to you! (Personally, I voted for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Captain Atom</span>).<br /><br />Outside of the contest, we now know the next <span style="font-weight: bold;">DC Comics Heroclix</span> set is quite a ways off. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summer 2012</span>? That's a long time! I'm willing to bet that the next set will be showcasing the new look sported by most DC characters as a result of the relaunch of the entire <span style="font-weight: bold;">DC Comics</span> line this month. I know the relaunch caught many <span style="font-weight: bold;">DC</span>-licensees, such as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mattel</span>, a bit by surprise causing the shuffling of product release plans. I don't know for a fact that this is the case with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span>, but it seems to be a reasonable assumption.<br /><br />In the meantime there's lots of other <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span> to enjoy! And, don't forget to vote! To cast your vote go to: <a href="http://heroclix.com/heroclix/dc-fan-vote/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">http://heroclix.com/heroclix/dc-fan-vote</span></a>/, select your favorite character and hit the submit button. Simple as that.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-55080055537216504342011-09-12T13:37:00.000-07:002011-09-12T13:55:31.267-07:00A Call to Arms: Star Fleet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9p85cYnGFS4HKGrkFdJxat_yavP2MUkBNrVDNJMrqRogazqdSz8RF8MYXeY2sgmJgonRc8oAhraCRaEYOfy8xnQAcjlVshtjTU_Vquv_UwLJJly_d_8jbLJbO-xKcyXKiDlSR6vnqVQaz/s1600/mon_actasf_cvr.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9p85cYnGFS4HKGrkFdJxat_yavP2MUkBNrVDNJMrqRogazqdSz8RF8MYXeY2sgmJgonRc8oAhraCRaEYOfy8xnQAcjlVshtjTU_Vquv_UwLJJly_d_8jbLJbO-xKcyXKiDlSR6vnqVQaz/s320/mon_actasf_cvr.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651575316610137714" border="0" /></a>Earlier this year <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amarillo Design Bureau</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose Publishing </span>announced a partnership to produce a new game set in <span style="font-weight: bold;">ADB's Star Fleet Universe</span> and based upon <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose's</span> popular <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms</span> starship combat rules set.<br /><br />The result is <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span>. It's due this November and it just be my most anticipated game of the year.<br /><br />Seriously.<br /><br />I love <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Trek</span>, and have since it first aired back in the 60s. I wanted to love <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span>, the venerable star ship combat game set in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Universe</span>...but it just was for me. Too much minutia to manage for my tastes. It's a good game, but just not my style.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Federation Commander</span> was released back in 2005 and it presented a simpler (but not simple!) set of rules, and brought in an entire new fanbase. I played one basic game of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fed Comm</span> a few years back at my store, and have been meaning to get back to it but just never did.<br /><br />But then, this year, two big announcements were made that piqued my interest. ADB and Mongoose announced <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> announced <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Trek: Fleet Captains</span>. Both were exciting, but I didn't really need two ship combat games...especially ones that were basically in the same setting ('though with significant differences). But, as details about each became clearer...and, especially after playing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Trek: Fleet Captains</span> at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>...I learned that they were two entirely different games.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span> is a pure star ship miniatures combat game, whereas the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> game is more of a exploration/combat boardgame. Entirely different.<br /><br />I never played a game of <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms</span>, but got a review copy of the main rule book that I still need to review and post soon. However, from a cursory reading I like what I see. I'm really excited about the possibilities of <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span> as well as the all-new CAD designed resin minis that <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose</span> is producing to go along with the new game. They're slightly larger that <span style="font-weight: bold;">ADB's Starline 2400</span> series of minis, and producing them in resin is a nice move, in my opinion.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span> should be in stores in November, with the first miniatures arriving shortly thereafter in December.<br /><br />Check out <a href="http://www.mongoosepublishing.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">www.mongoosepublishing.com</span></a> for more informationJeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-64467082122695545762011-09-02T11:41:00.000-07:002011-09-02T12:54:35.747-07:00Ares Games Keeps 'Em FlyingBack in July we had some relatives come out from California to visit us here in Central Ohio. While they were here one thing they really wanted to do was visit the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/">National Museum of the United States Air Force</a> in Dayton. I've been wanting to go there for the past decade that I've lived here in Ohio, so this seemed like the perfect opportunity.
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<br />The place was immense and so interesting. Well, this blog isn't about family trips...it's about gaming, right? Well, upon coming out of the museum I found myself really wanting to get into <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nexus Games' Wings of War</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span> started out as a card based game (and was published in the US by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy Flight Games</span>), but over time morphed into a miniatures game as well. There's two versions of the game. One is set in World War I, while the other is set in the skies during WWII.
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<br />It was almost immediately following that visit to the museum that <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nexus Games</span> announced they were shutting down operations. Now, I know that there's a bunch of existing Wings of War product out there in stores...but, hearing the company was shutting down really put a damper on my enthusiasm. And, really, like I need yet another game to play? I don't have time for the games I already play, right?
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiEkXkz__k18b7AhtpcqvwRhQuDy6E8ZvdOL5G6xgVkjt4MrbklaXQyjjjqIMIkuzLXlN40FfjeiVDPJUV05u2w7miVBHa7HtwF-Axru9Rl0yots1vU-eRBhfjfumC5MH0R5cKLM8CLNm/s1600/aresLogo_lg.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiEkXkz__k18b7AhtpcqvwRhQuDy6E8ZvdOL5G6xgVkjt4MrbklaXQyjjjqIMIkuzLXlN40FfjeiVDPJUV05u2w7miVBHa7HtwF-Axru9Rl0yots1vU-eRBhfjfumC5MH0R5cKLM8CLNm/s320/aresLogo_lg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647852291136624002" border="0" /></a>Shortly thereafter a new player emerged in the European gaming scene: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span> announced that they'd be picking up the rights to another popular <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nexus</span> game: <span style="font-weight: bold;">War of the Ring</span> (based, of course, upon the classic works of <span style="font-weight: bold;">J.R.R. Tolkien</span>). Was this a glimmer of hope for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span>? Would <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> also pick up the pieces to this game as well?
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<br />Well, just yesterday, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> issued a press release announcing they reached an agreement to produce <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span> under a new name: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span>.
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<br /><blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games reaches an agreement with Andrea Angiolino e Pier Giorgio Paglia to publish the game "Wings of Glory"</span>
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> The best selling game of WWI and WWII aerial combat comes back with a</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"> new name</span>
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<br />Camaiore, Italy – September 1, 2011 - Ares Games, a Tuscany-based games publisher recently established, announces an agreement with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Andrea Angiolino</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pier Giorgio Paglia</span>, the authors of the best selling game that recreates aerial combat during the WWI and WWII, formerly published with the name <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Wings of War"</span>.
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> will publish the game under a new brand, <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Wings of Glory"</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span> will be published with a new rulebook, while maintaining compatibility with the previous <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span> products already in the market.
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> "We are happy to be partnering with Andrea and Pier Giorgio to bring this wonderful game system to market."</span> said <span style="font-weight: bold;">Christoph Cianci</span>, CEO of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">"Thousands of fans worldwide will be pleased to know that their planes and maneuver cards from </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Wings of War</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> will be compatible with the new <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span>."</span>
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<br />Initially, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> will focus on developing new miniatures for the game, but also plans to release new starter sets.
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"This game has a very strong and loyal fan base around the world, which gave and will surely continue to give a great help to the success of our game with their support and creativity. They have high expectations of it, in spite of several attempts to imitate it with other settings and chrome,"</span> stated <span style="font-weight: bold;">Andrea Angiolino</span>, co-creator of the game. <span style="font-style: italic;">"We chose to partner with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> because we believe they understand our game, and that they will take care of the wishes of its fans, as well as be respectful of its creators."</span>
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<br />The first <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span> products to be released will be four airplanes for the WWII game series: the <span style="font-weight: bold;">American P40</span>, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Russian Yak-1</span>, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Japanese Ki-61</span> and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Italian Re-2001 Falco</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Game</span>s will publish a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Starter Set</span> with these four models, containing the introductory rules and all other elements needed to start play. The complete schedule of the next releases will be announced soon.
<br />With this announcement, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> now publishes two important games from Italian creators that have achieved international recognition. In July, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares Games</span> aquired the rights from Sophisticated Games to publish the award-winning board game<span style="font-weight: bold;"> "War of the Ring"</span>, based on the <span style="font-weight: bold;">J.R.R.Tolkien's</span> trilogy, <span style="font-weight: bold;">"The Lord of the RingsTM</span>", and created by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Roberto Di Meglio</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Francesco Nepitello</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marco Maggi</span>. A new edition of the game, in English, will be available this Fall, with other language editions forecasted for Spring 2012.
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<br />So, there you have it. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War</span> lives on in a new incarnation. Mad props to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ares</span> of saving these games from a far too early demise. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of Glory</span> is back on my gaming radar. I'll be keeping my eye out for the new starter set, and maybe even check out the folks at the <a href="http://www.wingsofwar.org/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wings of War Aerodrome</span></a> to get some games in!
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<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-29181518226100095022011-08-27T11:51:00.001-07:002011-08-27T12:11:04.119-07:00Seas of War<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsuFGKHbj2cmbrp-UI12xbk5CKjo4E8vlecYJvFYpSsoZwwvlD8BlL9Lr7AIXKK8JBwrWvlh7QYDZ8W8HSm38BXdGK4rmhJUhVEdHrFxS_pLj-duYFKPnihlPJUO3i7icyIp5o03A3RsE/s1600/warhammer-logo.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 77px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsuFGKHbj2cmbrp-UI12xbk5CKjo4E8vlecYJvFYpSsoZwwvlD8BlL9Lr7AIXKK8JBwrWvlh7QYDZ8W8HSm38BXdGK4rmhJUhVEdHrFxS_pLj-duYFKPnihlPJUO3i7icyIp5o03A3RsE/s400/warhammer-logo.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645610381540429714" border="0" /></a>
<br />The rumors are swirling.
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<br />There's been rumors and hush-hush whispers for awhile now of a new boxed set release from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Games Workshop</span> along the lines of their <span style="font-weight: bold;">Space Hulk</span> limited edition a year or two back. Over time the rumors began getting a bit more specific and centering around a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer Fantasy</span>-based naval combat game.
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<br />Just recently an image surfaced from a German-edition of <span style="font-weight: bold;">White Dwarf</span> magazine (the house organ of <span style="font-weight: bold;">GW</span>) of an ad for an upcoming release. No details. Just a full-page image of an undead pirate, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Count Noctilus</span> with brief text saying <span style="font-style: italic;">"For more information contact Captain Jaego Roth of the Heldenhammer"</span>. Yeah. Not much to go on.
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<br />But, then, there's the "inside sources" leaking information. So far what has been leaked is:
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<br /><ul><li>boxed set with "lots of ships"</li><li>one time release, no supplements nor follow-ups</li><li>four fleets in the box (High Elves, Orks, Empire, Vampires)</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Warmaster</span> scale (10mm)</li><li>the name is, apparently, <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Dread Fleet"</span></li></ul>
<br />Well, dang, if these rumors pan out I'm sold. I've wanted to add a naval battle game to my gaming repertoire, and I've been casually looking at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Uncharted Seas</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Spartan Games</span>, but as impressive as the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Uncharted Seas</span> models are (and only getting more so, especially with their new digital sculptures)...in my heart, I was wishing the game was set in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span> universe in which I already play.
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<br />So, I am very enthusiastically watching how this plays out. Right now it sounds fantastic!
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<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-90606428547131653242011-08-27T08:37:00.000-07:002011-08-27T08:46:51.881-07:00Hulk Smash Heroclix!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAlqpH8hLGvOtqTX6L2XydArn2cnAmsq3CN_iozOxeGaQHNj5I_2p1SI6P4hNHEEv55P3v6bTCPb5x1fjzsTLDhnAuhAAcTZ0Ytr9ioQoQ-wsoW6_8lV98Ysav0TkCW9G7-OcOocIUYtCG/s1600/trimpe_hulk.jpg">
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6Pa2O74oz4Hik6T5rMa0pvzkW7uXHMmMgh6BPt7iMxpK8vRLzLfOODwLLDX8sjqqWW2bBQ5jyZLXFdUa7lfGpoDk1iSytxeRKODMtmVnM4qQv4xbt8kxsnzH7yPHYHWVHf6dX51v6Ni2/s1600/hulk_logo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6Pa2O74oz4Hik6T5rMa0pvzkW7uXHMmMgh6BPt7iMxpK8vRLzLfOODwLLDX8sjqqWW2bBQ5jyZLXFdUa7lfGpoDk1iSytxeRKODMtmVnM4qQv4xbt8kxsnzH7yPHYHWVHf6dX51v6Ni2/s400/hulk_logo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645560054296010066" border="0" /></a>
<br />Life is funny sometimes.
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<br />I was just thinking the other day that one of my all-time favorite comic characters, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Incredible Hulk</span>, hasn't been well represented in <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Heroclix</span> lately. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hulk</span> was one of the characters I grew up on. This was before the classic television series starring <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bill Bixby</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lou Ferrigno</span>. This was back in the day when the comic was written by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bill Mantlo</span> and drawn by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Herb Trimpe</span> (soon followed by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sal Buscema</span>).
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<br />Well, lo and behold, mere days after thinking about the recent lack of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hulk</span> in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span>, it gets announced that the set following the upcoming <span style="font-weight: bold;">Superman</span> set would be called <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Incredible Hulk</span> and featuring the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ol' Jade Jaws</span> and his world. There will also be a sub-set of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hulked Out Heroes</span> featuring gamma-irradiated versions of other <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marvel</span> characters such as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Captain America</span>.
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<br />So, thank you <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> for sensing my want before I even knew I had it and bringing <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Incredible Hulk</span> back to the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span> tabletop in a BIG way! <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Incredible Hulk Heroclix</span> will be in stores <span style="font-weight: bold;">December 2011</span>.
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAlqpH8hLGvOtqTX6L2XydArn2cnAmsq3CN_iozOxeGaQHNj5I_2p1SI6P4hNHEEv55P3v6bTCPb5x1fjzsTLDhnAuhAAcTZ0Ytr9ioQoQ-wsoW6_8lV98Ysav0TkCW9G7-OcOocIUYtCG/s1600/trimpe_hulk.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAlqpH8hLGvOtqTX6L2XydArn2cnAmsq3CN_iozOxeGaQHNj5I_2p1SI6P4hNHEEv55P3v6bTCPb5x1fjzsTLDhnAuhAAcTZ0Ytr9ioQoQ-wsoW6_8lV98Ysav0TkCW9G7-OcOocIUYtCG/s400/trimpe_hulk.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645562668406476594" border="0" /></a>
<br />Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-91822306226122812402011-08-08T13:08:00.001-07:002011-08-08T14:01:52.136-07:00Gen Con 2011: The Experience<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uQDvhAX6fnGTNNgwXRB9A0By52vsJkUTWdyPv3k37DqpKRxk6yfpMyeCQI1LgTW5sT4wyxLOmLPA5GXZzJV4NGwz3lPgQLnG96_3qcaVVFACUSYK34Cg_QaAGAEdUx8EPm8JVbKyJQp3/s1600/gc11_d6crew.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0h1VYx_TDIIuRiLMl9uUkTcI9fZmiXyGEVZ_lX-Qk377VVMFdfFerrzkgr8Fbozk_JbbVc97mwnTh88AQVrs1N76ClPKgft3mqiiSNgRixoOkDxGSHHX8T0r8AbNN31HAUlopbjdS7dK9/s1600/gencon_logo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 396px; height: 171px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0h1VYx_TDIIuRiLMl9uUkTcI9fZmiXyGEVZ_lX-Qk377VVMFdfFerrzkgr8Fbozk_JbbVc97mwnTh88AQVrs1N76ClPKgft3mqiiSNgRixoOkDxGSHHX8T0r8AbNN31HAUlopbjdS7dK9/s400/gencon_logo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638582340121546226" /></a>
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<br /></div>I got home from <b>Gen Con</b> last night, and tomorrow I'm leaving with the family for a cabin in the middle of Nowhere, WV for a week. The dive hotel I stayed in while in Indianapolis didn't have internet, nor will the cabin we're at the rest of this week. So, while I could, I wanted to share some general thoughts about this years overall <b>Gen Con</b> experience.<div>
<br /></div><div>Like most things of this nature, my time at <b>Gen Con</b> had it's highs and lows. The lows, however, were all things beyond <b>Gen Con's</b> control and the direct result of bad decisions on my part.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>I drove from Ohio to Indiana early Friday morning. Not even an hour into the drive I got pulled over on Route 42 for speeding. This was extremely aggravating, as I actually was trying to be mindful of the speed limit. It was a very foggy morning in rural central Ohio. But, my mind must have wandered long enough for my foot to rest too heavily upon the gas pedal, and BAM! There were the flashing lights. Not good. After being issued a delightful speeding ticket, I was back on my way.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>The rest of the drive was much better. However, between being pulled over, a breakfast stop and a...ahem...potty stop, I got into Indy a bit later than planned. Parking downtown was already almost completely filled up. I finally found a garage that didn't say "FULL" near <b>Union Station</b> and jumped on the opportunity! It was already after 10:00am, and I still needed to walk to the convention center, pick up my badge and event tickets and get to the <b><a href="http://www.thed6generation.com/">D6 Generation's</a> Play by Mob</b> event at the <b>Westin</b> hotel by noon.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>As I was walking out of the parking garage, I noticed the sign that said all cars had to be out by 7:00pm. 7? Really? One of the events I was most looking forward to (<b>Street Fighter Heroclix Release Tournament</b>) was being held that night only at 6:00pm! Sure, I could have risked trying to move my car at some point during the day to another garage, but that was a) a sizeable risk giving the crowds and b) would have incured even more parking garage fees. So, in the end, I missed the event. And, I'll admit, it put a bit of a dark cloud over the day for me.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>However, I got my badge and made it to the <b>D6 Generation</b> event in plenty of time. I got to meet the crew (<b>Russ</b>, <b>Raef</b> and <b>Craig</b>) as well as <b>Russ'</b> wife, <b>Nicole</b> (be sure to check out <b><a href="http://www.totalfangirl.com/">Total Fan Girl</a></b>). I also met John from the <b><a href="http://www.gameonpodcast.com/">Game On! with Cody and John</a></b> podcast. The event was a total blast as the amassed crowd took on the part of 4 Space Marines (from <b>Warhammer 40K</b>) and <b>Craig</b> ran us through a <b>Deathwatch</b> scenario. It was crazy, and a lot of fun. This was followed by a brief Q&A time. It helped to disperse the dark cloud a bit...</div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uQDvhAX6fnGTNNgwXRB9A0By52vsJkUTWdyPv3k37DqpKRxk6yfpMyeCQI1LgTW5sT4wyxLOmLPA5GXZzJV4NGwz3lPgQLnG96_3qcaVVFACUSYK34Cg_QaAGAEdUx8EPm8JVbKyJQp3/s400/gc11_d6crew.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638586507178232866" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 277px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><b>The D6 Generation (Nicole, Raef, Russ & Craig) </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div>Following that I made my way to the <b>Exhibit Hall</b>. Now, the <b>Indiana Convention Center</b> has been undergoing some major expansion and renovation the past couple of years and the new areas were now opened up. The new Exhibit Hall was where the old <b>RCA Dome</b> was, and it was huge. It took a little getting used to the new layout. But, I pretty much started at one end and worked my way through the crowds and the booths. </div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnvOFupzt7bgqyUJMVptvPZbdJQ22ARmAQVzxgDhX8h_6lhs-BOd7hfYlKP-25a4ylZ3l0ZtG9JN7H0PCVS6NE8DjZymblssG-UPa9qlfyCJpP0IU7YRzw5IvzX8jmXx3vYBJ_wI0rfwA/s400/gc11_crowds.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638587324813394210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 277px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><b>Gamers were everywhere...</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'll go into more specific details by company next week, but as is always the case at <b>Gen Con</b> there was a ton to see! Honestly, it can be overwhelming. If you weren't already cognisant of the fact that there's "too many games, and too little time"...the <b>Gen Con Exhibit Hall</b> would drive that point home for you!</div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The <b>Fantasy Flight Games</b> booth was practically a convention unto itself. It was huge. But, again, I'll get into specifics next week.</div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My biggest disappoint from the convention was there was no <b>Battlelore</b> present in the <b>Fantasy Flight</b> booth. I spoke with an <b>FFG</b> employee who, without saying anything concrete, sure implied strongly that the game wasn't dead and that there would be announcements in the future. How far in the future? No telling. Honestly, I already have enough <b>Battlelore</b> stuff to play the game for years and years...but, I sure would like to see some new armies introduced to the game system (like <b>Elves</b>!).</div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The high point of the convention for me was playing in a <b>Pathfinder RPG</b> session being GM'd by <b>Greg A. Vaughan</b> (who's written a ton of <b>Dungeons & Dragons</b> and <b>Pathfinder</b> material for <b>Wizards of the Coast</b> and <b>Paizo</b>, respectively) and playing alongside <b>Anthony Pryor,</b> who is another RPG industry veteran. It was a lot of fun. I admit, I am sold on <b>Pathfinder</b>. I haven't played an RPG since the mid-90s (except for a brief dalliance with the <b>Star Wars RPG</b>). But, again, more on <b>Pathfinder</b> later.</div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'll end on this note. As I worked my way through the cavernous Exhibit Hall seeing all the new games being hawked by the various publishers, I realized something for myself. I found myself wanting to focus more on the games I was already playing, rather than giving into the gamer magpie tendency to gravitate to the latest and greatest. My one big purchase at the show was the <b>High Elves Battalion Box</b> for<b> Warhammer Fantasy Battles </b>that I picked up from <b>The Warstore</b>. I've been needing this for some time now, as it forms the backbone of my <b>High Elves</b> army. Now, armed with fresh birthday money it is finally mine! This gets me so much closer to a playable army. I also picked up the magic dice for the <b>WHFB: Storm of Magic</b> expansion, a new <b>Pathfinder RPG Adventure Path</b> (<b>Jade Regent Pt 1</b>). I picked up the <b>Pathfinder Tales</b> novel, <b>Prince of Wolves</b> from a local <b>Borders</b> that was closing up, too.</div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Of course, now I'm exhausted! But, it was totally worth it...</div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My apologies for this being so brief. Please be sure to check back next week for more from <b>Gen Con</b>.</div><div style="text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-50065968162292525732011-08-01T13:25:00.000-07:002011-08-01T14:12:28.734-07:00More Pathfinder Pre-Painted Minis Coming from Wizkids<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzPCAh0-sjZ8e7N5leBvwWdaDneXskl6bWxKb5SFczF89AUtV-hfgPeqIZXtCXADhw5T5cAfp7E_-SzKhp-LgIhVhEFmem0LAnNVz76XQQET_KgSaPewYnSJkagm9Z8BzLimghINVZ-2B/s1600/PathfinderBattles_360.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzPCAh0-sjZ8e7N5leBvwWdaDneXskl6bWxKb5SFczF89AUtV-hfgPeqIZXtCXADhw5T5cAfp7E_-SzKhp-LgIhVhEFmem0LAnNVz76XQQET_KgSaPewYnSJkagm9Z8BzLimghINVZ-2B/s400/PathfinderBattles_360.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635998398092846498" border="0" /></a><br />In the wake of the recent announcement of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pathfinder Beginner Box: Heroes</span> set of pre-painted miniatures for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pathfinder Role-Playing Game</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span>and Paizo Publishing issued a press release today announcing they've got more miniatures in the works. Read on!<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span><blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paizo Publishing</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">WizKids Games</span> announce <strong>Pathfinder Battles</strong>, a new ongoing prepainted miniatures brand to debut in December with <em><strong>Heroes & Monsters</strong></em>, a blind-packed, randomized set of 40 miniatures based on the smash-hit <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pathfinder Roleplaying Game</span>. Additional sets will follow throughout 2012 and beyond, including a 60-figure <strong>Rise of the Runelords </strong>set scheduled for June 2012. These sets join the already announced <strong style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://wizkidsgames.com/blog/2011/06/21/paizo-and-wizkids-reveal-pathfinder-prepainted-minis-details/">Pathfinder Beginner Box Heroes </a></strong>pack of four high-quality non-random prepainted plastic miniatures, due in <span style="font-weight: bold;">October 2011</span>. <p><span style="font-style: italic;">“Response to our initial </span><strong style="font-style: italic;">Pathfinder Beginner Box Heroes </strong><span style="font-style: italic;">set has been overwhelming,” </span>said <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lax Chandra</span>, President of <span style="font-weight: bold;">WizKids Games</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">“A full line of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pathfinder Battles</span> miniatures will enable us to provide gamers with a huge variety of figures based on the award-winning imagery of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pathfinder Roleplaying Game</span>.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-style: italic;">“<span style="font-weight: bold;">WizKids</span> continues to blow us away with their sculpts for the </span><strong style="font-style: italic;">Beginner Box Heroes </strong><span style="font-style: italic;">and </span><strong style="font-style: italic;">Heroes & Monsters </strong><span style="font-style: italic;">sets,”</span> said <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paizo</span> CEO <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lisa Stevens</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">“Every day we’ve been getting amazing images from the WizKids sculptors, and we cannot wait until these figures hit gaming tables all around the world.”</span></p> <p><strong>Pathfinder Battles </strong>prepainted fantasy miniatures will be available at <a href="http://www.paizo.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paizo.com</span></a> and through <span style="font-weight: bold;">WizKids</span> distribution partners worldwide starting in <span style="font-weight: bold;">December 2011</span>.</p></blockquote><p></p><p><br /></p>Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-16686763400142182432011-07-29T10:10:00.000-07:002011-07-29T10:44:50.427-07:00Yeah, I Admit It - I Bought the Smurfs Game<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEmCsQQBSrUfRaAxwsWbSaiUG2u10Su8WKeus1Jhmw4q7uF-cGM-KBfbqLBR2EsBM3ngWjb8gmcqb_Tkjt8eRPifcHWcp0FvB5jN2UR7MUwMbL6yIxd_39skTcVyE3trTCf-9YX2jcLvr/s1600/wk_smurfs.jpg"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS3F9snBb6JNKhPrp1A2i5RE1fl5GUf99teAL8BvfVHWjc2xzBybR69_fQ_izavnvnb0RtdAu2bxJf39qtGrrR6Taz_p9SOEQLgAbggYNrB5Kykgv8yuul6G2zenYVV6l4A4M2khM22XQZ/s1600/smurfs_logo_t230.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 230px; height: 97px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS3F9snBb6JNKhPrp1A2i5RE1fl5GUf99teAL8BvfVHWjc2xzBybR69_fQ_izavnvnb0RtdAu2bxJf39qtGrrR6Taz_p9SOEQLgAbggYNrB5Kykgv8yuul6G2zenYVV6l4A4M2khM22XQZ/s400/smurfs_logo_t230.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634826006698823490" border="0" /></a><br />Last night after my monthly game night at <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Guardtower</span> with my friend Dan I bought a new game from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs: No Smurf Left Behind</span>.<br /><br />I'll admit it. The 80s were a big time for me. It wouldn't be right for me to say that I'm a "child of the 80s" 'though. I was born in 1965. I'm more a child of the 70s, really. But, the pop culture of the 1980s was <span style="font-style: italic;">huge</span> in my my life. <span style="font-weight: bold;">He-Man and the Masters of the Universe</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">GI Joe</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thundercats</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles</span>. Those were huge to me, and still are.<br /><br />And, then there were the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span>. They were extremely prevalent back in the day. I watched the cartoon here and there, but never bought any <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> toys because they weren't articulated. I wanted my toys to be able to move and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> were just cute, static little guys (and girl) that really didn't have any play value.<br /><br />But, I did have a fondness for the little blue folk.<br /><br />So, here were are in 2011 and there's a big screen movie, <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs</span>, opening today. I don't expect we'll be hearing much about <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs</span> come the time for the Academy Award nominations to be announced. But, I am still looking forward to taking my daughter to see it at our local theater tomorrow. I've made it safely through two <span style="font-weight: bold;">Alvin and the Chipmunks</span> movies, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hop</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">G-Force</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cats & Dogs 2</span>. I think I'll be fine with <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs</span>. And, besides, my daughter is really excited about it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEmCsQQBSrUfRaAxwsWbSaiUG2u10Su8WKeus1Jhmw4q7uF-cGM-KBfbqLBR2EsBM3ngWjb8gmcqb_Tkjt8eRPifcHWcp0FvB5jN2UR7MUwMbL6yIxd_39skTcVyE3trTCf-9YX2jcLvr/s1600/wk_smurfs.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEmCsQQBSrUfRaAxwsWbSaiUG2u10Su8WKeus1Jhmw4q7uF-cGM-KBfbqLBR2EsBM3ngWjb8gmcqb_Tkjt8eRPifcHWcp0FvB5jN2UR7MUwMbL6yIxd_39skTcVyE3trTCf-9YX2jcLvr/s400/wk_smurfs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634831385688196162" border="0" /></a><br />So, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> came out with a board game called <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs: No Smurf Left Behind</span>. So, always on the lookout for games to play with my daughter, I picked up <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs</span>. Here's the description of the game:<br /><blockquote style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurf</span> for your lives! <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Smurfs</span> are trapped in the heart of New York City's Central Park! The only way back home is through a magical <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurf</span> portal that only opens once every Blue Moon. But wait! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span> has also found his way to Central Park, and he has ensnared <span style="font-weight: bold;">Papa Smurf</span> in one of his nefarious traps. Now it is up to the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> to free <span style="font-weight: bold;">Papa Smurf</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel's</span> grasp and find their way to the Smurf portal before <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span> closes it with one of his magic spells. Will the Smurfs make it out in time or will <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span> succeed and trap the Smurfs in the human world forever? Play as the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> or <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span> to find out!</blockquote>The game come with 6 very nicely done pre-painted miniatures (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Papa Smurf</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfette</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brainy Smurf</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Clumsy Smurf</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gutsy Smurf</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span>), a fold out game cardboard 12" x 12" game board, 25 movement cards and a rules sheet.<br /><br />Gameplay is all about the movement cards, and the movement icon printed on each figures base. When you play your movement cards, you may move the characters depicted on the card the designated amount of spaces in any direction allowed by the icon on the corresponding characters base. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Papa Smurf</span> begins the game in jail (captured by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span>) and you have to get another Smurf character adjacent to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Papa Smurf</span> to free him. Then it is a race to one of the blue Portal squares marked "Escape!" When a character reaches a portal it is removed from the board immediately. If all 5 <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> escape, the game is over and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> are victorious.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span> player is trying to prevent the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smurfs</span> from escaping by closing the portal with his magic spells. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gargamel</span> doesn't use movement cards. He can move 3 spaces in any direction indicated by the icon on his base. The movement cards do come into play for casting magic spells, however.<br /><br />It's not a strategically deep game, but then it's not meant to be. It does look to be a fun game to pass the time with my daughter. And that's not a bad thing at all!Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-24597129342941027082011-07-29T08:30:00.000-07:002011-07-29T09:27:38.012-07:00Hands on with Hasbro's Battleship Galaxies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOcwb3IzKQPs_qYfJtNo4mb2gmkAYfz4_jkv2uMRtE0IWSK97D-L2QLeQSK0Y6EUgcw97QOTaUbQ0cDhRAEmCp2UocewGgxH2sXomQtne7QYlV2LD-_5coj4Rv0SnlaiOmoxRiLk8JFf9/s1600/battleshipgalaxiesbox.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 338px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOcwb3IzKQPs_qYfJtNo4mb2gmkAYfz4_jkv2uMRtE0IWSK97D-L2QLeQSK0Y6EUgcw97QOTaUbQ0cDhRAEmCp2UocewGgxH2sXomQtne7QYlV2LD-_5coj4Rv0SnlaiOmoxRiLk8JFf9/s400/battleshipgalaxiesbox.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634801315611672850" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I've been looking forward to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro's Battleship Galaxies</span> boardgame for some time now. Like many, I grew up playing the original <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship</span> game (along with many of it's variants and offshoots) over the years. So when this latest iteration was first announced it immediately caught my attention. The starship combat theme certainly didn't hurt, either!<br /><br />Last night was my monthly game night with my friend Dan. Dan emailed me the other day asking what I was in the mood to play this month, and mentioned that he had just picked up <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship Galaxies</span>. Without hesitation I jumped on the opportunity to check the game out first hand!<br /><br />First thing you notice upon opening the box is that it is just packed full of fabulous components. The board is nice quality cardboard, as opposed to a simple, folded paper map. The starfield artwork featured on the board is very attractive.<br /><br />There's a bevy of cards used in the game. Some detail the information on each of the starships, while others feature special weapons or heroes that can be attached to certain ships.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8P38-xn0h0fNqMhDigUGc0m7Xptq6kCgVSRnPzax1rvhtSSvkEetANb0mKf3-mbnTlXEl7erTu66_KxMQWETpeWuN6G4nQvCdHVl5ZlMZMns8pbBaOzRwzU753_iD-txvLdHjIsswn7V/s1600/has_bsg_1.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8P38-xn0h0fNqMhDigUGc0m7Xptq6kCgVSRnPzax1rvhtSSvkEetANb0mKf3-mbnTlXEl7erTu66_KxMQWETpeWuN6G4nQvCdHVl5ZlMZMns8pbBaOzRwzU753_iD-txvLdHjIsswn7V/s400/has_bsg_1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634807638245644578" border="0" /></a>The real stars of the game, however, are the 20 ship miniatures. These plastic minis are very detailed and well done, especially for a mass-market game from a company such as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro</span>. The ships fit atop hex bases of one of three sizes: single hex, double hex or the large multi-hex bases used by the capitol ships. The bases feature holes in which blue plugs are placed to represent the ship's shields or red plugs are placed to represent damage sustained. These plugs are one of the places where the game evokes it's <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship</span> roots.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhurZNSSJEKaWNxUnTxSMDo9jfieNEGrJt6WCb0PhBmh0SNYcdEmgZk7RSgUhm97V4X-OhEHhFTHBI24573WUtBbI29vwnoETC9_pS2ZihRWVfMeJSyMSzEnqR_-3Rs86ZM1Ta4pFURz5U/s1600/has_bsg_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhurZNSSJEKaWNxUnTxSMDo9jfieNEGrJt6WCb0PhBmh0SNYcdEmgZk7RSgUhm97V4X-OhEHhFTHBI24573WUtBbI29vwnoETC9_pS2ZihRWVfMeJSyMSzEnqR_-3Rs86ZM1Ta4pFURz5U/s400/has_bsg_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634807648703354482" border="0" /></a><br />Last night, Dan played as the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Intergalactic Space Navy </span>or<span style="font-weight: bold;"> ISN</span> (the human good guys) and I had the alien <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wretch</span> (full name: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wretcheridians</span>). We clunked our way through the rules, learning as we played. Dan had previous given the rulebook a quick read, and I had just listened to a detailed review of the game on the current episode of the <a href="http://www.thed6generation.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">D6 Generation</span></a> podcast. So, we had a pretty decent grasp of the basics.<br /><br />We just played through the first scenario from the rulebook which was pretty much a straight up combat encounter between our two forces. It was a good start to give us a taste for the game, and how the mechanics worked. Combat featured another nod to the original <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship</span>. The game comes with two D8 dice. One die features the numbers 1 through 8, while the other features the letters A - H.To determine whether or not you hit when attacking an enemy vessel you roll the dice coming up with a result something like G-4. The result is then compared to a diagram on the target's corresponding ship card. If G-4 matches up with a part of the diagram representing the ship (marked in grey) it's a hit. If it matches up with a while square on the grid, it's a miss.<br /><br />Both Dan and I made the newbie mistake of forgetting to read the details on our ship cards or on our special event cards that are drawn on each turn. But, that's part of learning a new game. Most importantly, we had fun.<br /><br />I definitely recommend <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship Galaxies</span> if you are looking for a relatively light starship combat game. Honestly, I am still on the fence about picking up a copy for myself, especially now that Dan has it. I'm still looking forward to both the upcoming <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Trek: Fleet Captains</span> game coming from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> as well as <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span> coming later this year from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose Publishing</span>. Time will tell. But, there is no denying that <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship Galaxies</span> is a good, solid game.<br /><br />For more information on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship Galaxies</span> check out <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Boardgamegeek.com</span></a>, or go to <a href="http://www.battleshipgalaxies.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship Galaxies.com</span></a> (right now that redirects to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro's</span> general <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship</span> page, but I expect <span style="font-weight: bold;">Galaxies</span> content to be added soon).Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-8410328009235614272011-07-28T09:02:00.000-07:002011-07-28T09:13:50.555-07:00Spin Master Playing Big at Gen Con 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBQuqTlh4UaYbMeJ54YyXxQIIoQsQdveVFqgiHxD0VPV615Hc66WVeFyloq-MXNXB7vRZe4s2x6Fl6K1MT39LC3EWanw_7tiqYEqVokrXxbEQwmhtezRi7UvqTSOxDo4FK2GzdS1QYdpF/s1600/spin_master.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBQuqTlh4UaYbMeJ54YyXxQIIoQsQdveVFqgiHxD0VPV615Hc66WVeFyloq-MXNXB7vRZe4s2x6Fl6K1MT39LC3EWanw_7tiqYEqVokrXxbEQwmhtezRi7UvqTSOxDo4FK2GzdS1QYdpF/s400/spin_master.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634435993904922818" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spin Master</span> is excited to make its debut at this year’s <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span> with the launch of its exciting new Trading Card Game, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Redakai</span>™ as well as featured games from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Spin Master Games</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span>™ and the 50th Anniversary of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span>™.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“<span style="font-weight: bold;">Spin Master</span> has a strong history of launching hits. Their balance of innovation and love for classic gaming is a great fit for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>. Seeing children react to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Redakai</span>™ is awesome; we are glad to have such strong support in the Family Fun Pavilion,”</span> says <span style="font-weight: bold;">Scott Elliot</span>, senior director of sales for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>.<br /><br />Featured in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Family Fun Pavilion</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Spin Master</span> will be hosting a variety of events over the course of convention. The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Redakai</span> team will spearhead Learn to Play techniques, Sealed Pack Events, Constructed Events, and a Championship Tournament while <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Spin Master Games</span> team will host Adult and Junior Tournaments for both <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Gen Con</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> is extremely important to the game industry,”</span> says Mark Sullivan, EVP of Marketing for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Spin Master Ltd</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">“Supporting the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Family Fun Pavilion</span> will be a great opportunity for so many people to learn our new games, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Redakai</span> & <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span> as well as play old favorites, such as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span>. After all, they say it’s <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Best Four Days In Gaming</span>.”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Redakai™</span> is an all-new boys action property, which features fresh new strategic gameplay, amazing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Blast3D™</span> technology and a televised series on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cartoon Network</span> produced by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Spin Master Ltd</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Zodiak Kids/Marathon Media</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">50th Anniversary Stratego™</span> for half a century, the red and blue armies of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span> have battled in homes across America. The Deluxe 50th Anniversary Edition honors the heritage of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span> with the original nostalgic theme, an elegant folio package and all the strategy and excitement that have made <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span> a family favorite. Experience exclusive never-before-seen cannon game pieces that allow you to name and destroy your opponents pieces. Enter the epic strategic battle with the 50th Anniversary edition of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span>!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple™</span> is a strategic marble stomping game. Outwit your opponents by stomping their marbles before they stomp yours and out maneuver by leading their stomper trapped with no escape. If you outstomp the competition, you win!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Schedule of Events:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Redakai</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Learn to Play</span><br />· All new players can stop by the Events area or their Booth in the exhibit hall to learn how to play the game.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sealed Pack Events</span><br />· Any player who buys a structure deck or championship tin product at their booth or events area is eligible to participate for free in one of their many sealed pack events throughout the show<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Constructed Events</span><br />· They will also have daily constructed events for Redakai experts to bring their custom collection of cards to take on all challengers.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Redakai Championship</span><br />· The whole event culminates in their first ever Redakai Championship on Saturday morning<br />· The winner will be named their first Champion and win an ipad2!<br />· Other exciting prizes, online coverage of the event and winning players/decks, and appearances by the design team behind Redakai make this an event not to be missed.<br />League Prizes all con long!<br />· Everyone who plays in any events in their Events area during Gen Con is eligible to win league exclusive prize cards just for playing!<br />· Earn stamps for each game you play and get achievement cards as you play more!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span><br />· Players win two rounds and they advance to the championship on Sunday (Junior & Adult)<br />· Winner of Tournament receives – $500 <span style="font-weight: bold;">American Express Gift Card</span>, Games Prize Pack and the EXCLUSIVE Stratego 50th Anniversary Edition<br />· 2nd Place – Exclusive <span style="font-weight: bold;">50th Anniversary Stratego </span>Game & <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span> Game<br />· 3rd & 4th Place – Exclusive <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego 50th Anniversary Edition</span><br /><br />Daily gaming events culminate into a championship event on Sunday for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple:</span><br />· Each <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span> game is a stand-alone tournament played daily<br />· Meet and play the inventor of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span> each day<br />· Each day in the training room, play the giant game of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span> every day!<br /><br />All finalists get a t-shirt for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratego</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stomple</span> events<br /><br />For more information please visit <a href="http://www.spinmaster.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">www.spinmaster.com</span></a> and visit them at <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Spin Master Booth #219</span>.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-45546748349639446012011-07-10T13:13:00.000-07:002011-07-10T13:57:11.418-07:00Buckeye Battles V - Warhammer Tournament<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3ZoPtjudE0p19luZknQqgLkBhqIveQwKx0irI0Eoi3aCzGyRmANENNFY5TYgX2eGEuqYeuZi_2jC_Y8rJ31gDjUtjpPycDlQ2AaHg2UjjqB508QPtrG1C1759fZ9ZUkPFajj5F3B2iWK/s1600/bb11_3.jpg"><br /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin18sAVliYdS70s6uGx6x_NotqmzGUngeAtBcuEHWUapEgAxz1tP9RM09t5_jan6ooTuQ347K6q7thAEoyR10VBfCHXMa9AinLj7oBe5cB0ObZGznRY-MV2wIvoskCfc4w-8gs8ECuwiqn/s1600/bb11_sign.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin18sAVliYdS70s6uGx6x_NotqmzGUngeAtBcuEHWUapEgAxz1tP9RM09t5_jan6ooTuQ347K6q7thAEoyR10VBfCHXMa9AinLj7oBe5cB0ObZGznRY-MV2wIvoskCfc4w-8gs8ECuwiqn/s400/bb11_sign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627822563625059394" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buckeye Battles V</span> was held this weekend on the campus of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ohio Wesleyan University</span> in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Delaware, Ohio</span>.<br /><br />Buckeye Battles, now in it's fifth year, is a good sized <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer Fantasy</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer 40K</span> tournament event. Things kicked off on Friday morning and are just wrapping up as I type this. Friday was the <span style="font-weight: bold;">40K RTT</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Rogue Trader Tournament</span>), while Saturday and Sunday were the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer Fantasy Indy GT</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Independent Grand Tournament</span>) events.<br /><br />I was surprised to see <span style="font-weight: bold;">40K</span> relegated to a one-day tourney, while <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy</span> had two days as the general consensus is usually that there are more <span style="font-weight: bold;">40K</span> players than <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy</span> players these days.<br /><br />We had family visiting from out of state this weekend, so desptite <span style="font-weight: bold;">OWU</span> being about 10 minutes from our house, I wasn't able to get there until today. I stopped by for a bit this afternoon to check out the action. Being new to the world of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span> gaming, and still in the midst of acquiring and assembling my army, I wasn't able to play in the tournament this year. But, I very much wanted to see what it was like.<br /><br />As I approached the entrance to the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chappelear Drama Center</span> I could hear the buzz of activity coming from within. It grew stradily louder as I made my way through the lobby and into the theater. Upon first glance it looked like there was quite a crowd...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6vzqnzywQW007lglqQRpuy5JkX4OWagpm-xIgPxplYPUW1Ystdod7lACJgCUzQNOq5i06mvPgesCzcflxpaeyZrOjIG00nkX-z1kg62Zvl5EMYnyRZa1wu-DjNBso2rSsWrw7hHgVNLW/s1600/bb11_firstlook.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6vzqnzywQW007lglqQRpuy5JkX4OWagpm-xIgPxplYPUW1Ystdod7lACJgCUzQNOq5i06mvPgesCzcflxpaeyZrOjIG00nkX-z1kg62Zvl5EMYnyRZa1wu-DjNBso2rSsWrw7hHgVNLW/s400/bb11_firstlook.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627822566729656210" border="0" /></a>...there was a nice banner bearing the name and address of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hobby Central</span>, which is our friendly local game store here in Delaware. There was some merchandise for sale, as well as a smattering of snack foods, candy bars, etc. I could see tables laden with terrain and various armies from the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span> world. All the action was up on the stage of the theater.<br /><br />As I got closer to the stage I saw the true breadth of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buckeye Battles V</span>! I neglected to count the tables available, but there were a lot and they all seemed full. According to the last update on the website, they said they had 80 registrants and were only going to accept 6 more. I don't know if they got their final 6, but the place was packed. It was a very exciting environment. This is the largest <span style="font-weight: bold;">Indy GT</span> in Ohio.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8aRqs3zdNbzvN6XLj17pcaSJbntKrmn0eBnk4Z65pvPLfxxbD83Z1Akj6w4sVbCfKxiZuQ1JN-CskmsZJ9AiChx0YOHqSjhGQdTqb1x57_LPBDcQFK4rjmBdmDUYla8RECeL4cuIltUE/s1600/bb11_birdseye.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8aRqs3zdNbzvN6XLj17pcaSJbntKrmn0eBnk4Z65pvPLfxxbD83Z1Akj6w4sVbCfKxiZuQ1JN-CskmsZJ9AiChx0YOHqSjhGQdTqb1x57_LPBDcQFK4rjmBdmDUYla8RECeL4cuIltUE/s400/bb11_birdseye.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627822570241417458" border="0" /></a><br />Everyone looked to be having a fantastic time. Seeing the activity going on has really got me excited for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span>, and I really want to play in this event next year. That leaves me with a <span style="font-style: italic;">lot</span> of work to do in the interim, but it's also giving me a goal to shoot for. It just looked like a ton of fun, and isn't that was gaming should be about? In fact, fun is a stated goal for the event. Check this out from the website:<br /><br /><blockquote style="font-style: italic;">We believe in a fun event, where everyone can compete and have a good time. Our banding format and scenarios lend itself to this belief. It’s a great compliment from our players, when they say that they don’t feel burnt out after our event.</blockquote><br />Sounds great! It's so cool to have an event like this happening in my own backyard for a change. So, here's to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buckeye Battles VI</span> in summer 2012. And be sure to follow my adventures right here at <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rural Gamer</span> as I get my forces ready for next years event.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHyixv7JZGbbVi-Ed4WrtxNfxRumZ7W5A4CBQCfmWeDeoF7m9fOY4-NW-pOVCiZuAWcwsNO2N0tSz7ip9H5iQxrTtG92MdD8mwgdNI9TRcoJmw0P87KlKQS7C6hocB7EeY44drMKmvR2Wl/s1600/bb11_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHyixv7JZGbbVi-Ed4WrtxNfxRumZ7W5A4CBQCfmWeDeoF7m9fOY4-NW-pOVCiZuAWcwsNO2N0tSz7ip9H5iQxrTtG92MdD8mwgdNI9TRcoJmw0P87KlKQS7C6hocB7EeY44drMKmvR2Wl/s400/bb11_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627822576653383250" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvyHZ4gGIOBuEaSf0jJ5GVaAEgHUuVL2ASASle0NVZQ-UCq8GfpUOLYnovN_TQQoj6nX49Ty0EPoxHztn-iW4DuzHfDXsyxHm9Wp6gqI35ncvvfoxwhzN8MnyxZ4Onj9ugoxzX3lIcUyon/s1600/bb11_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 367px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvyHZ4gGIOBuEaSf0jJ5GVaAEgHUuVL2ASASle0NVZQ-UCq8GfpUOLYnovN_TQQoj6nX49Ty0EPoxHztn-iW4DuzHfDXsyxHm9Wp6gqI35ncvvfoxwhzN8MnyxZ4Onj9ugoxzX3lIcUyon/s400/bb11_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627822589657935058" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3ZoPtjudE0p19luZknQqgLkBhqIveQwKx0irI0Eoi3aCzGyRmANENNFY5TYgX2eGEuqYeuZi_2jC_Y8rJ31gDjUtjpPycDlQ2AaHg2UjjqB508QPtrG1C1759fZ9ZUkPFajj5F3B2iWK/s1600/bb11_3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 367px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3ZoPtjudE0p19luZknQqgLkBhqIveQwKx0irI0Eoi3aCzGyRmANENNFY5TYgX2eGEuqYeuZi_2jC_Y8rJ31gDjUtjpPycDlQ2AaHg2UjjqB508QPtrG1C1759fZ9ZUkPFajj5F3B2iWK/s400/bb11_3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627830362055787778" border="0" /></a><br />If you're a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span> player, <span style="font-weight: bold;">40K</span> or <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy</span>, in the midwest then you need to do yourself a favor and check out <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buckeye Battles</span> for yourself. You can find their website <a href="http://www.buckeyebattles.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>, and also be sure to check out their <span style="font-weight: bold;">Facebook</span> page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=399241122929"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPyJxg5QEOh5RFHEoQT8vjXJzO0epsnlJ62YZzR9rb9W_XyW94of0LtqsLvEgPwJqF0L_U6BpOQ7lHdRFp0gmsuDF6wNmQkFKH0GOrWb1BRt3bMY_PHstawtUMz3xhARdXbdVNCz5oRCk/s1600/bb11_4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 367px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPyJxg5QEOh5RFHEoQT8vjXJzO0epsnlJ62YZzR9rb9W_XyW94of0LtqsLvEgPwJqF0L_U6BpOQ7lHdRFp0gmsuDF6wNmQkFKH0GOrWb1BRt3bMY_PHstawtUMz3xhARdXbdVNCz5oRCk/s400/bb11_4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627830363218478066" border="0" /></a>Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-15888345627266510032011-07-07T14:13:00.000-07:002011-07-08T18:44:16.438-07:00Writing a Game Off Too Soon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7fkJbV61UEwTgrciKm83Atr9RO8-smGus-eRuFM0Gc_zs7_vXG9gO8tunOHLZ5hOhYkIVNHfjXyzP3ZC1cXNmg9lZUr1LA2ub0lS4WjBwL5JXc0C2PVLKhnFfhXtWA88fYWmYbMQLZxH/s1600/wk_quarriors_logo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7fkJbV61UEwTgrciKm83Atr9RO8-smGus-eRuFM0Gc_zs7_vXG9gO8tunOHLZ5hOhYkIVNHfjXyzP3ZC1cXNmg9lZUr1LA2ub0lS4WjBwL5JXc0C2PVLKhnFfhXtWA88fYWmYbMQLZxH/s400/wk_quarriors_logo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626722148645055234" border="0" /></a>I'm a miniatures gamer at heart, and I know that sometimes that causes me to hold certain biases when it comes to new games (and even older games, I suppose). If I game doesn't feature miniatures of some kind it is much more difficult to grab and hold my interest.<br /><br />Recently, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span> broke that cycle for me and got me to look at the card game. And, I'm glad I did!<br /><br />So, awhile back one of my favorite companies, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span>, announced a product called <span style="font-weight: bold;">Quarriors</span>. It's essentially a deck building game (a la <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominion</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ascension</span>, et al) but with dice. Here's how <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> describes the game on the official <a href="http://wizkidsgames.com/quarriors/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">site</span></a>:<br /><br /><p></p><blockquote style="font-style: italic;"><p>A unique blend of strategy and chance featuring a revolutionary dice building game mechanic!</p> <p>As a Quarrior - a mighty mystical warrior - only you have the power to capture dangerous quarry from the untamed wilds!</p> <p>But your rivals plot against you! They will send their own Creatures and Spells to destroy your Quarry before you can deliver them to Empress Quiana and claim your reward! Summon your Creatures and protect them from your foes and you will earn Glory for yourself. </p><p>The first player to earn enough Glory will be hailed as the Champion of the Empress.</p></blockquote><p></p>OK. I admit it. I rolled my eyes when I read the press release and, in my mind, I wrote the game off. Wasn't for me.<br /><br />However, while I was at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> I was speaking to uber-reviewer and game industry guru <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tom Vasel</span> of <a href="http://www.thedicetower.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Dice Tower</span></a>. I asked <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tom</span> what game stood out for him at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> and without a moment of hesitation he said, <span style="font-style: italic;">"Quarriors! I love it!"</span><br /><br />Really? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Quarriors</span>?<br /><br />Then this past week I was listening to the latest episode of the <a href="http://gameonpodcast.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Game On with Cody and John </span></a>podcast (episode 67). At one point the guys were talking about games they were looking forward to picking up at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span> in August and both said, <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Quarriors"</span>.<br /><br />Really? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Quarriors</span>?<br /><br />So, I got to thinking. Was it just my own bias towards having minis in my game that was turning me off from even the basic concept of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Quarriors</span>? Quite probably.<br /><br />While I'm not sold yet, I will check this game out at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span> next month. I'll get in a demo or two and see how it plays, and be better informed before I pass judgement. It's all part of being, as Cody and John would say, a well-rounded gamer.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nRYJeCWfCBJXC1B5ysvI8k6exVUbZ1gPg2OVEj971dEsgOiQIn_eXWK4Yf0sLKAfuZZJ2PxduWerNFmg8RB29b_e-dTzccCA6WBH5SaJDAT8Jxi44SuEzqTdHL6CYpZNTC1HnqJivbpB/s1600/wk_quarriors.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nRYJeCWfCBJXC1B5ysvI8k6exVUbZ1gPg2OVEj971dEsgOiQIn_eXWK4Yf0sLKAfuZZJ2PxduWerNFmg8RB29b_e-dTzccCA6WBH5SaJDAT8Jxi44SuEzqTdHL6CYpZNTC1HnqJivbpB/s400/wk_quarriors.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626722153694645218" border="0" /></a>Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-90127248385850712902011-06-30T12:39:00.000-07:002011-06-30T13:31:22.158-07:00Origins Xtra: Steve Cole of Amarillo Design Bureau<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4-4f9YRGHJ95mikVxrpikvmOdsmPKLCRpIA09CsgUgsa-68rqdpNXIJgpSFWoAXdzUP8FrgJ3cy72asZUfQTGCfdgfCSfdx7Pvvjv6hzlx2FIdmQa-LOo4YD2Q7bYlEG6YIvz7pDkqM2_/s1600/adb_sfb_micro.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 281px; height: 387px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4-4f9YRGHJ95mikVxrpikvmOdsmPKLCRpIA09CsgUgsa-68rqdpNXIJgpSFWoAXdzUP8FrgJ3cy72asZUfQTGCfdgfCSfdx7Pvvjv6hzlx2FIdmQa-LOo4YD2Q7bYlEG6YIvz7pDkqM2_/s400/adb_sfb_micro.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624111239961216626" border="0" /></a><br />If you are a long-time gamer you have either likely played <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span> or, at the very least, heard of it. The game has been around, in one form or another, for over thirty years. There's few wargames that can make that claim.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rural Gamer</span> had the opportunity to interview <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve Cole</span>, owner and head desiger of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amarillo Design Bureau</span> about his product lines and his time in the game industry. In a very turbulent industry, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve</span> is one of the survivors.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: Steve, could you give us some background on how you got into game design, and the beginnings of your company? An origin story, if you will.</span><br /><br />Wow, that's a long time ago, and it's going to be a long story. Are you SURE you're interested? Ok, here goes:<br /><br />Back about 1964, I went to a church party where people were all told to bring a game. A guy my age named <span style="font-weight: bold;">Scott Poole</span> brought <span style="font-weight: bold;">Avalon Hill's D-Day</span> and went around trying to find someone to play it. Nobody wanted to, until he came to me. I had seen one <span style="font-weight: bold;">Avalon Hill </span>wargame in a store once (my parents refused to buy it for me; that was back when kids didn't have money) and <span style="font-weight: bold;">D-Day</span> was the second one I had ever seen.<br /><br />As my father was a reserve military officer who was using me as a practice student for his lectures in Command & General Staff School, I knew what all of those little boxes meant, something no one (including Scott) knew. (The ones with a "hot dog" were tanks; the ones with an "X" were infantry.)<br /><br />So, I became a wargamer. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Scott Poole</span> had a great collection of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Avalon Hill Games</span>, and all through high school we met two or three times a month to play them. Very quickly, I started designing my own games, using the basic <span style="font-weight: bold;">Avalon Hill</span> rules system. (They had two dozen games that all used about the same rules. Scott and I would pick a game, then sort through other games looking for a combat results table that did not have "attacker eliminated" in the 2-to-1 column.) I just kept designing my own games. (The first game I bought was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Anzio</span> in 1972.)<br /><br />About 1973, I got a letter from a guy (name forgotten) from the back page of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Avalon Hil</span>l magazine (the "opponents wanted" ads). We were planning to both go to the same college, so we decided to create a magazine (something dozens of gamers did in those days). Turns out, we never met (he went somewhere else) and he dropped out of the magazine company (<span style="font-weight: bold;">JagdPanther</span>) when we lost money on the first issue. I took over as editor and publisher and learned more than I wanted to know about the printing business.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYLcZ5ZMdk2y8IKgX13VHSqgVW654BFynb9c-NtLj9H1sKYz32UBvtc6pnBqSyqK2m8V2azCHw960P4EHmwXZJdMIP226gnOM1SHQacaERQ_fEedyZ0V4WQQtObMlni8Yzt9AOupHIEww/s1600/adb_sfb_old_box.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 360px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYLcZ5ZMdk2y8IKgX13VHSqgVW654BFynb9c-NtLj9H1sKYz32UBvtc6pnBqSyqK2m8V2azCHw960P4EHmwXZJdMIP226gnOM1SHQacaERQ_fEedyZ0V4WQQtObMlni8Yzt9AOupHIEww/s400/adb_sfb_old_box.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624111603667677250" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Was Star Fleet Battles the first game you published? What year was that?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span> was not the first game I published, not by a long shot.<br />I had run that small company (and magazine) called <span style="font-weight: bold;">JagdPanther</span> from, as I said, 1973. <span style="font-weight: bold;">JagdPanther</span> published several dozen games over four years, including <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marine</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Airborne</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jacksonville</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Anvil-Dragoon</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Zeppelin</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Siege of Barad-Dur</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rigellian Wars</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Crazy Horse,</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">MP44</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cowpens</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paris Commune</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">World War III Super Variant</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">March on India</span>, and, well, shucks, I don't even remember them all now. (I'm sure somewhere on Internet there must be some interview I did about <span style="font-weight: bold;">JagdPanther</span> when I still remembered everything we did.)<br /><br />One of the local wargamers (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Allen Eldridge</span>) became my business partner in 1975. In November of 1976 we realized that we had created a business model that paid the bills but would never pay us, and decided we wanted to do something else with our time. (Free of the game business, I started looking for a girlfriend and got married shortly thereafter. Leanna and I have spent 34 years together.) Allen and I didn't stay away from the game business for long. By 1978 we were talking about starting a new company, which became <span style="font-weight: bold;">Task Force Games</span>. We decided to keep the workload down by doing only pocket games (something <span style="font-weight: bold;">Metagaming</span> started) and only selling to wholesalers (not mail orders). We published our first games at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins 1979</span>, including<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Star Fleet Battles</span>. By 1983, Allen and I split the company (my design half became <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amarillo Design Bureau</span>, his publishing half remained <span style="font-weight: bold;">TFG</span>) and by 1999, <span style="font-weight: bold;">TFG</span> (three owners later) was dead but <span style="font-weight: bold;">ADB</span> continued on.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3. ADB's Star Fleet Universe products are officially licensed by Paramount/CBS Consumer Products. Yet, they're a bit different than other Star Trek products on the market. Could you describe the particulars of your licensing arrangement?</span><br /><br />I first designed <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span> back in 1975. As the legend goes (and it's true), I was playing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jutland</span> while watching <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Trek</span> reruns in college. We played it (a lot) in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JagdPanther</span> offices. When my partner and I started <span style="font-weight: bold;">Task Force</span> in 1979, we dumb lucked into the phone number for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Franz Joseph Designs</span>, who gave us a license to print <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span>. That was all before the first movie, at a time when <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Trek</span> had been off the air (except as reruns in college towns) for a decade. By the time the movies and <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Next Generation</span> showed up, we had already printed dozens of products with a vast amount of newly created material. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paramount</span> contacted us, figured out we were legal, and gave us an "agreement that includes a license" to keep printing the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Universe</span>. That contract notes that the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Universe</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">SFU</span>) is "separate" from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Trek</span> and that we are not an "official licensee" even if we are completely legal. We have <span style="font-weight: bold;">Vulcans</span> but not <span style="font-weight: bold;">Spock</span>, and while the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Enterprise</span> is on our official ship list, we never use it in fiction or scenarios. We have many new species, but not the ones created in <span style="font-weight: bold;">TNG</span> and beyond.<br /><br />As our "agreement" never expires, unlike companies that get a two-year <span style="font-weight: bold;">Trek</span> license, we just keep going on and on while "official licensees" come and go.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">4. What is your favorite part of working in the Star Fleet Universe?</span><br /><br />All of the great people I have met. That includes <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steven Petrick</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jean Sexton</span>, who now work for <span style="font-weight: bold;">ADB</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">5. Within ADB there are several iterations of the starship combat game (Star Fleet Battles, Federation Commander, Federation & Empire, Klingon Armada, etc). Could you give a brief overview of what makes each of these products unique?</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmaNbbTF4NNS3fUjUJ7dLoyMfmZ-aIFpIgo0rW_0FSDfQhHGRaSESu0xkQkX6W_pPvumP_ysxaTUdFdoSnw0jEyyo1UCxHyo5vBtE-UCVH_PTEgBfJC2kTmSE38_7c4cxJWLgbOiEyd3l/s1600/abd_fedcom.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 354px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmaNbbTF4NNS3fUjUJ7dLoyMfmZ-aIFpIgo0rW_0FSDfQhHGRaSESu0xkQkX6W_pPvumP_ysxaTUdFdoSnw0jEyyo1UCxHyo5vBtE-UCVH_PTEgBfJC2kTmSE38_7c4cxJWLgbOiEyd3l/s400/abd_fedcom.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624112231316461058" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span> is a starship combat game. Each "unit" is one ship, but battles can handle a dozen ships or so. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Federation Commander</span> is a new game on the same scale, starting with a much-simplified set of SFB rules and using some new concepts in some areas. It plays much faster, and is prettier since it's in color. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Klingon Armada</span> is part of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Starmada</span> series done by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Daniel Kast</span> of <a href="http://www.mj12games.com/starmada/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Majestic 12</span></a> under a joint venture deal. It's designed for larger fleets, with much simpler rules than even <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fed Commander</span>, and easily handles 20-ship fleets. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Federation & Empire</span> is a strategic game, with thousands of ships on each side and a lot of economics. We also have RPGs for <span style="font-weight: bold;">GURPS</span> and PD20M, and a card game (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battle Force</span>), a line of pewter miniatures, and the new Marines game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">6. Why do you think Star Fleet Battles has lasted this long?</span><br /><br />I wish I knew. The subject matter must be part of it, but there have been other <span style="font-weight: bold;">Trek</span> games before and after <span style="font-weight: bold;">SFB</span>, none of which lasted as long, and none of which ever had the kind of player base we have. I must assume that I got the design "right" in regards to what players wanted to play.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">7. How has the gaming industry changed in the years since you started Star Fleet Battles?</span><br /><br />In more ways than I can count! Back when <span style="font-weight: bold;">TFG</span> began, there were 75 or so wholesalers, compared to less than a dozen today. Back then, there were about five real companies and everybody else was a "garage operation" whereas today, there are about 50 real companies with offices and professional printing (and 200 more that just do d20 RPG PDFs). Speaking of that, PDFs (and personal computers) didn't exist when we did our first games, but PDFs are now a big share of our profits.<br /><br />Another phenomenon is the way the industry has grown. The original wargamers (which I call <span style="font-weight: bold;">H. G. Wells</span> Gamers) were middle-aged men with painted soldiers and expensive dioramas. Just before I arrived in gaming, there came hex-and-counter wargames, which expanded the industry tremendously, leaving the original H. G. Wells Gamers (the O.G.s, or Original Gamers) wondering why nobody paid them their proper attention and respect. Then RPGs arrived, quadrupling the size of the industry, but leaving the hex-and-counter gamers wondering why the "wargame industry" was suddenly called the "adventure game industry." Then came cards and clicks, greatly expanding the industry but leaving the previous parts (now much smaller parts of a much larger whole) wondering why nobody was paying attention to "the guys who started this thing."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">8. Do you have time to play games from other companies? If so, what do you play?</span><br /><br />Rarely. Other than playtesting and rare demos, I haven't played one of our own games in years, and not more than one or two scenarios in 20 years. Oh, wait, I have played our card games some. I probably get to play a game from another company five or ten times per year. We have a copy of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Space Hulk</span> that we play whenever we can (about six times so far in two years), and we've played <span style="font-weight: bold;">Munchkin</span> every time Jean Sexton comes to visit.<br /><br />Thinking about this for a minute, I realized that the last three games I actually bought a copy of (over the last 10 years) were <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tide of Iron</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Memoir 44</span> (both World War II in Europe land combat games, and in both cases the rules had so little to do with World War II ground combat that I wrote new sets) and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Space Hulk</span> (which is, also, a ground infantry combat game).<br /><br />Now, the one game I do play, a LOT, is an RPG called <span style="font-weight: bold;">Die In Place</span>. It's basically a leadership game based on the modern <span style="font-weight: bold;">US Army</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steven Petrick</span> and I play it two or three times per week, as we walk the two-kilometer hiking path near the office. It's like playing chess in your head, trying to remember who commands Company B and who is the mortar platoon sergeant. (After each session, we write down what happened. Someday, these campaigns would make great war novels. The first campaign, about Vietnam, went on for two years and ended in a titanic battle of the Tet Offensive.) We spent much of the last year playing a campaign to rid the US of zombies, and this spring we've been playing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battle: Houston</span> as we try to defeat the water-stealing aliens who did amphibious landings at 20 cities around the world (including that movie about Los Angeles). Playing this RPG as we walk takes our minds off how tired we are and how much our feet hurt.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">9. ADB has a presence every year at Origins, but not at Gen Con. Why is that?</span><br /><br />Well, Jeff, going to a trade show is a major undertaking. It takes almost a month of hard work to get ready for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>, and takes us out of the office (and away from designing new products) for a week. It also costs about three grand to go to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> (and a bit more to go to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>) counting booth costs, hotel, truck rental, and so forth. We make enough in sales at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> to pay for the trip (and then some), but the one time we went to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span> (since we became the publisher in 1999), we lost money.<br /><br />We see 200 of our customers at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> (that's why we go), but maybe 20 at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>, most of whom were also at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>. (That seems to be because the two shows are so close together in space and time. The "locals" just go to whichever show we go to, and those who travel do the same.) We go to the shows to talk with customers and show the flag. Having done that very successfully at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>, there seems no point in spending twice as much time and money for no more results. If we went to both shows, we'd just divide the existing audience into two smaller groups.<br /><br />All of that said, there is much concern over the rumored plans to move <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> to a date in May (before the school year ends). Many of our players have expressed great concern over the idea, stating that they would be unable to attend <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> at those dates. If that becomes an issue, we may have to move our "presence" to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>, but that would be instead of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>, not in addition to it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">10. What product is coming up for 2011 that you are most excited about?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Marines</span>, the ground combat system for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Universe</span>. It's a very simple streamlined game. The biggest battles are battalions, with about 40 units on each side. You point to a unit, then to a target, roll the die, look at the chart, and the target is either destroyed, flipped upside down, or unaffected. Units that didn't move (and weren't upside down) then move to better firing positions. (You shoot so that you can move later, and move so that you can shoot later.) The whole rulebook is about 10 pages.<br /><br />What's exciting for me is that I am a ground combat guy, having spent time in the US Army and the Texas Guard. On a personal level, ground combat at the operational level (a battalion on each side) is where I am most comfortable. It's funny that this is only the second game on this scale I have ever designed, the first being <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jagdpanther's MP44</span>, which I described as "squad-level <span style="font-weight: bold;">PanzerBlitz</span>." It came out a year or three before <span style="font-weight: bold;">Squad Leader</span>, and (if you ask me) was a better game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Marines</span> is going to be so completely different from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Squad Leader</span> that you won't be able to compare them.<br /><br />I have to mention a runner-up in the "most excited" category, that being <span style="font-weight: bold;">STARSHIP ALDO</span>. This is a little 16-page adventure done for <span style="font-weight: bold;">GURPS</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">PD20M</span> which we whipped up for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Free RPG Day</span>. It's an "explore the deck plans of a wrecked starship" game, and I tremendously enjoyed created the deck plans, the die roll table for room contents, and the eight characters. (All of the characters are based on real people, six of whom went through the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Terrorwerks</span> gun run together at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins 2010</span>).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">11. Where would you like to see ADB, as a company, in the future?</span><br /><br />On Mars, publishing games from the Valles Marineris Dome City.<br /><br />Until that happens, I'd settle for becoming one of the top 10 companies instead of the top 30 or 40. The problem is that retailers fill up most of their store with the top five or ten companies, and the other 40 hardcopy publishers get maybe one or two shelf spots each in 10% of the retailers. Every retailer has the products of my good friends at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve Jackson Games</span>. My games are as good as theirs, but retailers cannot find me in the crowd of 40 or so "smaller publishers" which is why my company has six employees, not the 30 or 40 it would actually take to do all of the jobs that need doing.<br /><br />I'm quite proud to run a company that has no debts, writes me a regular paycheck, owns our own office building, and puts out a dozen new products a year, but I'd be a lot more proud if I was selling 10 times as many copies of each game. The only reason I am not selling more copies is that the retailers can't see my tree in the forest.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: Thank you, Steve, for taking the time to share with us. We wish you continued success!</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5pnsnC94HxQ-7vsMV6AGLZbhG3GdJukyP4sCiZ_YD20T4eTFKskTDO3Ra8MU1_lGeYoOu-5a20uRfdF-BKOQO_n-0YBZahV0voc0n6IqQnASO7l_yXfTu57NHnpjHrsj4RndzuARIHp3/s1600/adb_mon_acta.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 283px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5pnsnC94HxQ-7vsMV6AGLZbhG3GdJukyP4sCiZ_YD20T4eTFKskTDO3Ra8MU1_lGeYoOu-5a20uRfdF-BKOQO_n-0YBZahV0voc0n6IqQnASO7l_yXfTu57NHnpjHrsj4RndzuARIHp3/s400/adb_mon_acta.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624112556523064578" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">NOTE</span>: This interview was conducted in late April, knowing Steve was going to be very busy shortly thereafter preparing for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins 2011</span>. In mid-June <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amarillo Design Bureau</span> and <a href="http://www.mongoosepublishing.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose Publishing</span></a> annouced a joint venture: <span style="font-weight: bold;">A Call to Arms: Star Fleet</span> which takes <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose's</span> popular starship combat system (previously used for a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Babylon 5 </span>setting and currently in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fading Suns RPG</span> setting) and tailors it for use with the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Universe</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose</span> will also be producing all-new CAD-designed resin miniatures for the new system. This is a huge boon for both <span style="font-weight: bold;">ADB</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose</span>. It provides greater visibility and retail presence for <span style="font-weight: bold;">ADB</span> and gives <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mongoose</span> an immensely popular new setting for their <span style="font-weight: bold;">ACTA</span> ruleset.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-38868351316187088572011-06-27T11:19:00.000-07:002011-06-27T13:02:18.816-07:00Origins 2011: The Miniatures HallThe <span style="font-weight: bold;">Miniatures Hall</span> at the <span style="font-weight: bold;">2011 Origins Game Fair</span> was hopping with activity this year. I seem to recall the Hall being fairly vacant last year. This year looked much more full in general.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPfrvZoOaSgpRkB2z2JK2YVE3f67ZnatTa9CtcymaVT-nbtHjaKdrQdJN3Iq8jt1IIejshlZSuhwd1TTKi1B5g1LE-hjDBktwRJrmgzU1dJzvtjUCGy9ns91QdpXUni_zJuw5YDliIipp/s1600/or11_m_hall.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPfrvZoOaSgpRkB2z2JK2YVE3f67ZnatTa9CtcymaVT-nbtHjaKdrQdJN3Iq8jt1IIejshlZSuhwd1TTKi1B5g1LE-hjDBktwRJrmgzU1dJzvtjUCGy9ns91QdpXUni_zJuw5YDliIipp/s400/or11_m_hall.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622966584545642034" border="0" /></a><br />The quarter of a century old <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battletech</span> game of mechanized combat was well represented. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Catalyst Game Labs</span> is doing such a fantastic job with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battletech</span>. I think their products are the strongest the line has seen since the original <span style="font-weight: bold;">FASA</span> days.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgcl79fBag1M-sGyHFBqhlirxIJUZmyuXtnmHBC6fJ5HPRmMt5zthYYhAUnpVZ71ULOi6mLxwszrrX6BEJhkiIE4JRNwQkkmfBV-U9znsn2p7llT8xeue45nHo3FcJyyXfHE3rRTPbmxb/s1600/or11_m_btech.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgcl79fBag1M-sGyHFBqhlirxIJUZmyuXtnmHBC6fJ5HPRmMt5zthYYhAUnpVZ71ULOi6mLxwszrrX6BEJhkiIE4JRNwQkkmfBV-U9znsn2p7llT8xeue45nHo3FcJyyXfHE3rRTPbmxb/s400/or11_m_btech.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622966596734121666" border="0" /></a><br />Speaking of giant mechs waging war, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heavy Gear</span> games were also going on in the miniatures room. While manufacturer <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dream Pod 9</span> was not present at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>, the fans were carrying the banner for the game. This is a game that has picqued my curiosity every year at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con</span>. They just released new 2 player starter boxes. This might be the year I cave in and pick it up.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8xPgmWLFPnzXciXqKlHqTuNTXnGac-8dWbGKf0yC-q32HfH3j5HgSWRPnOmllvaR6KkS5bbk0ULibPN0gA4Wrq9DmRLAxDQxg8drS502Bjy7RMUFwpUe64zkAetwMAGrn-6ta2WfFj3_/s1600/or11_m_dp9_hg.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8xPgmWLFPnzXciXqKlHqTuNTXnGac-8dWbGKf0yC-q32HfH3j5HgSWRPnOmllvaR6KkS5bbk0ULibPN0gA4Wrq9DmRLAxDQxg8drS502Bjy7RMUFwpUe64zkAetwMAGrn-6ta2WfFj3_/s400/or11_m_dp9_hg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622966609320293122" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wizkids</span> had a presence at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> this year. Unfortunately, they didn't have a booth (I was disappointed by this) but <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroclix</span> was going strong. I love this game, and really need to play more often. It was great to see to see so many players enjoying the game at the con.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoyprO77VGlrxUuSeWi2FtmtLo6SyXCcAfe85Ug4F6smt1Z4ZNIKa8WBZJtRgU8SyiTk2v7REHhY_MvOpUNZegqWSS1eI4My6F2X25JLQk9s-64ROxeQvw5FJmYnwbXdQQsK2omIaFmo1/s1600/or11_m_clix.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoyprO77VGlrxUuSeWi2FtmtLo6SyXCcAfe85Ug4F6smt1Z4ZNIKa8WBZJtRgU8SyiTk2v7REHhY_MvOpUNZegqWSS1eI4My6F2X25JLQk9s-64ROxeQvw5FJmYnwbXdQQsK2omIaFmo1/s400/or11_m_clix.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622966617104424946" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlo6NIkf6wJfTPw_BzsDdKH-P8W6I1p0lxUoCxjhobT2a5a2mEogKPMLfp3evy_XOicIsipsAAbNtkDmIu11MPccb-jATooJy37z_RW7U70YXmk1gcs2Dju5Sg9tFhGsUXiAaGsjBMi5g/s1600/or11_m_clix2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlo6NIkf6wJfTPw_BzsDdKH-P8W6I1p0lxUoCxjhobT2a5a2mEogKPMLfp3evy_XOicIsipsAAbNtkDmIu11MPccb-jATooJy37z_RW7U70YXmk1gcs2Dju5Sg9tFhGsUXiAaGsjBMi5g/s400/or11_m_clix2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622966625204315010" border="0" /></a><br />A game that has become a staple of the miniatures room over the past few years is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sailpower</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sailpower</span> is produced by a small company, <a href="http://blog.sailpowergame.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sea Dog Game Studios</span></a> based in Columbus, Ohio. They've been making 15mm resin ships as well as a ruleset and commanding the high seas on huge tables at the convention for awhile now and always draw a big crowd. They recently introduced a second game, <span style="font-weight: bold;">TechCommander</span> featuring giant mechs fighting for the domination of your tabletop.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIMb5L1vjK97eD8TW3tnKWhLKEY7dQhID_NzXGLYJ2RN90SclW_CBbxYmiIG967u9NXdSoqjxn-clp83Y7a2P0Mh6KthR6tMZodQfHphKCojQ6N4evQuMmf_2S8JR5L3x5xijkNP1v_FO/s1600/or11_m_sailp.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIMb5L1vjK97eD8TW3tnKWhLKEY7dQhID_NzXGLYJ2RN90SclW_CBbxYmiIG967u9NXdSoqjxn-clp83Y7a2P0Mh6KthR6tMZodQfHphKCojQ6N4evQuMmf_2S8JR5L3x5xijkNP1v_FO/s400/or11_m_sailp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622989070865613810" border="0" /></a><br />Of course, the grandaddy of all minaiture wargames was also being played at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span>! Both <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">40K</span> games were going on towards the back of the hall. Most of the games, if not all, were organized by <a href="http://www.40korigins.com/40KOrigins/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">40Korigins.com</span></a>, which is a group dedicated to running <span style="font-weight: bold;">Warhammer</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">40K</span> games at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>. Check out their site for more pictures from the games going on there.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG0b5sHUliRwsY7W8TcQSGoPnLVEm_Qfxs5DNjE2LGptKZaCBfwqyVcy-6M83rOO6ijE-aG309FGhyOIjfaDkfhB4Sk-Xgg0DQfCiL1ERKcGrOWxcoXPysR2qp-4DZv3APQUdPUw8WMw1I/s1600/or11_m_whfb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG0b5sHUliRwsY7W8TcQSGoPnLVEm_Qfxs5DNjE2LGptKZaCBfwqyVcy-6M83rOO6ijE-aG309FGhyOIjfaDkfhB4Sk-Xgg0DQfCiL1ERKcGrOWxcoXPysR2qp-4DZv3APQUdPUw8WMw1I/s400/or11_m_whfb.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622989080625616082" border="0" /></a><br />That's it for today, folks. Come back tomorrow for an interview with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve Cole</span> of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amarillo Design Bureau</span>, makers of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Star Fleet Battles</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Federation Commander</span> and more!Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-84306306790394800382011-06-27T09:13:00.001-07:002011-06-27T09:40:28.349-07:00Origins Xtra: Talking with Colby Dauch of Plaid Hat Games<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIT_k8cbh60ubpIU6ZOGYGh9-NKghoHGPCsewi4-g6qzUbvxTrZensWrr_ZZmUw2DstiWIgoT6f8PjYUliZqI0c11dZFYAK3cVASbWwfa3x_l9zMfCNPqGSi4ieuRkiRgxLrvtTsRKau2R/s1600/or11_phg_colby.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIT_k8cbh60ubpIU6ZOGYGh9-NKghoHGPCsewi4-g6qzUbvxTrZensWrr_ZZmUw2DstiWIgoT6f8PjYUliZqI0c11dZFYAK3cVASbWwfa3x_l9zMfCNPqGSi4ieuRkiRgxLrvtTsRKau2R/s400/or11_phg_colby.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622933464143497394" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Plaid Hat Games owner and chief game designer Colby Dauch.</span><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tNujyppvSYQ55cqBnkBUlGYoegrKKZn7-ZA72N2rHjRqNE6ncmKutDPovEdecic2x8jPRAcbj-bVOSQ5jXVEAvaQkqIG_MTN07pR1Cji0CKuvbgos6l6K2BOHEFkqFPL1pb-OI2AtEkS/s1600/or11_phg_dunrun.jpg"><br /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: Colby, could you give us your gamer origin, so to speak? How did you get into the hobby.</span><br /><br />CD: I've always been into games of all types, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> is the game that I fell so in love with that I got involved with online communities and went to a convention for. It was those experiences connecting with other gamers and especially checking out <span style="font-weight: bold;">GenCon</span> that caused me to discover the wider world of hobby gaming.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: What were your thoughts when you found out WOTC was pulling the plug on Heroscape?</span><br /><br />CD: This is a tricky question. I worked with <span style="font-weight: bold;">WotC</span> on the line and am under contract as such. So talking too openly about my experiences and my feelings toward how they handled the line seems ill advised. I will say that I always did my best to make sure that the game mechanics for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> continued to be innovative and exciting. That was my part of the project while it was at <span style="font-weight: bold;">WotC</span> (shared with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chris Dupuis</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerry Hawthorne</span>) and I took it seriously.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: When did you come up with the concept of Summoner Wars?</span><br /><br />CD:Back when <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> was still at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro</span> was sending me other various game design jobs I started to feel the call to design something that was all my own. One of the designs that came out of that calling was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: You tried to shop Summoner Wars around to other game companies, correct?</span><br /><br />CD: The main one I knew I wanted to shop it to was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro</span>. I kind of knew that it wasn't going to be right for them, but I had to try. I also submitted it to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy Flight Games</span>, but I'm still waiting for their submissions department to return my email asking them if I can send them a prototype.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: How did you come to the decision to start up your own company?</span><br /><br />CD: I told myself pretty early in my efforts on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars</span> that I was going to shop it to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro</span>, the biggest mass market company where I had the best connections, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fantasy Flight Games</span> one of the biggest and my favorite hobby game company. I felt like those were the big dogs whose names and resources would do the most for the game. I felt like anything smaller than that meant Plan B, which was start a company of my own. Something I felt like I wanted to do and something I felt like <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars</span> would be a great backbone start up product for.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: What's the story behind the name Plaid Hat Games?</span><br /><br />CD: I sometimes sport a plaid hat. I had an illustration of me done in that hat which I used in a blog I kept for awhile and still use as my avatar on various sites. My good friend <span style="font-weight: bold;">John Clowdus</span> of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Small Box Games</span> suggested the name <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span> and most of the rest of my friends thought it was an excellent name.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: Summoner Wars has gotten great reviews, and developed quite a strong following, yet doesn't have a real presence in game stores. What are some plans to change that and give Summoner Wars a stronger presence at retail?</span><br /><br />CD: I wish I had all the answers here. It is tough for a small company. I still maintain a day job which means I can't travel to things like <span style="font-weight: bold;">GAMA</span> and distributors conventions to reach out to game retailers. I also only have so much time and money to devote to marketing and I choose to, right now, use that to market directly to players. Players can help get <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars</span> in their local game store by requesting it. The longer <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span> is around the more the stores will have heard of us and be willing to give our products a try. The more success we get the more chances we can take on larger marketing campaigns directed at retailers. (Like masses of demo copies and posters)<br /><br />My plan is to keep producing great games and great customer service. I believe that success breeds success, so I'm going to keep paying my dues and keep looking for opportunities to get the word out about us.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: The next project that's been announced is a boardgame, Dungeon Run. How'd that come about?</span><br /><br />CD: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Bistro </span>is the designer on this. He and I met one another through the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> community. When I started <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span> he helped out with playtesting, general advice, and other areas. I knew that he was fairly prolific in designing games as a hobby and I was actively looking for the opportunity to publish one of his games. He put up <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dungeon Run</span> as a print and play project and I saw some great potential there. He and I brainstormed and came up with ideas for new directions to take some of the concepts behind the print and play version. That was the birth of the project.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tNujyppvSYQ55cqBnkBUlGYoegrKKZn7-ZA72N2rHjRqNE6ncmKutDPovEdecic2x8jPRAcbj-bVOSQ5jXVEAvaQkqIG_MTN07pR1Cji0CKuvbgos6l6K2BOHEFkqFPL1pb-OI2AtEkS/s1600/or11_phg_dunrun.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tNujyppvSYQ55cqBnkBUlGYoegrKKZn7-ZA72N2rHjRqNE6ncmKutDPovEdecic2x8jPRAcbj-bVOSQ5jXVEAvaQkqIG_MTN07pR1Cji0CKuvbgos6l6K2BOHEFkqFPL1pb-OI2AtEkS/s400/or11_phg_dunrun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622933467685257826" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:78%;">Dungeon Run (mock-up) demo game in action.</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: What challenges have you faced developing a board game as opposed to a card game?</span><br /><br />CD: Many of the challenges are the same. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dungeon Run</span> did require we bring another freelancer in on the project in the way of a sculptor. We called on another contact we made through <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> fandom in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chad Hoverter</span>. This guy was a part of our close knit community of gamer friends and he also just happens to be a super talented sculptor. It is amazing how much of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span> is built around a community of friends that met through <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> and happen to have a variety of game related talents.<br /><br />There is myself, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerry Hawthorne</span> - Game Designer/Creative Genius, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Bistro</span> - Game Designer/Writer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chris Dupuis</span> - Rules Guru/Editor, <span style="font-weight: bold;">James Sitz</span> - Lead Playtester/Gamer Savant/Aspiring Designer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dave Richards</span> - Graphic Designer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Michael Faciane</span> - Game Designer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chad Hoverter</span> - Sculptor<br /><br />Literally all of these guys met by doing their thing as a fan with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> and now I have worked with each one of these guys in connection to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span>. There is even a top notch illustrator among us. If I knew how to light a fire under him I would be using him too. I think this speaks to one of your earlier questions as well. How did I come to the decision to start a game company? How could I not with a support structure like that?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TRG: What can you tell us about what's coming from Plaid Hat Games beyond Dungeon Run?</span><br /><br />CD: More <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars</span> and more Board Games. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerry Hawthorne</span> has a story-centric adventure game that we are putting the polish on and I've got a sci-fi game that came from an unsuspected source that I'm helping develop and plan to publish. It's a crazy mix of inspirations that come together to make a great game.<br /><br />Thanks to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Colby</span> for taking the time to talk to us. It was great seeing the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat</span> booth at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> being constantly busy, and the giant stack of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Summoner Wars Masters Sets</span> that was present in the booth on Thursday morning was gone on Saturday afternoon.<br /><br />Congratulations to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaid Hat Games</span> on their success thus far, and here's to even greater successes in the future.<br /><br />Look for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dungeon Run</span> to be released around <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gen Con 2011</span>.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-181630908160835667.post-10851486939191608952011-06-26T17:31:00.000-07:002011-06-26T19:03:28.323-07:00Origins 2011: Day Four Report<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ2V0ZtC31B-NY6uJ-dlQAP9fpo2vX53rfnVmZVDnYk3DBvpX9wrvW8gc7gvAfOYojoisbuV4RSejMZk3x-D2qOFApb3wQUUsKAZe7oOL-N18HSVqyz86uty6nJw6QW087_TG8bRYP1Ca/s1600/originslogo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ2V0ZtC31B-NY6uJ-dlQAP9fpo2vX53rfnVmZVDnYk3DBvpX9wrvW8gc7gvAfOYojoisbuV4RSejMZk3x-D2qOFApb3wQUUsKAZe7oOL-N18HSVqyz86uty6nJw6QW087_TG8bRYP1Ca/s400/originslogo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622714098291200450" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins 2011</span> is now a memory, but there's still a lot of images and coverage to come here at <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rural Gamer</span>.<br /><br />Boardgames are big at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span>, and this year was no exception. The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Board Room</span> was bigger than ever this year and boardgamers were enjoying playing a wonderfully diverse selection of boardgames. Many of the games came from the staggering library of <span style="font-weight: bold;">CABS</span> (the <a href="http://www.buckeyeboardgamers.org/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Columbus Area Boardgame Society</span></a>). There was something for everyone.<br /><br />I grabbed a few pics as I strode the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Boardroom</span>. Here's some folks playing <a href="http://www.eaglegames.net/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eagle Games</span></a> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders of the Realm</span>. This cooperative boardgame has been on my radar for awhile. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eagle Games</span> has so far supported the game with pre-painted miniatures, a new <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroes</span> expansion and a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dragons</span> expansion. It's been pretty well reviewed. I hope to check it out in the future.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsp33bYLK7e0er8TVgkgdVfaG0ZsUShlIVFLwmqFWJOg6mtr2qWWsZ57IezJuzbrVdNGuoEWI2jI2nrc3JGyUlyAJkaluaLvTbYnV1VHQ4n654Gwpd5Fv5k38v03RvmasDIETuUkPlJFi/s1600/or11_b_realm.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsp33bYLK7e0er8TVgkgdVfaG0ZsUShlIVFLwmqFWJOg6mtr2qWWsZ57IezJuzbrVdNGuoEWI2jI2nrc3JGyUlyAJkaluaLvTbYnV1VHQ4n654Gwpd5Fv5k38v03RvmasDIETuUkPlJFi/s400/or11_b_realm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622708422582268450" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> was alive and well at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> as fans of the now defunct boardgame enjoyed many a game of this unique fantasy game. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heroscape</span> is a blast to play. It's really too bad that <span style="font-weight: bold;">WOTC</span> pulled the plug on it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbwqnWYvyw10aE8uOuoEIFqrt6Vu3ag-h5NoBCd0hFEk-h4YYP9GB01x5t0URVjB1SpkLuq-6vaZ4K3ncc145eOAeiUrwQSnuuugOGY3KQvo_CL1d0_iHZqOhu3coP_uNCTv1qtz_OVW9/s1600/or11_b_heroscape.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbwqnWYvyw10aE8uOuoEIFqrt6Vu3ag-h5NoBCd0hFEk-h4YYP9GB01x5t0URVjB1SpkLuq-6vaZ4K3ncc145eOAeiUrwQSnuuugOGY3KQvo_CL1d0_iHZqOhu3coP_uNCTv1qtz_OVW9/s400/or11_b_heroscape.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622708419959089362" border="0" /></a><br />Another unique game showing up at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Origins</span> was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chaostle</span> from <a href="http://www.chivalrygames.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chivalry Games</span></a>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chaostle</span> comes with 3D castle components that make up the battlescape upon which the game takes place.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5Zb8dYPfwYTl51vLyEnYX7dxk-8gCQSzD8_zy6hFmKqmju9Cmu0APUX9J2rWC-ktd8_e5iDRoKp-MLpQSkkwkVwfR8ObSRCdATuux91u5HjiLTN1agzDFT_5NUDNGPDCON3uH4HkR0VJ/s1600/or11_b_castle.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5Zb8dYPfwYTl51vLyEnYX7dxk-8gCQSzD8_zy6hFmKqmju9Cmu0APUX9J2rWC-ktd8_e5iDRoKp-MLpQSkkwkVwfR8ObSRCdATuux91u5HjiLTN1agzDFT_5NUDNGPDCON3uH4HkR0VJ/s400/or11_b_castle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622708413528852882" border="0" /></a><br />I was especially impressed by this massive gameboard for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Power Grid</span>. Seriously, this thing was huge. I don't know if this was something official supplied by publisher <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rio Grande Games</span>, or if it was the creation of some enterprising fan who had access to a large format printer and laminator. But, wow, this was something else.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NDaV_ybGCjUpZtvygDyeV6iEvQ6lBi60C_xsYOVu5qVAqyU4duaZj0F13iqL5zRW-USTGtzBCpLJ1HD60ivRT9W4-SzsNrViAndfijKnuGdgpR2TIHMPt-Jo2iCmddujoWQ_EJ5KqHk7/s1600/or11_b_big_pg.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NDaV_ybGCjUpZtvygDyeV6iEvQ6lBi60C_xsYOVu5qVAqyU4duaZj0F13iqL5zRW-USTGtzBCpLJ1HD60ivRT9W4-SzsNrViAndfijKnuGdgpR2TIHMPt-Jo2iCmddujoWQ_EJ5KqHk7/s400/or11_b_big_pg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622708407868683458" border="0" /></a>These brave gamers were immersed in a game of <span style="font-weight: bold;">FFG's Twilight Imperium</span>, a game that possibly can last longer than the convention itself! Someday I need to play in a game of <span style="font-weight: bold;">TI</span>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE7iqgUA-abgo-9K3pJ7rj4iwCdob59wszDSJOO33SlZhMcCS_yhuR4EdBKFDHZOFV4sLD5GzeA36WWZT8BBbcDYvpfEbgD_56c3muNMutzjQfPwuGcf5_l86cFaBI9YlEm2aeTR4vFNI-/s1600/or11_b_twiimp.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE7iqgUA-abgo-9K3pJ7rj4iwCdob59wszDSJOO33SlZhMcCS_yhuR4EdBKFDHZOFV4sLD5GzeA36WWZT8BBbcDYvpfEbgD_56c3muNMutzjQfPwuGcf5_l86cFaBI9YlEm2aeTR4vFNI-/s400/or11_b_twiimp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622708434246452706" border="0" /></a>Something that I saw being played that almost brought me to tears was the s0-new-it's-not-in-stores-yet <span style="font-weight: bold;">Battleship Galaxies</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hasbro</span>. This game looks absolutely fantastic and I can't wait to get my hands on it! It just looks fantastic.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZsQT5HKMVbi0CejxCVD2F0IXbknFXTTNx-5lXzJdrAPRdbua-UJt8AIzTlMKPcYgqdT4gH1cmfZ5_Dc5o2KL2cl08YQ2qmNEqw8S4ioTx1VJ5VSSmit5JMVqaPCIQPrpNH47uapFylUm/s1600/or11_has_bsgal.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZsQT5HKMVbi0CejxCVD2F0IXbknFXTTNx-5lXzJdrAPRdbua-UJt8AIzTlMKPcYgqdT4gH1cmfZ5_Dc5o2KL2cl08YQ2qmNEqw8S4ioTx1VJ5VSSmit5JMVqaPCIQPrpNH47uapFylUm/s400/or11_has_bsgal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622708754334811202" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Next up, we'll take a venture into the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Miniatures Hall</span> and see what strategic miniatures games were being played.Jeffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066278016118464307noreply@blogger.com0