Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Happy New Year!!! Top Five Gaming Moments of 2014


Taking a page from Carl of the ICs, I have decided to make a list of my top five gaming moments of 2014. This was a really incredible year for me, as it saw me finally have time to dive back into this hobby I have loved since I was a teenager. I am really looking forward to 2015, and sharing my love of the hobby with this awesome international community. Here's my list:

5. Listening to Podcasts

It all started thanks to Imperial Vox Cast, Broadcast XCVII - Gamer Dad. My good buddy posted it on Facebook mentioning how he liked it. So, I decided to give it a listen. Being a new parent, it can be hard to find a balance between your hobbies and personal life. This episode gave me hope that I really could. From there, I started testing out some other podcasts and started to realize that other people wanted to play the game just like me! Huge shout-outs to The Independent Characters, The Overlords, and Masters of the Forge for their continued inspiration and entertainment in 2014.

4. Painting my Eldar for the Celesticon Tournament


This army was a labor of love, and a long time coming. Most of these models I've had for years. Finally getting them painted and on the table in a tournament was a real big turning point in the hobby for me. It also really helped me hone my style and confidence in my painting. Sure, the army isn't super effective. But, whenever I put them on the table it makes it all worth it. 

3. Gaming with Long Distance Friends


I have moved around a lot over the last couple years. Because of it, I have some really close friends who live pretty far away. I really cherish games I get to play with them. Luckily, this year I got to play a couple games with each of them. Beyond the tactics and the fluff, I really love the experience of playing games with friends. Much of our hobby is solitary (clipping, glueing, cursing, painting, more cursing, etc.), so these moments playing with dear friends are really special.

2. Endgame Oakland


Endgame is a really incredible store. It has beautiful tables, a great option of paints and models, and an awesome 40k community. The Inquisition War campaign they ran this year was really top notch. One of my favorite parts about the store and it's community is the focus on creativity and the narrative. Almost everyone who plays there has a custom chapter or story behind their armies. It makes for great games, and a really awesome community. Huge shout-out to Mike and Adan for all the work they do. Looking forward to the new campaign in 2015!

1. Corsair Radio

I don't get a lot of time to play 40k. My life is pretty hectic with family and work, which gives me one or two days a month to get a game in. I spend time hobbying (converting, building, painting) and reading, but that left me feeling like I was missing out. So, in August I decided to start this blog. It has been so much fun sharing my ideas, writing, and oddball models with everyone. 40k has an incredible community, and it stretches all over the world. Being a small part of that has really given me confidence to continue to push my boundaries. I look forward to writing, painting, and posting more in 2015!

Thanks for reading, and Happy New Year!

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Twelve Days of Christmas, 12/21-12/24 HO HO HO!!!

Looking for the perfect gift for your quirky, Oldhammer gamer friend? Look no further than Corsair Radio's Twelve Deals of Christmas! Every day from 12/12-12/24, I'll share something cool I've seen on eBay. Seen something you like? Share it in the comments!


The big day is almost here! For our last edition of the Twelve Days of Christmas, we have some beautiful purity seals brought to you by LiselleMade on Etsy. These seals, and there are a ton of options, would be a really cool addition to any miniature bag or gaming room. With a ton of choices for wording on the scroll, and personal messages too, there is a real person touch to this gift.


Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! I hope you can sleep as visions of Forge World Primarchs and Terminators dance in your heads. But, most of all, enjoy this time with your loved ones. Looking forward to seeing everyones hauls tomorrow!

Until next time!


Saturday, December 20, 2014

Twelve Days of Christmas, 12/17-12/20

Looking for the perfect gift for your quirky, Oldhammer gamer friend? Look no further than Corsair Radio's Twelve Deals of Christmas! Every day from 12/12-12/24, I'll share something cool I've seen on eBay. Seen something you like? Share it in the comments!


Good old Santa Grimnar has been busy over the past couple days, but never fear! Corsair Radio is ready with four hot deals to get you ready for the holidays. Today's focus is on Necromuna models. These are a really easy, fun way to add character to any 40k army. And, each of these is something that your Oldhammer gamer buddy would love to have in their collections. Happy bidding!



Use for Space Marine Scouts, Inquisition
Current Price $31.50
Time Left Less than One Day



Use for Chaos, Inquisition, Imperial Guard
Current Price $9.99
Time Left Less than One Day



Use for Chaos, Inquisition, Snake Plisskin
Current Price $16.50
Time Left Less than One Day



Use for Chaos Cultist, Renegade or Standard Imperial Guard, Inquisition
Current Price $15.00
Time Left Less than One Day




Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Twelve Deals of Christmas: 12/16, Ultramarines Painted Lot

Looking for the perfect gift for your quirky, Oldhammer gamer friend? Look no further than Corsair Radio's Twelve Deals of Christmas! Every day from 12/12-12/24, I'll share something cool I've seen on eBay. Seen something you like? Share it in the comments!


Let's be honest, everyone has a friend they want to get into 40k. As much as this is a solitary endeavor, having a good buddy to play with always makes the games better. But, getting someone to purchase and paint a whole army can be a tough sell. Fear not! Today's Twelve Deals of Christmas special is a painted Ultramarines lot!

Thirty Marines for $30!!!

This is currently sitting at $29.99 with zero bids and only 20 hours to bid. I can think of a much better entry into the hobby than this. Gives them the chance to play some games, and decide on which fun toys to buy next. The holidays are a great time to get fun gifts for friends and family. Why not spend a little to create a new gaming buddy?

Until next time!


Monday, December 15, 2014

Twelve Deals of Christmas: 2/14 & 2/15, Blood Angels OOP Captain and Purity Seal


Looking for the perfect gift for your quirky, Oldhammer gamer friend? Look no further than Corsair Radio's Twelve Deals of Christmas! Every day from 12/12-12/24, I'll share something cool I've seen on eBay. Seen something you like? Share it in the comments!


After a short break, we are back with a double dose of deals from eBay. For only $5.02, you can be the proud owner of this golden boy (unpainted). An excellent present for your favorite new bandwagon Blood Angels player. Who needs troops when you can run 14(!) elite squads. I am always of the opinion that these OOP models add a lot of character to any army. Bidding ends in just under two days, so hurry up!



Does your buddy have awful luck? Are his dice tainted by Chaos? Then, why not pick up this Purity Seal for $15.50? Just stick it on your miniatures bag and you will immediately fall under the Emperor's good graces. In all seriousness, this would make for an awesome edition to any 40k-ers collection. Only five hours left on this one, so pick it up before it's gone!

Until next time!


Saturday, December 13, 2014

Twelve Deals of Christmas: 12/13, 2nd Edition Codex: Angels of Death

Looking for the perfect gift for your quirky, Oldhammer gamer friend? Look no further than Corsair Radio's Twelve Deals of Christmas! Every day from 12/12-12/24, I'll share something cool I've seen on eBay. Seen something you like? Share it in the comments!

Codex: Dark Blood Death Angels

Old codexes always make a great gift. The fluff, rules, and models can serve as great inspiration for any 40k gamer. Codex: Angels of Death from 2nd Edition is a real gem. This 120 page book holds the rules and background for the Dark Angels and the Blood Angels. Both are iconic figures in the history of the Warhammer Universe, and their unique stories add such character to the game. Also, if the cover art is any sign, you'll be in for a real treat. 

Currently, this book is going for the low, low price of $9.99 with just under two days left to bid. Head over to eBay and pick this one up before it's gone (or I bid on it!).

Until next time!

Friday, December 12, 2014

Twelve Deals of Christmas: 12/12, OOP Death Company

Looking for the perfect gift for your quirky, Oldhammer gamer friend? Look no further than Corsair Radio's Twelve Deals of Christmas! Every day from 12/12-12/24, I'll share something cool I've seen on eBay. Seen something you like, share it in the comments!


With the codex coming out tomorrow, who wouldn't love this beautiful box of unpainted, unbuilt OOP Death Company. By far my favorite unit in 40k (for fluff and gaming reasons), the Death Company put the blood in Blood Angels. With this kit, you get nine standard DC marines with a couple options (Plasma Pistol, Power Axe and Sword) and some really beautiful shoulder pads. The Chaplain is a really great old sculpt, and would make a great HQ for your army. Currently, the bid is at $40 with only seven hours remaining.

Missed the boat on this one, check out this listing. All painted and ready to go. Who needs troops when you can have more elites! Unbound, baby!


Friday, December 5, 2014

Dredging the Grimdark: The Fallen Angels

Dredging the Grimdark is a series of articles that review how you can use old, out of production (OOP) Citadel models or odd fluff armies in your games of 7th Edition Warhammer 40k. Have a favorite model or story that you don't know how to use? Comment below and we can feature your suggestion in a later edition.


The Fallen Angels are an interesting concept for a 40k army. The most interesting part being that, due to their number, I don't know that you could classify them as an "army".  According to the fluff, the majority of the Fallen are loners. Traveling through backwater systems as mercenaries, trying to stay out of the watchful gaze of their old brothers, the Dark Angels. But, some have taken a different path. 

A select few of the Fallen forge out their own empires among the stars, or band together and join the forces of Chaos in their quest to overthrow the God-Emperor. And, don't forget to include the Fallen who have repented for their sins. These select few still side with the Emperor, some even joining the Deathwatch as Black Shields.

In a game system like 40k, finding the specific rules for your fluff based army can be difficult. The Fallen are veterans in the full sense of the word. Having lived and fought since the 30th millennium, you need make sure you represent their skills and abilities, while also making sure you are adhering to the narrative (unless you are the type of player that allies Tau with Chaos Daemons, then just go with whatever). Below are a couple rules options focusing on the three main types of Fallen Angels as I see them: Tainted by Chaos, Rogues and Mercenaries, and Exiles. 



Tainted by Chaos 
(I fell to Nurgle and I liked it. Taste of his rotten chapstick)

Fluff and Rules: I would start with the Dataslate: Cypher. Run the Fallen Champions formation with Cypher and one to three units of Chosen. Ally with a Chaos army full of cultists, representing their henchmen and lackeys. Throw in a daemon prince for some spice and psychic fun.


Modeling: You can model these Chosen as bog standard chaos models, or have some fun and use the Dark Angels Veterans bits. These warriors have been fighting for millennia, so paint and mock them up as you see fit!


Cypher: Ethereal Badass

Rogues and Mercenaries
(Power Hungry Super Humans)

Fluff and Rules: I would use Codex: Space Marines. I see them best represented by Sternguard, but that's just me. Limit yourself on fun toys, but don't hold back if your narrative dictates it. Make sure to throw Cypher into the mix, too. These guys HATE the Dark Angels, and will do anything to get one over on the Unforgiven. Rulers of small systems and sell swords, I could see them picking up the odd tank or two. A heavy terminator force would be odd, but use it if you can justify it!

Modeling: This could be fun. You could just use bog standard Dark Angels, painted in their pre-heresy colors. You could also use a mix of chaos and standard marine kits to give a slight edge. A lot of opportunity for creativity here!

Pre-Heresy Dark Angels

Exiles
(We're reeeeaaaalllyyy sorry!!!)

Fluff and Rules:
This one is a little off the wall, but I think Codex: Legion of the Damned would be an interesting choice. You could run a small allied force of around ten to twelve marines (which makes sense narratively) and just attribute their abilities to centuries upon centuries of warfare and sneaking under the noses of the Dark Angels. Extra points if you play with Space Wolves against Dark Angels. What a twist!!!


Modeling: For this, I would use more standard Dark Angels marines, painted in pre-heresy colors. But, there is also some room for creativity here, too. Whatever you decide, they are your minis!


Until next time! 

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Holiday Gift Ideas for Warhammer 40k Gamers

Ho, Ho, Ho!!!
Buying gifts for the Warhammer 40k gamer in your life can be tough. Unless you are trolling message boards and blogs it can be hard to keep up with the new hotness. So, in order to get on Robot Santa's nice list I have decided to offer up  recommendations for some of my favorite gift ideas. These area pretty good catch-alls, and things that I believe any gamer would be happy to receive over the holidays. If you have any suggestions, share them in the comments so others can see.

Gift Cards

Games Workshop Gift Voucher

These are by far the easiest, and often best, options for presents. Every Warhammer player has a wish list of things they want to add to their arsenal. Due to some recent changes in stocking, the Games Workshop website is often one of the better places to find specific miniatures and books. For that reason, I'd suggest GW Virtual Gift Vouchers. They are a bit more pricey than some of the other retailers, but they will always have what your gamer is looking for. I would suggest a base value of $50 to give your gamers some flexibility

eBay is also an awesome resource for wargamers. From new kits, to bits and out of production models, eBay Gift Cards offer an incredible value. There are a bevy of small retailers that sell everything from model kits to individual bits. Two of my favorites are Black Dagger Games and Lazarus Games. Due to the savings you can get from eBay I would suggest at least $30 on the gift card.
Hobby Supplies

Vallejo Paints

These are all things that will make the hobby easier for your lucky wargamer. Paints are essential to any avid Warhammer player, and the nicer the paints the better the result. Citadel paints are great, and the Citadel Hobby Starter Set is a great beginning or addition to anyones collection. Secret Weapon Miniatures also offers some really cool weathering pigments and inks that making creating that grimdark look a lot easier. And finally, Vallejo Paints are by far my favorite. Any of these Vallejo Paint Sets would make an excellent present or stocking stuffer for your favorite Space Marine.

Bases

Micro Art Studios

Bases add a nice final touch to any miniature, but are often the last thing on gamer's minds. Any of these sets of Micro Art Studio bases would make an excellent gift. 40k uses two main sizes of bases, 25mm and 40mm. 25mm is the most common, but either of those sizes will work out well. These bases would also be a really fun stocking stuffer if you are picking up a model kit or two.

Gaming Aids

Litko 1" Linear Guage

Remembering the rules is hard enough, so why not make it easier with some of these awesome gaming aids. I never leave home without my Litko 1” Linear Gauge. Standard movement in 40k is 6", so this template has dramatically cut down on measuring tape injuries. Tokens, like these ones from Dapper Devil, also make tracking certain mechanics like wounds on characters and hit points on vehicles a breeze. I would also suggest picking up a set of tactical objective markers from Battle Markers.

Sabol Army Transport Case

But, the best gaming aid anyone can receive is a miniatures carrying case. A couple years ago my wife got me a Sabol Platoon Carrying Case. It costs $40, and I use it every time I play. Plenty of storage space, and a nice mesh pocket for holding codices and iPads. A miniatures player can never have enough carrying cases, and the more cases they have the less clutter you'll have around your house!

And, last but not least...

Your Local Gaming Store!

Endgame Oakland

Every gamer has a favorite local gaming store. Their home away from home. If you are really stumped on what to get them, just ask the staff for help. Most likely they will know your gamer and have an idea of what is on their wish list. Best of all, you are supporting local business and the local gaming community. Not sure what your closest store is? Check out the Dakka Dakka Store Finder or ask around. If they don't have what your looking for, just ask and they can special order it for you.

Hope this list helped. Anything I can do to make a fellow gamer happy. Still have questions? Comment below and I'll see how I can help.

Until next time!

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wishing everyone a great day full of turkey, football, pie, and good booze! I am thankful for my wonderful family, friends, and this incredible global 40k community. It has been a lot of fun sharing my thoughts and musings with all of you.

Dad's Little Angels

Tomorrow, make sure check out http://www.battlefoam.com for some incredible deals on foam. You get stuffing today, get your bags stuffing tomorrow!

Until next time!

Monday, November 24, 2014

Shield of Baal: Deathstorm (BA Starter List)


Blood Angels v. 'Nids are coming in a new Stormclaw-esque box. The price is right, too. At $125 you are getting $129 MSRP worth of models plus Captain Karlaen. This is a great offer for a new BA player. Death Company and DC Dread are troops, and Terminators are always a fun unit on the table. Depending on your options, you are looking at around 750pts. I'd build it like this:

Captain Karlaen

Death Company x5
- Jump Packs, Power Fist, Infernius Pistol

DC Dreadnought
- Blood Talons, Magna-grapple

Terminators x5
- Heavy Flamer or Assault Cannon

Hopefully Karlaen has some cool rules (Blood Hammer, anyone?). But, the best news about this release is that the codex is coming soon! Looking forward to some relics and new warlord traits.

Until next time!

Up Next, Shield of Baal: Blooddeathstorm


Sunday, November 23, 2014

Yell Hounds Terminators


Happy Sunday everybody! I finished these up a while ago, but I thought I'd share them today. I though a lot about a color scheme for the terminators that would differentiate them from the standard "Death Company", especially for competitive play. When I play in tournaments, I always want to try to play as WYSIWYG. So, I did these guys in a lighter gray. The white left arm just seemed like a cool idea. And, it also drives me to think of a cool fluff reason for it. 

Shooty terminators are really fun to play with. In my army, they serve as an anchor for everything else to work around. And, who doesn't love heavy flamers. These are old 2nd edition plastics, but I feel like they still fit in with a clean paint job. And, the low detail and flat surfaces make that even easier!

I'll be working on some more Death Company today, and trying to get a drop pod painted before we head out for Thanksgiving. Hopefully I'll be able to get these guys on the table next weekend. Check out the action shots from the Steiermark Campaign below.

Until next time!




Thursday, November 20, 2014

Morrigan's Charge (The Steiermark Campaign)

Congrats to to Jorn for his winning six word short story, "Unseen, unheard, the Callidus came calling". Keep on the lookout for another writing contest in the near future!


Ian and I played the second of our three game series in the Steiermark Campaign. In the first battle, Ian was able to seize Outpost Beta-19, but suffered some heavy losses in the process. This time, the Yell Hounds had assembled their forces for an all out assault on Guttrippa and his boys. Unfortunately, the good guys lost. Check out the IC's forum for a great battle report from Ian. 

Just like last time, I decided to focus on one of the main characters in the narrative. This time we will view the battle through the eyes of Bran Morrigan, Reclusiarch and Chapter Master of the Yell Hounds. Makes sure to check out pictures from the battle after the story. From the darkness, comes their demise!
The Story

He had died once before. Brought to the brink. So close to the endless comfort of the God-Emperor's side that he felt awash in glory. Taken by the Black Rage, his madness in battle was unending. Fighting against an eldar raiding party on some unknown planet. He was a Blood Angel then, the crimson red of his past life peaking through chips in his now jet black power armor. His chain-sword was death, looping slashes and cuts that split the xenos in two. But, he did no see his true enemy. He fought the legion's of Horus, watched his primarch die again and again. Overtaken, unable to control his superhuman form. He stood atop the pile of bodies and screamed. A wretched, primordial scream. And then, in an instant, peace.

Chaplain Bran Morrigan tried to re-join his brothers. But, the Sons of Sanguinius feared him. He had risen from the dead. Their beloved Bran, his beautiful and ornate works of brass still hanging amongst the works of his fellow marines. They had mourned him, and now they feared him. At first, it tormented Morrigan. He fought along side them, but not with them. He sung the Emperor's prayers, but responses were tinged with doubt. Nearing his wits end, it was the great Lemartes who saved him.

The newly christened Reclusiarch Bran Morrigan was sent to Tirnan, a storm world in the Segmentum Obsucrus. He was joined by his fellow pariahs, brothers from the Blood Angels and their successor's who had survived the Black Rage. Together, there was no mistrust. No sideways glances. No fear. Together they were Yell Hounds.

Morrigan sung the proud litanies of his new chapter as he swung his Crozius through the green tide. Smashing and ripping, the sky port landing pad was thick with blood. He desired to drink it all. Fill a large goblet and relish in his victory. But, it was not meant to be. The cowardly inquisitor had escaped. His men's assault on Outpost Beta-19 was stopped just short. Realizing defeat, he activated his jump pack and launched into the sky. Bounding off the tower, he moved quickly to the rendezvous. Guttrippa was still alive. This battle was lost. But, the war was not over. 

Bran had known death. Soon, the ork warboss would know it too.

Inquisitor Josep Arador running away from the fight, like a bitch

Death Company Dreadnought, SMASH!

Outpost Beta 19

Terminators assaulting the southern wall

These guys jumped onto the landing pad and smashed face.

Never saw it coming. Ironic, huh?

Uh, can I have my power fist back?

Friday, November 14, 2014

The Black Rage (Empathy, Understanding, and the Sons of Sanginius)

Voting ends Sunday, 11/16, for Corsair Radio's Six Word Short Story Contest. You can vote using the polling widget on the right of this post. Make sure to pick your favorite story and vote before then!

Art is so important to us because it can serve as a mirror, reflecting how we view our world. I think that I love science fiction and fantasy so much because it allows me to confront my own fears outside of the real world. I can enjoy stories full of anxiety and emotion and still feel protected, guarded from my own personal daemons. I can see these fantasy worlds through the eyes of characters (Aragorn, Spock, Han Solo) who struggle, but still persevere and make the most of every moment. The Blood Angels, my new 40k passion project, are no different.


I have suffered from anxiety for as long as I can remember. I check to make sure the door is locked three times before I go to bed, I envision my escape from nearly every location I enter, and I worry about my loved ones constantly. All that said, I still live a very happy life (a beautiful wife, two kids, a good job, and all the miniatures my 17 year old heart could desire). But, this specter of anxiety almost always follows me. These emotions are what draws me to the Blood Angels.

I just finished Deus Encarmineby James Swallow, and I began to see that myself and Rafen, the protagonist, weren't so different. He is a loyal servant to the Emperor and his Chapter, but still a speculative man under the constant fear that The Black Rage will overtake him. That he will succumb  to "The Flaw" inside of him. Personally, I find this really inspiring. Amidst this great fear, Rafen and his brothers are still able to put their lives on the line for what they believe in. They persevere.

Now, I don't believe that my anxiety is anything like reliving the death of Sanginius (hell, I don't even have a primarch). And, this is all a part of a fantasy universe. There are real people who suffer and overcome things much greater than I will ever know, whose strength does and always will inspire me. Rafen and the Blood Angels's inner strength really adds to my hobbying life. When I model, paint, and play with my toys I relax. Like a long, deep breath. When I read on my morning commute, it is my meditation. I hope that when you enjoy this hobby, you can find the same peace. 

Until next time!



Monday, November 10, 2014

Six Word Story Contest Voting

The creativity of the 40k community always impresses me. We are all gamers, painters, modelers, and writers. Just goes to show what an incredible outlet this hobby is. I hope that this exercise has shown everyone that the narrative isn't a hard thing to forge. You don't need to write a novel or even a couple paragraphs. Sometimes, six words can really tell a story.


Voting begins now to determine the best of the best. Please pick your favorite story in the widget on the right and vote for it. Voting closes at 11:59pm PST on 11/16. The winner will receive accolades from the God-Emperor and a copy of the Blood Angels Quick Reads from The Black Library.

Thanks for all of your entries! I am already thinking up another writing contest starting in January, so keep those creative juices flowing. Here is my favorite collection of six word stories from the Warhammer 40k Reddit thread written by u/Lokistale, u/Terminus_Est_, and u/Mobythenarwahle. Until next time!

"Please forgive me, Father." Said Horus
"I can't son." Whispered the Emperor.
Horus wept. Knowing salvation was lost.
Unwillingly the Emperor raised his sword.
Dark beings screamed in impotent rage.
As the Emperor lost a son.


Friday, November 7, 2014

It's the Final Countdown!!! (Six Word Story Contest)


We are mere hours away from the deadline for entries into Corsair Radio's Six Word Story Contest. Click the link and add your story to the comments before 11:59pm PST for a chance to win the Blood Angels Quick Reads Collection. There have been some really awesome short, short stories so far, and all of them will go up for a vote starting next week. The author of the story with the most votes is the winner, and the new Emperor of Internet Mankind!

This could be you!

May Slaneesh grant you a weekend full of dice and debauchery. Until next time!

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Beer and Pretzels 40k

There are only four days left to get your entry in for Corsair Radio's Six Word Story Contest. Click the link and add your story to the comments for a chance to win the Blood Angels Quick Reads Collection. Happy writing!

Drinking and playing 40k always mix, the results just aren't always so great. Dice, rulebooks, liquor, and beer can drop pods have ruined many a gamer's night. So, in order to drink more and think less, my buddy Joel played a game Joel made up based on a mixture of 40k and Rogue Trader. This was the first of a small weekend campaign, with the winner getting d4 re-rolls in our Sunday game.

The scenario was very Kill Team-esque. I had five Scions, each with two wounds (one with a sniper rifle) against his ten Guardians, five Dire Avengers, and a Spiritseer with no psychic abilities. My goal was to assassinate the Spiritseer and escape off of my table edge. Joel's goal was to kill me dead. It was a lot of fun, but the thing that really made this scenario sing was the simplicity. That, and the whiskey of course.

No, Mr. Spiritseer. I expect you to die!

None of Joel's models could see me at the start of the game. The only way they could activate is if I was within 6" of them, or if I shot at a model within 6" of them. Each model within 6" would then take and activation test. On a roll of a six, the model could move and shoot as normal. If I tried to shoot at a model and didn't kill it, they were able to activate immediately. This mechanic felt really authentic, and added to the covert feel of the mission. Another really cool feature was any sixes I rolled to hit in close combat were rending. This represented my trained killers silently taking out an unsuspecting sentry.

The game ended in a tie. My sniper, the lone survivor, snuck up and choked the Spiritseer to death with some piano wire (I rolled a six to hit) only to be shot down as he ran away by an angry Dire Avenger. Isn't that an awesome sentence! Reason enough to try out Joel's cool covert ops rules. The game played really quickly, about 30 minutes, and I would suggest it to anyone looking for a fun mission to set the tone for a larger game.

Until next time!

Friday, October 31, 2014

Six Word Story Contest Update

Pumpkin Spice for the Pumpkin God!!!

Happy halloween everybody! Hopefully your weekend is full of candy, beer, and costumes. While I am upset I don't fit into my sexy Maugan Ra costume anymore, I am excited to hang out with some buddies and get a game or two in. I am trying to think of some Halloween-themed scenarios, so If you have any ideas, let me know.

Also, don't forget to enter into Corsair Radio's Six Word Story Contest! We will be accepting stories until November 7th, then we will be putting the top ten stories up to a vote to see who wins. This time around, the prize is the Blood Angels Quick Reads Collection. Check out the post and make sure to add your six word story in the comments! 

Until next time!

Monday, October 27, 2014

Corsair Radio's Six Word Story Contest



Six word stories are a fun exercise in creative writing. It doesn't carry the same weight as a couple paragraphs, but the constraints force you to think carefully about what words you use. The Warhammer Universe is so vast and so detailed it can be overwhelming to write fluff that feels authentic. But, six word stories can ease the barrier to entry, and possibly inspire you to write more! So, I tried my hand at a couple.

Beautiful planet, until the 'Nids came.

Grav-chutes are busted, prepare for landing.

Those drunk Space Wolves saved us!

Pretty fun, huh? Finding the right words is hard, but I feel like each of these tells it's own story. Because it was so much fun, I thought I would turn it into a contest. 


The rules are simple; just comment on this post with your very own grimdark inspired six word story. On November 7th, I will pick the top three and put them up to a vote. The story with the most votes by November 21st will receive eternal internet fame and the Blood Angels Quick Reads Collection from Black Library. That's it! I'm looking forward to reading some of these short, short stories.

Until next time!