Latest posts for the thread "T.W.A.R.-Systems (working on a "Screamer Killer")"

T.W.A.R.-Systems (working on a "Screamer Killer")

migsula — GMT

"I watched it die, convulsing in the burst of small missiles fired by the heavily armoured, more able subjects. Soulless, stupid robot, it was ripped open, shredding it’s unit m.e.AI. with shrapnel. The rest of the m.e.AI. returned fire from cover as designed, but were out of range. More of them died. A Waste of metal I thought, yet so important in war fought in the confines of the subjects’ cities. I felt no pity, just urgency to execute the mission. I noted the latest model had faired better with the less able subjects who wore painted, soft materials. “Imperial Guardsmen” they called themselves.

The Able Subjects saw me, too late. I landed in their midst, Cleaving three in two with a sweep of my blade. Such a rhythm! – flying in space, free, then crashing through ceramite of quality, warmth of the body, strong rigid body, inside; the cracking ceramite again, free in space and repeat. Fine, crimson vapour sprayed from the halves. It clotted with the dust hanging everywhere, and they were friends, the crimson liquid and the thirsty, dry sand. I saw great beauty – It inspired me. I felt four heavier missiles explode against my chest, I felt the heat of the impacts, different, I stored the experience and killed the shooter, the last of them.

m.e.AI.s formed around me, agile and as programmed, adjusting to surroundings. I changed their operating procedure. There was a vibration in the air, Morpher, the castaway, his head anyway, was staring at me, and its eyes told me it had found the mission objective. Morpher is a freak machine, a virus program, a development gone wrong, never to return home again, desperate to prove its loyalty, my most trusted warrior.

Pattern Recoil forming around me I connected, purifiers and filters, double check of a double check and I saw what it had seen. I was ashamed, but I wasn’t going to end up like him. I saw what I needed and disconnected, the information fed through all the TWAR forming the pattern. I am their commander; I am General call sign Splinter, I have chosen war as my canvas, in this life and the next.

In unison we sprung the ambush, like subsystems of a system of war. The Machine fought well. It destroyed Linebreaker, four light cannons proving too accurate, too powerful. Then we got it. The able ones inside fought to death. The battle was dull, planned, unimaginative, routine, but there would be more worthy ones. The priest died too – a pity, I wanted him with soul, not his carcass. But we got the machine soul, a primitive, feral creature. It tried to self-destruct, but Brainstorm jammed its code. There was a furious counter attack from the Able Subjects; bitterly we retreated with the objective. I traded the m.e.AI for smooth escape.

I only saw more waste on the way to extract. I could feel the sadness that would come as it did everyday away from home, reflecting the day and the ones that would follow."

learn more at :

http://www.pbase.com/migsula/mechzilla

DAKKADAKKAAAA!!!!

[b]The Archtroni Background:[/b]

In the furthest reaches of the eastern fringe, within the endless uncharted alien space floats a void in the warp, a world made of metals, bathing in a spectre of colour, the world of Archtron.

A race of machines, known as the Archtroni, built this world and possibly others like it in ages predating man. The Archtroni are masters of cold fusion and programs beyond comprehension of other races. They are a race of Architects, Designers and Engineers, friends of the Joakero and mentors of the Ramini. Building machines and software that enables and expands their ability, the Archtroni are in essence masters of their own evolution, but an Archtroni is unable to exist without such a purpose built body of technology and the feed of energy it provides.

There have always been only a limited number of Archtroni, their numbers dwindling possibly from the very birth of the race. The future and development of the race is dependant of the betterment of their designs, of new technologies and of raw materials, of knowledge with the ultimate goal of reproduce. They are a wise, taciturn race, with a melancholic, noble character, improving as individuals, but slowly dwindling in numbers while travelling in their path towards the birth.

For the past millennia a furious war raged between the hive predators of Tyranids and the machine armies of the Archtroni. Having paid a heavy price, but observed and learned, the Archtroni eventually out fought the Tyranids. The Machines came to admire the purity of design of these biological weapons and evolved much of their Warrior Systems accordingly. Hive fleet Leviathan detoured and pushed to imperial space and as much of the space around Archtron was ravaged of all minerals and materials, the Archtroni fleets and world followed.

Archtron scanners recorded signs of species with planets unharmed by the great devourer, rich in minerals and full of machines. One young space faring race in particular was identified for referring to a godlike being, “a father of all machines” and to a planet dedicated to fabrication of machines and understanding of technology. The First consulted the Lodge and the defeat or capture of this god and his subjects became their mission. Late in the 41st Millenium, the most able TWAR (tactical war and reconnaissance) systems were dispatched to gather intelligence and study the enemy, its weapons systems and tactics.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

dienekes96 — GMT

I'm sure you did this in 5 minutes with a toothpick and a broken hand, Migs. Typical.

I patiently wait for the people to complain about WYSIWYG.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Reecius — GMT

Holy shnikeyes! That thing is incredible!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

Giant Robot Zilla Nids??

A big :heart: for you Migs!!

Amazingly fantastic work, and I'm so glad the transformers bug bit you too

Is that a zoanthrope in your WIP folder?

- Salvage

(... or are ya just happy to see me ... ") )

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

malfred — GMT

What do you mean? That looks like YET ANOTHER biggerized marine.

*yawn*

(Kidding, of course. I loves it!)

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Chaplain Pallantide — GMT

Wow...this is just awesome!!! Do you have a size comparison between the Gundam Kits and GW's Tyranids??
I might have to borrow this idea...if you don't mind! I have a Zilla force and have been wracking my brain for
an opposing force and this is the best inspiration I have had so far.

I was thinking of either Armored Company, or Elysians, but this looks to be the best in terms of cost effectiveness
and modeling possibilities...Keep us posted!

Thanks,
Chappy P!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Taarnak — GMT

Um, I think that Wow covers it nicely. Awesome job as usual.

Question: What scale Gundam are those? I have a few of the 1/100 scale kits and they are big. Are those the 1/144 scale kits?

Again, well done and I can't wait to see more.

~Eric

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Necros — GMT

That looks really awesome .. why the nid codex though, instead of Tau?

I used some gundam stuff for that Tau I was building a while ago

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Doctor Thunder — GMT

[quote]Posted By Necros on 07/12/2007 7:28 PM
That looks really awesome .. why the nid codex though, instead of Tau?
[/quote]

Probably because even though the Tau look anime, they don't fight anime. Tyranid rules actually better approximate many of the anime big robots, which are HTH combat oriented.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

malfred — GMT

Nidzilla

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Wayfarer — GMT

They are 1/144. The size gives them away but one of the boxes says so on the front. Really awesome idea by the way. Is that a Hive Tyrant with scything talons and a TL-devourer?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Yes, the working name is "Mechzilla" for the project.

Built on 1/144 scale Gundam, which in quality far supercedes GW(The quality and construction has to be seen/held in hand to fully appreciate the quality of design. Gotta hand it to the Japanese!), and in price is ridiculously less. I bought 5 more neat kits for 70€, including airmail and ordered 12 GW 60mm bases for 30€ with the postage. WTF! Combined with tons of GW and 1/35 ttank parts, plasticard and kneadite I can coock up pretty unique things with a theme of my own.

I am using Nids list because it simply fits perfectly! Unique robots with so many different options, very little troops for which I have a cunning idea anyway.

The thing in the wip folder is indeed a very WIP zoanthrope

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

yup

General "Splinter" - TWAR-Systems Commander (tyrant) - 41st Millenium

NullGravThrusters (flight), Implant Lasers (implant attacks, flesh hooks)), Void Field (warp field), twin Devastators (twin Devourers), Scitar Sword (scything Talons), Advanced Fusion System (strength, ws, init)

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

[quote]Posted By migsula on 07/13/2007 2:56 AM

General "Splinter" - TWAR-Systems Commander (tyrant) - 41st Millenium

NullGravThrusters (flight), Implant Lasers (implant attacks, flesh hooks)), Void Field (warp field), twin Devastators (twin Devourers), Scitar Sword (scything Talons), Advanced Fusion System (strength, ws, init)[/quote]

Total Awesome, Migs. It's liberal use of the "counts as" rule by talented gamers that keeps me in Warhammer 40k - fantasy too, but 40k lends itself so well with the way units work - at this point. Your TWAR project is pure inspiration.

Very interested to see what else you've got cooking - fluff, model and list-wise.

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Necros — GMT

So is gonna be all big "bugs"? Any plans for gaunts or genestealers at all? Maybe a bunch of little flying mini-robots with blades all over em for hormagaunts?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

As Mechzilla as possible.

Genestealers is going to be a special mech inspired by theat spots character in Sipderman comics. He will be "morphing" in and out from warpand represented with 6 bases and some neat effect sand modelling

Then there will be some very simple and small AI fodder, the TWAR use for clearing minefields and keeping enemy infantry from slowing down the big systems. All will be designed, defined and revealed in time!

Fluff and list will be posted in a few weeks too. I have it pretty much figured, but want to tweak things a little and not reveal too much, as that to me is the general charm of 40k universe.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

whitedragon — GMT

Well, first off, the painting and modelling work is ace! It looks like something from one of the hardcore Gunpla magazines.

That said, I have a couple of critiques.

1) The upper body, head and arms are ace, but the lower body looks alot more thrown together and has less aesthetic focus. The bare frame legs really look out of place and clunky compared to the streamlined armored upper torso. (This is also because I can see the mobile suit design lost in there I guess) I know you were probably trying to shorten the legs because the 1/144 scale kits are still tall in comparison to TMC's.

2) The eldar wraithsword and the EML tips just don't seem to fit in all that well with the smooth angular lines of the rest of the mecha. Also, the boxy missile launcher housing looks more like something an ork would use, rather than a high tech mecha. I would at least remove the round power supply and runes off of the wraithsword, and it would probably be less obvious what it was.

Aside from that, great model and great paint and weathering effects.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Good comments.

I'm not going to go into great length explaning the design. I totally understand what you are saying, but.

Anime style is very alien to me, and I am cooking up something that pleases me that is a combination of things. I'm studying masters in design products at the Royal College of Art and work in mobile phone and other tech related product and system design. I bring some of that baggage to everything I do - yet I want to something very different with the crude, gothic canvas of 40k, more millenium falcon than episode 1 chrome kit or product design of today. (infact I want to do something very different with product design too, but that is another story). Wait for some time and you should see very clear, robust aesthetics and a theme, though some reckognisable parts may still bother you (for me the gundam kits forexample are very fresh new area, so I have no fixed locker for them in my head)

The eldar missile launchers were chosen because of their resemblance to devourers, The abrams is a blocky beast and has a round gun Round , even eldarish things will be a recurring theme in weapons. I like how warmachines are "undesigned" and aesthetically crude - like the Apache - there is something very beautiful in its ugliness.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

scarab — GMT

This is a project that I am looking forward to following! Keep cranking Migster.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Taarnak — GMT

Hey Migs, you might want to check out this guy's site:
www.fichtenfoo.com/index.html

He has done tons of custom Gundam stuff. Great site for inspiration in general, but I thought it might be of particular interest to you on this project.

~Eric

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Orlanth — GMT

I agree with using the nid codex, it can also be used to make a very workable ork army too. various Ork tanx dredz 'n' kanz (carnifex), a few well'ard Ork boyz ( warriors), Ork warboss with mega armour nobz (tyrant and guard), termagrots, snotling swarms (rippers), ork warbikes (raveners), lobberz (biovores - use snotling suicide bombers as spore mines), madboy and minderz (each team together acts as a zoanthrope). All in all you get a killer list out of stuff, but you dont get many infantry orks, unless you consider them a form of ungraded termagant.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks Eric,

fantastic link!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Drake_Marcus — GMT

Wanna get married?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Here's the next Mech finished. An Information- and Psychological Warfare-System "Brainstorm"

I'm quite pleased with the light effect afterall and the paintjob in general,[b] but [/b]the pics were little problematic pre-varnish as some glazing is glossy and takes wierd reflections. With hindsight I'd done the light effect slightly differently, as it was the first time I really tried it. Not sure if it affects the result, but it would've been faster...but next time.

I've also begun work on the "Lictor" -system. Which will be an extra challenge because it needs to be much smaller than the rest and fit a 40mm base like Brainstorm. Notice the extensive interplanetary and shorter range comm systems and the overall lighter armour.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

Migs, This is quite possibly the coolest and most original idea I've seen in years. Top notch paint and awesome modeling.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

Very cool Migs, yet again. I think the light effect works well enough, but the light itself looks a bit weak - just a yellow disc? I guess it shouldn't be a gem per se, but it seems so empty as is ...

The lictor looks promising, and happy to see the project storm along

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Jester — GMT

Hold the bloody phone: When did the 'nids get Mobile Suits?! Has Gav been trapped in the Tardis, where he is being ravaged by sallow-skinned Victorian era steampunk milkmaids, leaving Jerv to run the Monkey House alone???

I've had a smile on my face ever since I saw the light effect on the drone. Its just brilliant. You have my vote for king of Finland, or failing that, EU president.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks for the commenst guys!

More finished stuff coming up soon and the wip gallery gets regular updates

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Moloch — GMT

That is really some solid out-of-the-box thinking here, Migs.

Or is it the other way round ?

As usual you found a painting style to really match the subject. I am curious as to what comes next and would really like to host the gang.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks!

That'd be awesome!!! I'll email you

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

insaniak — GMT

The Brainstorm's a clever piece of work. Not sure that I'm too fussed on the overall look, but it's quite clear what it's meant to be, and nicely modelled.

The Lictor's looking promising. Actually, right now it's looking like a Transformer... which seems like an awsome idea for a robotic Lictor

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Drake_Marcus — GMT

Great idea insaniak! Anyone remember Barph's trick he pulled with the transforming marine bike way back when?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Jester — GMT

I love the Lictor, and the one based on a Serpent Custom (A Carnifex, perhaps?) WIP is magnificent.

Great stuff.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I had the priviledge of seeing Jakob Nielsen's minis yesterday (in ROPECON07 were we both held presentations and workshops) and was filled with inspiration...even if the urge to paint GD stuff is huge - but gaming hobby is just more fun to me...so:

I finished painting the next TWAR (gunfex with T,W and Sv upgrades), working late and starting when I woke up, [b]a tactical firesuperiority system[/b]. Set up the photo...and AAARGH camera is in denmark for a week

So I'm Varnishing it, which is actually good as I get to finish it properly by killing shines I don't want and giving it that heavy mahinery feel and then Wednesday I'll have pics.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

Nooo! You got my hopes up! ::grumbles and sits impatiently until Wednesday::

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Sorry

I've been thinking and discussing the project with friends, and since there's no official permanent blog accessible to everyone anywhere I'll share the thoughts here incase somebody likes to know more about the stuff going on with the TWAR.

I've been thinking about the Fluff and how a Archtroni Warrior looks under all that "Cybernetics" and armour, and how this relates to scaling up. With the heavy Carni I've made sure the chest/head remain roughly the same size, making it appear as the thing just has some self-locking, heavily armoured feet upgrades to better fit the battlefield role, while Splinter has bird like feet, because he can fly. 40K TWAR are pretty much Archtroni + heavy gear and upgrades, with a sense of "evolution" to battle field role, but there will be constructs "driven" by TWAR.

Brainstorm is a physically challenged Archtroni, but lethally intelligent, and the infantry, m.e.AI are just robots, soulless things, programmed to do their job.

I am trying to imagine something super heavy, and also non humanoid things. Possible something like the Star Wars 4legged walker and flyers too.

I'll wait for Apocalypse of course, but I'm spinning the ideas in my head. and might get the FW book with Nids in it.

[b]If you were technologically very advanced and could evolve yourself for a battlefield role, what would you look like?[/b]

This is the question I am asking myself going forward and deeper into the project and design. I am fleshing out and starting to sketch. I am thinking about the "guy" in the armor and how he looks. I'm thinking about the civilians too, and will do something in between, a "doctor" TWAR atleast.

I started a fresh W&N black sketch book for this project and printed photos of the stuff on it. I'll need to share some of the sketching too at some point. I am also collecting a lot of inspiration material in it. Lots of Japanese toys and graphics and miniature pics from artists I like. I also like to look at Nature and the Tyranids and think of their structure and purpose.

There are many parallel creative processes here, even the writing helps despite myself not being a writer type. But it really helps. It's fascinating to see this project become more and more credible and fascinating design study - not just a hobby project.

and finally: The Heavy carni number uno has been named:

[b]"Rampart"[/b] and it's an Arsenal-System. (while the dakkafexes will be Assault-Systems)

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

DAKKADAKKADAKKAAA!!!

Arsenal System "Rampart".
The biggest, baddest TWAR in the army list. It was a *female dog* to photograph because of the size actually.

I tried to work in a feel he's just been through a serious firefight and come up on top. Notice the smoking, still smouldering Baneblade track!

more pics @:
www.pbase.com/migsula/mechzilla

LMK what you think!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

*minigun whine ... DAKKDAKKDAKKDAKK*

Totally awesome yet again Migs, and would dig a scale shot to see how big the tanker really is My one crit might be the right hand is a little odd, palm open and up, a bit of an odd gesture for a gun-toting badaft.

I like the 40k bits integrated in there, and also that his head is so similar to Splinter's. Good stuff, looking forward to more more more

Also, this is a gunfex, right? Thump cannon = barbed strangler, rotary = venom cannon?? Or devourer? I think it fits a VC not so hot, Splinter's gun is more VC-y IMO ...

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I know, I wanted ti to look relaxed, now it looks limp. Oh well.

As fo the pose, the idea is that the thing "locks" its legs when it starts to shoot. And when it moves, it's slow, but purposeful. The legs are like little bunkers " src="http://s4.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif" /> The lower parts are HUGE! you could have spacemarines camping inside.

The roator cannon is a VC. It's such a cool gun and I have three of the parts and three in the list so it should be clear enough. I slightly disagree and think the converted Eldar missile launcher on the other hand is quite a perfect machine version of a devourer.

I try to work on a porto of a trooper ASAP to really show scale. The base is 60mm and should give some pointers.

Thanks for the comments. Helps to keep going. Dakka is lazy these days, people mostly just view and don't say a thing and sometimes the other, much more active forums feel more useful and motivating.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

insaniak — GMT

I'll second the 'hand looks weird' comment. I'd suggest just flipping it over, so the back of the hand is where the palm is now.

Otherwise, excellent work once again. The glowy bit on the end of the tank track is a particularly gorgeous touch.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

You sir, have done an amazing job yet again. This group is really starting to come together. I surfed your pbase a bit and saw some of the WIP shots of this guy and the lictor, I must say, He really cleaned up, or dirtied up, nicely. And with all the great battle damage painted on these guys it's making me want to go in more and more on my marines and go nuts too. Maybe not to the same extent as you've done here, but at least steal some of it ^_-.

As for the creative process for the army, it really sounds like an amazing journey from scratch to finished products. And I'm really interested in seeing your sketch work for these guys as well.

Top notch paint as always. Have to agree on the hand though. Just seems a bit out of place.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Necros — GMT

Wow, nice job

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Jester — GMT

I think his shrimpy head is awesome, and the hand is okay, IMO - its like he's flexing it.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

[quote]Posted By migsula on 08/16/2007 12:40 PM
I know, I wanted ti to look relaxed, now it looks limp. Oh well.

Thanks for the comments. Helps to keep going. Dakka is lazy these days, people mostly just view and don't say a thing and sometimes the other, much more active forums feel more useful and motivating.
[/quote]

Sometimes it is hard to give comments/criticisms when the work is just so good. You feel kind of like a dolt saying: "fantastic job!" over and over again.

Also, once the new forum is up and running I'll make sure that threads like this get some nice front-page billing to get you some good feedback.

Anyway, I'll say: "fantastic job!" and if I try to find something to give constructive criticism on it would be this:

The first big mech you made (the HT) has rather smallish legs and a big torso but now your Carnifex has big mighty legs and a relatively tiny torso. Was this an intentional choice and are you going to make the rest of the army roughly the same way (the Carnifexes with big legs/small torsos while the HTs have smaller legs/bigger torsos)? If not are you concerned that the two different body styles will look a little disjointed when the whole army is together on the table?

As for the open-palm, I only think it looks a bit wierd from the angle shown in this particular picture. When I browsed the other pics on your Pbase account I felt that the hand (and the pose) worked very well.

When it comes to the painting, I really can't say anything besides "fantastic job!" again. I like the very 'realistic' approach you've taken when painting this army in that you haven't over-highlighted the edge of every panel. Most of the highlighting appears very subtle and the battle damage is top notch.

I think I can safely say that this will be one Godzilla army that opponents won't mind losing to!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks Yak,

Think of the race as masters of their own evolution (I'll post the fluff soon). They would design themselves for a specific purpose, and in the case of TWAR, for War As I said the idea is that this thing "locks" its legs when it starts to shoot. SO the heavy carnis will be like this, the assault carnis purposefully moving and the HTs and other High I stuff very dynamic. Splinter's legs are modelled like those of a Bird! Because he has flight.

At the same time I wan't to keep the head and most of torsos relaitvely same size as there they need less changes for their role. The Archtroni inside is a skinny, somewhat organic looking thing of which I am sketching too.

As for commenting, I think it's the same for everyone, even worse actually if you don't have a "name" at dakka. The numbers of views in relation to number of posts are quite big/low compared to other places. It'll be interesting to see how we can adress that and get the modeling forum more active, I'll certainly do my best to provide modelling and have been trying to make my friends contribute more of their neat models and blogs too. You should definitely check Warsee project logs for reference!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I added the WIP fluff to the first post.

BTW - it seems I can't edit the topic of my thread? This could be useful in the future as I could add a little info about each update and date.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Therion — GMT

They look very militaristic and I think your painting style is perfect for models such as these. You've done a great job. I don't particularly like the head but it's such a minor complaint I won't bother. What I'd like to know is how they fit the 40K universe? They don't look like GW models at all (which of course they aren't) so at tabletops they might be completely off place (put one next to a SM Dreadnought and you see what I mean), but what about the background material? Are they robots or is someone piloting them, and if yes then who? Little 13 year old asian boys and girls?

Anyway, the 40K universe is a big place and the only limit is your imagination, so once again my compliments on a job well done.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Therion — GMT

I added the WIP fluff to the first post.

It was an interesting read. What I'd like to know is who created these NBE's? The C'tan created the Necrons from the biological race of Necrontyr. Did something similar happen here?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

whitedragon — GMT

I like the Rampart alot. It looks AWESOME and totally epitomizes the look you are going for.

The Zoanthrope....has a foot for a butt. I can't get past that in my head, and General Splinter's legs are too short and clunky.

Aside from that...AWESOME.

- Maybe you could add like a big hulking backpack full of ammo or something to the Rampart, that might help to make him appear bigger, more ponderous and imposing.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

awesome read. Makes me want to model one myself >_<.

You sir, are an inspiration of what modeling can become ^_^!

edit: Oh and gib sketches >.>

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

[quote]Posted By migsula on 08/17/2007 12:18 AM
I added the WIP fluff to the first post.

BTW - it seems I can't edit the topic of my thread? This could be useful in the future as I could add a little info about each update and date.
[/quote]

With the current software only mods can alter the title of a thread once it has been posted. Go ahead and PM me or another mod with the change you'd like and we'll take care of it for you.

The new software will, of course, allow users to modify their thread titles.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks for the comments guys,

A Carnifex looks equally different next to a SM thread . In time I'm sure the link/fittingness to GW stuff will be revealed. I want to do something fresh and unique, but am of course concentrating on the 40k Gothic landscape for its fitting delivery. I think I'll start prototyping the AI foot soldiers which will go a long way in tying TWAR to other 40k armies in terms of size and army feel. Ofcourse the folks I play with are quite a bit more "artistic" and the armies much crazier than you usually see anyway.

Yak - it's ok. Thanks anyway. I'll wait for the new forum for topic updating. All I had in mind was adding dates for new updates so people know when to look.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I have started an "army challenge" with a bunch of friends. so now there's a deadline each month and by next June I should have an entire army, plus some stratagems and other visuals I am hoping some of my friends will start Dakka Blogs too as some really cool projects are in the making.

I did a base for the first assault-system lastnight. It's mainly just tarmac and I intend to paint some yellow and white roadmarking on it, but also there's a little ruin and a lamp-post there, the TWAR has torn in two and is using the top part as a makeshift hammer. This allows a lot of cool detailing, wires repositioned to emphasise swing/gravity, shattered glass possibly, totally different metals to what TWAR have etc.

The assault system itself is based on this kit:

It will have a 4point attachment of devourer/eldarmissilelaunchers in the shoulder area and shorter legs, with bottom part "open" like on Splinter to communicate the 3+ save. The saves will be nicely WYSIWYG as the Lictor has its legs entirely "open" and much lighter arm armour too.

[b]ALSO [/b][b]just had a little heureka moment.[/b]

I've been thinking about/wanting to do some civilian Archoni, but haven't really found away for them to be useful in the army, but then I remembered cityfight stratagems!!

As I want to atleast do an Archoni Doctor and an Artist, they will be medifacility and sacred ground stratagems respectively, small dioramas on 60mm bases " src="http://s3.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif" /> This way I get to game with them - and they will really flesh out the race/background and allow more imaginative concepts than just warriors. In tournaments they can act as target counters.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

Looking forward to seeing how you do the road markings. My cityfight street was somewhat experimental. I think my biggest issue with it was making the rubble and small rocks on it still look like rubble and rocks, instead of just part of the marking. All I used was a drybrush and hoped for the best.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Yours was inspirational, not experimental

I don't use DB atall when I paint my bases on white. That's one of the benefits with white prime. Just diluted paints and washes. I also left the road area clear of debris, just the tarmac texture. Lets see how it goes.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

xenite — GMT

Sick Migs, sick. I have been looking for a good source of model kits online, does anyone have any suggestions?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks Xenite

I got my Gundam from Tokyo and from: http://www.tisinc99.com/ in States - Pretty good deals and [b]very fast[/b] with fair overseas postage.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I've been slightly sidetracked with doing more Crescent Guard Marines, of which you can see a blog here too but the Lictor is now getting paint! I settled for a darker grey scheme with "cloacking field effects".

I gave him a set of retractable blades instead of swords/weapons. You can also see the WIP assault carni in the background.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

I'm intrigued by the 'cloaking field effects'...

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

Headless wraithlord with poor squished demonettes

Quite groovy lictor, love how the head turned out. Curious about the 'assault fex' if he's the white very gundam-y thing behind the lictor ...

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Pics. The 1st one from yesterday, rest today in natural light - both far from what I wanted. But hey, this is just models and pics are never the same as seeing them IRL anyway.

The group shots are actually more accurate representations of the Lictor too. I am now 2months into the project and have finished more than 550pts! Quite happy about that as the summer's been exceedingly busy..

Let me know what you think. A little weathering will still go in after varnish. And I just touched up the base a little.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

scarab — GMT

Nice work Migs. I like the sparkles on the edge of the effect. The lenses on the tentacles came out cool too. I think his eyes could use a brighter, lighter center to make them look more glowy. Oh, and the dark grey looks good. There are enough bits of it on the others to tie it all in. Good job!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks mate, added diluted white to the eyes. Thanks for the heads up, I'd done it with all the rest of them but forgot here.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

A hundred new views and one reply

Anyway, a new pic, after Varnish! Shows the markings properly and invludes some close ups of the "Antenna-fari "

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Necros — GMT

Awesome as always. Make more!!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

Money in the bank Migs, a bank fulla money!

Eyes are rock solid, and the dark grey / blue is a good choice and well executed. The cameoleon effect on his leg was at first confusing, but I see that he's matching the color on the rusted plate beneath his foot, and I think this comes out fine, so nice again there.

The group shot is fun too, gives some scale to these big baddies. The carni is HUGE and the zoanthrope is actually larger than I thought too ... which is groovy, as bigger is in fact better ;D

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

The Lictor is the first model I have to say I don't care for. The paint job is, of course, fantastic and the coversion is nice but it is the theme/pose of the model that doesn't do it for me.

Essentially, the 'bot looks way to static and top-heavy to be any kind of infiltration unit. To me it looks so top-heavy that one good gust of wind would knock the bad boy over.

I'm assuming that the fluff is he has some sort of stealth-field to hide him, but even so the upper body bulk and the static pose just scream the exact opposite of a stealthy kind of guy. Especially when compared to all the other models in the army which are very dynamically posed.

IMHO the Lictor robot (out of all of them) should be the most dynamically posed. Maybe coming out of some rubble or something. Of course this model is finished so these comments are kind of pointless, but if you're planning on making any more Lictor bots I would highly suggest you go for some sort of crouching/hiding pose.

Also, the 'robin hood' esque "hat" on the top of his head just looks really kind of silly to me for some reason.

Finally, I have to say the obligatory: "this is 1,000 times better then anything I could accomplish" so take these bits of constructive criticism with a grain of salt.

Anyway, I patiently await the next update!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Symbio Joe — GMT

To add something to yak's comment, it could be look like more a doc oc thinghy or a matrix preadetor. A robot with a lot of lexible arms and a corpse hiding a lot of mean tools to examing living creatures. I know your theme is this mecha thing but a Liktor is a highly specialised Tyranid organisim and therefor looks very different to all the other creatures. So it does no harm to break your scheme on this aspekt. Oh I like the idea of the mean tools...... tooooools.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

lasgunpacker — GMT

I don't know Migs, the painting is top notch as allways, but I can not get away from the "squidhead" feel i got from the very first view of it. And I agree with Yakface, the pose is very static, in fact it reminds me of a mech from Battletech, which is not a good thing as far as posing. The now classic pose of a Lictor on a statue of the Emperor's champion is the look you should be going for in my opinion, a crouching chamelon with murderous intent.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Guys, thanks for the comments! No need to be apologetic of critisism, believe me I am used to it and welcome it. Keep the feedback coming, that's the main reason for sharing the stuff in such detail.

I agree with some of the comments and some are issues more related to taste. I totally understand the commentary too - for some odd reasons I really like this freak, how it looks like an arrogant instrument, ready to spring into action. (to me anyway) Don't worry, [b]a lot fo dynamic stuff to come[/b], no more Lictors though

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

keichi246 — GMT

Wow!

Just Wow...

Very nice stuff. I really can't add much of the way in commentary because I'm still stuck in Wow! mode.

About the only negative comment I could make would be about the lictor - but everyone else has said everything I would, so I'll just return to Wow!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

ph34r — GMT

I'm gonna have to agree with Yakface here. The lictor doesn't look dynamic enough. The paint job is great and I love the chameleon effect, but it just looks like it's just standing there, not really doing anything.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

Just have to throw in my two cents.

Paint - I was waiting to see what you did for the 'cloaking'. I was very impressed with the leg and the more I looked at the paint the more I picked up as far as the intent for parts of the model. The cloaking 'power source' on the back is very cool. I loved the additional details you added for the transition of colors as well. The whole color scheme screams of Metal Gear Solid to me. All the different blues and greys you went with are perfectly suited for a stealth mode bot. I do however wish i could have seen more of the stealth effect on more of the model. Maybe having a wall or ruins he could have been hiding in could have shown this off more. Solid markings and solid paint overall.

Model/pose - I agree with most of what's been posted, but I just think the model doesn't fit what people think of when they think of the role he's supposed to be filling. The head is PERFECT. Maybe even just changing the pose could have led people more in the direction of 'thinking' stealth, especially had more of his body been in contact with the ground and other materials (this would have led to more cloaking paint!).

Just some thoughts.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Good comments guys! If I ever made another one, that one would be:

a. more dynamic
b. with a full "field" effect.

It'd be cool to do one, but I really want to keep the systems themselves as clear individuals, so I wont. (like Transformers really) The AI infantry will come in bundles though And both A and B are something to bear in mind going forward with the project.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Drake_Marcus — GMT

I actually don't care about the lictor being undynamic. It's the paint job on the lictor that bothers me. It's nice alright, but doesn't tie in well enough with your overall army paint scheme for my tastes. Given the varied nature of the robots in this army the only real visual cohesion you'll have will be the paint scheme. So it stands to reason that the Lictor's paint job should tie in better. The dark gray is fine, and looks nice, but needs some of the lighter gray that you feature on your other bots added to it. I can see why you'd make him mostly dark gray if you intend to make the weapons and techie looking parts that colour, but light gray accents should still be included if only for that visual cohesion.

Secondly, I think you could do more to tie him in with the Tyranid Lictor. You've hit the main Lictor visual element in replicating the conical head and feeder tendrils. The only problem is that these elements are also highly indicative of a squid. When I look at a big robot with those visual elements I think squid, or even Cthulhu, but not Lictor.

How can you make him tie in better with the Lictor imagery? Well the stealth paint camo certainly helps, but we see that on Tau suits too.

When I think Lictors I think of the following features, in the following order:
--> Big forward arched scything talons positioned over the main body and coming from the models back. Reverse articulated, the talons are poised to strike prey.
--> A monstrous Cthulhu head.
--> A pair of nasty looking claws with long talons
--> Chameleon skin

You've hit the second and fourth points. To me, the Lictor bot is kinda like the Zoanthrope bot would be if he wasn't floating on a stalk. He'd have the big head, but would be missing that other main element that screams Zoanthrope.

The first three elements I listed above have been carried through each Lictor model GW's done. I strongly believe you need to carry them through to your model too. Especially since your army is essentially an army of proxies.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

whitedragon — GMT

I think the "lictor-bot" could benefit from two big Honkin swords or something.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Jester — GMT

I love it, but (and this isn't really a big but) you could have done more with the cloaking. Am I to believe that there are swords that come out of his wrists?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

[quote]Posted By Jester on 09/09/2007 9:23 PM
I love it, but (and this isn't really a big but) you could have done more with the cloaking. Am I to believe that there are swords that come out of his wrists?[/quote] Yes, you are to believe so

Thanks for the comments gents,

It's always intriguing how differently people think about things. Some have problems with the pose, not paint, others wise versa. End of the day, I just gotta take the best bitz of advice/comments and make sure I love them myself.

Drake - I personally think he fits in very well. All the visual elements are there, just a darker shade through out. Most armies have a unit with a different paint scheme, be it demons, SM scouts, Tau stealth suits...and it just enhances the overall look imo.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Drake_Marcus — GMT

[quote]Posted By migsula on 09/10/2007 2:08 AM
Drake - I personally think he fits in very well. All the visual elements are there, just a darker shade through out. Most armies have a unit with a different paint scheme, be it demons, SM scouts, Tau stealth suits...and it just enhances the overall look imo.
[/quote]
That's ok- like I said- it's still a fitting colour of blue. What about the visual elements I droned on about?

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Well it's good commentary as always. I take it all in as always. Maybe the perspective is a little different between us.

"Especially since your army is essentially an army of proxies." vs. Essentially a project of cool mech models that I can also use for gaming.

It's not my intention to do mech versions of Tyranids, even if some initial language maybe gave that impression. For start the TWAR only have 4 limbs. I am however drawing inspiration from them and trying to pick weapons and whatnot with WYSIWYG or atleast a very constant proxy in mind. Inspiration, not restrictions. So I take the concept of a lictor and push it into a mech battle system on the same concept. (an advanced infiltration and information gathering unit that is lethal in hth) Some transformation will be much more radical/different. The Harridan for example is being sketched

Keep your comments coming Drake. They are very valuable to me!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

[b]PETITION

[/b]I am looking for those extra Plastic Warwalker feets!! The kit comes with 3, you need two, T.W.A.R. needs one.

Please PM or post here if you have any to spare. I can trade/paypal if need be.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Xan — GMT

Okay, mainly because of migs, I just got an account. Have been meaning to for ages, just never quiiite got there. Anyways, on to the gaming stuff!

Migs, I really enjoy looking at these big bad robots of yours, visually they are very nice. The first one (Splinter?) I wasn´t entirely sure, because it was difficult to imagine how you were going to carry the theme through in other models. But seeing more and more, I´m beginning to really see what you´re going for. Will be interesting to see the "swarm" parts of the army as well...

The only thing I might have suggested differently, is the fact that the lictor-bot has his swords "sheathed". I believe that he would look a lot more menacing, and be a lot easier to recognize if he had the swords out. But this is a tiny thing, compared to how COOL this stuff all looks. Really impressed.

There, I´m not just a forum-stalker anymore!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Hey Xan, Welocome to Dakka!

and thanks

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Looks like a new forum!!

It needs a better name though! WIP stuff has the wrong connotations in my opion, as so much of stuff posted in "one off" threads also falls under that category. "Dakka Modeling Blogs" or something like that would be nice.

It'll be interesting if the split makes the "modeling" content more active or the opposite.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

[quote]Posted By migsula on 09/13/2007 1:51 AM

It needs a better name though! WIP stuff has the wrong connotations in my opion, as so much of stuff posted in "one off" threads also falls under that category. "Dakka Modeling Blogs" or something like that would be nice.
[/quote]

With you Migs, on the need for a different name and on your suggestion too. I actually wondered what'd I find under "WIP" - my guess was unpainted conversions, with painted stuff being in the main section. "Dakka Modeling Blogs" brings up a totally different thing in my head, and a better thing too

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

Okay, okay. You win. The name of the forum has been changed.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

"I don't know what it is yet"

Just a small update - I did this on friday. It is testament to fun I have with these kits, I see a part and it makes me build it, while a paint scheme emrges in my head... I'm adding lots of cables and armoured coils and whatnot by which it floats on a 40mm base.

FW has those larger looking Tyranid Sporemine like things, what do they do???, maybe this is first of a set of those, or a comm link stratagem, or just a part/familiar like thing for a future model - time will tell. I ordered my self the Imperial Armour book with Nids and I'm almost finished detailing the assault carni (pic below).

The AI infantry is still on the list ASAP - I just need to hunt some more bitz and remind a few friends who've promised me parts. I will do a Trygon TWAR next I think!!!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

~~The mycetic spores mostly just blow up real big -> S6 AP4 ordnance blast, I think.~~ See Yak below, I was waaaay off on the stats. Good for the price, but is this little doober a suicide bot???

Nifty gun detailing, but I'm still a little off on this new 'assault fex.' It's partially the head that doesn't match the army's style,partially the largely unconverted body, and partially the lamp he's supposed to be beating with :x

But I'm thinking paint will fix a lot of these problems for me

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I hear you Boss. There will be a few "boring" footsoldiers in the mix, but I'll try my best with paint. I may still do a head swap when I get more "feet"

So a bigger spore mine. Hmmm... lets see where the thing goes with the cables and more detailing and then decide.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

You should really get around to the infantry sooner rather than later simply because it would allow you to use the army immediately in games with what you've already finished.

Mycetic Spore mines (the big FW ones) are absolutely awesome for the points (35 points a piece). They also kick out D6-1 Bio-acid mines as a single cluster when they explode so you'll need to come up with 1-5 smaller bots per big mine.

That could actually be really cool if you made tiny little robot parts built into the big mine bot and then when you whip out the tiny bots after the big 'un explodes it would look like the tiny robots ejected out of the big one to form a little cluster.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

scarab — GMT

Good thinking, Yak. I think the little shark-bot is kind of cute.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Sounds like a plan Yak!! I will come up with something suitable for what you describe and then do the infantry. I won't have time for games before the Xmas break, so I am building towards getting a playable army by then and then APOC ready force for summer.

Little bit overwhelmed with RL at the minute, but updates will come in a week or so!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

#1 Never realized that the TWAR heads are the walker feet!
#2 Good luck with everything Migs, look forward to seeing Assaulty done sometime soonish
#3 And a trygon too?? Yowza
#4 The big spore is a bit cooler than I thought! And even cheaper!

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

Oh, I didn't notice that you got the stats wrong on the Mycetic Boss Salvage.

Until you get your IA4 book here's some rough stats for you Migs:

Its 35 points a piece and you can take 1-3 as a single FA choice.

It always Deep Stirkes (regardless of whether the mission uses DS) is S5, AP3, large marker and causes an extra D6 penetration (2D6+5 total) against vehicles. It drifts and explodes pretty much like a regular spore mine although the big difference is that they can set themselves off in their shooting phase instead of requiring a Synapse creature to detonate them.

Once they explode D6-1 Bio-Acid mines are left behind in a single cluster.

In short, they are the bomb (pun intended). Especially since with AP3 they can wipe out an entire unit of MEQs if they're all clumped together.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Lemmingspawn — GMT

Mig, this is a very nice concept, I've been watching it for a while and it looks *SCHWEEEEEEEEEET* Love your work!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks for the info and kind words gents!!

Small update to show were it's going after half an hour I had to spare - so very WIP. The "balls" are spore mines and will get lots of [b]detail [/b]poking out and then independent versions on 25mm bases.

I think the cables animate the pose quite nicely and tie it in well to the Tyranid equivalent...as usual painting scheme will play a key part in establishing the volumes and areas of attention in the quite busy model.

( On the base you see some of Vallejo's sandy paste I've been using all over the TWAR bases and advertising to Scarab. )

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

THIS I like!

It reminds me of the matrix drones (in a good way) and I absolutely love the idea that those individual ball/cables "become" their own seperate little mines.

I have no suggestions because I think this design is pretty much perfect.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

This one will be one of my favorites. I can already tell.

I got the same 'Oh Cool!' that I got when seeing the WIP of brainstorm ^_^.

I can't wait to see this one and the mines finished up.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

jirgaS — GMT

Hello everyone.
This is my my first post ever on this board,
I have been lurking around for some time but I have to say that this thread really got me through the inconvenience of signing up.
I have to agree with most of the previous posters that I'm quite amazed of nthis whole idea. When I first read the idea behind this TWAR thing my first impressions were 'of course' how brilliant' and why didn't I think anything like that myself.
The brilliance of doing mechs with the rules of tyranids is beyond normal understanding. The idea is so good that it really hurts when you think that why didn't you think anything like that yourself.

OK, enough with the praises. My only complaint have to go to the lictor. Paintjob is superb but as somepeople else have already pointed out the general feeling of the miniature is too passive, to meet my imagination of highly developed stealth unit.
I guess seeing this mini in real life might change my views tough.

I'm really looking forward of seeing this army in action. Maybe in the Helsinki Fanatic next year? I do hope so...

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Hey Jirga! Thanks for the positive feedback and I am really happy to see new posters join Dakka - to me that's the best possible reward for sharing my projects here. I am hoping to have the Army ready for action by the fanatic - but failing that Ropecon for sure. Welcome to Dakka!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Here's the AI bomb with a lick of paint.

Varnish finished a tad dusty, must've been too chilly outside and I think I added one spray from too far, but it juts resulted for a matter finish, didn't ruin it as sometimes with the old GW Matte. I'll even it with Testors anyway as with the others.

I had fun building/painting this. It was a very hmmm...I like this part, what should I make out of it kind of a start, but then evolved towards building something pre-defined. I will do the small bombs on individual bases and possibly another set later.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Symbio Joe — GMT

I am simply amazed how you find parts to make those counterparts.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

grey_death — GMT

And I was right. This one is another favorite! ^_^

You've pulled all of the detail pieces together perfectly with the paint. The 'eye' draws you in, and the rest of the colors keep you involved. your bases are just awesome throughout this entire project.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Boss_Salvage — GMT

Quite sweet Migs, nice work again. Best use of that defiler flail yet. It's on a 40mm base, right?

- Salvage

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

yakface — GMT

Fantastic. Perfect.

If you ever don't want that model for some reason let me know cause I'll buy it.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks guys,

Yess Boss, 40mm!

ps. How nice, someone systematically voted this blog that has had five stars through it's entire life down so it only has 3 now...over night. It would be great to see who felt the urge to so make my day.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I was talking to Malika at Warseer and thought I should mention a "spin off "plan I have here too.

I am also doing one human sized TWAR (so not artificial intelligense unit, but a livingmech) based on Necron Pariah, but with human "disguise". Think TWAR Bourne. He will be leading a group of mercenaries: Kroot and no-good humies with some very advanced equipment and cybernetics, but ragtag, clandestine feel.

These will be TWAR pathfinders in away... a future GD entry or for Necromunda, with a secondary goal of tying the TWAR even more to 40k gothic.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Flachzange — GMT

Since I didnt know what to say to those artful creations of yours i kept quiet but i simpy have to say sumthin to that ps part. how dare anyone to vote this thread down to 3 stars. it can only be jealousy.

So now that Im at it already:

Im simply stunned when i see you work. Great colors and awesome conversions.
I didnt enjoy the Lictor that much due to the static pose, but this thing is incredible.

Ill keep watchin this thread on a regular basis!!

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Mannahnin — GMT

Sexellent. Really great, Migs. Design, pose, and color all really come together on this one.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Tragic-Legend — GMT

These are pretty nice I gotta say. I really like the color scheme. I really hate Gundam, so I'm a bit biased towards anything spawned from it. I would say that they look more like "machine-tools" than like machine-organisms, if I'm to bring out some form of critique. You claim them to be mechanical creatures, rather than mechanical tools used by other creatures, which I think they fail to reflect. I'm not saying it
would be easy to portray their mechanical-organic nature, I'm just saying it's not working for me. They look like standard mechs to me, "chopped up" certainly, but not very organic. Of course we can devolve the
whole issue into what is organic and and all that. But the army works in terms of appearance, and it works well. I would have hoped for some pretty different solutions from you in regards to the fluff,
since this to me looks more like machines to be controlled than ones that work autonomously. Anyway, I cannot really see any army even managing to come close to the same jaw-drop effect as this one in a tournament
unless the onlooker hates mechs.

Cheers

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I claim they are a machine race - but they are not "born" as they are now. In away they are tools, just like your hands are tools for you as a designer. There's a living, sentinent being inside the Systems , but that thing builds itself for the purpose or path in life it has chosen. (while the bomb is an AI machine, so is the zoanthrope I've decided, so soulless equipment)

The point about semantics of controlling/being controlled is valid and something I shall take into consideration more critically.

Thanks for the comments mate! Good to see you at Dakka.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

I just ordered some Apocalyptic reinforcements.

Amongst them a 1/100 "Serpent Custom"!!! (my first arsenal system is based on 1/144 "Serpent Custom" This new one will be a Barbed Hierodule I think - as I want the Hierophant to have 4 legs. I need to get the sizes "roughly" right to their tyranid equivalents - the basing being most important. Is the FW big round base 100mm in diameter??

FW was late with my order for the IA 4 so it'll be another week before I am finally united with the book. Bummer...

One of the good sides with this project is the budget. 3 new Gundam kits set me back a "whopping" 45euros (compare it to 100ish euros for a single Baneblade)! The huge Gundam boom that rapidly died out in the states is to thank I think? So with the GW bitz being leftovers from years of the hobby and parts kindly donated by friends, this is by far the cheapest (and IMO coolest) of my armies.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

Wehrkind — GMT

You know, when I first looked at this, I wasn't feeling it. I like more clockwork/steam punk looks to my robots, or at least a gritty, gothic feel. I of course recognized the immense skill going into it, and was duly impressed, but I just wasn't feeling it.

The spore mine thing did it for me. A great look which was suitably alien to a human that it was believably some "other". Plus it has metal tentacles. I dig metal tentacles. I think that is what was bothering me before, keeping me from really connecting. Not the lack of metal tentacles, but that the machines looked so human, so familier. I kept thinking of "Were I to build a robot fighting suit that I would feel comfortable piloting as though it were my own skin, it would look like that." Not in such clear terms mind you, but that general idea. The lictor had sort of a clunky, iron giant meets a dalek feel which helped, but I think the models holding to a humanoid shape is the stopping point from keeping it really cool. I keep thinking there are lots of shapes better evolved for fighting than us.

Still, the mine is awesome, and even though this project isn't my thing, it is still a lovely thing to behold, and glorious to follow. Thank you for posting it.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Wehrkind, thanks for the thorough commentary. Nothing in the world is obviously everyone's cup of tea, but I remain excited with the project and am very happy to see it is somehow inspiring to so many different people.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

SO getting back to London has been hectic to say the least, but finally I have all the parts I need to try a prototype of the infantry - so expect pics by sunday. I intendt to pay extra attention to basing and poses, but otherwise keep the design quite simple and based on the Necron Warrior limbs. New additions combined with the painting and a much slimmer torso/overall design should really distance it from Necron Warriors.

I also got a copy of the Apocalypse book today So lots of brainstorming for the big things going on in my head this weekend.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

HalifaxMark — GMT

Long time Lurker first time poster on this thread. I just want to say that I really like what you're doing Migsula, all of the models so far have alot of unique character. I look forward to seeing the infantry.

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Thanks and Welcome to Dakka! Be sure to post some of your own models too

RE: T.W.A.R.-Systems (Dakka Premiere )

migsula — GMT

Here’s the first prototype for the infantry. A 6pt Gaunt + fleshborer equivalent.

AI infantry prototype notes:

- twar visual template

- the look of existing AI constructs, brainstorm and the mine thing

- Gaunt stat line

- unlike the twar themselves, I need to make dozens of these, so lots of parts and time considerations.

- A design that would allow many variations (I don’t want to make two units that look the same)

I also wanted it to look “cheap” and quick to fix and put together by other AI automations. I want a range of poses, but ones that look like a horde of automated things, so not a “leader type” or someone pointing for example.

As usual the paint job will play a crucial role in tying the thing together and I have a scheme in mind where only the torso and cap has light grey and the rest of the armour plates are dark grey, and all the joints etc. metal. A few very basic markings too of course.

Comments very welcome.