Doesn't add much but the Baltimore battle bunker just blasted out this message
The Baltimore Battle Bunker WE HAVE THE NEW ISLE OF "BLOOD MINIATURES IN OUR CASE! THESE ARE ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! NEW GRIFFON! NEW RAT OGRES! NEW EVERYTHING! YOU HAVE TO CHECK THESE MODELS OUT!"
unheilig/Warseer wrote:its even far better than space hulk.
the swordmasters armor now has a samurai look to it. very badass.(...)
The seaguard models I saw looked brilliantly regimented. Bows strapped across backs.
Nothing on those sprues was less than brilliant.(...)
elf lord legs are sculpted into the griffon body... but other than that, there is very little "high elfy" armor bits or anything to remove.
Czechsensation/Warseer wrote:The Prince on Griffon is better than any METAL model GW has released... and it's snap fit!!!
Also the Elyrian Reavers are breathtaking, especially the champ...(...)
This should give you a good idea of the griffons pose:
http://greengriffons.com/images/griffon-blk.gif Also the mage is phenomenal, and not to diss the Skaven, they are also ace. the Warlock engineer in paticular is top notch.
bluemage/Warseer wrote:The new high elves look much better then the current range. And the ellyrion reaver horses all look similiar to the horses from the chariot.
BoyMac/MiniWarGaming wrote:It is High Elves and Skaven. They are all beautifully sculpted 1 or 2 piece models. The HE griffin is at least 4 inches long (it is in a flying position with arms and legs stretched out) and the wing span is at least 8 or 9 inches. The HE mage is on a beautiful base with him standing on some sort of magic ball or similar. The Skaven hero/lord is really nicely sculpted and can easily (extremely easily) be converted into Queek. All you really need to do is steal a chaos terminator trophy spike piece (or any other pointy chaos vehicle piece) and glue it on his back.
Dingareth/Golden Throne wrote:the Clanrats are just that- shield and spear/hand weapon. They are almost undistinguishable from the box that's out now, just that the shields are thicker, and are solid back to the body, unlike the current multi-part system.
Oh, and the (Elyrian) Champion was the one with the Kislev-ish row of feather behind his head, almost like a Dire Avenger and Hussar had a baby....(...)
Now there were a few things different from the rumors I heard- less models, no Globadiers, ect. but that could have simply been the box I was given.
So by all means, there may still be more, this is just what I've gotten a hold of- no mini-rule book or anything like that either.(...)
The (Griffon) wings are completely outstretched like the Dragon's, but no rock to stand on. They are pretty similar besides that though...
BTW Dingareth is the source that reds8n quoted but didn't credit here
Kid_Kyoto wrote:Doesn't add much but the Baltimore battle bunker just blasted out this message
The Baltimore Battle Bunker WE HAVE THE NEW ISLE OF "BLOOD MINIATURES IN OUR CASE! THESE ARE ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! NEW GRIFFON! NEW RAT OGRES! NEW EVERYTHING! YOU HAVE TO CHECK THESE MODELS OUT!"
No pics of course, that would be crazy.
So go get us some pictures!
If I actually had a GW store within four hours of where I live, I'd have already gotten some for here.
Kid_Kyoto wrote:Doesn't add much but the Baltimore battle bunker just blasted out this message
The Baltimore Battle Bunker WE HAVE THE NEW ISLE OF "BLOOD MINIATURES IN OUR CASE! THESE ARE ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! NEW GRIFFON! NEW RAT OGRES! NEW EVERYTHING! YOU HAVE TO CHECK THESE MODELS OUT!"
No pics of course, that would be crazy.
So go get us some pictures!
If I actually had a GW store within four hours of where I live, I'd have already gotten some for here.
I'll try, fellas . It's in range of me, easily, but depending on where the case is located it might be hard to snap a pic of 'em, with any quality, at least...
Unless other stuff was hidden, this is all I think comes in the box:
10 Swordmasters with cmd 10 Sea Guard with cmd 5 Reavers (not sure about the cmd)
Griffon
Mage
20 Clanrats with hw and shield
20 Clanrats with spears and shield
1 warpfire thrower
1 poisoned wind mortar
2 rat ogres with master moulder (or maybe just a regular beast handler)
Warlord
Engineer
That's all I saw. I'm almost positive there's nothing else, so it's a little smaller than rumored.
(...) (Question about any terrain included) If there was, I didn't notice them.
The models are very nice though. I think the High Elf mage was the best of them. The Griffon was very cool also though.
The Skaven Warlord was like a mini Queek and the Engineer was aiming a pistol.
The Clanrats (could be slaves too, I guess) look very similar to the current boxed set. Looked like the shields are attached to the body.
The High Elf Seaguard look really good. They put the existing HE Spearmen to shame.
stahly/Warseer wrote:From all the descriptions, I guess in this picture are actually almost all starter set models hidden:
In the display cabinet on the left under the Screaming Bell and Plague Furnace there could be the noble on griffon (on a flying stand, wings spread), and in the cupboards on the right on lowermost shelves. The cavalry could be Elyrian Reavers, the next regiment could be Swordmasters (10 models), the next but one regiment Seaguard, from the four single models the second one definately is the new plastic mage (standing on a ball). For the Skaven there are two Rat Ogres and a handler, the next single model could be a Warlord or Engineer, then there are Queek, the Skweek Gnawtooth and Snikch, another single model that be a character of the starter set as well, a weapon team which very much looks like a mortar, two Clanrat regiments with spears and handweapons and another weapon team in between, just like the reported contents.
Maybe those who've seen the models yet can clarify?
Just noticed that there is a Skaven painting tutorial on the wall. Let's hope that the starter box clan rats have the other leg in front, so that not 90% of every single Skaven army have the left foot in front.
I've always thought that was GW's best (hippo/)griffin. It looked like a more natural pose and it looks like the sculptor actually looked at animal anatomy before they made it. The other (hippo/)griffins look like someone just copied the pose from just about any European coat of arms and then tacked on the most ridiculously OTT rider and chair they could think of. Those helmets on the others are so huge they look like the riders would break their necks the first time they flew into a strong headwind, and Eltharion looks like he took his favorite easy chair into battle. He should have a cup holder and a recliner mode.
The only problem with the newest one is it looks like the rider is destined to go flying off the beast the first time it makes a quick turn or a sharp bank!
If you look at historic knights they held the reins in there shield hand while using the lance in the other so one could easily add them to the figure.
Saw the set at my local GW today, even helped assemble the Skaven models. Must say the set is fantastically detailed. The griffin is definitely a sight to see, it's on a flying base and the pose is quite intimidating. The rat ogres in the picture above are indeed the two int he starter set, one screams HULK the other is quite the skyre/ninja master. High Elf mage is absolutely breathtaking, as is the skaven warlord. Warlocking engineer is pretty cool, nice big handgun. Swordmaster are very menacing, tall, lean, and dangerous! The Sea Guard have SEAWEED on them, but still looks great. Reavers are fantastic, hopefully people start using them more. Clanrats/Slaves are exactly as the new box set but shield is part of the body. Mortar, Warpfire thrower, and master moulder with warp prod are great looking, warpfire thrower has a little mouse caught on fire for base decoration!
Agreed on the Griffin post. The "diving in for attack" pose is a nice change from the much used sitting on the ground rampant pose. The new, lightweight plastic model allows for a great pose that was not practical with a large, heavy, pewter model. And I'll bet those new, large plastic feathered wings will be much sought after for conversions.
CaliforniaGamer wrote:Found the HE mage, crappy somewhat out of focus shot because I was in a hurry at this point.
He appears to be standing a magic vortex/water/elemental swirl. Very dynamic, very cool. Was probably my favorite overall model outside the griffin.
The poster above me is correct: These models are so good they are incredibly out of place with the current line. Even putting them side by side for example the swordmaster is like 20% more bulky and filled out than the old pewter line version.
An army that is part Blood Island "bling" and part older plastic is would look very strange IMO.
Wow those pics are nice. I might get a couple of boxes and turn one of those rat ogres into a mount for a Warlord. Makes it even easier with the tiny heads. While I'm not too thrilled with the pin headedness they look the same size as regular skaven so headswaps might be possible. I'm still disappointed with the number of High Elves but I guess you'd need a sea of Skaven if you had larger trop blocks. I can see plenty of skavenslave candidates in that troop block. Just need to make a clear distinction with the colour pallet.
Here it is if you would like to see it. The only thing I couldn't find was the Globadier mortar, but I was told it was about $15-$18 USD on BoLS, so it just adds to the value of the box set.
So, here is my cost analysis of the High Elves based on eldargals report of the set being 99USD and what Max_Killfactor from Warseer wrote (pricing will be based on GW US prices before taxes)
"Max_Killfactor/Warseer wrote:
I just saw them.
Unless other stuff was hidden, this is all I think comes in the box:
10 Swordmasters with cmd 10 Sea Guard with cmd 5 Reavers (not sure about the cmd)
Griffon
Mage
10 Swordmasters with cmd = ($24.75 + $27.25 = $52)
10 Sea Guard with cms = ($35, with the idea that you just buy a standard box of 16 spear elves)
5 Reavers = ($61.25)
Griffon = ($35)
Mage = ($13.25)
Grand total worth = @ $196.50
And that's just the High Elves! Not including the Skaven. If this box set is truly $99 USD it's worth way more than $99.
Respectfully,
DarkAngelHopeful
P.S. I plan on buying a lot of extra HE models that anyone wants to ebay or whatever. I'm planning on doing the same with my Skaven.
Sorry for not posting this earlier, but here's the Skaven cost break down.
Based on what Max_Killfactor/Warseer wrote:
"20 Clanrats with hw and shield
20 Clanrats with spears and shield
1 warpfire thrower
1 poisoned wind mortar
2 rat ogres with master moulder (or maybe just a regular beast handler)
Warlord
Engineer"
20 Clanrats with hw and shield = ($33)
20 Clanrats with spears and shield ($33)
1 warpfire thrower = ($15)
1 poisoned wind mortar ($10, I think he may mean poisoned wind globadier?)
2 rat ogres with master moulder (or maybe just a regular beast handler) ($40?, not sure, I just found this http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/ca...Id=prod1040496)
Warlord = ($15)
Engineer = ($13.25)
Grand total = @159.25
This isn't 100% accurate as you have to buy boxes of 16 spear elves not just 10 and I think the Rat Orge box kit has some extras that aren't in the Island of Blood, but it's pretty close.
By my numbers, the Final Grand total for both HE and Skaven in Island of blood is @$355.75 USD.
I must be in the minority here, I do not like the look of that Griffon. The claws are just WAY over the top. The rest of the models are awesome though. Looking forward to getting a set.
yeah i noticed that as well.. that was the number one thing (shallow i know) that put me of HE way back. The spearmen looked strange on closer inspection, like there isnt something right about them.. but its more than the hands.. maybe the spears also? New models are amazing though..
Who reviewed the Griffon as "horrible horrible horrible" or something earlier? Because...seriously, best beast rider GW have ever done, and one of the best I've seen period (allowing for certain restriction for sprue casting in the claws etc.).
There's something wonderfully stylised about it, it reminds me of Tenniel's Jabberwocky.
I imagine it walks awkwardly on the ground and is much more comfortable flying, as it should be.
Love it when you log onto Dakka to find leaked pics. Love most of the models. Hope they do an updated Rat Ogre box set now. Not so won over by the Plague Mortar or Skaven Chieftain, but I'll use them
Griffon rider is amazing. Anyone who says otherwise is a crazy person.
Flash: Call me crazy then The rider is fine (if you ignore the usual large hat)
Elves:
Griffon on the other hand, seems very plain and basic, the pose looks ok, but somethings off with it.
Also hate the comical oversized claws on it with the long ass gangly arms.
And finally, the feathers just seem a bit flat and out of place, they make it stand out alot.
I prefer the metal empire one to be honest, but thats just me.
Rest of the elves look pretty good, have no complaints there.
Skaven:
Rat ogres have to be my biggest hate, simply for the comical sizes of areas.
Large body and arms, small legs and head. (well, tiny head)
Chief looks ok, except a bit of over crowding on his back, still good though.
Weapon teams are a bit plain, and the thrower seems tiny to what it was, but nothing too bad.
Everything else is good though, and the engineer is quality.
The models are beautiful! I may very well have to start a high elf army too!
Although I'm a bit disappointed by the loss of the rumored 20 slaves and 5 globadiers. I'm going to have to reconsider buying the set (let alone the planned 4 copies).
Not having to put together multi part clan rats = win for me.. I dont need customization on CLAN RATS.. I rather just take 5 seconds to put them together. The loss of the globadiers is a bit dissapointing, especially since it seems the skaven army is around 60$ less of stuff
Here it is if you would like to see it. The only thing I couldn't find was the Globadier mortar, but I was told it was about $15-$18 USD on BoLS, so it just adds to the value of the box set.
Sorry for not posting this earlier, but here's the Skaven cost break down.
Based on what Max_Killfactor/Warseer wrote:
20 Clanrats with hw and shield = ($33)
20 Clanrats with spears and shield ($33)
1 warpfire thrower = ($15)
1 poisoned wind mortar ($10, I think he may mean poisoned wind globadier?)
2 rat ogres with master moulder (or maybe just a regular beast handler) ($40?, not sure, I just found this http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/ca...Id=prod1040496)
Warlord = ($15)
Engineer = ($13.25)
Grand total = @159.25
Kirasu wrote:Not having to put together multi part clan rats = win for me.. I dont need customization on CLAN RATS.. I rather just take 5 seconds to put them together. The loss of the globadiers is a bit dissapointing, especially since it seems the skaven army is around 60$ less of stuff
Did anybody do the points up? It's still an awful lot of models.
Kirasu wrote:That grand total for skaven is incorrect since 2 rat ogres arent 40$.. Thats leaving out the giant rats as well that come in the kit
And the Wind Mortar should probably be as much as the Weapon Team if not more. I guess it's only natural that some people can take exception to everything even when it's awesome.
Kirasu wrote:That grand total for skaven is incorrect since 2 rat ogres arent 40$.. Thats leaving out the giant rats as well that come in the kit
You're correct. I couldn't find what the cost of 2 Rat Ogres were. So, it's an approxamation. It's the same thing with the seaguard. I didn't pro-rate them I just put up the cost of a 16 spear elf box, since that's what they sell them in. But you are correct.
Automatically Appended Next Post:
whitedragon wrote:
Kirasu wrote:That grand total for skaven is incorrect since 2 rat ogres arent 40$.. Thats leaving out the giant rats as well that come in the kit
And the Wind Mortar should probably be as much as the Weapon Team if not more. I guess it's only natural that some people can take exception to everything even when it's awesome.
You're correct as well. I couldn't find the model on GW's site. I was told it's about $15-$18 USD.
۞ Jack ۞ wrote:Flash: Call me crazy then The rider is fine (if you ignore the usual large hat)...
...Rat ogres have to be my biggest hate, simply for the comical sizes of areas.
Large body and arms, small legs and head. (well, tiny head)
I love the tiny heads on the Rat Ogres, it's an inspired design decision and makes perfect sense (to me).
The overall quality of sculpting is some of the best they've done. It's the tiny details that impress me. Look at the Elven hands grasping the spears. The way the index finger is raised slightly further up the shaft is astounding attention to detail.
Kanluwen wrote:It's possible that it's not the actual banner for the Swordmasters but instead a Battle Standard Bearer.
Those pictures got the standard bearers backwards. The one with the Swordmasters is a Sea Guard. The dragon shield (the shield period) gives it away. The bearer with the Sea Guard has the symbol of Hoeth on the standard, hence he's the Swordmaster one.
2 Rat Ogres - 80 1 Packmaster (not shown yet but required by the rules) - 8 sub-total - 88pts
Weapon Teams; Poisoned Wind Mortar - 65 Warpfire Thrower - 70 The other one that appears to be a Warpgrinder - 60 sub-total - 195pts
(this is odd, however as none of the revealed units can legally take a warpgrinder, if it is included we can look forward to some Gutter/Night Runners as well I assume) EDIT: Actually, the 'warpgrinder' may in fact BE a packmaster, in which case the list would come to 523 points instead
Total - 583 points (assuming that guy is a warpgrinder)
Automatically Appended Next Post: As for my views on the models;
Chieftain/Warlock - wow, just wow Clanrats - almost identical to the multi-part ones, which I also like Rat Ogres - Nice body, shame about the head Weapon Teams - all fantastic and it's good to see a modernised WF thrower
Kanluwen wrote:It's possible that it's not the actual banner for the Swordmasters but instead a Battle Standard Bearer.
Those pictures got the standard bearers backwards. The one with the Swordmasters is a Sea Guard. The dragon shield (the shield period) gives it away. The bearer with the Sea Guard has the symbol of Hoeth on the standard, hence he's the Swordmaster one.
I didn't notice the bearer having the Tower of Hoeth's symbol. The shield thing isn't a 100% give away though. Battle Standard Bearers can have 'em you know
Kirasu wrote:I dont see why it would be a warp grinder? 3 weapon teams for 2 units? its probably a master moulder with shock prod
Yes, I know that it wouldn't make sense now, it just looke like the illustration of a warpgrinder from the Skaven Army Book :/
Still, I suppose nothing's to stop me kitbashing my own Master Moulder and then using that chappy as a warpgrinder, while I'm at it I can sort out some head swaps for those Rat Ogres
Kanluwen wrote:It's possible that it's not the actual banner for the Swordmasters but instead a Battle Standard Bearer.
Those pictures got the standard bearers backwards. The one with the Swordmasters is a Sea Guard. The dragon shield (the shield period) gives it away. The bearer with the Sea Guard has the symbol of Hoeth on the standard, hence he's the Swordmaster one.
I didn't notice the bearer having the Tower of Hoeth's symbol. The shield thing isn't a 100% give away though. Battle Standard Bearers can have 'em you know
True, but the symbols were a dead give away. That guy screamed Lothern Sea Guard.
HE point wise, it looks like the HQ alone has the Skaven beat. A Prince on Griffon would run around 400-450 points if not more, then the mage around another hundred. All in all, there has got to be 800-900 points of High Elves there if you fully kit the Hero's out. I'm just going off of memory though. My army book is on the other side of the world.
Ah man, I went to a lot of trouble to snap some pics at the Battle Bunker today, and it looks like they're not really needed! I'm getting them off my phone now and will post them anyway, though.
Mn, those Skaven models might tempt me into actually making that yakuza-themed army sometime next year (I will not have the funds to do any serious collecting this year, sadly).
RiTides wrote:Ah man, I went to a lot of trouble to snap some pics at the Battle Bunker today, and it looks like they're not really needed! I'm getting them off my phone now and will post them anyway, though.
I'm rather impressed, I must say.
And the fact that, along with a lumbering Ogre army, I intend to do a skaven army and my partner has an interest in doing elves has me quite excited.
Melissia wrote:Mn, those Skaven models might tempt me into actually making that yakuza-themed army sometime next year (I will not have the funds to do any serious collecting this year, sadly).
Until then, watch out for my upcoming Clan Nezumi (Nippon themed) Skaven army blog
wow how long has Battle of Skull Path been around? I feel so old seeing an edition get replaced T-T
Kroothawk wrote:
Melissia wrote:Mn, those Skaven models might tempt me into actually making that yakuza-themed army sometime next year (I will not have the funds to do any serious collecting this year, sadly).
Until then, watch out for my upcoming Clan Nezumi (Nippon themed) Skaven army blog
Grrrr! that model costs arm and a leg now because skaven players keep bidding on it!
Im still thinking on an assassin based army, but with them not being able to lead, i guess i need a seer -_-
Deathmaster takes up enough points on his own :K
The models so far all look totally amazing. The leap that GW has made with it's starter set is pretty distant. I admit I'd love to paint those Elves, but I've got so much stuff to go through first.
This box will definitely draw a few more players out of 40K for a while.
Grr, I'm having trouble emailing them from my phone! Will keep trying and post them as soon as I get something to work, not sure what the problem is...
Very nice stuff...... Quality wise must be the best starter set so far. I actually want the High Elf models and I really wasn't expecting that. Probably get three sets!!!!!
۞ Jack ۞ wrote:Flash: Call me crazy then The rider is fine (if you ignore the usual large hat)
Elves:
Griffon on the other hand, seems very plain and basic, the pose looks ok, but somethings off with it. Also hate the comical oversized claws on it with the long ass gangly arms. And finally, the feathers just seem a bit flat and out of place, they make it stand out alot.
I can see and to an extent agree with all your complaints. They just don't bother me. Although admittedly, partly that's because I never had any interest in making a HElf army with a griffin anyway, it was the Ellysians, Swordmasters, and Seaguard that interested me. I almost wonder if the exaggerated claws were an attempt at forced perspective foreshortening. If you look at the griffin head-on, do the claws look right?
I was very worried when someone said the swordmasters looked like samurai. Luckily it appears that poster's interpretation of "look like samurai" is quite different from mine.
It's a Magic the Gathering illustration. I don't recall a model based on it ever being made.
It is "Ink Eyes" from the second Kamigawa Magic Edition. No 28mm scale model, but a 7" model (that I own ).
It is the inspiration for my Skaven army.
BTW there is still a very small hope that a 6th sprue is missing from the black box but included in the starter.
It would contain 10 Lothern Seaguard, 20 slaves, 5 Globardiers and some terrain.
Minor critique on the Griffon: It actually has a Hawk or Falcon head. An eagles beak is much longer, but these are details.
I should be able to put up my pics, for what it's worth, tomorrow or so... unfortunately, I purchased a micro SD card to get the pics off my phone (since emailing didn't work for some reason) but it's a high capacity card, and my old reader won't recognize it ! So I'll have to get a new one, but I'll get there
Also, info that's probably already posted, but from talking to the GW staff and looking at the models: the 10 swordmasters are all one piece, and the 10 lothern sea guard are bodies in one piece, arm separate. There are only 10 LSG :-/.
The griffon is a bit fugly, imho, but if you go in with low expectations and think about converting the front claws (which are GIGANTIC) then it's not bad. The poisoned wind mortar is also very disappointing (I got a good pic of this one). The high elves are, overall, completely fantastic imho, and the skaven look good, too! The high elf mage is incredible.
-Skaven hero (looks like Qetek Headtaker)
-Skaven hero (looks like a clan skyre model)
-2 rat ogres and 1 handler
-40 clanrats
-poisoned wind mortar weapons team
-warpfire thrower? weapons team (didn't get a great look at this one)
The griffon is a bit fugly, imho, but if you go in with low expectations and think about converting the front claws (which are GIGANTIC) then it's not bad.
I'm very sorry to hear about your terrible medical condition the prevents you from seeing awesome. It must be very difficult.
It wasn't my cup of tea, but I'll grant that others might like it . Unfortunately I couldn't get a great pic of it either, since it was in the process of being painted, but it looks like others have done so. Imho it's like a B-level movie- go in with low expectations, and you'll like it. Go in thinking it's going to be the best thing since sliced bread, and you'll hate it. So if I've lowered expectations for those who haven't seen the pics yet, then I'll have done what I was aiming for! If I'd been expecting a bit less, I think I would have liked it... it's just that griffons are so cool, I think it could have been much more.
Edit: I also see you've just started posting this month after being a member for 2 years! That's good, since from glancing at your posts (I was curious if the above incited you so much that you came out of lurking, but you already had!) I think you've got some great things to say... and apparently really like the griffon model
It wasn't my cup of tea, but I'll grant that others might like it . Unfortunately I couldn't get a great pic of it either, since it was in the process of being painted, but it looks like others have done so. Imho it's like a B-level movie- go in with low expectations, and you'll like it. Go in thinking it's going to be the best thing since sliced bread, and you'll hate it. So if I've lowered expectations for those who haven't seen the pics yet, then I'll have done what I was aiming for! If I'd been expecting a bit less, I think I would have liked it... it's just that griffons are so cool, I think it could have been much more.
Edit: I also see you've just started posting this month after being a member for 2 years! That's good, since from glancing at your posts (I was curious if the above incited you so much that you came out of lurking, but you already had!) I think you've got some great things to say... and apparently really like the griffon model
I think it has character, which a lot of GW monsters have lacked for a very long time. Choosing to stylise something a little more is always going to be polarising to the customer base, but I think a slight shift from very generic fantasy monsters is a good thing.
The way the feathers are sculpted could lead to some amazing paint jobs or complete disasters depending on how the painter chooses to tackle them.
(I've actually been posting on Dakka for about a decade, I've just been on hiatus. I used to be quite vocal in the very early '00s but I don't think many people are still around from that era.)
Oh dear, I thought I was going to get through this edition of Warhammer without buying any more plastic crack, but these new Skaven models are really, really good, and make it hard to justify not buying the Screaming Bell (which I've been resisting since it appeared). I hope these new Rat Ogres mean they're re-doing the plastic set, as these are exponentially better. And it looks as though they've finally got the High Elves right - they've always suffered from rather wooden posing, and sculpting screw-ups (such as the oversized hands mentioned above), when they should be dynamic and elegant.
plastictrees wrote:
(I've actually been posting on Dakka for about a decade, I've just been on hiatus. I used to be quite vocal in the very early '00s but I don't think many people are still around from that era.)
I am, although I posted under another name. Nice to see you back, 'trees.
It's a Magic the Gathering illustration. I don't recall a model based on it ever being made.
It is "Ink Eyes" from the second Kamigawa Magic Edition. No 28mm scale model, but a 7" model (that I own ).
It is the inspiration for my Skaven army.
It's an official model? With WotC's stamp of approval? I happen to know Hasbro lawyers tend to go about that kind of thing with zeal that GW IP dept could only dream to achieve.
These models are pure win!
Fantasy is getting better and better. Good job GW.
After years of taking a break from Fantasy, the new trolls, new edition and now the quality of this starter really got me back into swords and magic and silly huge regiments wars.
His Master's Voice wrote:It's an official model? With WotC's stamp of approval? I happen to know Hasbro lawyers tend to go about that kind of thing with zeal that GW IP dept could only dream to achieve.
NAVARRO wrote:These models are pure win!
Fantasy is getting better and better. Good job GW.
After years of taking a break from Fantasy, the new trolls, new edition and now the quality of this starter really got me back into swords and magic and silly huge regiments wars.
A micro SD card and card reader later, here are the pics I was able to take
For the skaven, the first picture is mostly of clanrats, and in the second you can see some interesting models- the handler for the rat ogres in the center, and some sort of small hero on the right, as well as the warpfire thrower at the very back. The model similar to Qetek is in front and slightly out of focus. The last picture is of the poisoned wind mortar, which looked a little disappointing, I thought.
For the high elves, the first picture is of the Ellyrian Reavers which were in the case. Unfortunately the other models were in the process of being painted, so the second is a cropped image from far away of the mage, LSG, and swordmasters (10 each). The third shot is a pathetic one of the griffon perhaps revealing how I feel about it? It was the hardest to get a shot of since they were actively painting it at the time.
I hope it helped a bit, even if it is late . Also, the images are in the Dakka gallery as the original size (which are much larger) so you can click on the above pics to see them there and zoom in on anything you want to see more detail of (at least a bit, although it's limited by my poor phone camera resolution).
Damn, that griffon was fast Still not sure: Is there any starter box clan rat with its right foot in front? All current clan rats and storm vermin have their left foot in front.
Well done for perservering anyway RiTides. I quite wanted to see the Clanrat banners from the side (they are different from the current Clanrat box), so good work
Those Ellyrian Reavers are such a quantum leap forward from the previous models. I think it's a tie between these fellows and the Rat Ogres for best model in the box.
Automatically Appended Next Post: Keeeeeen as for this release. HE will be the new 40k space marines I think, the amount of armies will multiply like, well, rats.
Ironic? I think so. Damn Games Workshop.
Wow, I am not a fantasy guy usually in terms of what minis interest me... but this set looks to be 100% pure win, it is really nice to see GW pull off such uniformly quality release.
Flashman wrote:Lol, the griffin shot looks like a UFO photo
Lol. I guess I wasn't really sure if I was allowed to take pictures... and didn't want to ask, since if they'd said no, the drive would be for nothing, and I couldn't then very well take pictures while "checking text messages" without arousing suspicion .
Given that the griffon spent most of its time while I was there in the hands of a GW staffer painting it, that was the best I could do . Luckily, there are good shots of it elsewhere... I'm glad the clanrats regiment was a little bit helpful! (Although it does look like they're all left-footed, Kroothawk :-/) The picture of the ellyrian reavers came out the best, probably because they primed them white. I just wish the other high elf stuff had been in the case... it looks splendid, imho!
blood angel wrote:Good looking stuff.. making me want to play high elves!
Think there is going to big a huge increase in HE players. Not only cause of the Pure Win that is contained within the Starter box but also because of the 8e rules.
I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Kanluwen wrote: However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases
I like this, this makes me happy.
Do you have any idea what armies are scheduled for release? I know TK, Brettonians, Ogres and WE need a new book, but do you know which ones will be coming soonest?
Sincerely hope it is Bret's, I love those guys.
Agreed! I just hope I have enough money for all of this new stuff coming out :|
Automatically Appended Next Post:
Jake Bake A Cake wrote:
Think there is going to big a huge increase in HE players. Not only cause of the Pure Win that is contained within the Starter box but also because of the 8e rules.
Damn this thread! Now I'm going to have to split my extremely limited funds between Khador and Skaven. At least this time, I already have a color scheme in mind. I just wonder, can you actually field four Skaven Warlords? Because I plan on buying two sets and trading the Elves, and I don't want to put any of them in my bitz box, which is what happened to half my AoBR Warbosses.
Kanluwen wrote:I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Most are paints getting a new pot and a new number.
Oh my diddy!
New elf and skaven models look whicked, i'm new to fantasy (well new to all tabletop wargaming but i aint played fantasy at all yet) but planned on starting an elf army (i have only 3 kits thus far and not enough for a legal force). Quallity of all the minis in the new boxed set look outstanding, shame i've gotta wait till september! but i think one of my gaming group is thinking of going skaven so a going half's plan may have to be hatched!
I'm going to be skint this winter. But nice and busy with lots to paint.
Kanluwen wrote:I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Most are paints getting a new pot and a new number.
Huh!
Talk about a 'bait and switch' style let down!
Paints with new pots taking up most of the 'massive' list?
Kanluwen wrote:I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Most are paints getting a new pot and a new number.
Huh!
Talk about a 'bait and switch' style let down!
Paints with new pots taking up most of the 'massive' list?
Massive letdown!
Have the paints not already been done? Yorks GW have some of the new pots in already, hardly makes for a autum/winter release given they are on the shelves in summer!
GodlessM wrote:I was told that the High Elf Reinforcements box is the 4th kit, containing the new plastics and a bit of old stuff I think.
I think people are jumping too much on this news of stuff for all the other armies, as aside from the Skaven, the rest are just army boxes like they release every Christmas. Don't expect 5+ armies across two games to get several new kits/blisters at the same time.
So it is White Lions, Phoenix Guard, Dragon Princes and a new batallion as the 4 new plastic boxes plus some metal characters.
Scryer in the Darkness wrote:What you've got to understand is the product lists I get are months in advance (possibly the furthest in advance of anyone on the internets) and in this case there are some 200 products that I think cover near everything up to the end of the year. To repeat myself from the High Elves thread: there are entries covering everything from all the High Elves and Skaven releases to Empire, Lizardmen, Dwarves, Orcs & Goblins, all the upcoming LOTR stuff, Space Marines, Orks, Dark Eldar, Scenery, all the new Paints, Hobby, Direct Only goodies, not mention all the Black Library stuff and a whole slew of codes I don't even know what they are - seem to be in the same vein as the specialty items like the Engineers' Ranging Set and Limited Skull Dice, etc.(...)
It's not so much new paints as new paint pots.
Kanluwen wrote:I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Most are paints getting a new pot and a new number.
Huh!
Talk about a 'bait and switch' style let down!
Paints with new pots taking up most of the 'massive' list?
Massive letdown!
Have the paints not already been done? Yorks GW have some of the new pots in already, hardly makes for a autum/winter release given they are on the shelves in summer!
Paints are done, it's just as they run out of the old they'll get new pots instead
I think some of that though will be christmas specials but thats still alot of suff
Kanluwen wrote:I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Most are paints getting a new pot and a new number.
Huh!
Talk about a 'bait and switch' style let down!
Paints with new pots taking up most of the 'massive' list?
Massive letdown!
Have the paints not already been done? Yorks GW have some of the new pots in already, hardly makes for a autum/winter release given they are on the shelves in summer!
Paints are done, it's just as they run out of the old they'll get new pots instead
I think some of that though will be christmas specials but thats still alot of suff
Thats kinda my pont they have already been done so they should not be part of the 200 new items planned for autum/winter as they are already out. not that i know anything just seams odd to lump them in with that release period if they are already out.
GodlessM wrote:I was told that the High Elf Reinforcements box is the 4th kit, containing the new plastics and a bit of old stuff I think.
I think people are jumping too much on this news of stuff for all the other armies, as aside from the Skaven, the rest are just army boxes like they release every Christmas. Don't expect 5+ armies across two games to get several new kits/blisters at the same time.
So it is White Lions, Phoenix Guard, Dragon Princes and a new batallion as the 4 new plastic boxes plus some metal characters.
Scryer in the Darkness wrote:What you've got to understand is the product lists I get are months in advance (possibly the furthest in advance of anyone on the internets) and in this case there are some 200 products that I think cover near everything up to the end of the year. To repeat myself from the High Elves thread: there are entries covering everything from all the High Elves and Skaven releases to Empire, Lizardmen, Dwarves, Orcs & Goblins, all the upcoming LOTR stuff, Space Marines, Orks, Dark Eldar, Scenery, all the new Paints, Hobby, Direct Only goodies, not mention all the Black Library stuff and a whole slew of codes I don't even know what they are - seem to be in the same vein as the specialty items like the Engineers' Ranging Set and Limited Skull Dice, etc.(...)
It's not so much new paints as new paint pots.
Where's the source on that?
Because they never count battalions as part of the overall box count for an army, and if they missed the opportunity to release updated basic infantry they're shooting themselves in the foot.
Kroothawk wrote:Damn, that griffon was fast Still not sure: Is there any starter box clan rat with its right foot in front? All current clan rats and storm vermin have their left foot in front.
Best foot (or paw) forward mate!
Anyway, I do like the Gryphon, but not it's pose, reminds me of this;
Because they never count battalions as part of the overall box count for an army, and if they missed the opportunity to release updated basic infantry they're shooting themselves in the foot.
Again, we are not talking about an official GW announcement that there will be 4 plastic boxes.
We are talking about Scryer browsing the GW website for secret pages made in anticipation of future releases, revealing the product code. The product code has encrypted whether it is a plastic box, a metal box, a metal blister, a book or something special. All paints get a new product code to differentiate them from the paints with the old pot. Scryer found out that HE will get 4 plastic boxes. Batallions also count as plastic boxes. Special Xmas bundels of plastic models in a new box also count as plastic boxes. So the 200+ new products until end of the year make more sense.
BTW they are shooting themselves in the foot on a regular basis: Just have a look at the last Dark Elf release or the Skaven Night Runners, to point out two extreme examples.
deejaybainbridge wrote:
FM Ninja 048 wrote:
deejaybainbridge wrote:
Alpharius wrote:
Kroothawk wrote:
Kanluwen wrote:I sincerely doubt that High Elves are going to become the "Space Marines"...but there will be an increase, I'm sure.
However, given that there's supposed to be some 200 something models slated for release in Fall/Winter--most of which are supposedly Fantasy releases--I think they're trying to avoid it being an "Oooh! Shiny things!" event.
Most are paints getting a new pot and a new number.
Huh!
Talk about a 'bait and switch' style let down!
Paints with new pots taking up most of the 'massive' list?
Massive letdown!
Have the paints not already been done? Yorks GW have some of the new pots in already, hardly makes for a autum/winter release given they are on the shelves in summer!
Paints are done, it's just as they run out of the old they'll get new pots instead
I think some of that though will be christmas specials but thats still alot of suff
Thats kinda my pont they have already been done so they should not be part of the 200 new items planned for autum/winter as they are already out. not that i know anything just seams odd to lump them in with that release period if they are already out.
BTW I hate monster quotes! You can quote me on that!
I'm well aware that he's looking at something we're not.
But it still doesn't make sense for them to count a battalion as a new plastic box--even if they could make a nice new battalion using some of the new stuff.
Especially if most of the new stuff is Special/Rare choices.
Kroothawk wrote:
BTW they are shooting themselves in the foot on a regular basis: Just have a look at the last Dark Elf release or the Skaven Night Runners, to point out two extreme examples.
Kanluwen wrote:and if they missed the opportunity to release updated basic infantry they're shooting themselves in the foot.
Alpharius wrote:
Kroothawk wrote:
BTW they are shooting themselves in the foot on a regular basis: Just have a look at the last Dark Elf release or the Skaven Night Runners, to point out two extreme examples.
Wait - what do you mean here?
They missed the opportunity to update the Dark Elf Warriors (and Dark Riders), who look gross next to the new Corsairs or Knights.
They missed the opportunity to update the Night Runners, who look gross next to the new Clan Rats and Storm vermin.
Now they seem to miss the opportunity to update the Spearmen and Bowmen.
Kanluwen wrote:and if they missed the opportunity to release updated basic infantry they're shooting themselves in the foot.
Alpharius wrote:
Kroothawk wrote:
BTW they are shooting themselves in the foot on a regular basis: Just have a look at the last Dark Elf release or the Skaven Night Runners, to point out two extreme examples.
Wait - what do you mean here?
They missed the opportunity to update the Dark Elf Warriors (and Dark Riders), who look gross next to the new Corsairs or Knights.
They missed the opportunity to update the Night Runners, who look gross next to the new Clan Rats and Storm vermin.
Now they seem to miss the opportunity to update the Spearmen and Bowmen.
Ah - now I get ya!
And, I do agree with you!
The Gorilla Handed Spear Wielders of Doom really had to go.
I loved the older plastic Spearmen and Archers, in all their static mono-pose glory!
The difference is that with Dark Elves--Corsairs can easily be used to convert up Warriors. Some weapon swaps, gap filling, etc--and you've got easy as pie Warriors--with Sea Dragon Cloaks to boot! Dark Riders are much the same, considering pretty much every official thing we see from GW involving the Dark Riders has them converted from the Wood Elf Glade Riders
There's no kit option that can even remotely be used to do that for High Elves, barring buying hundreds of crew figures from Chariots+Bolt Throwers and then scratchbuilding the Reavers.
GodlessM wrote:I was told that the High Elf Reinforcements box is the 4th kit, containing the new plastics and a bit of old stuff I think.(...)
So it is White Lions, Phoenix Guard, Dragon Princes and a new batallion as the 4 new plastic boxes plus some metal characters.
Bloodthirster wrote:The four plastic boxes are; Phoenix Guard, White Lions, Dragon Princes and a Reinforcement Battalion with all the new goodies in.
Erm ... yes
Sorry I'm half asleep, long day. Anyone else think it's funny that Skaven and HE waves have been planned almost dtraight after the starter had been released?
On the contrary, I think leaving out the archers and spearelves from an update is a smart business move. They get to 'reintroduce' people to them in a year or two (whenever their book is done), and boost sales of all the other kits.
As opposed to throwing it all out (6 boxes?), having big interest for a while, then not much interesting to draw people in for years and very little to release with a book.
Da_Mega_Grot wrote:kidding me i love the new juggernauts and the DP's are ok not that great but work
I like juggs, but not into the DPs.
QFT.
Actually come to think of is that Jugg is the only really good model hey.
Daemonettes, a little too, static? for a fast cavalry type unit, and the Daemon prince i think only effectively models a Khorne daemon.
Maybe a few dif torso/leg combos? eg plague-ish torso, Jabba-the-hutt style lower half for Nurgle, nipples and extra tongues for Slaanesh. Crazy eyes/random mutations and feather wings for Tzeentch.
Bit of a fail as far as all round kits go.
Those little flamer guys are pretty cool, but like its been said, a tad cartoonish?
Question, are HE actually scheduled to be released in October? Or is this all speculation?
I'm genuinely interested lol, cause I was thinking of starting a pointy eared army.
Oh and from what I can gather, the releases will be plastic Phoenix Guard, White Lions, Dragon Princes and a new battalion, is this also correct?
I am seriously going to have to get my hands on those rat ogres, if not the entire Skaven half of the set. Those rat ogres in particular would make great Nurgle Daemon Princes.
I like neither, I always think it looks dumb that they are pulling nothing. Sure the rope would be pretty thin but not invisible, since GW likes to screw up proportions ("Heroic" FTW) the rope should at least be the size of the bow.
Ok, think about it this way. The bows are breaking even though there super thick! 1 small accident and the tiny super thin peice of plastic bow string breaks. If you don't like the invisble bow string, get some guitar string.
Bowstrings moulded in would look very silly.
Munchy is right they would break and look sillier.
It just adds unecessary complications and expense to the moulding process.
They are elves loading and shooting arrers so fast the bowstring can't be seen by the human eye, especially given the scale!
Just get some superfine fishing line and add your own bowstrings. Teeny pinprick of superglue on 1 end of the bow, teeny bit on the fingers drawing it back, teeny bit on the other end of the bow. Glue it on, maybe spritz with zip kicker if ya need to. Done.
When I first saw the fantasy line back in the day, I thought it seemed a bit silly to have empty bows, but after time I just really didn't mind the lack of the bowstring.
Jin wrote:What's everyone got against the High Elf archers? I rather like them.
For me, most of the problem is the headgear. I don't know whose idea it was to put metal cheek-guards on elf heads but IMHO it ruins them. Firstly because it pads out the face and makes them look like they don't have elvish proportions. It looks like a bunch of chubby halfling heads. Then they couldn't stand to leave them with simple circlets holding up the chubby-cheek guards, so most of them have ridiculous plumage or giant crescent moons tacked on. It doesn't say "high-elven elegance" to me, it says "we'd like to fire in 2 ranks but I can't see over your helmet!"
I could quibble with the hand size (though they don't look as bad as the spearelves, and the spearelves' real problem is the huge hafts on the spears that require enormous hands to hold it. The spears are almost as big around as the spearelves' armoured forearms!) and the puffed-out chests, but really if they just had completely different heads I would be totally happy.
Actually, the plummage/crescent moons are separate bits. I've personally avoided them with my archers. I kind of agree with the assessment of the cheek-guards, but it does looks less ridiculous without the other crap tacked on (ala the musician in the previous picture).
Munch Munch! wrote:This looks very impressive. I can't wait for September when this is released.
Me neither, the models all look pretty cool. And there's lots of them. The question is do i want another army...? I have loads already after all.
I think i'll see if i can sell the skaven to a skaven player for roughly the cost of the box set? Talking about cost does ayone know how much it'll be? Im guessing in the range of £50 somewhere.
this really all does look amazing enough, i bought BfSP two years ago to the day.. and this is torture.. 40k has got me hooked but when i'm back in a FaDa GuoJia i'll definitely consider it.
The Crippler wrote:My only dissapointment is the apparent lack of scenery,
That is because we cried bloody murder when B4M had big scenery which took the space of more models.
Exactly. Although it was the scenarios in Battle for Maccarage that got me into 40k i wouldn't have been happy with it, or bought it for that matter, if it were in place of AoBR today. IIRC it had about 8 SM and 20 tyranids.
GW "Must refrain from showing decent shots of models despite the fact they are all over the internet already."
Gaming community "Sigh!"
Is there any fluff to this Island of Blood malarkey? AoBR was noticeably devoid of any scenarios (although they did appear in WD). Kind of curious as to where this Island of Blood is and why Skaven and High Elves are fighting over it. It doesn't look like there is a predominance of blood in the surrounding topography.
Sadly a little disappointed in the box art (luckly the models are awesome) GW created two dark grim worlds and gives it this fluffy bright cartoony box art.
Well, damn GW. Damn them all. That's me now stripping the paint off all my old 5th edition High Elves and quite possibly, me getting back into Fantasy.
Maybe it's the Island of Blood because of the clots that will buy it
only joking please don't shoot!
Boxart is a bit naff but seems similar to the Skull Pass box and it won't put people off.
What tickled me was the comment on the Website, about how he took ages to take the lid off, too busy weighing it in his hands. Groping the box? What a pervert.
Who the feck does that! I mean who doesn't rip the lid off and dive right in with sprue cutters like Edward Scissorhands on speed?
Munch Munch! wrote:This looks very impressive. I can't wait for September when this is released.
Me neither, the models all look pretty cool. And there's lots of them. The question is do i want another army...? I have loads already after all.
I think i'll see if i can sell the skaven to a skaven player for roughly the cost of the box set? Talking about cost does ayone know how much it'll be? Im guessing in the range of £50 somewhere.
Why wouldn't the skaven player just buy the box set then...
Lorne wrote:Sadly a little disappointed in the box art (luckly the models are awesome) GW created two dark grim worlds and gives it this fluffy bright cartoony box art.
Looks like another Dave Gallagher painting to me. Island of Blood is aimed at new players and parents at Christmas/birthdays etc so it can't look too grim/dark. Personally I don't like the way everything has to be so fracking dark dark dark and more dark these days. I mean Chaos is supposed to want to turn the world into one eternal battle and it looks like they've succeeded. I mean is there any part of the Warhammer world that is worth fighting for now? I get that they need a reason for the conflicts but the latest blurbs just seems to promote an all out apocalyptic world full of anarchy. It makes it very hard to come up with anything truly shocking or anything worth fighting to protect or defend. I prefer a Warhammer where the forces of destruction gnaw at the edge of the world than one where they seem to have overrun it.
Well that settles it doesn't it?
I mean, I resisted the plastic doomwheel. I resisted the new clanrats. I resisted the screaming bell, for god's sake. But now, cheap plastics that come in the starter, and an amazing skaven warlord? Sigh. I guess I'm starting Skaven.
I like the brightness. To quote SomethingAwful.... "Steve: Everyone is always yelling in 40K. They're always shouting about something and there's always something giant in the background."
Flashman wrote:GW "Must refrain from showing decent shots of models despite the fact they are all over the internet already."
Gaming community "Sigh!"
Is there any fluff to this Island of Blood malarkey? AoBR was noticeably devoid of any scenarios (although they did appear in WD). Kind of curious as to where this Island of Blood is and why Skaven and High Elves are fighting over it. It doesn't look like there is a predominance of blood in the surrounding topography.
IIRC, the Island of Blood is an island in the Ulthuan chain. The High Elves don't have alot of territory as it is, so there going to do everything to stop vermin from taking it. Also, they're High Elves! Everything about them is pride. They aren't going to sit around drinkin tea while another part of their lives is teared away. The Skaven are probably fighting over it to expand their under empire and dominate the world. Also, a new island means untainted and untapped genetic, mineral, and other resources to use and tamper with. Maybe a grey seer had a vision of the horned rat coming to that island. There's a bunch of reasons you could make up for why the skaven are fighting.
Munch Munch! wrote:This looks very impressive. I can't wait for September when this is released.
Me neither, the models all look pretty cool. And there's lots of them. The question is do i want another army...? I have loads already after all.
I think i'll see if i can sell the skaven to a skaven player for roughly the cost of the box set? Talking about cost does ayone know how much it'll be? Im guessing in the range of £50 somewhere.
Why wouldn't the skaven player just buy the box set then...
Great. This would be a great way to get into fantasy, and 100$ in manageable,but right now I have no money, so....
I don't really like either army, but if I had to choose, I'd play Skaven...More models=Less cost for real army... Is it stupid to play skaven though? Would I be a band-wagon jumper if I picked them up? People seem to be playing skaven like crazy now..
Well given that you say you aren't too keen on either army...
Buying into Skaven cos they are new and shiny doesn't seem a practical way of doing things.
Better to save your cash for something that really grabs you imho.
Well, I still want to learn how to play fantasy, so the rulebook is important....And who can refuse so many models for so cheap? If nothing else, they could make Guardsmen proxies
I really want to play bretonnians (or Tomb kings, or possibly Vampire counts). Neither of these armies would make good proxies for brets. I need more horses
Both armies are good as demonstrations of what armies in Fantasy are like. High Elves are elite, fragile, hard hitting. Skaven are cheap, numerous and lacking in punch. Both have a decent amount of shooting and special units (a monstrous mount, cavalry and a mage for the Elves, Monstrous Infantry, Warmachines and a Mage for the Skaven) so you can use the two armies to learn the rules of the game really easily. I think it's good value for money, even if you don't particularly like the armies, but if you really wanted, you could just buy the hardbacked book.
Problem is, that'll set you back nearly as much, and it's really heavy. At least you could convert the Griffon in the box into a mount for your general with only a small amount of work (for bretonnians, they get griffons and hippogriffs, right?).
I would say spend your cash on a Battalion box of an army you really want as first option. You will be able to pick up a small rule book for a song soon anyway.
Can understand what you are saying, I got the Skull Pass to learn the game but I liked both Dwarves and Gobbos.
But would say if I was in your position would deffo go Brets, cos that is what your heart seems to be pulling towards
Chibi makes a good point actually- you should be able to pick up a cheap pocket rulebook soon after the box comes out. Lots of people will buy two, and won't need the second book.
Myself, I'm a sucker for pretty plastic, I'm not even sure if I could bring myself to trade away the high elves !
Samus_aran115 wrote:Great. This would be a great way to get into fantasy, and 100$ in manageable,but right now I have no money, so....
I don't really like either army, but if I had to choose, I'd play Skaven...More models=Less cost for real army... Is it stupid to play skaven though? Would I be a band-wagon jumper if I picked them up? People seem to be playing skaven like crazy now..
Skaven...
It takes a special insanity... I mean, dedication to play skaven, because you are going to be painting a LOT of rats, especially since 8E rewards numerically large units, and skaven are cheap enough for you to have many such units. 2x40 slaves naked and 3x30 clanrats with spears and shields are only 610 points (before HQs), leaing plenty for rare/special/character choices...
EDIT: I'm going to use the Griffon rider for my Brets. One could use the elven cav for mounted yeomen... proxy the spearmen for Men at arms... and if you want to do a conversion, you can chop the swordmasters in half; put the top half on the horses to do Questing Knights and the bottom half under the elven cav torsos for archers.
It wouldn't look terribly Bret without a lot of GS work (and maybe not even then) but it's not completely hopeless.
Not sure about calls of bandwagon if you choose an army you get a nice core for in a starter box, to me it sounds a pretty good idea.
I've had some old 4th ed HE kicking around a while and always thought I'd get round to doing them, and upon hearing they'd be in a starter again decided to hold off. A 2nd wave of plastics too I'm sold! Sticking with finishing up a woc army first though to get warhammering again since my undead in 5th ed until I see what releases they'll get but one things for sure, their current plastic character sets are nice and I want that dragon model! Would love to see the spearmen redone because of the hands but not holding out hope of that happening.
Still the sheer beauty of those skaven plastics has me tempted...
Vulcan has a good point here.
You have to be used to watching a 70 point model blow up, taking 12 stormvermin with it in the blast, then laugh it off.
If you cant do this, skaven arent for you lol.
However, i may pick up a box or 2.
for those interested in selling parts of the set:
AoBR stuff - when sold in different lots i got my money back just by selling the marines.
So all in all, i got the rules, dice, items and orks for free.
Did the same with the skull pass set.
Will be doing the same for the island of blood set.
People generally want a single item / unit from box's like that.
Since ebay is huge, there is allways someone on there that wants what you have.
So buy a box or 10, take what you want and wait a week.
See how prices settle and then undercut them slightly.
so yes, skaven / elf players will buy all the parts for the same cost as a whole new box, just in units rather than all in 1 go.
I simply want a single box for the models, ill then happily buy more Rogres (if they have convertion potential) via ebay.
Ill also buy 14 more warlock engineers from ebay since i need 15 in total for my Skyre list lol. (thats if i can convert them enough to look different)
On the "Bandwagon" issue i would say this only applies if you dont paint them up and go for another army whilst wanting to subject your opponents to an unpainted force.
My stand point is players with unpainted figures should be destroyed on site (the player not the minis) if you want a battle game with no artistic demands play Chess.
Flashman wrote:GW "Must refrain from showing decent shots of models despite the fact they are all over the internet already."
Gaming community "Sigh!"
Is there any fluff to this Island of Blood malarkey? AoBR was noticeably devoid of any scenarios (although they did appear in WD). Kind of curious as to where this Island of Blood is and why Skaven and High Elves are fighting over it. It doesn't look like there is a predominance of blood in the surrounding topography.
IIRC, the Island of Blood is an island in the Ulthuan chain. The High Elves don't have alot of territory as it is, so there going to do everything to stop vermin from taking it. Also, they're High Elves! Everything about them is pride. They aren't going to sit around drinkin tea while another part of their lives is teared away. The Skaven are probably fighting over it to expand their under empire and dominate the world. Also, a new island means untainted and untapped genetic, mineral, and other resources to use and tamper with. Maybe a grey seer had a vision of the horned rat coming to that island. There's a bunch of reasons you could make up for why the skaven are fighting.
Well, there's also the problem with the Isle of Blood being an informal name that the Elves have given to the island where the Sword of Khaine is laying.
Y'know, the blade that ended a Daemonic infestation and is the center of a massive spell that is keeping the Chaos Gateways to a manageable level?
Flashman wrote:GW "Must refrain from showing decent shots of models despite the fact they are all over the internet already."
Gaming community "Sigh!"
Is there any fluff to this Island of Blood malarkey? AoBR was noticeably devoid of any scenarios (although they did appear in WD). Kind of curious as to where this Island of Blood is and why Skaven and High Elves are fighting over it. It doesn't look like there is a predominance of blood in the surrounding topography.
IIRC, the Island of Blood is an island in the Ulthuan chain. The High Elves don't have alot of territory as it is, so there going to do everything to stop vermin from taking it. Also, they're High Elves! Everything about them is pride. They aren't going to sit around drinkin tea while another part of their lives is teared away. The Skaven are probably fighting over it to expand their under empire and dominate the world. Also, a new island means untainted and untapped genetic, mineral, and other resources to use and tamper with. Maybe a grey seer had a vision of the horned rat coming to that island. There's a bunch of reasons you could make up for why the skaven are fighting.
Well, there's also the problem with the Isle of Blood being an informal name that the Elves have given to the island where the Sword of Khaine is laying.
Y'know, the blade that ended a Daemonic infestation and is the center of a massive spell that is keeping the Chaos Gateways to a manageable level?
Do you mean the Isle of the dead, where Caldor's vortex is?
Well I figure I will weight my 2 pennies in. Im excited about the new box and rules. They flow pretty good, I hear a lot of grumbling about the new rules, some swearing off fantasy until next edition. I just take it in stride and deal with the hand dealt. The models are fantastic! cant wait to get them, its going to boost my army big time. To bad it wont be around by 'Ard Boyz in August, could have really used them.
GW had a better unboxing today, with armies made from two sets each:
Lothern Sea Guard detail:
Poisoned Wind Mortar Team detail:
An FAQ:
Q. Will the rulebook from The Island of Blood be available separately?
A. No, as with the miniatures, it's exclusive to The Island of Blood set.
Q. What is the page count of the mini-rulebook?
A. There are 184 pages in the mini-rulebook.
Q. Are the scenarios, alliances and magic lores included in the mini-rulebook?
A. Yes, anything that could be regarded as a 'rule' is included in the mini-rulebook.
Q. What miniatures do you get in The Island of Blood box?
A. The set contains 74 models in total: a High Elf Prince on Griffon, a High Elf Mage, 10 High Elf Lothern Sea Guard, 10 High Elf Sword Masters of Hoeth and five Ellyrian Reavers; a Skaven Warlord, a Skaven Warlock Engineer, 40 Skaven Clanrats, a Skaven Master Moulder, two Skaven Rat Ogres, a Skaven Warpfire Thrower and a Skaven Poisoned Wind Mortar.
Did they get new "Everything you have been told is a lie" t-shirts? Or is this the same shirt from before Space Hulk? I don't recall it having a Chaos star, so maybe it's a hint of something new in the works?
It's the same shirt from the Eye of Terror campaign.
That's not correct, it's the T-shirt given to staff members when the "new" website was launched a couple years ago. The Eye Of Terror shirt says, "Let the Galaxy Burn" on the front and has the eponymous book cover on the back.
It's the same shirt from the Eye of Terror campaign.
That's not correct, it's the T-shirt given to staff members when the "new" website was launched a couple years ago. The Eye Of Terror shirt says, "Let the Galaxy Burn" on the front and has the eponymous book cover on the back.
There were multiple EoT shirts, bud. Including one that had Cypher on the back, hooded and standing inside a cathedral that said on the front "Everything you've been told is a lie".
The "Everything you've been told is a lie" shirts were strictly for staff members in the very recent past regarding the website launch. All GW store staff members received them at the time. Those are the exact shirts being worn in the photos in question here.
There was one Eye Of Terror shirt with the Codex Eye of Terror cover on the back, and I own some of them, and those are from back in 2003. They were sold on the "battle tour" in the US back when the Battlewagon was used for promotions at stores, tourneys, etc. instead of languishing at the Battle Bunker HQ in Maryland, where it is now used just for hauling lumber and such. I was looking at it yesterday too and the beautiful artwork on it is all faded now. It's in a very sad state compared to its glory days.
I've got the Abaddon shirt sitting in my desk drawer somewhere, the Cypher one was sold in small numbers via the Roadshow during the campaign and I was never able to get one.
Yes, Abaddon, in the same artwork that's on the book cover, was on the back. A half Aquila-half Chaos star combo is on the front. And this has nothing to do with the shirts shown in the photos above, they are from the new, now current, website launch.
I like the pose of the warlord, it looks easily convertable and the extra height helps the shify little wossnames. The second weapon looks like a spear or halberd, do these count for the 'two weapons give an extra attack' rule? Or is it intended that they carry two weapons and use one or the other? (Is this a viable tactic when building army lists?). I also like how they have given the packmaster a man catcher / cattle prod that lends itself to conversion for one of the new weaponteams in the army book and also looks special enough to represent the special weapon available ot master moulders(?) in the army book.
VikingScott wrote:Don't like the griffon.
Looks like it's been strecthed.
My cheap empire griffon plan is now on hold.
Rest of models are awesome however.
The cheese stands alone!
OK, maybe not alone, but close!
I was on the fence looking at the unpainted version, and even though my skills aren't near as high as necessary to match it, the painted version has sold me!
I think these are argueably (spelling?) the best models GW has produced. The Griffon is outstanding, in terms of anatomy, detail and pose. The skaven are awesome, lucky for me i play them, and I LOVE the new Rat Ogres...The Plague Mortar is meh for me, but since it isnt terribad and fits the asthetics of the new designs, i am not bothered. The Warpfire thrower is exactly as I thought it would be, which is great.
I can't wait to get my hands on this set.
I am trying to persuade my local store to ask for an advance copy, and I volunteered to paint for the store for free! (I just want to play with the new toys!)
That painted gryphon looks great. Looking forward to the new set, but I think mostly for the mini rulebook. I feel like I need a podium to read the big one. too damn heavy! doesn't GW know that nerds are wimpy?
Otherwise very nice, but I don't like the small amount of models....
Gonna wish one for birthday present so I won't complain.
Can't wait for September!
VikingScott wrote:Am I correct in assuming that the legs are attached to the griffon?
Yes they are. However if you adjust the kneeplates to something more rounded and human it will go well enough with an Empire or Bretonnian Knight miniature atop.
Yes its not a Hippogriff, but back end cat rather than horse makes no odds really, its the front end and wings that matter.
They look SO much better the skaven when painted.. I'm having several nerdgasims as we speak (Along with me going to "convince" some fellow gamers to switch to high elves for some "swaps")
I think the talons on the Griffon are a bit on the large side, but otherwise everything looks super nice. GWs plastics just get better and better with each set released. These are supposed to be the cheaper lower quality starter set plastics even!
wow! WOW! Those are seriously cool. The griffin looks real and the rat ogre just screams "warhammer frankenstein" just like it's supposed to. I am very impressed. Why didn't this guy sculpt the horrors and dp right?
Aduro wrote:I think the talons on the Griffon are a bit on the large side
All the better to crush you with my dear....
Those minitures look awesome though! I have to have them! I don't ming the griffon and i like mages balancing of stuff. It's true that, once you take away the skaven minis there aren't that many HE models, but its still great value, especially considering it has the mini rulebook, no need to bring a lecturn to games anymore
I think i'll swap the skaven in the kit with a skaven player for the HE, (plenty of models then) though i may keep the rat ogres as they are awesome! Though the skaven player'll probably want more for the same reason though....
The talons on the griffon were what turned me against it initially- they jumped out at me as the first thing, and imho, they're grossly out of proportion with a model that is otherwise proportioned very well!
I'd cut off a knuckle to shorten them, and it would be perfect, I think! Easy enough to do, too
The mage is fantastic. The high elves overall impressed me more than the skaven, which had a few clunker models. However, the skaven heroes and other "single" type models (with the poisoned wind mortar a notable, terrible, exception) are excellent!!
Sorry to burst everyones bubble and all that but these are so good that GW may consider putting the price up to the £70-£80 pound mark for this new starter set?
lorrylemming wrote:Sorry to burst everyones bubble and all that but these are so good that GW may consider putting the price up to the £70-£80 pound mark for this new starter set?
I would be very surprised if it were to remain at the £50 mark for the UK....
lorrylemming wrote:Sorry to burst everyones bubble and all that but these are so good that GW may consider putting the price up to the £70-£80 pound mark for this new starter set?
I think that would be a big mistake. And therefore it wouldn't surprise me at all.
lorrylemming wrote:Sorry to burst everyones bubble and all that but these are so good that GW may consider putting the price up to the £70-£80 pound mark for this new starter set?
I think that would be a big mistake. And therefore it wouldn't surprise me at all.
I poped into my local GW earlier, they dont know what the price is going to be yet so looks like GW still aint fixed the final cost, but they did suspect it would be around the £60 mark. I'm expecting it to be the same as the space hulk box set and that was £60. Anymore then that and i may reconsider getting it, even more so on release day. £70+ i can wait a few months.
On another note tho, my local GW did have the models in from the new box set and 'in the flesh' they do look outstanding! only issue is the fact that they are snap together or 'one piece' which for the sea guard means the sheild is kinda falt against the body of the Elf, and it dont quite look right. The griffin tho! oh my diddy! The Rat Ogres, Lordy, Top notich!!
The one piece model is standard fare for a starter set.
The Skull Pass Dwarves suffer the same problem with the shields leaving some "plugs" of solid plastic with no modelling.
In retrospect I would have spent some time carving out the blank blocks and resculpting with GS.
For a beginner with no modelling skills, the one piece is plenty good enough to get gaming ASAP.
A more experienced modeller should have no problems adding in a bit of extra detail.
As long as GW don't start charging full wack for starter set quality one piece figures I guess everyone will be happy.
lorrylemming wrote:Sorry to burst everyones bubble and all that but these are so good that GW may consider putting the price up to the £70-£80 pound mark for this new starter set?
I doubt very much that GW will put the price up. This is a starter set aimed at getting new players into the hobby. The fact that veteran players will probably buy it for the smaller rule book is a bonus. I expect it to be priced the same as the 40k box, possibly £10 more expensive but I doubt that. GW would want people to buy and play both games so that they can maximise sales, if one game is more expensive than the other then it will sell poorly by comparison. Given that 40k is a much more popular game than WHFB I can't see GW pricing the new box that high.
Remember that a fair few of these boxes will be sold to Mums and Dads and if they see 40k is cheaper they'd probably buy that.
the amount of detail on these is really unbelievable for a starter kit. I can't wait to see the amazing conversions that some of the creative folk here on dakka think up. Can't wait to be surprised!
I love both of those. Look readily converted into variant Ogres...may have to look into adding those to my army as I'm getting at least 2 lots of skaven....
. It's in range of me, easily, but depending on where the case is located it might be hard to snap a pic of 'em, with any quality, at least...
! So I'll have to get a new one, but I'll get there 
Sorry I'm half asleep, long day. Anyone else think it's funny that Skaven and HE waves have been planned almost dtraight after the starter had been released?
