Kickstarter link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/comments




Hi everyone! I am pleased to announce the CROM: Conan Rise of Monsters Gencon kickstarter announcement teaser video! Expect more to come in the week(s) leading up to Gencon and then even more news after Gencon! Check out our facebook page for more information but for now check out our trailer and the sculpt of King Conan Himself!

https://www.facebook.com/conanminiatures/videos/1607254932867470/?comment_id=1607258242867139¬if_t=video_comment

Here is Thoth-Amon himself! Fear him!

Very interesting, love this setting and love a skirmish game, perhaps you could post images of the completed minis here as well, rather than just the pictures?

 MeanGreenStompa wrote:
Very interesting, love this setting and love a skirmish game, perhaps you could post images of the completed minis here as well, rather than just the pictures?

I think tjis has been asked sooooooo many times already - sometimes, I think there ARE no minis ...

Well, the teaser has a shot of Conan in digital sculpt form. If it can survive printing and casting in a decent shape, it's going to one great miniature.

Assuming it's not ruined by the prepaint that is.

That model will need to be cut into SEVERAL pieces. A lot of the detail is undercut and will need filling. And a lot of that fine detail is going to get lost in printing and then further in plastic production and probably even worse in pre-painting.

I am definitely going to check out the booth at gencon though I would need more details for an actual sale. I don't have failbook so I don't know if there is more news there

Question as a retailer:

1) Will there be a retailer level for kickstarter?

2) what will be the price differential between what a retail shop will sell the game for, and what it sells for on kickstarter.

No retailer involvement means less involvement overall by stores in the game.

While players love an awesome deal, stores find it hard to sell a game that is significantly more expensive in their shop vs what it was on kickstarter.

Like Conan, want to like the game, but those two questions have an aweful lot of impact on things.

Please keep all news and rumors on this game to a single thread in the N&R forum - thanks!

Here's the latest:

 PulposaurusJohn wrote:
These minis are the master paint guides, so a rough idea of how detailed the paint jobs will be on the miniatures. These are the sculpts that will be in the boxes though.

The kickstarter goes live on Friday July 31st 2015. There will be a booth at Gencon with demos and a sign up area for the kickstarter so keep any eye out by the end of the week more information will be available for now FINALLY enjoy the miniatures we have been working on for this prepaitned miniature wargame. Feel free to ask questions!

A link to our facebook page with more pictures and information: https://www.facebook.com/conanminiatures?ref=aymt_homepage_panel

Here are the miniatures and their master paint schemes.

Am I the only one that saw the last guys in armor and thought about painting them like Hobgoblins?

Very well sculpted pieces. are the painted examples the actual production pieces or are they studio examples??

Hey Tre manor!
These are the paint guides that are being done in house for the production company to follow. So while this is not the finished product, this will be very close.

The snake head doesn't look quite right... looks more dragon-ish than snake. Might just be the angle.

Lovely paintwork all around, though.

These actually look pretty good, and if the paint jobs in the production models are of similar quality, I could actually see myself picking up something prepainted (well short of X-Wing). That hasn't happened since.....oh ,before you were born. If the rules look fun, and the miniatures are pretty close to this quality, I would happily pick up both sets.

 insaniak wrote:
The snake head doesn't look quite right... looks more dragon-ish than snake. Might just be the angle.

Lovely paintwork all around, though.

I agree. It's the snout. Rather than being round off or diamond shaped liked the artwork, the sculpt looks a bit lizard like in profile which comes off as draconic. Perhaps an over the top shot, or a shot of the front would reveal that this is an optical illusion, but I think it just is too elongated. A more snub nose or a broader nose would give it the more snake like feel. Still a very nice sculpt and well painted.

The flare behind the eyes where the jaw hinges is the main thing.. though the shape of the snout is not helping.
However.. I need a Dire Snake or a fiendish snake either or.. and the extra sinister features means it's exactly what I need

Cautiously optimistic about this one after seeing these pics.

Do we have a specific time of day that the KS will launch on friday?

Any idea on the pledge levels?

So are toes figures the actual plastic castings or are they resin or metal prototypes?


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Also what type of plastic is this??? Rubbery PVC or Hard PVC? As that will make a difference on how people judge it.

 tre manor wrote:
So are thoes figures the actual plastic castings or are they resin or metal prototypes?


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Also what type of plastic is this??? Rubbery PVC or Hard PVC? As that will make a difference on how people judge it.

Yes, indeed!

 tre manor wrote:
So are toes figures the actual plastic castings or are they resin or metal prototypes?


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Also what type of plastic is this??? Rubbery PVC or Hard PVC? As that will make a difference on how people judge it.

On their facebook someone asked the same thing and they replied that it's a firmer plastic.. That has been taken to mean closer to Heroclix by a few of the posters there. I say as long as it's not restic or super brittle resin like Ramshackle uses then bring it on.

So with this launching while they're at Gencon, are they going to have anyone active in the comments section for the first few days?

That can be critical to success...

Edit: 7-31-15, 10am EST launch!

Looking at the pictures on their FB page.. either that snake is MASSIVE or that Mammoth is tiny. Early bird single player starter sets for $99 or $125 if you're unlucky enough to miss the $26 price break.

Oh yeah.. did I mention that each player needs to buy the starter set?

*sigh*

Maybe they will have pledge levels with both sets?

We'll know soon!

 Alex C wrote:
Maybe they will have pledge levels with both sets?

We'll know soon!

That would still mean ~$200 buy-in. I am severely regretting that I didn't get in on the Monolith KS :/

 MLaw wrote:

 Alex C wrote:
Maybe they will have pledge levels with both sets?

We'll know soon!

That would still mean ~$200 buy-in. I am severely regretting that I didn't get in on the Monolith KS :/

I went in big there and am unsure about this, but will be grabbing an EB or two just in case.

Yeah, I just checked in on the Monolith KS.. looks like the PM has been delayed to my benefit The models for that are looking brilliant.

So.. it's looking like Black Plague then Monolith Conan.. Sorry CROM.. cya

Mammoth looks amazing, could use him for ogres in KoW

ArtIsGreat wrote:
Mammoth looks amazing, could use him for ogres in KoW

My thoughts exactly!

Need a good Mammoth.

Edit: Still curious why they're pushing it as a "mass combat" game with a model count lower than the average Warmahordes force.

 Alex C wrote:

ArtIsGreat wrote:
Mammoth looks amazing, could use him for ogres in KoW

My thoughts exactly!

Need a good Mammoth.

Edit: Still curious why they're pushing it as a "mass combat" game with a model count lower than the average Warmahordes force.

This is exactly what's pushing me away from this. When a board game set in the same setting has a higher model count.. yeah.. mebbe this is really more of a skirmish thing. OR.. they could have a fethload of unlocks to expand the core pledges if they're anticipating a massive explosion like we saw with Monolith's Conan outing.
For mammoths, Safari LTD makes a really big one http://www.amazon.com/Safari-Carnegie-Scale-Woolly-Mammoth/dp/B000GYUZ1O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1438304942&sr=8-1&keywords=Safari+LTD+mammoth
I have this one and the detail is actually pretty impressive for what it is.
http://www.amazon.com/Papo-55017-Wooly-Mammoth/dp/B001IZGH76/ref=pd_sim_21_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=1RCZXHCT96DAZHB345CE

Dwarf Wars has a War Mammoth as well if all you're looking for is a Mammoth.

I want to know how big that snake is. It seems like a really unbalanced starter pairing as far as sheer bulk.

Saw those Mammoths, didn't think they suited fantasy wargaming.

Dwarf Mammoth is nice though, thanks!

Edit: FB page confirmed pledge level for both starters.

Could you clarify the both starters thing?
I'm seeing this and it seems pretty clear..


and




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They should also probably be made aware that the Circle of Iron starter shows that it starts with Legion of Set cards. I imagine that's an error in the graphic.

Someone asked on their FB page if there would be a pledge level for both starters.

They replied "yes".

So those graphics aren't the only pledge options that will be available.

Hi everyone,

Last i heard the Kickstarter goes live at 10AM EST tomorrow, friday july 31st. I will post any updates if it goes live earlier than that but your best bet is to check out our facebook page first thing in the morning tomorrow for any updates https://www.facebook.com/conanminiatures?ref=aymt_homepage_panel

Here are a few more of the sample minis, everything but Conan are currently Gypsum prototypes. Conan however is a heavy firm plastic. I got to see them in person for a brief time and Conan seemed very durable. Conan looked good enough to be a multipart plastic kit.

Hopefully someone will be answering questions, either myself or one of the guys working Gencon, during the kickstarter.

As for why this is being called "massive combat" when the starter boxes come with 15 models each, similar to Xwing buying a starter box is a great way to start but once the kickstarter launches tomorrow you'll see how many other options we came up with to flush out armies and give it that really large scale feel!

The priests of Set


King Conan Himself.

Great to hear from you John!

I'll be looking out for the KS launch tomorrow

Some veteran names behind this project...

Jack Emmert is a co-founder and current CEO of Cryptic Studios. He has launched numerous award-winning games including: City of Heroes, City of Villains, Champions Online, Star Trek Online and most recently Neverwinter. Previous to Cryptic, Jack contributed to a number of different RPG lines, including Deadlands and Marvel Super Heroes.

Shane Hensley is the President of Pinnacle Entertainment Group. He’s written and created dozens of award-winning miniatures, roleplaying, card, and video games, has worked on licenses from Star Wars and Army of Darkness to Marvel, and has successfully licensed his own properties to television and video games.

Timothy Brown is the award-winning designer of Dark Sun and 2300AD, and was Director of Creative Services at TSR supervising the best of the AD&D game worlds, including Ravenloft and Planescape. He is a Brand Manager for Pinnacle Entertainment Group and recently ran his own successful Kickstarter campaign to launch an original new game world, Dragon Kings.

George Vasilakos is the President and Art Director of Eden Studios. He has worked as Art Director and Creative Director of licensed games for his company and for Last Unicorn Games, Decipher and Wizards of the Coast including properties as the Buffy the Vampire, Army of Darkness, Lord of the Rings, Star Trek and Dune.

http://pulposaurus.com/about-us/

Although not a miniatures game, Dragon King fulfilled back in April. AFAIK, Shane Hensley has miniatures experience, but their last miniatures game was back around 2000.

EDIT: Shane Hensley, of Pinnacle Entertainment and Savage Worlds RPG fame, has run seven KS, mostly RPGs : https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/545820095/created

Deadlands: Great Rail Wars miniatures: https://boardgamegeek.com/images/boardgame/12957/deadlands-great-rail-wars

From FB: "We are paying for premium paints from the factory - many manufacturers have 3 degrees of painting and we want to pay for top tier - because Conan demands that level."

*Sets alarm for 7am PST*

BY CROM! The Conan Rise of Monsters kickstarter is now live!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/comments

I'm in for the EB Warlord set. Hopefully this can reach quite high for the SG!

EB Warlord here too (backer #1!).

Quite high funding level here, hopefully that doesn't put people off as honest funding levels sometimes do.

Prices seem a little high but I have to keep reminding myself this all comes painted!

Our thoughts exactly, and they are NOT poorly painted miniatures made out of cheap plastic, no expense has been spared to make this game look amazing.

Thanks for your support guys, feel free to ask any questions and ill try to help out. I can't wait till i get my copies!

 PulposaurusJohn wrote:
feel free to ask any questions and ill try to help out.

Do you have plans on making the Fate Decks as add-ons?

Will the full game rules and the stats for all models be in the Campaign book?

If someone pledges $1 (no reward), can they select add-ons?

Prices do seem a bit high, and the usual 'Fake Stretch Goals' are in attendance too...

Still, I'm tempted, and I'll camp on an EB slot for now, to be sure!

 Alpharius wrote:
Still, I'm tempted, and I'll camp on an EB slot for now, to be sure!

Same here. Still undecided on whether to stick with the pledge here or just use my Conan board game minis with Song of Blades and Heroes rules...

$190 EB for the minimum two starter sets to play... Five additional miniatures by $1.1M... $25+ add-ons...

This is way too pricey for me, The team behind it *is* experienced in gamer hobbies and KS campaigns, although I would have liked to have seen them have run a miniatures campaign before.

I'm assuming the high cost of the project comes from the costs of the molds *and* the tier 3 painting service. Reaper's prepainted Legendary Encounters KS will be later in the year, and Reaper did a smart move by separating the mold costs and painting costs into separate campaigns (LE will use the existing Bones molds which have been paid for). That way, they're at least expecting to be able to offer prepainted miniatures at only a slightly higher price than their Bones miniatures during the KS. No idea of the paint job quality. The painting will be done with masks, rather than hand-painting, so I'm still waiting for the photos.

Anyway, I do suggest adding an entry for this game on BoardGameGeek, and making an announcement of it on the Press Releases "Crowdfunding Announcements thread (Kickstarter, Indiegogo, etc)" thread. HeroScapers might be a site interested in the prepaints. I hope this funds because I'd like to see that there really is a market for high-quality prepainted miniatures.

Looks great, high goal but it's refreshing to see a realistic number there for such an ambitious project. Good luck

I'm working on a write up for BoardGameGeek right now actually! thanks for the very polite feed back! Ill pass it up the chain.

I'm in at Warlord but it's extremely tentative.
I don't know that I am excited about the mass-combat aspect of this. It looks more like a large skirmish game than a full on mass combat system.

I am excited about miniatures. There not being a miniatures only buy-in is disappointing. Likewise, having to watch this until the 48 hour mark to see if there will be enough miniature action to satisfy me is equally disappointing.


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I also want to throw in.. I am not excited in the least about this being pre-paint. I'm sure there are people who are. I have all kinds of pre-paints from Rackham to stuff I can't even remember. If I'm doing a whole army, I'm going to want to make sure they're painted the way I want :/

I like how the cavalry for the Circle of Iron have a nice chorus line thing going. I think that will look very exciting on the table, perhaps with some orchestra pit terrain!

A mass battle game with so few sculpts is going to be a serious problem. Even Warmachine has ~2-3 sculpts per unit, and that still feels on the low side.

Two issues I can see so far; first, no scale comparisons. Would be nice to see both relative(ie, your models ranked alongside those from other companies/the Conan boardgame) and absolute(ie, your models next to a ruler). Second, no mention anywhere I can find that the project is EU-Friendly: the exact final shipping cost is of less importance than where the package is coming from; a fair few EU folk are not going to buy into this when there remains the risk the package will be seized at Customs and slapped with 20% VAT and handling charges.

Currently, our only plan for Fate Decks is to get them in the starter boxes.

The different sculpts comes from stretch goals, i understand your concern but when your focused on how much fun you are having with the game the models having limited poses melts away.

I'll ask the higher ups to get some scale pictures put up on facebook i dont want to give you wrong information from my memory.

As for shipping, i know we are currently trying to find distribution partners to make shipping cheaper and safer for everyone. Best thing to do is follow our facebook page for more information. Again ill run this buy the higher ups and see if i can get an answer for you.

thanks for all your support and comments guys!

Someone just posted this observation:

so if we reach $1,175000 we get 5 free minis to each starter set some dice and 8 tiles free but there are $365 worth of add-ons to buy .... sheesh!

Just so we're clear.. if I'm in at $150 and am still expected to buy $20+ characters to fill out my ranks with only 10 extra models added to the core dual starter, I will not be in at $150.

Looking at those planned SGs.. wow.. not really sure this will ever get to a point where I think it's a good value.


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 PulposaurusJohn wrote:
Currently, our only plan for Fate Decks is to get them in the starter boxes.

The different sculpts comes from stretch goals, i understand your concern but when your focused on how much fun you are having with the game the models having limited poses melts away.

Wha... really? So... why is it that so many of your stretch goals are alternate poses?

By KS standards this is some hyper premium pricing. Even "boutique" games like Kingdom Death had more "value" in their $25 add-ons.

I don't know... I like some of what I am seeing, but needing to hit 1.1million before we've received enough free added minis to remotely make this look palatable, is rough.

I think the lack of miniature gaming KS experience is showing, because the price/value gap is going to torpedo this KS.

Dropped my pledge already. After hearing more it just doesn't suit my needs.

Good luck though!

Sorry to hear that! Hopefully in the coming weeks we can release some more information that will reignite your interest!

Thanks for your input and being so polite about it!

NewTruthNeomaxim wrote:
By KS standards this is some hyper premium pricing. Even "boutique" games like Kingdom Death had more "value" in their $25 add-ons.

I don't know... I like some of what I am seeing, but needing to hit 1.1million before we've received enough free added minis to remotely make this look palatable, is rough.

I think the lack of miniature gaming KS experience is showing, because the price/value gap is going to torpedo this KS.

For real.. it looks like a total lack of market research.

http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=9094390

Looking around at what other companies are doing and failing or succeeding at, what people are and are not pledging on.. you'd think anyone going this big on a project like this would have done some front end analysis.

Definitely dropping my pledge after the responses we've seen to legitimate concerns. What a crappy attitude for a startup.

I'm not seeing any rude responses to questions at all? Can you please quote the ones that were rude?

What is retail expected to be on this? $35 for 5 infantry is pretty pricey, but I'd expect them to be even more at release... $50? $25 for singles translates to $30 at release??

Attack Wing seems to run about $15 for the single more elite characters and $25 for packs of 6 grunts. This looks like it would be roughly double. I'm not sure the market would bear that. The figures do look much better, and the studio paint jobs are good, but it remains to be seen how well that actually translates into release product. It would have been good to have a production sample. Anyways, good luck!

I apologize sincerely if anything i have said came of rudely, was not intentional simply trying to get information out there! Sorry if i came off as rude.

overtyrant wrote:
I'm not seeing any rude responses to questions at all? Can you please quote the ones that were rude?

Same here, they've seemed nothing but polite and answered questions/critiques well enough.

overtyrant wrote:
I'm not seeing any rude responses to questions at all? Can you please quote the ones that were rude?

It's not about rudeness, it's about the fact that the concerns over the lack of variation, model counts, prices, etc are being dismissed, ignored, or brushed off.

 MLaw wrote:

overtyrant wrote:
I'm not seeing any rude responses to questions at all? Can you please quote the ones that were rude?

It's not about rudeness, it's about the fact that the concerns over the lack of variation, model counts, prices, etc are being dismissed, ignored, or brushed off.

Essentially your question is "why arent you offering more for cheaper?". There's no realistic, satisfactory answer to that question. They could come and give some marketing spiel, but in the end, you're either for the product at the price, or not.

I think it just is what it is on the price (which also factors in to model count and pose variety). Painting models to the caliber the game appears to be aiming for is going to be expensive. You've been pretty vocal you don't think its worth your money, which is fine. But I can also respect the lack of butt kissing to try and get you to come around, when odds are they really wont be able to throw in the number of minis needed to meet the standards. Now maybe they aimed too high on the pre-paint quality, and this wont fly. But the ship has currently sailed for them to offer what you want. Not every customer is worth the effort to land, particularly when they come to the table, arms folded, and demand a hard sell. Not desperately chasing after you isnt a crappy attitude.

FWIW, I'm not a backer or have any involvement, this is just my perspective from someone on the sidelines.

Am I correct that the painted figures we've seen so far are masters?

If so, will you be able to to show production level painting examples before the end of the funding period?

I've seen enough cases where the difference between master and production has been significant just in casting. Throw in painting and I suspect the differences can be pretty noticeable.

 CptJake wrote:


I've seen enough cases where the difference between master and production has been significant just in casting. Throw in painting and I suspect the differences can be pretty noticeable.

Well said - I'd like to see this too, before the campaign ends.

Age of Confragnarok killed Rackham (more or less!) - Pre-Painted Plastic was the "Original Bogeyman" - back before "Restic" became a 'thing'!

 Alpharius wrote:

 CptJake wrote:


I've seen enough cases where the difference between master and production has been significant just in casting. Throw in painting and I suspect the differences can be pretty noticeable.

Well said - I'd like to see this too, before the campaign ends.

Age of Confragnarok killed Rackham (more or less!) - Pre-Painted Plastic was the "Original Bogeyman" - back before "Restic" became a 'thing'!

I think there's a difference between changing an existing game where the metal models required assembly and painting to pre-paints, and simply launching a new pre-paint game. X-Wing, Armada, and Attack Wing all seem to be doing quite well. Heroclix is on their zillionth expansion.

Yes they have - but I'm not convinced that will be the case here, as 'organic' figures are WAY harder to pull of in 'pre-paints' than ships and the like!

Bossk - My comment wasn't about me or how they've communicated with me. That's a pretty rude assumption. Here and on the KS Comments people are asking about model counts for the game (not with the pledges..another assumption), sculpt variation, the inability to buy just the models (that's me), how this will differ or what will define it as a mass combat game vs skirmish etc.

When someone bellies up to the table, does very little PR and claims that they're stepping into the shoes of mass combat.. well IMO, they have a lot to show to be able to substantiate that. 2 factions with a handful of troops is nowhere close to mass combat.

Now, my grumblings about the value or lack thereof might seem vocal but I think I have 2 or 3 posts on a thread that is now 3 pages long.. hm.. I'll have to recount but this is a forum of opinion and I am stating mine.
When the issue of value comes up and fake stretch goals of "alternate sculpts" is pointed out followed by a comment stating that we won't even care about the sculpts because the game is so fun? Not only is that a bit condescending in a forum populated by gamers, but it also devalues more than half of their stretch goals (the other half are premium buy-ins).

Yeah, this ship has sailed. My complaints aren't even what made me jump ship though. It's the other stuff people are pointing out that is getting brushed off. If you don't have a dog in the fight, then perhaps you should stay out of it. Otherwise, go read the comments, read their facebook, catch yourself up, then come back and weigh in.


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 Alpharius wrote:
Yes they have - but I'm not convinced that will be the case here, as 'organic' figures are WAY harder to pull of in 'pre-paints' than ships and the like!

Yeah, I bought some of the Rackham pre-paints and they were definitely better than DnD minis or Heroclix or whatever but that's a really low bar. The quality still ended up being a basic tabletop quality primary color coating with no shading and either really flat paints or a matte coat. The only thing I liked about the paintjobs from those was that it was thin enough that I could paint over it without stripping the models.

 CptJake wrote:
If so, will you be able to to show production level painting examples before the end of the funding period?

Pulpasaurus mentioned on their facebook that they're using the highest painting service ("tier 3") of the painting service they hired, but, yeah, I'd like to have seen this and more specific reassurance than "absolute best paint jobs available" on the home page. *My* opinion is that if a creator uses a third party, name that third party (Hello Torn Armor!).

I also found Pulpasaurus quite professional in their responses. Honestly, this product is a niche-within-a-niche-within-a-niche, so will appeal to a very small audience (with very large wallets!).

ced1106 wrote:

 CptJake wrote:
If so, will you be able to to show production level painting examples before the end of the funding period?

Pulpasaurus mentioned on their facebook that they're using the highest painting service ("tier 3") of the painting service they hired, but, yeah, I'd like to have seen this and more specific reassurance than "absolute best paint jobs available" on the home page. *My* opinion is that if a creator uses a third party, name that third party (Hello Torn Armor!).

I also found Pulpasaurus quite professional in their responses. Honestly, this product is a niche-within-a-niche-within-a-niche, so will appeal to a very small audience (with very large wallets!).

Yeah, he's been quite professional in his choice of words. The words he's chosen not to say are the ones I'm getting at.

Either way.. the third-party painting service is a whole different ball of wax. Twisting Catacombs is a kickstarter I backed that had Golem painting signed on to offer their services at a pledge level. Now, we're close to delivery of the product and Golem has reportedly stopped responding to Zealot miniatures, backing out it would seem.
If this painting service is not prepared for this volume of work I would expect a similar outcome.

ced1106 wrote:

 CptJake wrote:
If so, will you be able to to show production level painting examples before the end of the funding period?

Pulpasaurus mentioned on their facebook that they're using the highest painting service ("tier 3") of the painting service they hired, but, yeah, I'd like to have seen this and more specific reassurance than "absolute best paint jobs available" on the home page. *My* opinion is that if a creator uses a third party, name that third party (Hello Torn Armor!).

I also found Pulpasaurus quite professional in their responses. Honestly, this product is a niche-within-a-niche-within-a-niche, so will appeal to a very small audience (with very large wallets!).

Without examples of what customers/backers can expect from mass produced 'tier 3' painting the words are pretty useless. Not masters, not examples sent for approval, but the actual 'This IS the standard you will receive'.

But until the actual whole lot is produced you'd never know anyway,

because even samples painted to the appropriate standard would be done by painters fresh and ready to work (but unpracticed) instead of sick to death of putting the same dots on the snake or whatever (but well practiced)

and the factory would probably weed out any duff stuff even if they didn't specifically pick out the best pieces

(I would, however, like them to point us to other stuff the factor has done to tier 3 which would probably be more informative)

 OrlandotheTechnicoloured wrote:

(I would, however, like them to point us to other stuff the factor has done to tier 3 which would probably be more informative)

That is what I meant by examples of what backers could expect to receive.

Yep. As a boardgamer, I don't back non-miniature boardgame KS, because I want to actually play the game, or at least read reviews, before I buy the game. If you followed the "Dungeon Crawler, Fantasy Miniatures" KS, you saw they had serious issues with the prepaints. It's unfortunate that Pulpasaurus has to enter such a skeptical environment when it comes to prepaints, but it's not like this isn't a known concern.

Anyway, Pulpasaurus is busy at GenCon now and there's still 29 days left!

 MLaw wrote:
Bossk - My comment wasn't about me or how they've communicated with me. That's a pretty rude assumption.

Actually it's a pretty reasonable assumption, given that you stated "Definitely dropping my pledge after the responses we've seen to legitimate concerns. What a crappy attitude for a startup." The main concerns/negativity seem to be from you, and "The Fett" on the kickstarter comments section, who also appears to be you. There have been a few questions asked that aren't answered, but given they are at Gen-Con right now and probably busy, that's somewhat expected. There haven't been many responses at all (or even comments, there's a whopping 46 on KS), and certainly nothing to get bent out of shape about. They do need to show some production samples before long though.

Seems expensive even for the unpainted tiers I'm interested in. And according to their road map it wont really be getting any better.

I'm guessing the models will be available individually at retail, might pick stuff up then if it's not too pricey.

 Dentry wrote:
Seems expensive even for the unpainted tiers I'm interested in. And according to their road map it wont really be getting any better.

I'm guessing you're paying for the logistics of a separate line of product, when you're paying for the unpainted tiers. Green Eye Games said that allowing backers to buy miniatures-only add-ons cost them money, even though buying each miniatures-only add-on cost more money than buying all four with the game.

Brainstorming here, but, assuming Pulpasaurus could do this the Conan license (I'm not sure if they could), with Shaney H.'s involvement, perhaps Pinnacle could have pulled a Reaper: First, take advantage of their Savage Worlds audience with a Savage Worlds: Conan and Savage Worlds Miniatures Conan release, integrating the unpainted miniatures with written adventures and game scenarios. This would pay for the molds. Then, Pulpasaurus could release the prepainted mini's game, hopefully at a lower price with the molds paid. Mophidius is releasing a Conan RPG, so I'm guessing Savage Worlds: Conan couldn't be written.

EDIT: Or license the sculpts from Monolith. Who's Grian? Looks like he's been bitten by too many squirrels.

Pretty excited for this. Like most, hesitant to back unless I see a production pre painted fig. Also doesent help not long ago there was the other concan board game. I would prefer this one though if I had to pick!

Hi everyone! John here again,

Sorry for the delay in response, we were working on a way to get everyone happy and try to increase the value of backing our game. Spent the morning making this update to the Kickstarter please go check out the changes we made. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/updates

I'll be back later this afternoon with more information, with everyone working Gencon contact between us is slow moving at the moment but ill address some questions as soon as i can!

A demo video will be going up soon as well on a how to play.

Thanks for all your patience, comments, and again check out the update to the kickstarter!


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Here is a demo of the game from the floor of Gencon!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_KjTS6zrv0&feature=em-upload_owner

Great update and those new stretch goals look a lot more appealing! Looking forward to watching the gameplay video later on.

 PulposaurusJohn wrote:
Hi everyone! John here again,

Sorry for the delay in response, we were working on a way to get everyone happy and try to increase the value of backing our game. Spent the morning making this update to the Kickstarter please go check out the changes we made. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/updates

I'll be back later this afternoon with more information, with everyone working Gencon contact between us is slow moving at the moment but ill address some questions as soon as i can!

A demo video will be going up soon as well on a how to play.

Thanks for all your patience, comments, and again check out the update to the kickstarter!


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Here is a demo of the game from the floor of Gencon!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_KjTS6zrv0&feature=em-upload_owner

Wow... Taking this at your word, this is actually a tremendous increase to the over-all value proposition. Loads of stretch-goals now add-in a free model that didn't before. Does adding this many more freebies still work within your financial model? I'd almost be concerned that if you go too far in the opposite direction, that you might over-promise and not be able to fulfill?

Mind you, this REALLY shouldn't be read as a complaint. If this is your change, and you feel you can viably pull it off, then I think my pledge just went from wavering, to all but ensured. :-)

It's cool that they decided to add more freebies, but it worries me when I see a KS churning along and the creator starts promising more stuff that were previously $25 add ons.

Smacks a bit of desperation.

But hopefully it works out for the benefit of all.

Alright guys! I'm back with a few more answers to common questions.

Our updated Kickstarter has been carefully thought out and numbers crunched so that we can give out better rewards for our backers.

International and EU shipping, shipping in general we are still working on getting more information for. Currently i was informed that VAT will depend on the country you are in. Sorry i dont have more information on that front.

There will be NO mark up in retail stores. The prices you see on the kickstarter are the prices we will be listing on our website and your friendly local store. (the early bird specials are lower than retail and will not be available after they are gone)

The style of the game has officially been passed down to me as a 'Skirmish' game that has the option to scale up to a large combat game. More information to expand on this will be coming up soon.

Keep the comments coming, we all really appreciate the support! If you like the new changes please share the kickstarter page with your friends and get the word out!

-Pulpasourus John

So.. just so we're clear. I voiced a concern about the value of the kickstarter, and wait.. what's that.. the project creator actually did something about it? huh.. pretty funny that I was just told by some other very wise people here (that's sarcasm) that my whining wouldn't accomplish anything.. when.. it accomplished exactly what I hoped it would. Imagine that!


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Also, PulpasaurusJohn - Thank you for taking my concern seriously and responding in an unexpected and welcomed way. That's a rarity and I applaud you for it.

No problem MLaw, we are trying our best to make a great game, with the best prepainted miniatures out there...but we also recognize how important the community is.

We appreciate everyone's comments and support!

Let's keep it polite, motyak

Keeping my 2 set unpainted pledge and hoping for the best. A free war rhino would be pretty ace.

 PulposaurusJohn wrote:
No problem MLaw, we are trying our best to make a great game, with the best prepainted miniatures out there...but we also recognize how important the community is.

We appreciate everyone's comments and support!

Well, if the full stretch amount is hit it expands the dual core set from 30 to I think 85 models, so that's definitely added value. I noticed that all the early dual pre-paint sets are already sold out, so that's definitely something!

 MLaw wrote:
So.. just so we're clear. I voiced a concern about the value of the kickstarter, and wait.. what's that.. the project creator actually did something about it? huh.. pretty funny that I was just told by some other very wise people here (that's sarcasm) that my whining wouldn't accomplish anything.. when.. it accomplished exactly what I hoped it would. Imagine that!


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Also, PulpasaurusJohn - Thank you for taking my concern seriously and responding in an unexpected and welcomed way. That's a rarity and I applaud you for it.

Calling someone out on manners rudely isn't smiles upon here. Calling someone out at all isn't. Just use the report function, motyak

You know... now I am feeling much more excited in general. When laid out as being 85 pre-painted models for the $190 early-bird... i'm going to assume that is at least as good as the Bones pre-paints will be.

As value propositions go, that puts me back to "well, even IF the game somehow isn't to my liking, the models will find use in other games/systems, etc..." making it easier to back.

I will say, its a touch disconcerting when PR seems to misconstrue "skirmish" and "mass battles" without clarification, as it makes one seem... less knowledgable about the miniatures world (perhaps?), but I won't hold a sole mis-speak against anyone either.

I'm in at $190 for the time being, and hope the backers show up so that all of us actually feel like we're getting a good deal.

I will say, its a touch disconcerting when PR seems to misconstrue "skirmish" and "mass battles" without clarification, as it makes one seem... less knowledgable about the miniatures world (perhaps?), but I won't hold a sole mis-speak against anyone either.

I apologize for the constant confusion, a lot of discussion has been had on the topic and we have settled on it being a Skirmish game that scales into mass combat. More information will be made available soon on the scaling aspect of the game.

@Pulpasaurus: So which painting service are you using, and what retail or otherwise released products have they painted? The "About" page on the Pulpasaurus is pretty light on the plastic miniatures and prepainted miniatures experience, so let us know and additional information you can provide. TIA!

ced1106 wrote:
@Pulpasaurus: So which painting service are you using, and what retail or otherwise released products have they painted? The "About" page on the Pulpasaurus is pretty light on the plastic miniatures and prepainted miniatures experience, so let us know and additional information you can provide. TIA!

Our art directer George just provided me with an answer to this

"currently we have two manufacturers bidding on our project ... Both with separate processes. As it was explained to me is that they will be using a combination of both ... I planned on making an update on the process from concept to production in the next few days"

Thanks! Posted on Reaper forums and the Conan boardgame KS comments your response!

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to let you know we have had a total of 5 updates since Gencon weekend. Tonight there will be a live QnA with George and Shane here is a link to Update #5 with all the information, starting time, and a link to the stream! Be sure to swing by and have your questions answered!

Link to Kickstarter update #5 and all the information about the live QnA tonight!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/posts/1314575

I'll keep an eye in this. Well done Ice Age mammals may tickle my fancy.

Is this ks related to the previous two Conan ones? Or is this a third company with another license? If it is one of the previous companies, have they completed delivery on their first project yet?

Not related at all.

It does bring up a good point - I can only take so much Conan.

Well, actually, my budget can only take so much Conan.

Still have to decide if it will be this one (Mass Battle) or the more skirmish scale one...

Thanks for the clarification. That's a lot of Conan after so many years of nothing. Did the license holder's house go into forclosure or something and they needed to sell a bunch of nonexclusive rights for largely similar things quick or something? The last conan tabletop project I remember is the 2nd edition (or possibly AD&D...dunno) D&D adventure pack with the governator on the cover from the mid to late 80's. Conan of course has a strength of 18/00... by crom!

The Live QnA for CROM: Conan Rise of Monsters is starting in a few minutes!

Here is a link to the kickstarter update page with the link to the QnA! Hope to see you there!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/posts/1314575

 warboss wrote:
Thanks for the clarification. That's a lot of Conan after so many years of nothing. Did the license holder's house go into forclosure or something and they needed to sell a bunch of nonexclusive rights for largely similar things quick or something? The last conan tabletop project I remember is the 2nd edition (or possibly AD&D...dunno) D&D adventure pack with the governator on the cover from the mid to late 80's. Conan of course has a strength of 18/00... by crom!

Take a look at CROM update 4. The KS timing is unfortunate, but it looks like CROM was years in development.

Speaking of the update, the update drops names like crazy, but they all seem to be industry names within the video game and RPG community, not boardgamers and miniatures gamers (?). Compare this with Monolith, whose publisher, game designer, etc. are boardgame veterans. So I'm not surprised that Monolith managed a good hype campaign for something like a year (?) on BGG, while, afaik, CROM posted a preview thread on Dakka. As the CROM update says, "We were a little surprised by some of the initial reaction on Kickstarter".

Well, that shows they didn't do their KS homework -- including giving you the impression that the Howard estate needed some quick money. I'm sure the Conan license could have been managed better (I'm guessing that Pinnacle could not release a Conan Savage Worlds RPG because Mophidius is releasing a Conan RPG) by the Howard estate and/or the licensing parties so us backers (or at least our wallets) aren't over-saturated with the license. Still, it's good to see that Conan gamers have a good selection of games to choose from, and the license has some good (or at least non-suck) games behind them. Who's up for a few hours of the X-Files boardgame??

Im really hoping they make it- Im loving the art style for the minis, and getting my hands on a Pallantides mini so close the famous McFarlane figure? Hold me!

(Though the add on Conan looks ace, too!)

CROM QuickStart rules up! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/posts/1316368

ced1106 wrote:

 warboss wrote:
Thanks for the clarification. That's a lot of Conan after so many years of nothing. Did the license holder's house go into forclosure or something and they needed to sell a bunch of nonexclusive rights for largely similar things quick or something? The last conan tabletop project I remember is the 2nd edition (or possibly AD&D...dunno) D&D adventure pack with the governator on the cover from the mid to late 80's. Conan of course has a strength of 18/00... by crom!

Take a look at CROM update 4. The KS timing is unfortunate, but it looks like CROM was years in development.

Speaking of the update, the update drops names like crazy, but they all seem to be industry names within the video game and RPG community, not boardgamers and miniatures gamers (?). Compare this with Monolith, whose publisher, game designer, etc. are boardgame veterans. So I'm not surprised that Monolith managed a good hype campaign for something like a year (?) on BGG, while, afaik, CROM posted a preview thread on Dakka. As the CROM update says, "We were a little surprised by some of the initial reaction on Kickstarter".

Well, that shows they didn't do their KS homework -- including giving you the impression that the Howard estate needed some quick money. I'm sure the Conan license could have been managed better (I'm guessing that Pinnacle could not release a Conan Savage Worlds RPG because Mophidius is releasing a Conan RPG) by the Howard estate and/or the licensing parties so us backers (or at least our wallets) aren't over-saturated with the license. Still, it's good to see that Conan gamers have a good selection of games to choose from, and the license has some good (or at least non-suck) games behind them. Who's up for a few hours of the X-Files boardgame??

That part of the post (quick... we're losing the house!) was more of a joke but I am genuinely surpised at the flood of similar (to me as a casual outside observer) conan titans after a seemingly decades long drought (again, my last memory of a tabletop conan project was from D&D in the 1980's). I wish them well but I made my will save versus the first campaign and the trouble they seem to have gotten into (albeit under different management/companies) since kind of dampens my already tepid interest. I wish the company, project, and backers well though.

I didn't understand your post. Who do you mean by "they"? The Howard Estate? Pulpasaurus? What "first campaign"? What do you mean by "since"? What "different management / companies"? If the people behind Pulpasaurus have made mistakes in the past, or mismanaged projects, I'd like to hear about it. TIA!

ced1106 wrote:
I didn't understand your post. Who do you mean by "they"? The Howard Estate? Pulpasaurus? What "first campaign"? What do you mean by "since"? What "different management / companies"? If the people behind Pulpasaurus have made mistakes in the past, or mismanaged projects, I'd like to hear about it. TIA!

Whoa... too much tinfoil hat there. I'm simply referring to the other two recent conan kickstarters of which one is already behind schedule iirc.

It's kind of misleading to phrase ti that was you did though- pulpasaurus isn't responsible for any of the other kick starters, and deserves to be judged on its own merits - particurlaly since the "sword and sandal" genre of low fantasy is so sparse every entry should be appraised on its own- even if so many of them are revolving around the classic poster boy of the genre, Conan.

Edit: to be concise, there is no "they" - Pulapsaurus licensed the franchise off the same entity, paradox entertainment that the others did, but there is no central control or management. This isn't GW, after all.

I know they aren't responsible for the other kickstarters... it's why I asked if they were and specifically mentioned that they were run by other companies in the follow up post. It's not misleading unless you don't bother reading the full post. In any case, it's naive to think that there won't be confusion between three almost back to back to back (in KS terms especially after such a long absense) conan games with minis kickstarters and that the impression of progress on the others won't affect funding for this one. In any case, I'm obviously not in the target audience for this KS so I'll bow out of the discussion as my question has been asked and answered.

My quibble with all of the Conan properties is that none of them thus far are really sword and sandal. They are all high fantasy with a few nods here and there at gladiators, centurions, and Egyptians.

There's also some disagreement about Pulpasaurus' presentation of Conan and choice of units in the starter boxes on the Howard estate forums:

http://www.conan.com/invboard/index.php?showtopic=11066

 tre manor wrote:
My quibble with all of the Conan properties is that none of them thus far are really sword and sandal. They are all high fantasy with a few nods here and there at gladiators, centurions, and Egyptians.

Amen to that. Or... well whatever. Exalt!

ced1106 wrote:
There's also some disagreement about Pulpasaurus' presentation of Conan and choice of units in the starter boxes on the Howard estate forums:

http://www.conan.com/invboard/index.php?showtopic=11066

Its mostly due to the mammoth (even the age old specter of how Frazetta changed the nature of Conan in art from what hes described as in the writings isn't there)/ The 'elephant' in the room that nobody acknowledges is that its probably influence from the MMO creeping, and the desire to have a big monster unit to go against the snake of the Stygians. (i for one also wish there was no mammoth-would have preferred the Black Dragons being included, and it would have stacked up more nicely with the lore)


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 tre manor wrote:
My quibble with all of the Conan properties is that none of them thus far are really sword and sandal. They are all high fantasy with a few nods here and there at gladiators, centurions, and Egyptians.

I agree with that in full- but there is a consolation that at least the aesthetic they have going is pretty great for sword and Sandal anything, and its easy enough to plan out a session without all the high fantasy stuff.)

When pretty much every Conan story has a wizard, demon, ape-thing or monster, this really doesn't seem out of line. One faction is all humans and a warbeast. That's hardly high fantasy (and besides, sword and sandals is more about tone, such as more moral ambiguity, lower stakes, smaller scope, etc.

If you essentially want a historical wargame, there are plenty of choices with much cheaper model choices.

No what you guys are missing is the technological level and fashionable affectations applied.

sword and sandal implies certain limitations on the technologies which create the items you would see in the art and also implies certain cultural and era specific limitations as well. what is being done with Conan both by Monolith's cash cow and Pulposaurus' attempt would be akin to producing a version of Lord of the Rings with laser guns, muscle car hot rods, and aliens.

Magic and monsters is not what defines high fantasy. High fantasy is the extent to which fashion and whimsy plays a role in the character of the story / product.

Middle Earth ( as it was written NOT as it was remade by PJ in film..... don't get me started there.....) is less high fantasy than is Forgotten realms even though both feature wizards, elves, dwarves, goblins and orcs.

The problem is Conan itself ranges from Conan the penniless wanderer and thief to Conan the Kings

and his world contains what amount to a jumble of historical periods from the real world which he travelled through

add to that the myriad other Howard stories that were re-written as Conan by deCamp/Carter and the vast array of stories by other authors entirely (not to mention comics and movies)

too much stuff to fit in, too much of it never really fitted together well to start with, and a lot of it is more suited to an RPG than a larger scale game

 tre manor wrote:
what is being done with Conan both by Monolith's cash cow and Pulposaurus' attempt would be akin to producing a version of Lord of the Rings with laser guns, muscle car hot rods, and aliens..

I'd fund that.

Oh, wait: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1545517208/defenders-of-the-last-stand-adventure-board-game/description

 tre manor wrote:
No what you guys are missing is the technological level and fashionable affectations applied.

sword and sandal implies certain limitations on the technologies which create the items you would see in the art and also implies certain cultural and era specific limitations as well. what is being done with Conan both by Monolith's cash cow and Pulposaurus' attempt would be akin to producing a version of Lord of the Rings with laser guns, muscle car hot rods, and aliens.

Magic and monsters is not what defines high fantasy. High fantasy is the extent to which fashion and whimsy plays a role in the character of the story / product.

Middle Earth ( as it was written NOT as it was remade by PJ in film..... don't get me started there.....) is less high fantasy than is Forgotten realms even though both feature wizards, elves, dwarves, goblins and orcs.

Eg,Sword and Sandle is a genre meaning that while typically bundled with "low fantasy" (because it works better, IMO), doesn't exclude high fantasy.

The reason for this is that the difference between low and high fantasy are not based on material goods, but usually of motivation- high fantasy is the stereotypical setting of having clearly defined good guys and bad guys, and typically throws in other fantasy races (elves, orcs, etc...) to help define that paradigm.

Low fantasy by contrast doesn't deal with moral absolutes, and at least tries to ground itself realistically in terms of how and why people are motivated, and rarely if ever is there a moral imperative to do anything. ie; Conan doesn't save the slave because its the absolute morally correct thing to do, he does it because maybe hes horny, or because maybe he hates seeing people enslaved, or maybe hes taken pity on this particular person. But in another situation that same slave may be 100% SOL, even with Conan around.

This why LoTR is one of the best examples of High Fantasy- everything is governed by an absolute relationship of good vs. evil.

Conan and the 'Hyborian Era'? It all exists in shades of gray - where even the 'good' deities like Mitra are still probably Lovecraftian monsters, just ones whose agendas happen line up better with Human existence! And magic is a viable path of great power- if your willing to make bargains with the dark things that can grant it to you.

one question can the miniatures be bought separately and unpainted?

 Scorpionov wrote:
one question can the miniatures be bought separately and unpainted?

There is an unpainted pledge, but it includes the starters. You cannot purchase single unpainted figures currently.

So....what happened? Logged in to take a look and it says it was cancelled a half hour ago? Any clues?

 mikhaila wrote:
So....what happened? Logged in to take a look and it says it was cancelled a half hour ago? Any clues?

It's painfully obvious it wasn't going to fund, let alone reach enough SG to make it a good deal.

They stated some sort of collaboration with Reaper. We shall see.

Pulposaurus + Reaper Miniatures

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Pulposaurus is very excited to announce a tentative agreement with our friends at Reaper Miniatures to join us on Conan: Rise of Monsters!

Here's what Reaper had to say:

Reaper Miniatures is pleased to announce our new relationship with the great people over at Pulposaurus Entertainment! We're excited to be associated with such a great property as Conan: Rise of Monsters and we're anxious to get the ball rolling!


Given the new possibilities this opens up, we're going to cancel our current Kickstarter, readjust some things given the advantages this new alliance gives all of us, and come back stronger sometime later this year.

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement! We think this is one of the best games we've ever worked on, and we can't wait to bring it back to you bigger and better than ever!

***

About Reaper Miniatures

Reaper Miniatures is a leading hobby and adventure game industry company. Their primary focus is the design, creation and manufacture of pewter, resin and soon plastic gaming miniature figurines. We produce gaming miniatures in almost all genres including fantasy, modern and sci-fi. From our inception, Reaper Miniatures has worked closely with artists, sculptors and writers to create a community of endless adventure for consumers around the world.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2060871444/conan-rise-of-monsters/posts/1319848

Reaper announced earlier in the year that they're going to KS to add more models to their Legendary Encounter prepaint line, using their existing Bones model sculpts. They're using painting masks rather than handpainting, and the Bones molds have already been paid for. So... who knows exactly how CROM will turn out. I doubt it'll be as high end as the CROM KS miniatures, but it should be affordable!

Bones material is TERRIBLE for 28mm human sized figures. Its great for ogre sized plus though. I would have to seriously reconsider this if Bones is the material of choice, though it should drive the price right down.

Interested in what this will do for the revised KS.

Bones material might be great for the larger creatures like the mammoth. But as Overtyrant said, it might not be so great for the smaller figs.

I don't have a problem with human-size Bones, but to each their own.

I'm fairly sure these were going to be PVC anyway, so being branded as bones doesn't really make much of a difference.

Besides, it's not even mentioned anywhere if they will be made in Bonesium, as far as I can see.

That's why I said IF they go for it.

 Alex C wrote:
Besides, it's not even mentioned anywhere if they will be made in Bonesium, as far as I can see.

Maybe they could make them in the more rigid recipe?

Reaper still does metal too... Honestly there's not a whole lot to go on ATM.