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Post by: Proiteus
INTRO
Well I've finally matched to get away from my Grots to start a new project, much like the last time I completed my Grot Rebel army I'm in the mood for a small army that doesn't require a crate sized army case.
For years I've wanted to do a Tau Empire Battlesuit Army, the original idea was to do a commando like army with each suit represented by an elite commando looking fella. Sadly this was dropped when the size difference couldn't be fixed with just a raised base.
Here is one of my Elite Commandos, If GW announce a Kill Team event I'll begin work on a squad of them...
THE CRISIS DRONE
So I decided to do a Drone army, the idea is that their launched and controlled from a Manta ship. The Drone design itself has gone through many changes since last year...
MK1
Using the forgeworld Remora Drones, however since I don't fancy paying £15 for each battlesuit it was scrapped. However this design will serve as a Command Drone (Battlesuit Commander).
MK2
I was struggling to create a new and affordable Crisis Drone design, late one night I happened to cobble together some riptide bits to create the MK2! But Riptide Shields are very rare and even after months of trying to get them online I had been unable to get any so it was back to the drawing board.
MK3
It was then I settled on this more blocky design which made them look more powerful but maintained it's Tau like appearance, the dome and visor also go better too than the previous design. Since I was unable to find a uniform look for the sides that suited all the weapons, so I decided to simply design each to look different depending on the weapons it was armed with. Still working on the Burst Cannon attachments thou.
Now all I'm worried about is the upcoming codex forcing me to make the 2 weapons twin-linked.
COLOUR SCHEME AND ICE BASES
As you've spotted I'm using frozen bases for this project, I'll go into more detail on how they are made later on in the log.
As for paint scheme I'm likely to go with a bright grey with black and yellow details, hopefully I'll have a drawing of one of the drone to work with soon.
Now I'm just getting started, once the Grot Mecha is compelted I can put all my time into this project. I'm working on some Broadside and Riptide Drone models at the moment plus have a few ideas for the new releases.
Anyway I look forward to reading your feedback.
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Post by: Sgt_Smudge
Nice!
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Post by: Boss Salvage
YESSSSSSS
Looks like you'll have an extra handful of new Tau units to build drone versions of with the new codex - including gigantic (we're talking frisbee sized) superheavy 'floater'
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
Oh I have some ideas
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Post by: Knightley
Brilliant! you've kept the Tau aesthetic but made them much more formidable. I will keep an eye on this with anticipation
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Post by: NidLifeCrisis
I'm very excited to see this one develop!
As has been said, it's great timing too what with the new Tau release just around the corner!
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Post by: Zognob Gorgoff
looking forward to this!
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Post by: Proiteus
TANK DRONES!
So I'm looking for some feedback on my mock up for the Tank Drone aka Riptide? I plan to bulk up the front a bit plus add thrusters to the rear the SMS will be going onto the back and the support systems will be represented by specialist drones accompanying it? One of the biggest benefits to the MK3 design was looking similar to the Tank Drones.
Should be fun design a stealth version with the new codex.
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Post by: Proiteus
Been thinking about ways to convert the new stealth riptide, I'm thinking if the stats are weaker or the same as a riptide maybe go with either a stealth variant of the tank drone or go with this cool stealth bomber conversion I found on the web created by Turbo_MMX. Only with a large drone in the centre.
Thoughts?
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Post by: Kepora
Either would be cool - but I'd wait until we have rules and a better look at the model's scale, first!
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
While I love that drone fighter conversion, and would equally love to see your spin on it, I'm just worried that it wouldn't translate well on the tabletop. My first thought upon seeing that on the table would be "Oh, that's a flyer".
If you could make the design a bit more ungainly, or even lower it closer to the ground it'd help a lot
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Post by: Kahnawake
Yeah, that defo looks like a flyer. Love the conversions though!
Cheers
Kahnawake
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Post by: Dramagod2
Im surprised you didnt try recasting some of the earlier bits to aid with your production. Normally, its cost prohibitive, but since you're looking to do a whole army of drone, investing the $50 in silicone and resin to recast those hard to find bits seems like the way to go.
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Post by: Proiteus
Dramagod2 wrote:Im surprised you didnt try recasting some of the earlier bits to aid with your production. Normally, its cost prohibitive, but since you're looking to do a whole army of drone, investing the $50 in silicone and resin to recast those hard to find bits seems like the way to go.
Tried that, copying the FW Drone body was unsuccessful and getting correct casts of the Riptide Shield was frustrating. So I decided to stick with simple kitbashing.
Archmagos_Amadeus wrote:While I love that drone fighter conversion, and would equally love to see your spin on it, I'm just worried that it wouldn't translate well on the tabletop. My first thought upon seeing that on the table would be "Oh, that's a flyer".
If you could make the design a bit more ungainly, or even lower it closer to the ground it'd help a lot
Hows this? Now that I knew it's T5 and 4 wounds it doesn't have to be as big as the Tank Drones.
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Post by: SaJeel
Very cool can't wait to see more =D
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Post by: Proiteus
PRODUCTION HAS BEGUN!
I'm please to inform you that I'm currently mass producing the Crisis Drones, one of which will be painted up next week as a test model for the chosen paint scheme. In complete contrast to my Grot Rebelz with their warm colours I've opted for colder colours for this project; teal, grey and white with some contrasting orange stripes. Shown on the drone below...
I've also started work on the Broadside Fire Support Drones. The High yield missile pods will be glued to the top half like a turret while the Smart Missile System will be mounted on the back of the lower half, the idea being that they are fired directly up before homing on their target. I may make an alternative turret for a railgun but their a bit useless.
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Post by: Kiblams
I got excited when I saw someone else make crisis drones like my old ones, though I think you have made the right choice choosing that different design, looks much better and should be much cheaper! I gotta ask though; was the first one inspired by my efforts or did we both come up with the same design?
The sheer number of different drone designs coming out of GW these days would have made my life so very much easier when making my drone army.
Looking forward to seeing more of your designs!
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Post by: Hawkeye888
This such a cool project, keep it up.
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Post by: FistusMaximus
this is one of the best ideas for a tau army i have seen in a long time... looking forward to seeing more!
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Post by: Proiteus
BACK TO BASES!
I was going to test the colour scheme using an airbrush on the first drone yesterday however my friend who was going to instruct me and help me prepare the paints was unavailable, given that the first time I used my last airbrush alone I broke it so it's going to have to wait. So it was back to the bases readying them for painting then filling. Only question is how should I paint the half sunken structures on the bases?
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Post by: Freytag93
My vote is for an oxidized bronze look using that GW technical paint. I think it would work well with your cool color scheme and really give a good contrast with the clean paint job of the drones.
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Post by: Proiteus
Actually a friend was kind enough to do some experimentation work and he sent me this I think going to go with drybrushing, maybe even a bit of sponging.
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Post by: LeCacty
Drone army? Proiteus? I'll take two please!
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Post by: quickfuze
Interesting idea, unfortunately due to such an extreme difference in sizing from the legit to your conversions (like the riptide for example), you will probably never be able to put them on the table. At least not in a competitive event.
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Post by: Proiteus
quickfuze wrote:Interesting idea, unfortunately due to such an extreme difference in sizing from the legit to your conversions (like the riptide for example), you will probably never be able to put them on the table. At least not in a competitive event.
It's not as extreme as you think, I'll post some compassion pics up soon. I learnt long ago to convert using two important rules...
1. It must be easily recongisable as the unit it represents.
2. It must be of similar size to the original model.
With my gretchin guardsmen they were placed on raised bases and this project is not exception. All the models are at least as wide (or even wider) than their original models and all their flying bases will take them up to be the same height as the original model. If by chance my opponent can only see the base and not the model he'll still be allowed to take the shot.
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Post by: Proiteus
THE COMMAND DRONE!
After reading an article about the Tau buff commander I thought I should use one as it would fit in perfectly with the drone army. After all the army is launched and controlled from a Manta Drop Ship so it makes sense to have a non combat Drone acting as a control link between the Manta and the Drone Network. So I threw this rough conversion together using spare bits and some component from a Gundam kit (don't ask me which as I was given it), Its a rough mock and will have a lot more details added such as some sensors and more details on the arms plus a visor on the front like the other drones.
What do you think to the Command Drone?
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Post by: LeCacty
Looks awesome! Btw the MK2 crisis armor would do great as a stealth suit IMO
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Post by: Kepora
Need many, many more optics, sensors, etc. - but looking good so far!
Also, I'd recommend cross-posting this on Advanced Tau Tactica - there's some really skilled Tau conversion guys there who could help you!
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Post by: Proiteus
For those of you who are curious, here is a side by side comparison of Crisis Drone to Crisis suit. As you can see I've matched the bulk and height of the model almost perfectly as I doubt the lack of a lower half will effect line of sight.
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Post by: LeCacty
Perfect! I think all Crisis suits should have drone heads from now on. It looks MUCH better!
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Post by: Freytag93
That crisis drone looks really solid. Good work mate
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Post by: Proiteus
EXPECT HEAVY AMOUNTS OF ICE!
My army's first set of ice bases have been fully painted, now all that is left is to glue on the flying stands and fill up with water effects and crackling paint. I've left the larger building in the back unpainted as I want to see how the smaller sunken ruins turn out first.
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Post by: LeCacty
Looks awesome, but the ice ones clash a bit with the more ruin-ey ones, if you get what I'm saying. Also that massive drone in the back is a riptide right? Awesome work!
EDIT: Nevermind, I didn't fully read the post.
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Post by: tjdieter2191
Hello, I was just wondering what bases you started with? Are they the secretweapon beveled hollow bases?
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Post by: Vineheart01
These look great, and they even resemble the original model quite well. I saw the Crisis Drone and the Riptide Drone and immediately thought it was suppose to be that model. Though i admit the name "Tank Drone" made me think that was a hammerhead from the name alone.
And i agree with the others about that stealth conversion. That looks like a micro Barracuda, which is damn awesome. Why cant the codex fliers look that cool?
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Post by: Proiteus
[INSERT ICE PUN HERE]
Well after 2 layers of water effects, 1 layer of crackling paint and 2 turquoise washes the bases will be ready for drybrushing tomorrow morning.
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
Those are looking pretty cool Proiteus. Sends chills down my spine. This army is coming along very ice, snow doubt about it.
There. Got them all out of our systems.
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Post by: LeCacty
Archmagos_Amadeus wrote:Those are looking pretty cool Proiteus. Sends chills down my spine. This army is coming along very ice, snow doubt about it.
There. Got them all out of our systems.
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Post by: tjdieter2191
Man, if you could do a tutorial on how you did those bases, that would be amazing. They look SO GOOD! ^_^
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Post by: Proiteus
tjdieter2191 wrote:Man, if you could do a tutorial on how you did those bases, that would be amazing. They look SO GOOD! ^_^
Here's the tutorial I'm using: http://forum.reapermini.com/index.php?/topic/43463-tutorial-creating-ice-bases/?p=605515
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Post by: warboss
Didn't realize you were on dakka. Nice job so far and I'll be following the project here.
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Post by: Commander Cain
As a Canadian currently suffering through a snow storm I can confirm that those are very realistic wintery bases. Job well done!
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Post by: Proiteus
ICE BASES NOT COOL ENOUGH
I finished drybrushing my Ice Bases today and gotta say I'm not completely happy with how some of them have come out.
I felt like I overdid it with the drybrushing resulting in the bases been very while and not having much depth. On top of that the crackling paint layer wasn't thick enough on some bases which has caused some of the bases to have lots of shallow cracks.
The Command Drone's base which is not shown suffered badly and is likely to be completely replaced along with some bases such as the one in the bottom of the 2nd photo.
I'm hoping to remedy this by adding a bit of snow to some of the bases, what do you think?
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Post by: LeCacty
I have no idea what you're talking about. They look awesome!
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Post by: Vineheart01
They look great as is, but a little bit of snow fluff here and there would add a much greater depth to an already great base
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
Do you have any idea why some bases got large cracks and some got smaller ones? Can you control it to any degree? I agree that the ones with fewer large cracks look better, but I think the smaller ones are perfectly serviceable.
My advice? Let them sit for a day or two. Whenever I finish a step of a project I tend to hate what I've done because all I can see is what I could've done better. Come back to the bases with a fresh set of eyes and see how they could be improved afterwards. Because for my money they look sterling as is.
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Post by: Proiteus
Yes I believe the ratio was wrong, too much water effects resulting in a very thin coat of crackling paint which caused the smaller cracks. The 2nd one in the lower picture used the last of the paint which is probably why it has a lot of cracks plus an uneven surface. Luckily I have some spare bases to replace the ones ruined, I just hope my Riptide base that I'm gonna do later isn't too bad.
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Post by: Proiteus
LET IT SNOW!
I've decided that I will add snow flock mixed with water effects to the bases both to cover up the areas where the crackling paint hasn't really worked and to help blend the rocks and ice together. To help contrast the snow and ice I gave the bases another thin coat of teal wash followed by a light drybrushing.
I'm look forward to finishing them up with the snow flock after Xmas, the challenge will be knowing how much snow flock to add? I'm thinking around a quarter just some mounts here and there, nothing too heavy.
You can see the whole army's bases below with the exception of the Commander, Ghostkeel and Stealth Drones.
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
Looking good. How durable is the base's crackle by the way? Tough as the Water Effects or is it brittle?
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Post by: Proiteus
Archmagos_Amadeus wrote:Looking good. How durable is the base's crackle by the way? Tough as the Water Effects or is it brittle?
I think it is why the water effects are used for the base as it's strengthened the crackling paint, I've just tried bending a test base and they're quite strong.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Bases are looking quite smart to me. I am curious what your scheme will end up looking like - the deep blue/black on that one drone is still the intended base coat?
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
Well here's the chosen colour scheme, should look good on the Drones...
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Post by: Proiteus
CRISIS DRONE CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE
Well aside from minor detailing such as the wings on the Plasma Rifles and sensors on the Fusion Blasters, the 9 Crisis Drones are fully assembled!
So what which Drone conversion would you like to see completed next; Riptide, Broadside or Stealthsuit?
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Post by: gameandwatch
As someone who also has a drone themed tau army, I personally would like to see either a riptide or stealthsuit.
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Post by: LeCacty
Stealth!
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Riptide! Go big Back to the Crisis drones, did you magnetize for swappability? Can't recall if that was the plan, and judging by the variety you've gone for here, guessing maybe not? - Salvage
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Post by: Pekel
Great themed army as always, and the bases are great! I'm usually not a fan of stock schemes, but since you're putting the colors on custom conversions it should look very original. Looking forward to seeing the colors in action!
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Post by: Proiteus
Boss Salvage wrote:Back to the Crisis drones, did you magnetize for swappability? Can't recall if that was the plan, and judging by the variety you've gone for here, guessing maybe not?
Granted I may not switch out the weapons from these current drones, but just having the option to field a 2nd unit of Plasma Rifles or a unit of Burst Cannons in the future makes it worth the extra work.
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Post by: Proiteus
THINGS ARE WARMING UP!
Well I was fortunate enough to have a few spare 60mm bases about so I redid the base for the command drone, my aim was to go with a half ice half water base which happened by accident on one the 32mm bases. I added another layer of water effects plus some dry cracked paint on the left side after applying the crackling paint and it worked out well as the edge of the ice didn't crack too much. After that a combo of drybrushing and washing gave it a suitable icey water look.
I also got a Ghostkeel for Xmas so using the two flamers from that kit plus part of one of the heads I've created a flamer variant of my crisis drone to be attached to my test model for when I get round to testing the paint scheme which should be something in the next week or so. This means they'll be no problem if it's slightly different from the rest.
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
That melted base is the absolute business Proiteus. But you have to stop teasing is with these tester models. I can't wait to see your Crisis Drones with some paint
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Post by: Proiteus
STEALTH ATTACK DRONES!
Drone construction is speeding up as the Stealth Drones are now completed, all except 1 due to a vital part flying off the sprue when cut. Despite cleaning the entire floor I can't bloody find it!
Aside from that I've just completed the Command Drone which I'll upload tomorrow, started work on the Ghostkeel conversion and with luck will be have the test model airbrushed this weekend.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Little guys look very smart, nice work
Excited for papa Ghostdrone to escort 'em!
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
COMMAND LINK ESTABLISHED!
Well the Command Drone which will represent my Buffmander is fully assembled, I gave up waiting to find a Hammerhead sensor online so converted an alternative and more unique front sensor.
The Tank Drone is also complete and will be uploaded shortly.
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Post by: Knightley
Very cool, after spending about an hour putting together all my Tau drones seeing these really wishes I had a better grasp on the converting skills you have, even a smidge would help
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Post by: Dramagod2
Amazing work! What are the main body sections of the command drone made of?
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Post by: Proiteus
Dramagod2 wrote:Amazing work! What are the main body sections of the command drone made of?
Don't really know, it was from a friend's Gundam Bitz box.
HEAVY HITTERS!
Here is the most powerful drone in my army; the Tank Drone that will represent my Riptide. Very pleased with this one and will certainly be making another 2 in the future so I can field 3 of them using the formation from the Mont'ka book.
Each Tank Drone will have a smaller drone escorting it to represent it's support system, for this one's stim injectors ( FNP) I've added a tech drone based off Dawn Of War to it's base.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Meaty! Back-mounted missiles for extra anime points. Though really, it's all about that lil' helper drone
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
MISSILE SUPPORT SYSTEMS ONLINE
When I first looked at the Riptide legs I immediately saw wheels, so I knew for my Broadsides a Drone weapons platform was the way to go.
The turrets are pinned in place so they can be rotated round, only problem was finding a way to feature 2 Smart Missile Systems on the model. In the end rather than making the model look silly I decided to just have 1 on the back, shouldn't be too much of a problem.
Just a few more models to go and the army will be fully assembled, speaking of which I've begun work on trying out the army's colour scheme on the test model. What do you think to the base colour?
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Post by: hk1x1
I love the idea of an all drone tau army, it gives you so many possibilities in the way of conversions, and yours are looking excellent .
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Post by: warboss
Proiteus wrote:MISSILE SUPPORT SYSTEMS ONLINE
When I first looked at the Riptide legs I immediately saw wheels, so I knew for my Broadsides a Drone weapons platform was the way to go.
The turrets are pinned in place so they can be rotated round, only problem was finding a way to feature 2 Smart Missile Systems on the model. In the end rather than making the model look silly I decided to just have 1 on the back, shouldn't be too much of a problem.
Just a few more models to go and the army will be fully assembled, speaking of which I've begun work on trying out the army's colour scheme on the test model. What do you think to the base colour?
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That's a cool and novel use for the riptide thighs. Good job!
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Post by: Dramagod2
All these bits must have run you a fortune. Amazing work though.
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Post by: Tinkrr
This is oh so very pretty, I love everything about this D:
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Post by: Warboss_Waaazag
This is a really cool concept army. Awesome work!
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Post by: Proiteus
Not really, the Riptides and Broadsides are essentially made from the same kit and the Crisis Drones work out a little cheaper than buying the standard suits. Thou it took several months to amass Riptide hip bits that our a key part in nearly every drone design.
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Post by: LeCacty
Epic stuff as always!
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Post by: gameandwatch
Those broadsides are a really FANTASTIC idea....STEAL URGE OVERWHELMING
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Post by: Proiteus
THE 1ST DRONE!
Well here it is; the first painted Drone! I decided to go with a colder colour range to contrast my grot rebel army, going for a futuristic like paint scheme. I was thinking of going for a white, yellow and black/grey scheme but decided to go with some actual colours, also white a pain to paint!
At first I was unsure about the colours but that was probably due to my previous army being so worn and dirty looking. Fortunately after I painted the dark brown on the chipping helped blend all the colours together.
I'm going to be adding transfers later on in the week, but for now I've photoshopped them on. Debating on if I should have a Tau logo on the top or leave it blank?
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Post by: Boss Salvage
I'm a believer The chipping adds the extra weight that those bright colors needed. Very excited to see more.
As for the decal, that top spot looks as good as you're going to find on this drone in particular. Cheers again for weathering it in.
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
Boss Salvage wrote:As for the decal, that top spot looks as good as you're going to find on this drone in particular. Cheers again for weathering it in.
You misunderstand, it's photoshopped on to the model. I have yet to do any transfer work.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
I got it, was just applauding the intention - I guess you'd scrape through the transfer? Or simply paint over with the base orange?
All the same, nice to see more banged up Tau.
- Salvage
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Post by: Stormwall
Love it. Nice to see it painted up.
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Post by: Proiteus
NEED MORE DRONES?!?
If your enjoying this project log and would like to help out I'm in need of 20 unassembled gun drones, as the first expansion for this army will be a Drone Net Formation of 32 Drones. Of course I won't need them for a few months but if you have a large number spare that you can sell let me know?
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Post by: Proiteus
THE STEALTH STRIKER!
This is the Stealth Striker drone and will represent my Ghostkeel. Originally I was planning to have curved wings on either side like the section of a drone dome, but that was swiftly replaced when I tried using the leg bits. For it's two escort drones I decided to convert new Stealth Drones due to the fact the original models are being used to represent Stealthsuits. Sadly I was unable to find a hollow oval base so instead of ice it's flying over a rocky area which I will add some snow effects to at a later date.
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Post by: hk1x1
That color scheme, with the blue white and orange really works well. Nicely done
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Post by: NidLifeCrisis
Everything is looking glorious so far! This army is going to look so cool (no pun intended) and dynamic when it's finished.
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Post by: Wolf
Good lord these are beautiful creations ! I love the colour scheme you have come up with, striking, vibrant and suitably worn with the chipping to give it the real world feel.
Pretty spot on fella !
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Post by: Vineheart01
i very much like the ghostkeel drone. It kinda looks like a fighter jet but its clearly just a drone since it doesnt have the "i'm suppose to be aerodynamic!" appearance flyers try to have (i say try because its pretty well known they are badly proportioned lol)
Also love the paintscheme. Blue is my favorite color (....avatar? lol) and i was heavily debating doing a blue tau theme, but theres 5 tau armies in my area and 2 of them are blue already.
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Post by: Brometheus
sorry if you said before, but how are you prepping those for photos? Photo light cube? Thanks.. Good looking stuff. Automatically Appended Next Post: sorry if you said before, but how are you prepping those for photos? Photo light cube? Thanks.. Good looking stuff.
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Post by: Warboss_Waaazag
I really like the support drones. The stealth drone is great conversion, too. And the paint scheme is super awesome.
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Post by: LeCacty
That stealth drone looks massive!
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Post by: Proiteus
THE DRONE ARMADA!
With the exception of 1 marker drone the entire 1500pt army is all assembled, tomorrow I'll get them sprayed and start painting on the basecoat. And here is the whole army, I've scattered the 3 marker drones about the army for size reference.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
How have I not exalted this yet?! Maybe I was just waiting for a full army shot??
*rectifies with extreme prejudice*
- Salvage
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Post by: Knightley
Wow that is amazing, I even believe I can pick most of what they represent as well.
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Post by: LeCacty
Epic.
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Post by: Vineheart01
so are you planning to still use Firewarriors for the troops or you have something in mind for them too?
Think it would be difficult to make a drone for them thats not just the standard drone sporting a Pulse Rifle/Pulse Blaster instead of 2 Pulse Carbines.
Also, thats a lot of crisis suits lol. Now that i think about it, this could easily just be an FSE with troop crisis suits.
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Post by: Proiteus
Vineheart01 wrote:so are you planning to still use Firewarriors for the troops or you have something in mind for them too?
No it's a Farsight Enclaves army or Tau with Formations. Fire Warriors and other Tau infantry just won't work converted as Drone because at the end of the day they can't move like Drones and have squad leaders, except for the broadside which is more of a weapons platform. The new Drone-Net formation that gives all Drones +1 BS is a godsend as it makes a horde of the smaller drones a great option for the first expansion for this army.
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Post by: Vineheart01
Figured as much. Ive never ran a firewarrior-free list before, though i have the suits to do so. I should try it at some point but the way i play is a lot of high RoF, i usually have more firewarriors than most people lol I do own 60 of the buggers after all.....*cough*
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Post by: Warboss_Waaazag
That looks super sweet. A really unique army. Can't wait to see it painted.
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Post by: Proiteus
A SYMBOL, SOME TOKENS AND MARKERLIGHTS!
Felt my army needed a symbol, more of an Icon for a Cadre/Battleforce than a Sept as I'm thinking my army's origins will be Bork'an. What do you think to the symbol anyway, based it on the top of the crisis drones.
With the last two previous armies I've created tokens and objectives using button badges, it's great as they're very durable and cheap to make providing you make some more for friends. (Btw not taking request/orders guys, sry) Here are the design for the objective and Markerlight tokens.
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Post by: LeCacty
Yep, that's badass.
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Post by: TGG
Just got here after reading your last post on the rebel grots blog... I thought you said small numbers. That's a lot of drones! They look sweet. (30 is a small body count tho, for sure)
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Post by: Proiteus
MY ARTICLE ON MY 3 GOLDEN RULES FOR COUNTS AS CONVERSIONS!
2 weeks ago I was asked by Rob Baer from Spikey Bits to write an article on converting count as armies and miniatures. So if I've inspired you to convert your own stuff or you'd like an interesting read and see some of my earilest projects (& failures) click the image below....
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Post by: Proiteus
MISSILES AWAY!
Well production has begun, the first squadron rolls of the assembly line! The large Tau transfer sheet came in handy especially with the curving text that will be on all my crisis drones, weren't sure about the orange on the sides was worried it was too much. But it seems to have come out okay.
Going to add snow flock to the bases at some point, once the main force is fully painted. Up next are the Plasma Rifles Drones!
These strong contrasting colours are certainly different to the Grot's Reds and Browns.
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
Oh those are beautiful Proiteus. Striking, vibrant. The shading is kinda cel-shadey and stylized(in a good way), but the weathering adds the right amount of gravity and detail to it.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Agreed, squad looks really superb. Vivid colors + blacklining + weathering is really grand. Excited to see more
- Salvage
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Post by: gameandwatch
LOVE that icy blue
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Post by: LeCacty
Blacklining bestlining
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Post by: Proiteus
INTRODUCING GUE'VESA'EL KOR'SHARA!
The Command Drone is cool and all but I felt I really needed an Actual Commander to also field instead. So having got my XV9 suit today I've begun work on converting my Tau Commander: Shas'o Kor'shara Dronedancer!
So what do you think to the array on her back, I felt I need something to portray her controlling the drones around her? Also what colour would you recommend I paint the blades; clean silver or teal energy?
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Post by: whalemusic360
Could use some more antennas to really hammer home the "coordinating everything" look. Blades seem mostly ceremonial as well, they'd only be able to stab in a short distance before his hand got in the way.
I do really like the missile pods you added, and the control disk on the back looks good from this angle.
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Post by: Proiteus
Came up with this alternative for the back disc. What do you think?
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Post by: Kepora
Hmmm. Perhaps something oriented more around optics? Also, think you could show what the new battlesuit/commander hips and legs look lik on an XV9 torso? I had a conversion somewhat similar to this for a Farsight counts-as a while back, and I'd like to see some comparisons before I invest in trying it again!
Also, maybe a converted Electronic Warfare Suite off of a Ghostkeel would fit better? it has antennae AND optics, which gives it a good command-and-control wargear vibe.
https://www.games-workshop.com/en-US/XV95-Ghostkeel-Battlesuit
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Post by: LeCacty
Looking good. I feel like we dont see nearly enough crisis conversions on dakka
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Post by: Kepora
LeCacty wrote:Looking good. I feel like we dont see nearly enough crisis conversions on dakka
I agree. For as conversion-friendly as they are fluff-wise, we sadly don't see nearly enough of them on here.
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Post by: Proiteus
HUMMING POWER!
Currently working on my Plasma Crisis Drones which will be followed by the Fusion Blaster Drones, so my mind is on glow effects at the moment. Because of the colour scheme instead of the traditional blue I've mixed Moot green and Lothern Blue together to get a strong greenish teal colour for my energy weapons. What do you think?
Tried doing standard highlighting techniques and it hasn't work so I'm debating using my Airbrush for the job. By the way do you think I should add a glow effect to the end of the barrel? I'm also unsure how to paint the 3 small studs on the discs at the side?
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Post by: Kepora
Studs in metallics, and yes to glow in the barrels.
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Post by: Proiteus
MARKERLIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!!!
Taking a quick break from my Plasma Rifle drones that will be completed by the end of the week I had a chance to tinker with some bits that arrived yesterday. In order to make 16-20 Marker Drones for my Drone Net formation I ordered some of the heads from Paulson Games. They maybe too big for crisis suits but I feel they make great Marker Drones.
What do you think?
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Post by: Proiteus
WEAPONS CHARGED!
Another Crisis Drone Squad rolls off the assembly line. The challenge with this one was the glow effects as the traditional light blue would have blended in too much with the colour scheme, so I instead went for a strong green shade of teal.
Now for the Fusion Blaster squad which should be easier as they don't have nearly as many parts to paint.
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Post by: LeCacty
Hyperion? Dat you? You need to post some tutorials, seriously.
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Post by: Proiteus
MINI MARKER DRONE!
Here is the Marker Drone for the commander, I'll be painting the 2nd one up alongside the fusion blaster crisis drone squadron.
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Post by: Proiteus
FUSION BLASTERS ONLINE!
With the Fusion Blaster squadron finished, the Crisis Drones are now all complete! Taking a break from the larger suits the next will be a small squadron of marker or Stealth Drones.
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Post by: Proiteus
GUE'VESA SHADOW WARRIOR!
To shave 10 Gun Drones of my work load for a tournament in 2 months I've started work on my Tau Culexus Assassin or as it shall be named; Tau Gue'vesa Shadow Warrior!
Still experimenting with helmets and not sure about the knee pads so I'm really interested in feedback and suggestions?
Also here's a pic of all my Crisis Drones
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Post by: LeCacty
The assassin is super fething cool! Can't wait to see him painted up.
Can you use assassins in a tau army tho? That sounds weird.
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Post by: Archmagos_Amadeus
Officio Assasinorum is an Army of the Imperium. So he's an Ally of Convenience(possibly desparate? Don't recall) to the Tau. VERY good choice too, since the only other Tau psychic defense is the Talisman of Arthas Moloc.
I like the concept Proiteus. Before I even read the text I identified him as a Culexus assassin. The torso feels really small relative to the legs though. Not sure it's precisely a problem if you're going for a deliberately lanky look, but still slightly oft putting
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Post by: Kepora
I'd bulk up the chest and maybe add some abdominal plating. Also, I'm not really feeling that "eye" - doesn't feel as "Tau" as the rest.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Love the assassin, including his tininess and gribbly center eye-laser. One thing, don't tau have different number fingers from humans? At the least, crisis suits have three fingers + one thumb, trying to find an example of a FW hand ... I mean, cause you're strapped for time and all that - Salvage
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Post by: Grimtuff
Boss Salvage wrote:Love the assassin, including his tininess and gribbly center eye-laser. One thing, don't tau have different number fingers from humans? At the least, crisis suits have three fingers + one thumb, trying to find an example of a FW hand ...
I mean, cause you're strapped for time and all that
- Salvage
He's a Gue'vesa. He's human.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Faaaaaaaaaaaaaakk me, missed that bit. Comments about him being on the slight side make sense to me now too
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
Boss Salvage wrote:Faaaaaaaaaaaaaakk me, missed that bit. Comments about him being on the slight side make sense to me now too
- Salvage
No worries, Tau have little presence in the warp but none of them are really pariahs... or assassin level of good is close quarters. So a Tau assassin was never really an option.
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Post by: Proiteus
ACTIVATING AMBUSH PROTOCOLS!!!
I give you the Tau Stealth Drone! Due to it's stealthy nature I decided to keep the white on it's colour scheme to a minimum, I'm very pleased with how the stealth generators came out and will likely build more in the future.
PARIAH UPDATE
Started working on my Assassin on the side and trying to decide 2 things?
1) Which helmet design to go with; the one converted from a pathfinder helm or the breacher helm?
2) What colour to paint the glowing eye lens; a ghostly green or a shade of purple?
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Post by: Kepora
Breacher helmet, and purple.
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Post by: whalemusic360
The right side helmet (breacher?) and green!
Actually purple might work, like the Necromonger scanner guys from the 2nd Riddick movie.
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Post by: LeCacty
Definitely breacher! Very modern and unique
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Post by: Kepora
Though, I do say he still needs a midsection!
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Post by: LeCacty
Oh, and the ghostly green like on some of the drones!
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Post by: IceAngel
Wow.
Great stuff Proiteus. Excellent concept and execution. I can't wait to see more.
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Post by: Proiteus
5 DOWN 15 TO GO!!!
Completed my Marker Drone's using the Paulson Games' Mecha Heads, think they look very unique and weren't nearly as expensive as full GW ones. Now if only I can get the other 15 painted alongside the Riptide, 3 Broadsides, Ghostkeel and Commander before the 23rd of June!
By the way started painting my commander and I'm wondering about 2 things; 1) Does it really need the sensor arms? 2) Where should I paint the orange detailing to tie it better to the Crisis Drones?
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Post by: hk1x1
I love the painting style you've done on these, and all those little marks and scratches really do make a difference .
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Post by: Proiteus
ESTABLISHING BATTLEFIELD CONTROL!
Well my Command Drone is now up and running, I made two small missile pod drones to represent it's weapons otherwise it will be a simple Buffmander.
I'm glad I decided to ditch the small sensor arms during painting, this feels a more drone like, after all the command drone is nothing more than a master hub for the army's Drone Network.
Next up the Tank Drone (Riptide).
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Big Blue! Love it, lil' missile friends and all
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
HEAVY HITTER!
The most powerful drone has now been added to the Kor'vesa Initiative's arsenal; The Tank Drone (Riptide). Escorted by a Repair Drone to represent it's FNP, modelled after the Builder Drones from DOW Dark Crusade. I've also added some snow to the base to help blend the ice and rocks together and cover up the areas where the crackling paint hadn't worked so well. What do you think to the snow effect on the base?
Next up the Stealth Striker (Ghostkeel)
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Post by: TP^DC Deputy Manager
Hi. I'm coming in late to this having seen your tank drone on FB.
The whole army looks fantastic. Can I just query what you are using for the smaller drone core (below the saucer)? (Can't seem to see it mentioned, but may have missed it.
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Post by: Proiteus
ALL STEALTH DRONES NETWORKED & OPTIMISED
DX18 Stealth Striker ready for deployment aka my Ghostkeel. This was by far the most difficult one to paint so far; 1st because of it's shape as I had to re-highlight certain areas where I was holding it and 2nd I wasn't sure how to paint it.
In the end I went with the standard scheme which turned out well. My favourite part of this build is the Stealth Field Drones!
Now all I need to do is get the 3 Broadsides painted in a week ready for a tournament (plus assemble 15 more marker drones).
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Post by: gameandwatch
That is really fantastic, I think that might be my favorite one yet
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Seconded! The design, the pose, the stupendous paint ... Great stuff
- Salvage
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Post by: Proiteus
SIZE COMPARISON
While visiting a friend up north I had a chance to compare my Drone Conversion's size to the original models they represent all except the Ghostkeel.
Think I've done rather well (maybe with the exception of the Buffmander)
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Post by: Proiteus
MISSILES ALWAYS MORE MISSILES!!!
Well with this my 1500pt army is complete and ready for expansion! The MV808 Missile Support Drones are certainly my favourite in the whole army, just hope I can find and purchase riptide Shields to build more?
Next up: Converted Remora Drone Fighters and the Kor'vesa Initiative's field Commander Shas'o'vesa Kor'shara Drone Dancer!
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Post by: Proiteus
DRONE FIGHTERS INBOUND!
After completing my army on Monday I decided to jump into the first expansion which is a pair of Remora Drone Fighters. I used the conversion used by Blue Table Painting, with some tweaks and am looking forward to using them.
Next up is my Commander and then I can start painting as I prefer to airbrush models in batches.
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Post by: stonned_astartes
Brilliantly unique, really cool idea, cant wait to see the commander.
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Post by: Proiteus
Well here's the first....
SHAS'O BOR'KAN ALA'URUN STORMSTRIKE
Originally my Battlesuit army was going to made up of Commando suits inspired by the Dark Crusade Commander, however they were far too small to be used in game so the conversion was put into storage. Until now....
Now it has been tweaked and rearmed to represent one bad-ass proxy of Commander Shadowsun.
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Post by: Kepora
Dude. That Stormstrike conversion is -fantastic-. What all parts went into it?
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Post by: Blakman
Kepora wrote:Dude. That Stormstrike conversion is -fantastic-. What all parts went into it?
I too would like to know this???
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Post by: Proiteus
DRONEDANCER PREPARES TO TAKE TO THE FIELD!
Well here she is field commander of the Kor'vesa Initiative; Commander Kor'shara Dronedancer!
Decided to go for the disc and arrays on the back to give the idea that she was controlling the drones around her, hence her poetic tau title. Also made it so I can arm her with R'alai's main gun and use his rules. She could also probably easily proxy Farsight.
So what do you think to the field commander of the Tau's Drone Initiative?
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Post by: gameandwatch
Very nice! I have always loved the design of the hazard suits. I love the disk on the back, like a giant control disk
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Post by: Proiteus
ARMIES ON PARADE: ATTACK OF THE DRONES BRAINSTORMING!
I plan to enter the Kor'vesa Initiative into Armies On Parade this year and would like some ideas and feedback?
Obviously it will be on a frozen ice world with all the flight stands built into the board allowing for it to look a once piece rather than an army on top of a display board. These resin crystals will be a big part of the board; https://www.darksphere.co.uk/images/56100.jpg
However there are certain aspects of the board that I'm unsure about and would like some feedback on?
Location
Which location would be better for my army to be flying over; From the Ocean/lake or moving down or across a frozen river? Due to the limited length of the magnetic bases I use I won't be able to do anything such as having them flying through a frozen mountain range.
Signs of previous life!
I did think about having a Imperial Guard lookout on the board with them reacting to the incoming Tau, but decided against as I reckon the visual reaction should be by the person viewing it. So I have two other ideas, they won't work if both done.
A crashed Ork flyer submerged in the frozen water with it's 3 crew frozen dead throughout the board, this would give the feeling of a lifeless world.
Or use a Manufactorum and Armoured Containers to create a small mining building that was harvesting the ice crystals, maybe have the building caved in and smoking as if recently attacked with maybe a few dead Skitarii.
Well what do you think works best for a scene for the drone army? Feel free to suggest other ideas.
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Post by: Monsterzonk
I really admire your creativity, which makes each of your projects truly unique and a joy to follow. Keep it up!
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Post by: LeCacty
maybe on the shore of a frozen lake with a really old, completely frozen over imperial guard outpost?
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Post by: Commander Cain
Going off cacty's idea, you could have a washed up guardsman and supplies partially frozen into the lake.
Either that or the skeleton of a lone survivor in a tattered camp which has been long overrun by snow and ice. I picture rope tied around a group of crystals to make a shelter. The trick is getting a cool looking set-piece without it distracting from the army too much I guess.
In general though I think the best kind of terrain for you would be a frozen lake that makes its way into a hillside. Love the idea of the ork plane by the way!
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Post by: LeCacty
OR a bunch of frozen, decaying corpses IN the fort, with evidence of a conflict long ago!
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Post by: Proiteus
Think I've decided on an better idea!
A submerged city with only the top of the buildings visible through the ice and the top half of a space marine statue in the centre with the commander flowing above it!
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Post by: LeCacty
That sounds amazing. How do you intend to pull it off and how large do you think it'll be?
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Post by: Proiteus
LeCacty wrote:That sounds amazing. How do you intend to pull it off and how large do you think it'll be?
Well here's how the army looks on a 22x18 inch space, which will be the size of my display board. If I do go for the iced over city it will be with rooftops and balconies mostly.
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Post by: Proiteus
COMMANDER KOR'SHARA DRONEDANCER TAKES TO THE FIELD!
Here is the field Commander of the Kor'vesa Iniatitive; Kor'shara Dronedancer!
I wanted to go with a suit that looked just as impressive as the Drones, plus gave the impression it was controlling the Drone Cadre around it, so I created the command array on it's back.
I also have the option to arm her suit with the Pulse Submunition Rifle and use FW R'alai's rules instead. I played with them for the first time last night and her 3+ Inv survived two rounds of grav weapons from 3 Centurions!
Just a shame I still have to spend points on a Commander if I wish to field a Retaliation Cadre!
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Post by: LeCacty
Yep. feth yep. Thats cool.
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Really delicious, glad to see her in paint. I wasn't sure if the drone-controller suit was shelved when the command drone was finished up, happy to be wrong
- Salvage
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Post by: xofox
you should make some castings of that and sell the casts. That would be LEGIT! Where did you get a the parts? If you don't want to cast them then you definitely should make some tutorials.
--xofox
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Post by: Proiteus
WINTER IS COMING, BUT FIRST MILD CASE OF ICE
I'm entering the Tau Drone Initiative into Armies On Parade this year, however before I can start work on the main board I feel I need to test the water so to speak. See I've tried using a large quantity of crackling paint once in a rubber dish to break up for ice chunks but it came out yellowish, so to avoid having my AOP entry ruined by yellow ice I thought I'd create a small diorama first and here it is. Just waiting for the water effects to dry then I'll add the crackling paint tomorrow before I go to work.
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Post by: Proiteus
STAY FROSTY!
Well here's the completed test board for my armies on parade entry. What I've learned it that the ice needs to be less deep on the main board to avoid such huge cracks as the washes doesn't work so well on them.
& Now it time to start work on the main board.
As always feedback is welcome.
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Post by: Master Azalle
beautiful work brother! Love your drone conversions!
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Post by: LeCacty
Lookin good
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Post by: Captain Brown
Proiteus,
Your converted and created army is awesome. The board is looking good, but I am still checking out the models.
Cheers,
CB
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Post by: kakita
Very very cool. The frozen city approach is very brave. I think having a test board is definitely a really good idea. Crackle medium (I assume that's what you used) is kind of unpredictable sometimes.
The tau conversions are also really really good. I will definitely need to spend more time figuring out your conversions
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Post by: Proiteus
Progress update on my armies on parade board. All the hills are done, as well as the cave which I made some doors for using the landing pad. Now all I need to do is work on the trainline, grav-train carts and place the crystals.
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Post by: LeCacty
Wow, that's really great. Will there be icecicles n stuff hanging off of it?
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Post by: Proiteus
DISPLAY BOARD ASSEMBLED
Well my Armies On Parade board is all set and ready for painting! Once that's done I'll experiment with model placement before pinning and gluing the flight stands on before adding ice and snow.
What do you think to my Grav-Train wreck?
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Post by: stonned_astartes
Brilliant action from a still object.
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Post by: Kepora
I can't help but be reminded of Route 66 from Overwatch - and that's not a bad thing at all!
Shas'O M'Cree observed the battlefield from before the wreckage of his battlesuit, taking one last drag off of his 'acquired' tabbac stick, flicking it away as he drew his pistol. "Well, it's high noon somewhere in the galaxy..."
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Post by: Proiteus
ARMIES ON PARADE!
Well this has been a rough week; first I found out that I had ordered the wrong bases so had to wait till tuesday for replacements and before I could start adding on the water effects, then on thursday morning I found out that 2 and half large pots of crackling paint wasn't enough so I had to use my remaining water effects to fill the gaps. Then I woke Friday morning to find the ice hadn't cracked so I had to use my airbrush instead of drybrushing the surface white, which actually came out much better.
It's not 100% complete as I want to add a unit of pathfinders under the bridge or by the doors, Remoras flying over the mountain and a squadron of gun drones up front. But for now I was happy with the display and it got a lot of attention today, sadly not enough to win it gold though. Oh well there is always next year plus the chance to be featured in White Dwarf.
I'll be taking some high quality photos with a Macro lens later this week and posting the full photo of the Spikey Bits site, but here are some images I took today...
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Post by: adamsouza
Very impressive display piece.
Are the models removable ?
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Post by: Proiteus
Yes aside from the Broadside who had to be broken off his base the whole army's bases are Magnetised.
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Post by: Kid_Kyoto
Stellar work from start to finish!
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Post by: Mr Morden
A Whole thread of awesome
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Post by: Proiteus
THE REMORAS TAKE FLIGHT!
Finally got round to painting the flyers, now all I need to do is add them to the armies on parade board and I can gets some HD photographs of the whole army!
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Post by: Captain Brown
More excellent additions.
Cheers,
CB
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Post by: Proiteus
DRONES ON DISPLAY!
With the Drone fighters and gun drones complete the Armies On Parade board is now fully complete, thou I may add some Pathfinders on it for next year's competition. Now all I have left is 10 Marker Drones, 5 Gun Drones, 2 Riptide Drones and I'll be happy to move on to my next project. However I will likely return to build more Broadsides, Pathfinders and a Defence line in the form of some beefy shield drones.
Please show your support by rating the original image in my gallery here > http://www.dakkadakka.com/gallery/840728-.html
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Post by: TheLumberJack
Man this is so badass. I had an idea like this as well except to model them as mining drones to be counts as Tyranids. This is some incredible work man
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Post by: OrkPlayer500
Absolutely amazing! Hope to see more from this Army. In your own time obviously - I'm a big fan of your Rebel Grots
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Post by: Proiteus
THE FUTURE OF THIS TAU CADRE
I'm facing a bit of an internal debate recently on where to take my Tau at the moment.
As you may know the recent codex makes Crisis suits too expensive to base an army around and such this army has rarely seen combat since 8th dropped so I desperately needed infantry units.
At first I considered abandoning the Drone army in favor of a human based Tau army with Gue'vesa infantry including Fire Warriors, Breachers, Vespid, Pathfinders and Stealthsuits. The rest of the suits would remain as my drones that they would use in place of Battlesuits. You can see that in the Van Saar conversion below which I couldn't wait to convert once I saw that kit...
The only 2 issues here was the fluff; would the drones be part of the Gue'saar or a separate attached force? The second being the large cost of all the Van Saar and Tau kits.
The other option was to stick with the scheme. At first I considered using Necron kits to convert something similar to a Star Wars battle droid, however, it's human feet and hands would look odd.
My next idea was to convert smaller drones using support systems however my first conversion mock ups were a bit lacking.
TINY BUT MIGHTY
However thanks to the Earth Caste's finest minds and drive, the need for a small easy to produce infantry unit for the Drone Initiative has been addressed, presenting the Light Gun Drone.
I have the game Grey Goo to thank, seeing their human faction with all their drone units reminded me why I took this direction in the first place.
The Gue'vesa will still see action in Necromunda and Kill Team so expect another project log thread for them in the future.
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Post by: IceAngel
Have you ever thought of making a small drone gang for Necromunda? Make them all dirty and damaged and outfitted with las pistols and heavy stubbers and such. .
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Post by: Proiteus
IceAngel wrote:Have you ever thought of making a small drone gang for Necromunda? Make them all dirty and damaged and outfitted with las pistols and heavy stubbers and such. .
No but I'm am considering a gue'vesa infiltration force with a Kroot Merc.
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Post by: Proiteus
CLOSE QUARTER DRONES
A new light Drone variant; The Slicer Drone! These guys will represent my Tau Breachers.
Probably will make some small adjustments before building a full squad.
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