86322
Post by: Dark Severance
KICKSTARTER LINK
Code Zero is a 32mm miniatures skirmish game set in a futuristic alternate universe. Players take control of a small squad of troops, broken up into fireteams, competing with each other to achieve one or several objectives and complete their mission.
We are working on building and developing the miniatures line as we continue working on the skirmish game. The main focus of the Kickstarter is to expand the miniatures and start to build a community centered around the game. The first of our miniatures for this universe are digitally sculpted, 3d printed and cast in high quality resin.
We will be approaching our Kickstarter a bit different than the traditional method.
A traditional Kickstarter sets a goal to create a full game. That goal is usually short of what is actually needed, with stretch goals/add-ons generating the funds for the remainder. This can often cause the core game to run into late delivery issues, creating multiple waves of shipping, or in rare cases, may even result in not delivering at all. By the time the backer receives the product, it has been so long that excitement has worn off or they have even forgotten about it.
The goal of this Kickstarter is to fund the creation of the Anazi Dynasty resin miniatures, one of the factions involved in the Code Zero game. We would like nothing more than for this kickstarter to be hugely successful, allowing us to fully fund the game and miniatures all at once, but decided on taking this different approach for many reasons.
Our plan by creating miniatures for each faction, one faction at a time, allows us to ensure we provide our best in a timely manner. This will let us run a smaller campaign, putting the full focus into each faction as we expand the game bit by bit. That means we can fund at a smaller amount which allows us to put the product into our backer’s hands quicker. Instead of waiting two years for something, you’ll have product within a fraction of the time.
Meanwhile we can start small and build the miniatures line while we release the Code Zero game rules in beta format to our backers. Although we are confident we can test and implement it in the traditional time, that often leads to rules being rushed out too soon. This results in sub-par rules, something that needs to be heavily revised within a few months of release. Our method will give backers a unique opportunity to help shape, adjust, and improve the game as we continue to build the product line. We really do value your feedback, and although we might not be able to implement every suggestion or idea, we will definitely listen and make adjustments where needed.
Although we have chosen the faction to produce first, backers will be able to help determine the next faction moving forward as well as what it could unlock. But don't worry, that does not mean we will be launching multiple campaigns at once! The plan is to fund, deliver, and then move on to the next campaign. That will allow us prove ourselves to you, the backers, as well as continuing to foster the growing trust we develop with you, our community. It also means we can learn, adjusting to any mistakes or issues encountered on the way. The slow and steady pace will allow us to better grow Code Zero with our community.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #1 - Funded
Thank you!
From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank everyone for their support in this project. Thank you for backing our campaign and joining us on this journey to create something new.
We appreciate everyone who jumped in early and invite you to stay with us for the whole journey. We have spent a lot of time and resources working on this game, to get it to a point to where we can start production on the miniatures line. We want to breath life to this universe that we have created, which we can not do without your help. For that we are deeply grateful.
We truly want the backers to actually be a real part of this process and feel like they have had an impact on the campaign instead of it feeling like a pre-order. It is important to us that backers, which help make these opportunities happen, aren't simply just a source of blood. We are not vampires... although one us might be one. ^_^ We are not a big company or corporation, but instead a simple family and friends who are gamers first. We want to create games and miniatures that other gamers and families will enjoy.
Promotional Exclusives
We have toyed with the idea of creating exclusive content for Kickstarters and overall felt it was a bad idea in terms for board games. We want people to have the same experience and be able to get the same things whether they are early adopters or recently discovered us. For a miniatures line and skirmish game it can make some sense. After much consideration we have decided to create some miniatures that we would create some Promotional Exclusives.
What that means is that they are not necessarily only available via Kickstarter but that we will not sell them as normal retail items. They could be sold during certain promotional periods like a convention or in upcoming and future kickstarters. Since we plan to do multiple small campaigns to continue growing the line, our initial plan is to only have them be available through this and future Kickstarters.
With that in mind, you can get a sneak peak on the one that is being worked on currently.
She is an ex-Inquisitor originally from the Europa Confederation working as a Corsair, freelance mercenaries, bounty hunters and traders that operate within multiple factions.
Europa Confederation
They are the second largest nation in the galaxy, well known for their strong psion presence. When other nations created pushed for Apartheid against humans who developed psionic abilities, the EC exonerated them. They welcomed anyone with psionic abilities and often put them into positions of power within the nation. That meant most of them were part of the inquisition or church, since psionic abilities were gifts meant to be used for the betterment of all while expanding the influence of the church and the nation.
Inquisitors
Inquisitors are classified as defenders and make up key elements within the Europa Confederation. They are responsible for mediating, handling disputes, investigating psions as well as working as an enforcement and police force. Strangely the majority of inquisitors tend to be female operatives, although there are a few male psions who have the inquisitor rank. Outside of select officials, no one really understands why or how. It seems to be a carefully guarded secret.
The Corsair Accord
The Corsair Accord, an official agreement recognizing licenses that authorizes someone to collect bounties and work as a freelance mercenary. The license will also allow traders to travel between factions, authorizing someone to collect bounties and work as a freelance Mercenary. Mercenaries, Bounty Hunters and Free Traders need to be sanctioned and registered with the Syndicate. The Syndicate is the largest unaligned party with a sizeable security force that rivals many factions because it protects some of the older ship yards and museums protecting much of human heritage.
1001
Post by: schoon
Can you tell us a bit about the system?
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
The backers will get access to the beta and final rules but the Kickstarter is main focus is on building the miniatures line.
The game uses alternate activation with an action/reaction system. From the initial look some will compare it to Infinity but it definitely doesn't play like it. If you are familiar with Magic or WoW TCG, then how the action/reaction system functions will make a bit more sense.
The game is divided into turns with each turn consisting of three phases: Start Phase, Player Phase, End Phase. Start Phase, start of turn stuff happens. During the Player Phase both player alternate between the Active Player and Reactive Player roles. End Phase, end of turn stuff happens.
Game Turn
Start Phase
Player Phase
-- Round A: Player 1 Active Player, Player 2 Reactive Player
-- Round B: Player 2 Active Player, Player 1 Reactive Player
-- Round C: Player 1 Active Player, Player 2 Reactive Player
-- Round D: Player 2 Active Player, Player 1 Reactive Player (and so forth until no more AP to spend)
End Phase
Activation Points which are the currency used to activate units are generated based on the unit type. Single model heroes generate 1AP, while fireteams (3-5 models) generate 3AP. 10 models could be 2 heroes and 2 fireteams (4 models each). The 2 heroes generate 2AP and the 2 fireteams generate 6AP for a total of 8AP. AP is the currency used to activate a unit to allow them to move, shoot, etc.
Instead of a IGO-UGO with action/reaction, we built the system with a action/response system based at certain trigger points. There are two opportunities for a Reactive Player to respond usually. The Active Player spends an AP and chooses a unit to activate, this can be a single hero or a whole fireteam. After they declare their action it creates a Trigger Point, this is the first opportunity that the Reactive Player can choose to respond. It is basically a "Steal Initiative" option, where the response can be to spend an AP and activate one of their own units, which would resolve their actions first. The Active Player could also choose to respond and spend an additional AP to activate a second unit creating
Units can only be activated twice in a turn. You place the AP token next to the unit when you activate it the first time with the green side up. The second time it is activated, the AP token is flipped over to red side. Any additional activations will give it "Fatigue" status which reduces their abilities. A player can also only activate up to two units in a round, if they choose to activate an additional unit, that unit will gain "Fatigue" status.
The second opportunity that a Reactive Player can respond is when the second Trigger Point is when an Active Player unit moves within line of sight of the Reactive Player unit then the Reactive Player can choose to respond.
It sounds a bit wordy and complex at first but really game play is smooth in a MtG type of fashion. Since everything can resolve differently based on the order of events, the game comes out a very different experience than Infinity. The main focus of the game becomes more like a chess match, where one player's actions can have more of an impact or interaction with the other player. It gives the game a good ebb and flow, with the back and forth giving more of a focus on maneuvering. Instead of waiting for a player to move all their units, players can intercept and cause interesting choke points due to the system as well. It also allows you to create a feint or flanking maneuver that is harder to recreate in small objective based battles.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #2 - From Concept to Casting
Designing a Miniature
When we look at designing a miniature there are a few things to factor into it. What role will the miniature be taking; Is it a light armored scout or a more heavy armor figure? How big the miniature is size wise to other miniatures; Are they average human height, larger or smaller? In order to be able to properly communicate what you want to an artist, you have to know what you want. That can also mean getting some reference material. Once you have all that then you can find an artist to start working on the concept art.
First Pass Draft
We like to start with a primary draft, which gives us multiple options to choose from. They can be various variations based on the information given to try to hone more into the look we are wanting. This also helps communicate to the artist what we like, don't like, what works and doesn't as well as the why. It helps in the process to ensure that we are all on the same page as to the visual design.
Second Pass
Then a second pass is done with more options to further fine tune the design. We normally ever have to do two passes before we settle on the semi-final design. If we don't feel that any of the options are working, we have done a third pass but we rarely have to go down that route. Once again we look at what options we like and why, which helps the artist create the final piece.
Color Palette
Now that we have the semi-finalized version, we examine the color palette. It is very much similar to the 1st/2nd Passes where we have different colors, patterns to determine what we want. Technically the colors aren't necessary to create the final miniature. However in some cases colors can help determine the final texture/material that clothes and other items are made of.
Validation
Now that we have the final concept piece done. We need to validate it. We give artists certain room for creativity to create. Although some things look great on paper, they don't necessarily translate well when going into 3d. If pieces are too thin, they can cause an issue casting, if something is too large it might require being cut differently. We try to identify what these places are before talking to the sculptor. Sometimes those the issues are found as we enter into the sculpting process. I try to share that information with the artists, so for future projects they start to develop what the limitations are.
Poses
It helps to have some basic ideas of how you will want to pose the final piece because that can effect sculpting in some aspects. It also can effect how and where the 3d sculpt will be cut to create the multi-parts of the miniature. You usually don't have to do a posing sheet for each new artwork, sometimes just having one for a couple sets is enough for the sculptor to work with.
3D Sculpting
3D sculpting I mostly take a back seat and let the digital artist do their things. For the most part they start with the base, build around it. As they work on the items I get WIP pictures which I do give some feedback with.
Once we get the T-Pose done, finish the rest of the detail then we can do some final touches before moving to posing. Some things that may have looked fine with the concept art, visually or mechanically may not work properly in a digital aspect. For example the pocket was in front, but it made more sense to move it.
Now we can finally look at where we want the pieces to be cut and seperated.
We can finally do a master 3d print.
Now that we have our 3D Master, providing everything checks out with sizing. We can begin casting the miniature to get the final piece.
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Congrats on getting the first set funded!
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Thank you! Now just need to work on unlocking a stretch goal or two.
It has been an interesting and hectic few days. I apologize for the brief radio silence. Our dog needed to have an emergency operation and was in surgery a couple days ago. There was a complication that gave us a scare but she is out and recovering. It has been an interesting process since she has to have a lot of medication, while dealing with the "cone of shame" which isn't something she likes. I doubt any dog does. That has resulted in many things we thought were out of the way, discovering they were not so a lot of bumping around and adjustments around the house. The critical part is over with now so we are in recuperating mode... which means back to work.
Here are a couple of our miniatures being painted, still a work in progress so not completed yet.
Stretch Goal Update!
Great News!
We have some great news! We are still finalizing a few things but we have managed to gain some additional funding which allows us to shift the stretch goals. This allows us to unlock the Federated Commonwealth, Corer Fireteam. I was hoping to have the 3D masters by now to take pictures of but they are in customs now. I should have them before the weekend to show everyone. They can be added to any pledge for $35.
The best part is that means all the Stretch Goals will shift up, so the next SG we unlock at $2K will be a couple Corsair Mercenaries.
Here are some WIP of one of our Kickstarter Exclusives miniatures that we have been working on. The final details are still being added, so this is a rough version based on the concept art shown earlier. We will have her finalized soon for everyone to see. She can be added to any pledge for $10.
I will be updating the Stretch Goal graphic and add-ons this evening to accurately represent the changes and additions.
666
Post by: Necros
Painted mini looks great so far. Need to get the campaign in front of some more eyes.. have you tried posting it on Beasts of War or Tabletop Gaming News or The Miniatures Page?
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Oh, those look really nice!
(Sorry about your dog, glad it's better)
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
 Necros wrote:Painted mini looks great so far. Need to get the campaign in front of some more eyes.. have you tried posting it on Beasts of War or Tabletop Gaming News or The Miniatures Page?
I definitely agree but it isn't from the lack of trying. LOL! I have definitely been making the rounds on BoW, TGN, TMP, BBG as well as various miniatures groups on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.
I think ultimately there are a few factors. The first being there are a few other higher profile Kickstarters finishing up, pledge managers wrapping up and a couple launching soon. That keeps those KS in main discussions. The other is that we're approaching things differently, which probably has a few in "sit and wait" which creates that whole catch 22, chicken and egg scenario. On one hand, people want to see SG unlocked so they wait, on the other hand because of that there is slow activity. Despite the focus being on the miniatures line, there are some who also want a full game.
I did expect it to a be a small campaign because of how I was doing things. On the plus side I guess (to look at the positive), the smaller campaign means fulfillment can happen much faster within 2-3 months.
Thank you. I can't wait to see the finished versions all together.
She is doing well, probably better than the spouse and daughter though. She is only 7 years old and contracted glaucoma in her left eye which resulted in her losing vision.
68139
Post by: Barzam
I went ahead and backed it. I'm #30. I can only go in at $10 due to budget and lack of space. But, I have wanted those marine guys for a while. Why not get one now, right? Glad to hear your dog is doing better. Is she a German Shepherd?
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
 Barzam wrote:I went ahead and backed it. I'm #30. I can only go in at $10 due to budget and lack of space. But, I have wanted those marine guys for a while. Why not get one now, right? Glad to hear your dog is doing better. Is she a German Shepherd?
Thank you for backing, it is definitely appreciated.
Yeah she is a mix German Shepherd/Husky. On one side maybe she won't get hip dysplasia that tends to happen with shepherds. When she was older these are the type of things we are expecting, just was a shock happening to her so young.
She loves watching television with the family. As she recuperates she gets to watch some Doctor Who, Expanse and Magicians as we catch up on things on our DVR.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #5 - Terra Fall - Historical Archive Entry
“Greetings and salutations! Welcome to the Archives. I am your guide, HA-L235, or simply Hal. I do not get travelers often. Here at the Galactic Archive VIII, we compile all entries and records within the database to create the most accurate historical account possible. This archive is maintained by Appregio."
WARNING! Historical records after Terra Fall are not complete. Other than what was already downloaded into the existing databases, all other information was recorded manually. It may not be completely factual, or consistent, as records were pieced together. Information may be biased based on individual recordings, thus, we can not vouch for the accuracy of the records. For the most accurate records I suggest you access Archive at /*REDACTED*/.
Terra, once the shining jewel of humanity, is a planet rich in history, and the birthplace for many millenniums of stories and events. Humanity in its inception had not been kind to her, and years of war and pollution took their toll, leaving her scarred and tarnished. To find answers and solutions, humanity had to look to the stars.
Almost two millennia have passed since Terra Fall, when it vanished and was lost to humankind. Humanity was still in their infancy as they spread their influence to the stars to create new opportunities. During that process, and with Terra gone, they lost memory of their origin, and the only remains of humanity's history had to be preserved and pieced together from remnants. Great museums, such as The Record in the Kaelius system and The Census Bureau, hold collections of what is left of Terra's history. Bits and pieces of information have been mended into a story that provides a shell of an existence for humanity.
It is said that things like race and morals are considered social constructs. Nothing tests that theory more than when the history of a whole species vanishes. After Terra Fall, there only existed a few hundred terrabytes of information between the databases in the Orbital Relays, the newer colonies, as well as what was available on the part of the net that survived. Given the circumstances, there were only a couple organizations willing to collect, datamine and archive the information. Historical information was the least of humanity's problems as they struggled to survive.
Cut off from Terra, there was a vacuum of leadership and government for almost every country. A few took this as an opportunity to stake a claim for themselves, while others banded together with other nations to stabilize some of the already established frontier systems. Under the guise of bringing order to chaos, war erupted over control of the best planets. It was swift and deadly, ultimately resulting in the splintering of nations and resources.
/*REDACTED*/
/*REDACTED*/
"Further information is no longer accessible from this particular archive. We have vlogs, audio records, and images but given their incomplete nature, actual events of the following few hundred years are conjecture.”
/*REDACTED*/... ERROR ID10
... ..
/*REDACTED*/
ERROR; unauthorized entry.
...humanity must be cleansed.
...
ERROR...
Betaphage - Viral Outbreak
Knowledge is power and with power comes responsibility. Some histories write that it was God who brought on the destruction that came after finding Adam. Others write about the carelessness and lack of scientific professionalism in the explorers that found the Martian city in the first place. Most theories are believable about how it came about. Theories are inconsistent. It is facts that discern the truth and the fact is that when Adam awoke, so did the techno-virus BetaPhage.
Although new inroads were being made into the main core of the galaxy, there was a large amount of people still back in the Sol system. Humans that were too poor to leave Terra. The rich who lived on the moon and the government officials and corporations that were housed on Mars. Conditions on Terra started to take a turn for the worse.
Violent outbreaks and terrorist attacks started to slowly reappear again. Schizophrenia paranoia started to seemly appear out of nowhere, which lead to violent attacks. Global warming and poor eating conditions were first blamed but it was slowly becoming clear that an epidemic was happening.
It wasn’t until the attacks grew in brutal vehemence that deeper questions were asked. The cruelty of the terrorists bordered on inhumane. Documented footage of attacks exposed consistent symptomatic elements. The attackers displayed irritability with each other and to some degree an inexplicable remorse for the deeds they were committing. A few of the recordings showed terrorists hurling their weapons into the air and crouching into an awkwardly submissive position with their arms wrapped around their heads and their hands clasped behind the backs of their necks.
No one knew at the time but these were the first signs of the Betaphage infection.
Alongside the uncontrollable pollution levels, high crime rate and overgrowth in population on Terra, the outbreak made it near impossible for anyone to live a life that wasn’t riddled with violence, sickness and excruciating death. Those who could afford to evacuate made their way to the sky and settled in “cloud cities” such as Nimbola and Cumulo; a luxury that only fell to those under the title of “corporate executive” or “significant government official.” Those with less money either bought their own vessel or made their way into space where they could learn valuable trades such as andronic engineering or biotechnical sequencing; skills that came of great value to those whose lives depended on machines. Others became pirates or freelancers. Whichever new future the survivors chose for themselves, quite a large number was able to make it off Terra before being consumed. Those that couldn’t developed signs of extreme aggression and paranoia which resulted uncontrollable violence, self-mutilation and that usually didn’t end well for anyone.
Early symptoms of infection lacked in consistency. It was very difficult to discern if an individual had a case or not. One moment a person could be quite literally foaming at the mouth and the next he or she could be passed out on the ground only to wake up a day and a half later unaware of where or, on some occasions, who they are. The early days of the infection remained confusing until the recovery of a very valuable medical log in the ancient city on Mars. The log was contained within a quantum computer system; it took some time before everything could be translated. The information that was translated provided a basic structure as to the origin of the virus. The Betaphage was a techno-organic virus created by the Automated Defense Android Manifesto; A.D.A.M.
Upon revealing the truth, a transmission that historians can only conclude came from somewhere deep in the bowels of the ancient Martian city was initiated. This transmission ignited a hypersonic distress signal to every Jump Drive that had been scavenged from the city, inciting what can only be described as a mass exodus. Every battleship, cruiser, scout, skiff or frigate that had a Jump Drive installed automatically activated launch procedures for out-of-system jumps. Ships that were stationed, unmanned in docking bays or in the middle of repairs also jumped. Hundreds simultaneously vanished from the solar system.
The jumps that the transmission had set were completely random; random automatic jumps without coordinates can be extremely disorienting and it was a very long time before those involved could reorient themselves and make their way back to their point of origin. The best place they could think to restart. But when they returned what they found left them more perplexed; Terra was gone.
It wasn’t just Terra, an entire planet, that had gone missing but Mars and rest of the solar system. According to the Coordination CPU System the coordinates for every planets had not changed. According to the CPU nothing had moved but what remained was empty space. Unmanned Sensors found nothing, no radio signals had been established, no distress communications, just space.
In a blink of an eye humanity’s home was gone. Some say that the disappearing of Terra was nothing short of a blessing; that the planet was collapsing on itself and the entirety of it existed as nothing better than a violent disarray of sickness and death; the domestic cesspool of a race that failed to maintain their home planet. To those who sought to improve Terra and those who zealously pursued the preservation of their home, the loss was catastrophic.
The Human Empire became splintered and greedy. Paramilitary factions formed and were either hired by wealthy colonists and excavation corporations for protection or fought with each other for contracts and systematical dominance. Despite new room and space and the prospect of beginning anew, humanity continued to fight with each other over the first part of galactic territory they could get their hands on. Few sects backed by new corporations or newly established countries opted to avoid violence altogether and search further into the stars.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Her Corsair license allows her to operate within Anazi Dynasty, Federated Commonwealth, and United Republic controlled territories. She has barred from operating within Shingen Empire and Europa Confederation although she can travel to Europa Confederation Code Zero planets, she is just barred from operating as a Corsair. It is unclear what led to her leaving Europa.
Her psionic specialty is with Telekinetic Fields, she has the ability to create a TK-Field which she can create around herself in moments of duress. In game terms it allows her to absorb/deflect 1 damage until she takes a wound then she loses the ability to create the TK field while she is wounded. Her standard equipment that she is armed with is a Battle Rifle and pistol (standard issue for the EC). She also favors and is efficient in the use of a Vibroblade or Ratchet Blade.
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Does it extend out like a whip?
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Sort of, I guess it could be considered a whip but it doesn't really function like that... not that someone couldn't do that. I would say it closer to style and use that Renji's Zanpako, Zabarimaru from the Bleach Anime uses it. At least that was the initial inspiration but like the whip it doesn't have an unlimited extension. It is used more for weapon grappling, reach, deflecting than a whip. If someone was in a sword fight or using something to block, it allows part of it to bend so that it can still strike the target or extend to increase the range of a strike.
105418
Post by: John Prins
I wish the Corsairs and JK9's were the base for this game. I'm not partial to the starter figures. :-/
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
 John Prins wrote:I wish the Corsairs and JK9's were the base for this game. I'm not partial to the starter figures. :-/
There technically isn't a base for the game as the focus is expanding and working on the miniatures line. We have not started to work on the starter sets for each faction yet. However I can understand what you are saying, that is one of the obstacles when building up with small, multiple Kickstarters instead of just doing one giant, go all in, Kickstarter. On one hand it lets us do smaller, quicker Kickstarters to turn around and get miniatures into backers hand faster... but that also means the selection is limited in the beginning at least.
The mercenaries that are Corsairs are essentially ranked officers that can serve as the commanders and troops for multiple factions. For example the ex-inquisitor can be part of Federated Commonwealth, Anazi Dynasty and United Republic armies. She however can't be part of a Shingen Empire or Europa Confederation forces. They fill in gaps and can strengthen weaknesses factions have dealing with certain troops for a cost.
We are close to unlocking two more of the Corsair Mercenaries. I think it will come down to the wire in the last 48 hours. It doesn't look like we will get to JK9s in this Kickstarter but that doesn't mean it can't happen. You will be happy to know, that just means as soon as this one is finished casting and delivered, the next Kickstarter will most likely focus first on JK9s and Juggernauts, along with some new mercs. That really comes down to the backer input and it is one of the benefits of backing even if only for $1 or $10 for one of the miniatures. Once this is finished casting, delivered we'll launch another small Kickstarter to expand more miniatures so the backers get to have the most input, since they are ultimately the ones who helped create this line. Each new Kickstarter will bring new backers, input as we continue to grow the community and game. (At least that is the goal, sounds great on paper but execution is a different thing. ^_^).
I imagine when we start showing concept art for Shingen Empire though, some interest will be with them as well ... I mean who doesn't love robots.
Shingen Empire - These are early concepts, not set in stone so final designs will vary just part of the WIP as we go through likes, dislikes.
82903
Post by: MLaw
You guys have the same problem as Whisper.. you're showing me stuff I want but it's not in the current KS.. Those Shingen are super sexy.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
 MLaw wrote:You guys have the same problem as Whisper.. you're showing me stuff I want but it's not in the current KS.. Those Shingen are super sexy.
It isn't technically a problem per say, just means you are less likely to back for this Kickstarter. We have something that interests you and that you want, so that is always a plus. ^_^ It is just a matter of when (Soon tm)
82903
Post by: MLaw
 Dark Severance wrote: MLaw wrote:You guys have the same problem as Whisper.. you're showing me stuff I want but it's not in the current KS.. Those Shingen are super sexy.
It isn't technically a problem per say, just means you are less likely to back for this Kickstarter. We have something that interests you and that you want, so that is always a plus. ^_^ It is just a matter of when (Soon tm)
Positive attitude is win!
Hopefully soon is sooner than later. Until that cool little walker is a part of a KS, best of luck!
105418
Post by: John Prins
Dark Severance wrote: John Prins wrote:I wish the Corsairs and JK9's were the base for this game. I'm not partial to the starter figures. :-/
There technically isn't a base for the game as the focus is expanding and working on the miniatures line. We have not started to work on the starter sets for each faction yet. However I can understand what you are saying, that is one of the obstacles when building up with small, multiple Kickstarters instead of just doing one giant, go all in, Kickstarter. On one hand it lets us do smaller, quicker Kickstarters to turn around and get miniatures into backers hand faster... but that also means the selection is limited in the beginning at least.
Fair enough. I really would like to see a reptilian alien race that was properly technological rather than just the (more common) crocodile on steroids with a gun, or humans with scaly skin. The JK9's seem to be in that groove.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
John Prins wrote:Fair enough. I really would like to see a reptilian alien race that was properly technological rather than just the (more common) crocodile on steroids with a gun, or humans with scaly skin. The JK9's seem to be in that groove.
Something like the Cha'iza then? Although they do seem a bit steroidy but they are miners. Guns aren't their weapons of choice though but they do have proper technology, just not as advanced as the humans but also moreso in some methods.
105418
Post by: John Prins
Dark Severance wrote: John Prins wrote:Fair enough. I really would like to see a reptilian alien race that was properly technological rather than just the (more common) crocodile on steroids with a gun, or humans with scaly skin. The JK9's seem to be in that groove.
Something like the Cha'iza then? Although they do seem a bit steroidy but they are miners. Guns aren't their weapons of choice though but they do have proper technology, just not as advanced as the humans but also moreso in some methods.
They look neat, Though blunter, more saurian heads would be more helmet friendly (probably easier to cast, too).
I was thinking something more along the lines of this (from Miniature13):
I mean, just because you're scaly doesn't mean you would go to battle unarmored. Icarus Miniatures has some interesting 4-armed reptiles going.
To be honest, I'm not even sure if your proposed JK9 Defenders are even reptiles, though the tail seems to imply it. It's a good design, looks fast, interesting head that will be striking on the table.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
John Prins wrote:They look neat, Though blunter, more saurian heads would be more helmet friendly (probably easier to cast, too).
I mean, just because you're scaly doesn't mean you would go to battle unarmored.
I do like those, actualy have both of them too as I backed both those Kickstarters.
Some things we do will fall into a standard trope but we also wanted to do a few things different. But in concept design we try to think of functionality, how they evolved and planet conditions they live in. Most aliens are humanoid in armor, all based on the human conceptions that they developed similar and have similar society views (ie: wear shoes, clothes like we do, have same body parts covered, etc).
We did initially start with a more draconian or dragonlike design. Then we adapted form there, with Saurian heads it starts to fall into the "human with scaly skin" slightly different head. They were aliens so I wanted to get away of the standard design, that all aliens head are humanshape, with noses and function in the same way as humans. Hence they actually breath from gill-like parts on their neck, not the mouth/nose region. Their tails are a sign of maturity that they lose naturally. They also have different shapes and sizes like humans, these just happen to be more warrior, mining working class, which means bulkier.
Overal their skin is equivalent to kevlar in strength and durability, putting them in armor is reduntant at least to them. More armor doesn't necessarily translate into more protection. They do put on clothes or armor to make other humans feel more comfortable. Their species are unisex, so there won't be female versions with breasts. They same body can be male or female, they identify which based on pheremones.
John Prins wrote:TTo be honest, I'm not even sure if your proposed JK9 Defenders are even reptiles, though the tail seems to imply it. It's a good design, looks fast, interesting head that will be striking on the table.
The JK9's aren't actually reptiles. Although I can see how with the armored tail might give that impression, layered plates provide easier range of motion.
While the United Republic went along the "human" first route of evolution and structure. Their ideology is about being human, which means looking human. Although they utilize a genetic enhancement program to ensure they have the best human traits. Cybernetics, psionics and mutations are looked down upon, almost racist against and for the most part don't exist in their Core worlds. However it is all about appearance, internal cybernetics would be fine, if no one knew about it. Essentially they will look human or more human (if you could), not in a blue eyes, blond hair fashion but healthy, fit, defined.
Europa Confederation opened their doors to all Psions, which were humans that developed psionic abilities. They are more religious based, as they took that as the next step of human evolution and those with gifts were blessed. They took in the orphans, they took anyone who was outcast (technically as long as they had a benefit). Almost 99% of all psions are registered and work with the church in some capacity.
Shingen Empire is the opposite, they embraced cyberization. They are born in human-like embryo's in which they develop, go to school, train until a certain age. Then they undergo cyberization, in which they shed their frail human bodies to join their society. In order to adapt and survive, humans were frail so the next step was ascend into a metal frame. The process isn't without complications, which is why society requires them to be a certain age and pass some tests otherwise they flunk out.
Federated Commonwelath are sort of the middle ground. They didn't have the size and numbers, but they were mechanically inclined, overal good with a range of skills. Jack of all trades, master of none. They didn't care who someone was, as long as they did their job, provided and worked. Hard work, meant worthwhile pay and existence. Humans, humanoids, those with cybernetic implants, robotic arms/legs, and even a few psions. They are essentially the blue collar workers.
That leaves the Anazi Dynasty, whom are the mutants of the bunch. They didn't have the advances in terms of technology, the resources to create a cyberization process, instead they had biotech edge. That was the result of growing up in a contanimated and quantine zone on Terra due to the fallout from WWIII. A company broke sanctions set up their medical firm in their borders. That also meant their practices and studies were inhumane to some degree as mostly everything was tested on human subjects. There was no laws to stop them because of the quantatine and they had willing volunteers seeking treatment.
The end result was mapping dna sequences that genetic splicing was achieved. Cloning cells, genetic modification led to biotechology. If you needed better eyesight like that of an insect, they could splice the genes to make it happen. If you wanted your ears to be cat or dog like, while having the enhanced hearing. Strength of certain animals, a lot was possible. Some other citizens even started to travel to them so they could get tails or other features, it became a fad for the wealthy. It came at a cost. Once genetic genes are spliced, it is permanent, that meant a passive gene was passed to their children and so forth. After multiple generations, it was when the mutations started to happen. Children started to be born with defects or rather the passive gene became active. However instead of choosing it, it happened at random, depending on the genetic history of the parents.
JK9, which is actually Jackal Canine (J K9, also known as "Jaks" short for Jackal) are dog, cat type mutations. They have animal ears, some have tails, some don't, fur. There was a fad a few generations ago, which is why there are quite a few. Mutants though to Anazi was never looked as bad. They ultimately were created as the police force.
A lot of Anazi Dynasty troop designs come from psychological designs. The helmets and armor was designed so a regular human or non-mutant could wear it. However to others outside the unit, no one would know. Similar to the Blinc, their horns and eyes are real on some but not all. Because of their xenophobic nature, the history that other factions believed them to grotesque, malformed mutants it led to the background. Their Code Zero worlds are open to most, there are a mix of mutants and other things but no one is allowed into their Core Worlds unless you are a citizen. So no real outside person has really seen their home planets or know the true secrets.
Long story short... they are mammals, more akin to dogs as probably more evident by the light armor concepts vs their current medium armor.
68139
Post by: Barzam
It didn't even register to me that the Anazi were beastmen. How come no tail options were included with the Blincs?
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Barzam wrote:It didn't even register to me that the Anazi were beastmen. How come no tail options were included with the Blincs?
That is a good question.
They aren't technically beastmen, they are a mix of humans with genes spliced from multiple creatures. Although they can control how the genes splicing treatment works on current people, the genetic mutations aren't as easily controlled which results in strange combinations.
There will however be a ranked officer/commander who does have a tail, although they are more because they are more cat. The majority of mutations though for Blinc's comes from a different creature. Blincs are using a genetic makeup from creature that is close to a cousin of Tardigrades. Tardisgrades are an interesting eight-legged, micro-animal that can survive in extreme conditions (they are a real thing, how can I resist not somehow incorporating them). Since they have the nickname 'space bears' because they can survive in space, had to create a 'cousin' of them.
Tardigrade Wikipedia Page
TMites also known as Space Mites are eight-legged microscopic animals that live in space. Specifically they live within warp space or the space generated around ships allowing them to travel faster than light. They were first discovered in the early 2200 during long distance travel. They live in an almost hibernating state until ships pass through, then start to feed on the energy around growing and reproducing. Early ships didn't have detection methods and long exposure proved to corrode or eat away at conduits causing power failures which could lead to the ship dropping out of GSpace.
They are very similar to Tardigrades which were water-dwelling, eight-legged, segmented microscopic animals. TMites are very resilient, able to withstand extreme conditions, toxins and able to feed from radiation. Anazi Dynasty scientists utilized the map genome trying to merge what made it resilient to radiation to human DNA.
Although the effects allowed humans to be more resilient, withstand the harsh conditions on Alora, there were side effects. Anyone who underwent treatment started to vanish. It was discovered later that after feeding on so much energy, the person would blink away. There were traces of a gravity field where those people vanished from. After researching it more they discovered that TMites weren't actually dormant in GSpace, they actually traveled through it.
They found what was left of the people in space. There were dna traces that looked like they jumped into space but the energy caused the whole body to disintegrate. It wasn't until a few years later that they developed an interface to limit the energy that flowed into the TM-Gene. This gave people after rigorous training control over it.
They could discharge energy in short jumps known as Blinks. The person could essentially create a small gravitational bubble around them allowing them to teleport from one place to another in short distances. The gene helped them survive, someone who didn't have the gene could not travel with them. As long as they didn't overload the gene, they would no longer teleport far distances and disintegrate.
As part of the payment for undergoing treatment, those that had a TM-Gene would serve as light infantry scouts with the Anazi Dynasty for a contractual period. Otherwise without the treatment or a method to control the discharge of energy, the person could end up going someplace that resulted in their death (like space).
Blackhole Light Infantry Corp designated as Blinks utilize a small singularity generator which is grafted into their backs. The backpack interface regulates the energy passed into them allowing them to utilize a specific gene which lets them create a field allowing them to teleport short distances. They are are fast moving units that have been specially trained for recon, survival and marksmanship. They are deployed in forward positions and border areas for infiltration, identifying military positions, sniping and surveillance.
Standard equipment is light armor, equipped with assault rifle, blade and at least one person with a sniper rifle. They prefer to engage from a distant, striking, moving, performing flanking maneuvers or capturing objectives.
I was having a Doctor Who moment when I came up with the design and ecosystem of TMites.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Glad to see others fighting the good fight for sensible reptiles here.
Carry on the good work fellows!
I'm interested in seeing those JK9s myself, non-reptiles regardless.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update # 9 - Closing in on the Last 48 Hours
We are approaching the last 48 hours of the campaign. It will come down to the wire but I do believe we will unlock the Stretch Goal for 2 more Corsair mercenaries.
PLEDGE MANAGER
We will be utilizing some sort of pledge manager. This will allow backers to be able to choose which miniatures and fireteams they are getting as part of their pledge. Backers will also be able to add additional funds. Although they can add them to the pledge manager, if you can, you'll want to add what you can to your current pledge now. That helps the campaign get closer to the next stretch goal, although it is also perfectly acceptable to wait until the PM comes out.
GAME RULES
Questions have been asked a couple times about the game rules so I wanted to clarify. There was an initial concern over the pledge levels only listing "Beta Rules". All backers will get access to the final rules. The only reason the beta rules are listed because as part of fulfillment for 'this' campaign, the beta rules are part of it. All backers will always have access to the rules.
The idea is that the rules themselves should be free and available for download when they are complete. That is the plan as I believe rules should be free. Make great miniatures but provide free, accessible rules with them as well. They won't be available for the public until they are done, only backers get early access to them. There may be a book version for those that like to have a physical copy in their hand but we won't be printing it until we're sure it is in a final state.
FACTION BACKGROUNDS
ANAZI DYNASTY (AD)
The Anazi Dynasty are not the most technologically advanced or have the largest military but they are the indisputable leaders when it comes to medical knowledge, genetic manipulation, and bioware. They are most known for their genetic experimentation as the leaders in gene-splicing, but that came at a great cost.
For decades their tampering with gene-splicing with themselves have left dormant genes which passed to their offspring, births started to happen where there were non-controlled mutations. At first, some of them was considered cute; A boy with cat ears, a girl with a tail, another child covered with fur, and there was a child who developed reptilian skin. Along with those traits came other benefits, but there was no mistaking they didn’t look human anymore.
This caused them to be treated poorly, given the other history of their nation which resulted in them developing xenophobia of the other nations. Although they were called mutants and freaks, it didn’t stop other rich families of other nations seeking them out to ‘enhance’ themselves. Forced to obtain the scraps and choices of planets has required them to live in very harsh environments.
Very few outsiders have gone to the core, most encounters have been through the borderlands or neutral territories. Over decades rumors grew, some people have said they aren’t human or largely grotesque, rumored to be monsters. Anazi Dynasty, of course, have done nothing to change the perception of others, they are perfectly fine with others thinking them monsters. In fact, they embraced much of that psychological profile within their military. That is why many of them have horns, modified armor, to make them seem less human. Even if there was a human underneath without any mutations, their enemies would never know.
The core citizens and initial countries that make up the Anazi Dynasty are descendants that can be traced back to Terra and Africa.
UNITED REPUBLIC (UR)
The United Republic is the oldest, largest and most powerful nations in terms of military, territory, and technology. Although the Shingen Empire would disagree about UR being the leader in technology.
After Terra Fall they were in the best position to bring order to the chaos that ensued. They blazed a path to creating order and maintaining discipline, although this was usually through the means of a strong military. The assumed control of New Terra and secured their seat as the controlling body of what would soon be the failing United Nations.
Their society was built on the back of capitalism and a free market, often the wealthiest were who made the laws and rules. This end result was a strong matriarch in control of most things. Since public image held an important factor, the United Republic became the embodiment of what it meant to be human. That meant there are no mutants, aliens, or cyberoids in their ranks, at least that one can tell from visual appearance. Only those citizens that were part of the productive society were considered able to vote, everyone else was considered second class citizens.
They utilize a natural genetic breeding program, which pairs good “households” with each other. This ensures that the best genes are produced so that the wealthiest, strong, beautiful are the ones who continue to maintain their power.
The core citizens and initial countries that make up the United Republic are descendants that can be traced back to Terra, USA, Canada, Mexico, Russia and the former Eastern Bloc.
EUROPA CONFEDERATION (EC)
Next, to the United Republic, the Europa Confederation is the second largest and oldest nation. Before the Civil War that led to Europa Confederation being formed and the splinter nation Shingen Empire, they were a force to be reckoned with. They were able to stop the further advance of the UR from taking over all the good colonies and planets.
In the early days, they established themselves when fear of the psions started to emerge. Instead of fearing those with psionic abilities or trying to utilize them as weapons, they instead embraced the evolving humans. Other nations created restrictions and apartheid but they welcomed anyone with psionic gifts. They even elevated them to places of leadership and power. Most psions were part of the Inquisition of the Church since psionic abilities were gifts meant to be used for the betterment of humankind. This also served to help expand the influence the Church held. Legends date back to the early days of psions that the royal family themselves had psionic abilities and that was the main reason they welcomed them. It would make sense if that was true since every royal member since after Terra Fall have been psions.
The core citizens and initial countries that make up the Europa Confederation are descendants that can be traced back to Terra, most European nations including United Kingdom, France, Spain and some of the middle-eastern area of China.
SHINGEN EMPIRE (SE)
The Shingen Empire was born from war so it makes sense that their ideology is centered around warfare and bushido. There was a disagreement in what the next evolution step for humanity should be. Europa wanted to embrace psionic abilities while Shingen believed that human bodies were frail and weak. He believed the next step was for humans to shed their broken bodies and embrace cyberization, not just part cyborg or cybernetic enhancement but full blown cyberoid.
Their technological level is on par with the United Republic, if not better. Since the UR technology has safety measures put in place to protect human life, they were able to throw those cautions and safety’s away. There are not many situations or conditions that can prove to be devastating to a cyberoid.
The process to undergo cyberization doesn’t come without costs. Currently there is a psychological strain as well as pain that the person endures. As such they are bred in cybernetic embryo’s, taught in schools until they become a mature age. In which they do an aptitude test to determine if they are ready for cyberization. Although the main core of their society have undergone full cyberization, there some that are still human. There are also some cyberoids that can be made in the image of a human, these mostly interact with other humans since most of their nation are a machine. Having a human-like interface makes people feel more comfortable around them.
The core citizens and initial countries that make up the Shingen Empire are descendants that can be traced back to Terra, Japan, Korea and parts of China.
FEDERATED COMMONWEALTH (FC)
The Federated Commonwealth are one of the smaller nations, only having six planets that comprise their core planets, with a few systems on the outlines around them. They originally were part of different mining corporations who rebelled against the United Republic control. They were being overworked while being forced to defend themselves from raiders and pirates. They just weren’t considered worth sending security forces to defend, at least that was the perception of the workers.
The six planets worked together, deciding to become a Federation forming under a Commonwealth and declared their independence. Although only a few planets, the mining rights they maintain help keeps them in a position of power. Since the majority of the planets are buried deep within systems with chaotic asteroids, which makes great mining, but proves highly unsafe conditions for those not familiar with them.
Their society is very much a melting pot in terms of appearance. They have normal looking humans, those with cybernetic enhancements, a few psions, mutants and even alien species amongst their planets. One could even find a few independent cyberoids as well. Appearance and even money were never important, the only thing that mattered was hard work. If you could work and you did work hard, you got rewarded.
The core citizens and initial countries that make up the Federated Commonwealth are descendants that can be traced back to Terra, Australia and various islands along the Pacific Rim.
105418
Post by: John Prins
 highlord tamburlaine wrote:Glad to see others fighting the good fight for sensible reptiles here.
Carry on the good work fellows!
I'm interested in seeing those JK9s myself, non-reptiles regardless.
I'm backing at $11 anyways. Maybe there will be a small rush at the end to $2000 for the Corsairs, but the KS exclusive mini is really nice. Hopefully the JK9's can turn up in a later Kickstarter.
95627
Post by: EmberlordofFire8
May I ask what software was used to sculpt those minis? They look very cool.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
John Prins wrote:I'm backing at $11 anyways. Maybe there will be a small rush at the end to $2000 for the Corsairs, but the KS exclusive mini is really nice. Hopefully the JK9's can turn up in a later Kickstarter.
Thank you for backing and your support. There are only 36 hours remaining and we are only $126 short of unlocking two more Corsairs. I think that it is definitely doable.
As a backer we'll be listening to the input of all backers, so JK9s could very well be the first miniature in the next Kickstarter. Before we relaunched we did do a poll to see which ones they wanted to unlock first. I honestly did think JK9s would be the most requested, it was interesting to find the Corsairs were requested. I had thought they would be considered last since they kind of had a generic sci-fi look... but maybe that was why they were wanted after all.
Thank you. The sculptor used ZBrush was used to model and sculpt them.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Since it looks like the set of Corsair figures has a good chance of unlocking before this finishes, any idea on pricing and posing of them?
Have you guys gotten any of the Commonwealth cast yet? I'm curious how tall they're going to stand.
And yeah, JK9s need to be your next campaign, for sure!
105418
Post by: John Prins
highlord tamburlaine wrote:Since it looks like the set of Corsair figures has a good chance of unlocking before this finishes, any idea on pricing and posing of them?
Going by the rest of the KS, $10 a pop.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
highlord tamburlaine wrote:Since it looks like the set of Corsair figures has a good chance of unlocking before this finishes, any idea on pricing and posing of them?
Have you guys gotten any of the Commonwealth cast yet? I'm curious how tall they're going to stand.
And yeah, JK9s need to be your next campaign, for sure!
The pricing for them would be $10 inline with the rest which is $10 per. We haven't looked at posing for them particularly, they will most likely be armed with the Battle Rifle. I tend to let the sculptor look at them, to see what they invision as the pose. I try to give artists some creative space. However we do have some pose ideas that we do experiment with or use as a base.
We are however open to backer input, so if you have an idea or reference of something you'd like to see please let us know.
The 3D-master prints are unfortunately stuck in customs. I've been waiting for them, so was hoping to have them here this week to show images. When I checked up on them, they were still in customs. They were sized based on the initial lineup in the OP so should be fairly close to it in terms of appearance, but I do understand wanting to see them in reference to actual minitures vs renders.
105418
Post by: John Prins
Aww, maaaaan, tactical cloaks!
68139
Post by: Barzam
I'm curious, have you started the render process for the JK9s? I'd be interested in seeing how they translate into 3D.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Barzam wrote:I'm curious, have you started the render process for the JK9s? I'd be interested in seeing how they translate into 3D.
Looks like something unexpected ended up coming in the mail today. The 3D Printed Masters for the power armor suits have arrived. Sorry for the poor quality of the images, it is an overcast so not a lot of natural light to use for photos. I've thrown a few things together for comparison images.
Old Legacy Design (painted), New Current Design (master), Blinc, light armor (painted), Blinc (primed)
Old Legacy Design (painted), Infinity (Mobile Brigada), FC-Power Armor (master), Blinc (light armor, painted), Infinity (USAriadna Line Ranger), Infinity (USAriadna Line Ranger)
Old Legacy Design (painted), Infinity (Mobile Brigada), FC-Power Armor (master), Blinc (light armor, painted), WH40K (Space Marine), WH40K (Terminator)
We have not started the sculpting for the JK9s yet. I needed to see the 3D Masters of the power armor next 3D masters of the Anazi which are in light armor. The JK9s will be somewhere in between. They are essentially wearing medium armor. If using the comparison images, probably close to thickness of the Mobile Brigada, but not as bulky in areas. They will essentially take a naked version of the Anazi t-pose, then build around it. Since it is being built from scratch, where we modified an existing sculpt to scale into our universe (in the case of the FC Power Armor), it will be a step up from light armor but should see a visual difference between Heavy and Medium armor. I am trying to keep everything material wise and armor wise within the same spectrum.
82903
Post by: MLaw
Those certainly are better! Do the fireteams for the FC Power Armors have weapon options or is the dual weilding guy kinda stuck that way? Trying to figure out a parts breakdown.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Oooh, good timing! Didn't realize the Commonwealth got a size increase- impressive!
Probably wouldn't hurt to include those scale photos in an official update (which you probably already were planning).
I'll be grabbing at least one of them (If I don't outright get one of their fire teams) as well as the Inquisitor in the PM once that hits.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
MLaw wrote:Those certainly are better! Do the fireteams for the FC Power Armors have weapon options or is the dual wielding guy kinda stuck that way? Trying to figure out a parts breakdown.
Since we were incorporating an existing line, they don't have as many options in terms of weapons like the light scout. The initial cost to doing multiple weapon options, ended up being a lot more. In some cases it was just cheaper to do a sculpt, Infinity style, with some pose-ability but not a lot and do two different versions. Than when it was the way we designed the two initial fireteams for the Anazi. We are going to evaluate the pros and cons as well as how we can improve this process. In may be just sticking a Infinity style and just doing different versions.
The two miniatures on the left have separated arms in a ball socket. The sniper comes in 4 pieces body, sniper gun with hand/forearm, shoulder arm (sniper side), and pisol arm. The two gun one comes in 3 pieces body, pistol/arm, and pistol/arm. There is some room to rotate them or swap weapons between those two.
The two on the right both come in 2 pieces body, and forearms/weapons. You can swap arms between the two.
With some minor work, you could swap them between all four of them, but it would take a some kit bash knowledge and ability. Automatically Appended Next Post:
Update #10 - SG Unlocked, New Pledge Level
[b]STRETCH GOAL UNLOCKED[/b]
We made it to the $2K Stretch Goal with plenty of time to spare, which allows us to add two more miniatures to the line. That means we will be adding two more Corsair mercenaries to the available add-ons. They are available as an add-on individually for $10. You can add one of them by adding $10 to your current pledge level or you can increase your pledge by $20 for both of them.
NEXT STRETCH GOAL - $2750
There are only 28 hours remaining. Will we be able to power through to the next Stretch Goal?
The next SG will unlock another miniature to add to the lineup. If 80% of the backers added the two new Corsair mercenaries to their pledges, we would be able to reach that next SG. However, no one is obligated or should feel pressured to do so. We are already grateful for everyone who has already backed allowing us to make this a reality.
You will also be happy to know that what doesn't get unlocked, once we finish casting and delivery, then the next Kickstarter will most likely focus first on the remaining as well as new units. Which units really comes down to backer input and it is one of the benefits of backing even if only for $1 or $10 for one of the miniatures. The backers get to have the most input since they are ultimately the ones who helped create this line.
But wait! There's more! The next stretch goal will also unlock a hidden stretch goal which will reward every backer who backed at Corporal and higher with a free miniature of their choosing!
NEW PLEDGE LEVEL - A LA CARTE
There have been a couple requests from collectors and painters who were not necessarily interested in a complete fireteam or the game. After looking over everything we have decided to add a new pledge level where backers can choose any 6 individual miniatures for $50. They could also simply choose 6 of the same one if they wanted as well or they could essentially get one of each type. This allows some to dip their toe into the miniatures line by having a sample of each of the styles.
3D MASTERS
We were hoping to have the 3D printed masters for the Federated Commonwealth power armor suits last week but they, unfortunately, got held up in customs. We were not expecting them for another week. However, something unexpected showed up in the mail today. ^_^ The masters for the power armor have arrived! I apologize for the poor quality of the images, it is overcast here in the northwest so there is not a lot of natural light to use for photos.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Thanks for putting up the a la carte pledge.
Happily upped! Hopefully Mrs. Highlord doesn't notice... 
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
I am curious with the new Primaris Space Marines coming, how those will look scaled next to the Federated Commonwealth power armor.
Thank you again for your support.
68139
Post by: Barzam
Hey, congrats on a successful project!
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Thank you but It isn't successful yet. But soon( tm) it will be. Once everything is delivered, then I'll call it a true success. For now, I'll call this a successful first real step though. ^_^
- Anazi Dynasty - Blinc-A and Blinc-B fireteams, for now, are sculpted, 3d masters printed. There are some minor tweaks I'd like to do before final casting though which means a couple master reprints of some pieces.
- Federated Commonwealth - power armor is sculpted, 3d masters printed. Once I finalize the approval on the masters, they will be ready to go to casting.
- Ex-Inquisitor is sculpted and the master is now being 3d printed.
- The two Corsair mercs are starting the sculpting process for them.
- Bases are mostly sculpted, some changes to them to make them beveled.
- There are a couple possible surprises as well. It just depends on the results the test I'm doing.
Once those are all done, I can go to back to history and lore writing, rewrites, and updates. I can then start to properly name and work out actual background identities for the various Corsair mercs and ranked individuals.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #12 - SitRep Saturday - May 27, 2017
Most Kickstarters do updates on either Monday or Friday. We have decided our weekly updates will be on Saturday instead.
We are still in the transition period waiting for the funds to be cleared and released. There is a mandatory hold period for 14 days, then usually another three to five days for the funds to transfer. We have however been hard at work to continue to make things moving along.
Barruz Studio is working on completing the last two sculpts for us, the male and female Corsair mercenaries. Other than those two sculpts, everything else has already been sculpted. Once we have those completed, we'll move straight into casting. That will allow us time to refine the Alpha rules into the Beta rules, so they are ready for backers.
There are also a couple surprises that we have been working on as well. We will give you a sneak look into some of them.
Update #13 - Painted Pretties - Jun 3, 2017
There has not been a whole lot of changes since last week. We are still in the holding pattern waiting for funding to clear, which should only be a few more days. The last 2 Corsair Mercenaries are still being sculpted but should only take a week or so to complete if everything stays on schedule.
Corsair Sculpting
This is a sneak peak into the Corsairs. Warning these are low poly, rough T-poses. They are not the final versions but it lets you see early on how they are coming along. The female Corsair merc is shaping up quite well, she matches her concept art fairly closely. The male Corsair will need some adjustments. There are parts that I'm ok with, but there are other parts which don't mesh up with the concept art and proportions are off a bit. We still have final posing, weapons, and some other tiny details but this lets you see our progress.
If you have any input, now is the time to get it in before we finalize things on these two. Don't be afraid to speak up when you think something is wrong or off. We enjoy hearing feedback from you whether it is good or bad or awesome. ^_^
Painted Pretties
These do not need a lot of introduction. These are 15 miniatures that are comprised of the two initial Anazi Dynasty Blinc fireteams, mixed together to create three fireteams. It gives you an idea of how they can be mixed and matched (not that they have to be grouped as 5, you can make them smaller fireteams but we'll get into that a bit later).
Higher Resolution Image
Higher Resolution Image
Higher Resolution Image
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #18 | GenCon - 50th Anniversary
GenCon
GenCon is coming up next month, the best four days of gaming and it happens to be their 50th Anniversary so it will be bigger than ever! Who is going to be at GenCon this year? As usual, we will be there as well so if you are interested in meeting up, let us know.
We have fallen behind on updates but not because we have been falling behind on work. There has not been a lot of progress in terms of production so we slacked a bit on the updates. It has also been a busy time around of year with the summer and the children out of school. We waiting on the finishing touches on the Corsair Mercs. You can see a preview image of how they have been coming along. This is still a WIP (work in progress).
Once these two models are finished sculpting and we have final renders, we will send out the survey. This will not be the Pledge Manager or a final commitment, just a basic survey to get information for the pledge manager (shipping address, name, email) and an initial idea of what models everyone is interested in purchasing. Once we have those turned in, then the final 3d-masters will be ordered and production on the miniatures will begin.
The plan is to keep the pledge manager open as long as possible. It will probably officially open a few weeks after casting starts. Once we receive the final miniatures, I'd like to get final production images and then close the pledge manager. That way everyone can see images of what they will be receiving, and any final miniatures they want to before we package and ship out.
You can get a preview of a few other things we have been working on. I am not sure if we'll be able to include these as well in the Pledge Manager. It really depends on final costs but if we can, they will be added. Otherwise, they will be available in the next Kickstarter for the Code Zero, expanding the miniatures line, once we've fulfilled this one. Keep in mind these are still works in progress as well and rough.
We have also been looking at various options to bring prototyping and/or 3d masters printing in-house. With the earlier versions of the Anazi Dynasty Blinc Scouts (before the Kickstarter), there was a sizing error which resulted in a costly reprint of all the masters. We could have avoided it had we been able to prototype them in-house to validate everything. It has been something we've been careful, planned properly, so hopefully, it won't happen in the future again but the best method would be able to bring that part in-house. Here are some examples of some of the test prints we've been doing.
Here are some other examples using test prints from two different printers, one being a SLA and the other being a DLP printer. We haven't decided on which one to go, either would be a good edition which helps us out drastically. It also means we don't have to wait days until we get sample pieces from the 3d printers we have been using.
The gray resin miniatures have details that are bit too soft to use them for master prints on some miniatures. Some the details turn out good. For the majority of them though they are just too soft, which means we lose a bit even with doing resin casts. The orange resin ones from a different printer are better, which is odd considering it was a lower spec printer. However, with 3d prints there is the printer, the slicer software as well as user that affects the quality of the print so we aren't quite sure which contributed to what yet. That was one reason we chose the Power Armor as our test print, since we have masters prints to compare quality with allowing us to see which ones performs better.
As you can see we have been keeping busy. We are still well ahead of schedule which is always good to hear.
99
Post by: insaniak
That female merc appears to be dressing to the left...
The big guys look cool.
105418
Post by: John Prins
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
ROFL! Yeah, that sometimes happens with lower poly roughs before posing is finalized. Once the pose is finalized, then smoothing, final details get added and touchup happens. And who says we aren't forward thinking, why does she have to be female? She is in this case, we are forward thinking but yeah since her pose isn't complete so as they move things they don't get adjusted completely.
My wife's response which I had to add was, "Aww come on guys, we left that there so you'd have something to sand down. Who doesn't want to do that?".
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
How about now? ^_^
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Better. Now she looks like a Thai tuck.
82091
Post by: ncshooter426
...You say that like it's a bad thing.
40919
Post by: spiralingcadaver
I think the chaps and body thong under armor (?) above her pants could both use a suggestion of cloth- right now, they look solid, which would be uncomfortable
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #19
Survey After GenCon
The final sculpting for the Corsair Mercs has been completed. Now that we have renders completed for all the units we will send out the initial survey. Since this week is GenCon we won't be able to complete the survey to send out until after GenCon is over. You can expect the survey no later than Saturday, Aug 26th. This will be the initial survey to show which units you are interested in getting, even if you haven't pledged for them yet and is not binding. It just gives us an idea of how many extra units to produce on top of our initial run.
Pledge Manager
The Pledge Manager is still being worked on. Once that is complete we'll send that out and keep it open until fulfillment which gives plenty of time for people to add things or if there are any late backers to jump in. The Pledge Manager is how you will choose which units you want and finalize your choices.
Corsair Mercs
They will each have an additional head so you can choose if you want them to wear their helmet or not.
Anazi Blinc Commanders
We have also been working on two additional commanders for Anazi Dynasty that are compatible with the Blinc Infantry scouts pieces, providing more options for poses. I am waiting for costs for 3d masters and adding to them to the production run. If we can they will be added to the pledge manager otherwise they will be available in a future release.
We have mixed the top torso, arms, head from the commander with the legs of one of the female Blinc scouts.
We mixed in the arms from one of the Blinc scouts with the head, torso and legs of the commander.
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Dark Severance wrote:Corsair Mercs We mixed in the arms from one of the Blinc scouts with the head, torso and legs of the commander.
She has a metal thong? Seems like it'd be exceedingly uncomfortable. The torso seems unnaturally long.
105418
Post by: John Prins
 JohnHwangDD wrote:
She has a metal thong? Seems like it'd be exceedingly uncomfortable.
The torso seems unnaturally long.
There's tons worse there to argue about if you've a mind to. I mean, she's got partially sculpted boob-plate that seems integrated into the second plate (while the male armor is not?), and those greaves would cut into her ankles something fierce (while the guy has articulated armor on his ankles). And the gross differences in the neck protection - hers is form fitting to her neck, his is wider than his head. And he lacks the crotch armor that she has (arguably, both should have cupping armor, but not thongs).
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Yes, there's other stuff. I just called out what I considered the worst offenders.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
JohnHwangDD wrote:She has a metal thong? Seems like it'd be exceedingly uncomfortable.
The torso seems unnaturally long.
 John Prins wrote:There's tons worse there to argue about if you've a mind to. I mean, she's got partially sculpted boob-plate that seems integrated into the second plate (while the male armor is not?), and those greaves would cut into her ankles something fierce (while the guy has articulated armor on his ankles). And the gross differences in the neck protection - hers is form fitting to her neck, his is wider than his head. And he lacks the crotch armor that she has (arguably, both should have cupping armor, but not thongs).
The one hard thing about renders and something that is unpainted, it can be harder to imagine how something fits together, is designed or ultimately has functionality. Although it is amusing that no one says anything during the months of concept art previews, creation, sculpting, modifications until something becomes finalized. So of all the times to bring objections up, to where we could have made design changes (not that we may have, but we have made changes due to input quite a few times actually). They are however valid and fair comments that I don't expect that these would not be the only ones. And that is ok.
References for design are pulled from multiple facets. Some of them are more widely recognized. Initially, the operative armor was designed to be layered. This is a more medium/light configuration, where lighter has some plates removed and heavier has an exo-frame that the armor wearer interfaces. The exo-frame then interfaces or inserts into a larger power armor suit which interlocks with the other pieces.
I can see how her torso could seem long, could be the pose but ultimately I think that is within acceptable ranges. Not everyone will have the same build, height and it can vary. As long as those proportions are properly displayed throughout the range, I believe it should be fine.
REFERENCES - Spoilered because of image dump of some of where inspiration and references to concepts came from.
Her breastplate is not integrated into the second plate, it is just like the male version. Given the lower res render combined with the angle, I can see how it may seem that way. It is a separate piece, attached to the bottom plate (like the males) to allow adjustments between different soldiers body types. The initial design for the breast plate is based on a sports bra which are designed to support, minimize breast movement, alleviate discomfort and which reduce potential damage to chest ligaments.
Yes, there are differences in the neck design between the two. His armor is a different design, although similar, they serve different functions. He is wearing a lighter based medium armor, designed for basic troop types. While her operative armor is designed to integrate and connect to other pieces like an exo-suit or power armor. I can see where the assumption of the greaves could be seen as being a solid metal plate similar to closed greaves. It has more of a boning type lining, the male version does appear outwardly articulated while hers do not.
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
@DS - sorry that I didn't call it out earlier - it wasn't as obvious as in the latest render.
105418
Post by: John Prins
Well, if we wanted sensible armor the female trooper would basically look identical to the male trooper.
61647
Post by: PsychoticStorm
John Prins wrote:Well, if we wanted sensible armor the female trooper would basically look identical to the male trooper.
And this is why companies choose to create artistic variations on armour.
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
John Prins wrote:Well, if we wanted sensible armor the female trooper would basically look identical to the male trooper.
Almost, but not quite. The armor would be cut somewhat differently to account for differences in anatomy and physiology. This was brought up specifically by a servicewoman who went over the details with Mark of DreamForge.
105418
Post by: John Prins
JohnHwangDD wrote: John Prins wrote:Well, if we wanted sensible armor the female trooper would basically look identical to the male trooper.
Almost, but not quite. The armor would be cut somewhat differently to account for differences in anatomy and physiology. This was brought up specifically by a servicewoman who went over the details with Mark of DreamForge.
Yeah, you get a few anatomical differences, mostly in the breadth of shoulder, but you don't get boob plate and hourglass figure troopers.
You end up with the same problem with guys in armor too, though, practical armor looks utilitarian, not cool. FutureArmor must be form fitting!
The reality of body armor is that even if form fitting FutureArmor is possible, people will still take the level of bulk shown above in order to get additional protection with acceptable weight and loss of agility. That's why I'm okay with impractical FutureArmor that looks cooler, including the tactical cloaks that were shown in the concepts.
60720
Post by: OrlandotheTechnicoloured
Actually with improved protection tech form fitting would probably be better than blocky as it would be equally protective from all direction,
we only have that now as the protective elements are sufficiently bulky we need to concentrate them in the highest risk areas
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
Shorter torso came up as well. And it's not uncommon for servicewomen to complain about squished breasts under armor.
68139
Post by: Barzam
Eh, she's a merc, so it's not like she would be wearing some standardized regulation gear anyway. I could totally see future space mercs wanting to customize their armor to appear "sexy." Particularly if that was their gimmick. Impractical, weird apparel is hardly new for sci-fi. As long as she's not wearing combat heels, which she isn't, I'm not really bothered by the costume design.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
JohnHwangDD wrote:@ DS - sorry that I didn't call it out earlier - it wasn't as obvious as in the latest render.
That is fair. I can agree it wasn't as obvious as at the time. I will hold final judgement until I see the final physical piece and there is some paint on it. I have learned that sometimes renders because of the zoomed nature and no real reference points, some things may seem too large or wrong until the final piece as there are parts exaggerated so they do show up better in the final item. I don't think this is in that case, but it does let me know of what things to keep track of in the future.
I do appreciate feedback, good and bad. I don't always agree but it is good to have varied opinions and I'm always willing to listen. In some cases go back and make changes as well (honestly if I had an unlimited budget, I'd "always" go back to make changes but I don't have that luxury).
 PsychoticStorm wrote: John Prins wrote:Well, if we wanted sensible armor the female trooper would basically look identical to the male trooper.
And this is why companies choose to create artistic variations on armour.
I prefer to think... "why not both". I don't necessarily mean one piece of armor being sensible and artistic, but I do mean that there is definitely room for to have both sensible looking miniatures as well as those that are aren't. Just as long as it isn't too much in one direction or another. I mean if everyone is wearing 'standard' gear, then everyone would look the same and that is going to be a pretty boring looking army (in my opinion).
Barzam wrote:Eh, she's a merc, so it's not like she would be wearing some standardized regulation gear anyway. I could totally see future space mercs wanting to customize their armor to appear "sexy." Particularly if that was their gimmick. Impractical, weird apparel is hardly new for sci-fi. As long as she's not wearing combat heels, which she isn't, I'm not really bothered by the costume design.
Exactly in reference to her being a merc and her gear is her gear. I'm not a fan of combat heels, but at some point (maybe not with CodeZero), I will be making power armor with heels because of Bubblegum Crisis, it was an anime that sort of got me into scifi gaming. But for the most part I try to stay sensible with designs, pushing some boundaries.
11776
Post by: Vertrucio
The armor is pretty tame in terms of practical issues.
My concern is that these are a bit on the nose in terms of mass effect being the conceptual source. Which is to say, basing it heavily on original Syd Mead too, so it's not that big a deal.
But, you have better visual identity if your other alien designs. It's fine to draw from ME and similar aesthetics, but you'll need to push it more. Even just slightly different angles and plane changes will help even if the forms stay the same.
105418
Post by: John Prins
Dark Severance wrote: I will be making power armor with heels because of Bubblegum Crisis, it was an anime that sort of got me into scifi gaming. But for the most part I try to stay sensible with designs, pushing some boundaries.
Power armor with heels actually makes sense...if the heel is where a booster jet is.
61647
Post by: PsychoticStorm
Dark Severance wrote:
PsychoticStorm wrote: John Prins wrote:Well, if we wanted sensible armor the female trooper would basically look identical to the male trooper.
And this is why companies choose to create artistic variations on armour.
I prefer to think... "why not both". I don't necessarily mean one piece of armor being sensible and artistic, but I do mean that there is definitely room for to have both sensible looking miniatures as well as those that are aren't. Just as long as it isn't too much in one direction or another. I mean if everyone is wearing 'standard' gear, then everyone would look the same and that is going to be a pretty boring looking army (in my opinion).
You can have both, no question about it. Automatically Appended Next Post: John Prins wrote: Dark Severance wrote: I will be making power armor with heels because of Bubblegum Crisis, it was an anime that sort of got me into scifi gaming. But for the most part I try to stay sensible with designs, pushing some boundaries.
Power armor with heels actually makes sense...if the heel is where a booster jet is.
Well technically Heels in power armour could be used as attachment points like how they were first introduced in ancient times for cavalry, assuming powered armour troops ride externally to their transport vehicle, but this would be a really specialised feature, jetpacks probably not, if a jetpack is not attached to the torso, it will probably harm the user, I guess manoeuvring thrusters could go there though.
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
There are powered wingsuits that attach the jets to the operator's legs.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Let's call a hardsuit a hardsuit and make some modern interpretations of the Knight Sabers then if we're going to talked heeled power armor.
You know that's what we all want anyways... that or Boomers.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Yes! Boomers! These are not quite boomers but they have a similar vibe.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Well shoot, those are beyond Boomer enough for me.
You guys ought to get cracking on getting something like that out onto the market.
I can't be the only one interested in creepy mechanical things like that!
5421
Post by: JohnHwangDD
That thing is more Sedition Wars than BGC! Boomer.
105418
Post by: John Prins
PsychoticStorm wrote:
Well technically Heels in power armour could be used as attachment points like how they were first introduced in ancient times for cavalry, assuming powered armour troops ride externally to their transport vehicle, but this would be a really specialised feature, jetpacks probably not, if a jetpack is not attached to the torso, it will probably harm the user, I guess manoeuvring thrusters could go there though.
One thing I loved about the original Iron Man movie is the practical effects they put Downey through for the 'learning to fly' sequences, where he was actually standing on stirrups hanging from wires so it would seem as if the thrust was really coming from boot heel level rather than having him in a chest harness.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Still moving forward but lost a bit of inertia which resulted in slowing down due to non-business influences which I explain towards the bottom. We are still on schedule but we won't be able to deliver a couple months early like I had wanted to do and we're closing on eating up the rest of the safety buffer but for good business reasons.
Update #21 - No Rest for the Weary
Kickstarter News
It has been hectic and busy but that is normal when it seems like everything converges at once. I'll go more into that further down as it doesn't really concern the project.
As far as the Kickstarter we are still on schedule but I had wanted to be ahead of schedule and deliver early. We ended up adding some extra miniatures into the mix which weren't part of the initial project as more of a surprise for our backers. But those additions didn't add extra delay.
Currently, all our masters are not printed in-house but instead at the same place, we outsource our Kickstarter production with to make things easier. Now the disadvantage is the time to get them in hand, inspect, make adjustments if needed and then back to the factory. On average a 3D master print for a multipiece miniature tends to cost $125-200 after taxes and currency conversions.
Along with the extra miniatures, getting a set of 10+ masters printed ends up costing $1750 which is fine and planned for. With the extra cost though, it puts us very close to the cost of a 3D DLP Printer. It ends up being 1/2-1/3 of the way to a high quality, resolution, 3D DLP printer that is capable of printing the 3D Masters. because today 3D DLP printer prices have gone down while the quality has gone up. We have been looking at printers but more closely at the ones that Awaken Realms and Zealot Miniatures uses.
The idea was to get the 3D Printer, get the masters done in-house and then start production. Things have a way of interfering with the best-laid plans which added some delays to getting the printer, which I'll get to below for those that want to know.
Overall we should still be on track although we're pushing the boundaries of the timeline more than I like. We've been going over the samples of our printers with various companies to make a decision and then things will move rapidly after that. The advantage of bringing the printing in-house is just too good to pass up not to mention it saves us hundreds in the long run, which means we can put it towards more miniatures designs.
We've given ourselves a couple weeks until we have a hard cut off date. If we haven't gotten it by then, then we'll just pay the $1750 and get the masters done with whom we normally have it done with. We will still be getting the printer in-house so that doesn't effect it but I don't want to delay the Kickstarter. We are just hoping to reduce that amount for the cost of the masters since we would only be paying for resin at that point once we bring it in-house.
In Other News
For those that are interested in reviews, the findings, likes, dislikes and images of journey into 3D Printer SLA and DLP we will post a link later once we are done. This will be useful for anyone thinking of getting something like this, comparison with FDM as well a deeper look behind the curtain.
Now for what has been causing us issues outside of business. This isn't related to the Kickstarter but just more of an FYI so you have an idea of what has caused some logistic issues.
A few months ago our family dog, who is only 7, ended up getting glaucoma in one of her eyes, resulting in her losing vision in it. There are two types of dogs, one is a gradual kind similar to that in humans while the other comes on very fast. It was something we were not quite prepared for. To ease the comfort we had to extracted her eye. They did a great job, it just looks like she is winking and she was on her way to recovery. Dog eyes are exact duplicates so the fact that she got it in one, meant that she could get it in the other so we had to make plans to prepare for that to happen.
Then two months ago she had some issues with her lymph nodes so we took her back in. They did a test and sent it off the lab and we found out she had lymphoma, a cancer that starts in cells that are part of the body's immune system. There were quite a few options for treatment, some better than others, but all of them are basically chemo-therapy for cancer. After some serious thought and discussions with the kids and wife, we determined what path to go forward with and have been doing it. We have a treatment every weekend, which is the time away from my normal full-time job to work on Code Zero and the business. That created some logistical challenges which we've been overcoming.
Then wildfires hit the NW, edging very close to where we live. There were a few weeks of dealing with that, along with being in an evacuation zone so we had to prepare. Had they not got them under control, thankfully the wind shifted, otherwise the results may have been very different.
The family is safe, the furry family member is still doing chemotherapy for at least another 2 months but her cancer is already in remission which is great. There have been a few other smaller things but overall spirits are high. A lot of good came from these experiences.
During that time, some of you may have heard that Spartan Games had closed their doors. Due to the poor health of the director, they closed their doors and their assets became available to purchase.
We felt there was a great benefit to going for the Firestorm Armada Line, which included Planetfall. We thought that would be a great benefit moving the IP to the US, streamlining it and improving upon it. There are also benefits to some of the Planetfall assets that we could convert to 28mm scale and incorporate into Code Zero. We ended up putting in an offer of £50,000, hoping that no others would be interested in Uncharted and Dystopia instead. We did not expect Warcradle Studios, basically Wayland Games, to put an offer on the whole range and putting a much higher bid. We wish them the best, it is a shame but we're interested to see what they come up with.
I think that covers everything and should bring everyone up to speed.
60720
Post by: OrlandotheTechnicoloured
Fingers crossed you dog continues to do well, pets are very much part of the family
61647
Post by: PsychoticStorm
Wishes for good recovery, its part of the family.
72319
Post by: highlord tamburlaine
Would've been cool to see Planetfall get acquired stateside.
I could be wrong too, but weren't there models actually made of 28mm figures for the line? I swear I remember seeing larger figures than the actual line at some point.
722
Post by: Kanluwen
I don't do Kickstarters or anything like that, but I look forward to seeing a retail release on these. The tactical cloaked models looked awesome and your winking dog has sold me on the whole line.
Best of luck with the chemo to her and best of luck with everything to you!
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Thank you, she is enjoying her new grain free diet (apparently cancer cells love grain) which has been really great for her coat.
highlord tamburlaine wrote:Would've been cool to see Planetfall get acquired stateside.
I could be wrong too, but weren't there models actually made of 28mm figures for the line? I swear I remember seeing larger figures than the actual line at some point.
Yeah that was definitely a motivation, having it Stateside would have definitely helped it progress along with support for organized play, improved production, and focus.
I am not sure if there were 28mm figures unless they sculpted with that size in mind and then scaled it down to 10mm, which wouldn't be unheard of. I have not seen any figures of them in 28mm. Now there miniatures that could look like they are Planetfall but were actually Dystopain Legions, which were 32mm. I didn't realize it was 32mm until after I made an offer, not that I don't think that would have changed my plans. It wasn't a time period or style that I'm too familar with where Firestorm was more up my alley and I didn't want to split focus.
 Kanluwen wrote:I don't do Kickstarters or anything like that, but I look forward to seeing a retail release on these. The tactical cloaked models looked awesome and your winking dog has sold me on the whole line.
Best of luck with the chemo to her and best of luck with everything to you!
Thank you. There are 6 more chemotherapy treatments and then it is just up to genetics at that point on how long she stays in remission.
40919
Post by: spiralingcadaver
Glad to hear your dog is getting treatment, and that you weren't hit by that crazy fire!
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #22 - Production Update
I have to apologize for the lack of updates, between the wildfires and our furry baby chemo-treatment for her cancer, it has been a roller coaster. That in itself is not an excuse, just an explanation that a lot has been going on. That, however, does not mean that we have been idle and nothing has been going on. There is a lot of work done behind the scenes but there has not been a lot of time to do a proper update as most free time has been focused towards the finish line.
Late Delivery
I will start with the bad news that delivery will most likely be late. The production is a small run and should be completed fairly quickly but with holidays and delays in shipping because of the holidays, I am going to be upfront and say it will be late. The worse case scenario it will be 3 months late, putting the delivery in March. But I do not believe it will be that late, ideally, we want to ship everything out by January. I have been told that we can meet that timeline, however, I like to add 2 months to every estimate given as I know there can always be complications. We do not foresee any surprises but that is just me being upfront with everything as best as I can.
I understand what it means to invest in something and have it be delayed. For those that do not want to wait a few months, we do have some options. These options are also available to those who want to wait until the main shipping. We are able to provide either single piece high-quality 3d master printed resin miniature or multi-piece 3d printed miniatures. These are the same quality, if not better (since a very small % of detail is lost due to the casting process) resin miniatures. The resin is a more durable and stronger than traditional resin casts as well.
If you are interested in one of those options, please send us a message so we can discuss it and facilitate this process for you.
Camera Upgrade
I have had to rely on outside camera support for good quality pictures as a cell phone camera just doesn't cut for product and image shots. With the holidays, their schedule has been fairly booked which puts a delay on getting images that we need. The decision was made to purchase an in-house camera to use for pictures and video work in the future. That has also been a new learning process as we looked at what the best options for us would have been without putting a strain on our budget. Thankfully we have some great friends who helped out and made the process as painless as possible.
3D Printer In-House
The last update had mentioned were looking into purchasing a DLP 3D printer with the intent to do prototyping as well as printing 3d-masters in-house. This was a big decision as there are multiple options to choose from. We reached out to multiple companies using a test file from one of our miniatures as the "control example". That let us compare it with one of the professional 3d masters which helped us make a better decision.
The quality and speed of the printer was not the only important thing to us. Since we are a business, we needed to be sure that if something happened with the printer we would have access to quick professional support, easy to replacement parts and repair. That meant finding someone with distributor and support within the US. After much deliberation, we made our decision and went ahead with the purchase.
Once we received it, opened the box and set it up everything worked great. The printer exceeded our expectations but there was definitely a learning curve. We quickly learned that we could get a better quality print depending on the placement of the miniature. Each one required multiple tests and since this was a new process, it was slower in the beginning.
This also gave us some other great options we will be able to pursue in the future. It will allow us to print single piece high-quality resin miniatures that are comparable if not better than traditional two-piece resin casting. This will make it easier to create our Starter Packs as well as Board Game prototypes. The cost per miniature for small runs is only marginally more expensive than traditional casting but because it ends up reducing the labor-intensive cost it will help with future products and projects. There will be more information on that in a later update.
Examples of 75mm collectors figure vs regular 32mm miniatures.
Pledge Manager
Originally we were going to use the Pledge Manager designed by Awaken Realms using GameFound. It, unfortunately, is not completely ready for public use. There were a couple other Kickstarters that utilized it and they found some issues that they are trying to work through resulting in the reprogramming of it. As such, they won't be using it for new projects as of yet. We are working on updating our website and should be able to integrate our own pledge manager into it. Work is being completed on that process in the next couple weeks.
How is the Budget?
I know there can be some alarm, red flags, and concern whenever any project starts spending money that was not originally planned for. There are many projects that end up overspending and ultimately fail to deliver or end up in financial issues causing delays with delivery. I want to assure everyone that isn't an issue for us. We have not utilized any of the Kickstarter money at this time. That money was specifically budgeted for the production and shipment of the miniatures so it has been left alone.
Since we ended up bringing 3d prints internally we have saved ourselves a few thousand just in 3d masters, prototyping, tests, and shipping. Also as part of our initial bidding for Spartan Games Firestorm line, which was not successful, we had redesigned our budget. Part of this process was refinancing assets which resulted in freeing up extra funding. We have also taken on prototyping and printing for other outside projects and clients which has allowed us to obtain our current assets.
In Other News
The families furry baby, Mikaido has successfully finished her 4 months of cancer chemo-treatment. She has officially been diagnosed as in remission. It is now a waiting game to see if it comes back or if she continues to live worry free to her ripe old age.
We have high hopes for many more years of great memories with her. On the plus side, human treatment for cancer is the same treatment that they use for dogs and cats and there have been some great breakthroughs in treatment this year. The FDA has approved CAR T-cell treatment for B-cell lymphoma. It uses the patients own genetically modified cells to attack the type of leukemia opening a new frontier in treatment and medical innovation.
That is all for now. There is a lot more to cover and we intended to post them up last weekend until we were hit with the nasty flu. We are still not at 100% but I understand the importance of needing to get proper communication out even if it is short. We plan to get some more assembled miniatures pictures, along with images of them primed since the orange is reflective so hard to see some of the details.
68139
Post by: Barzam
Shame it's getting delayed, but I have a huge backlog anyway. I'm glad to jear your pupper is doing better. Here's hoping she's got it totally beat.
61647
Post by: PsychoticStorm
Glad to hear she does better!
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #23 - Sitrep
I apologize for the radio silence but we are mostly in a holding pattern waiting for casting to finish so there has not been a lot share. That doesn't mean we haven't been doing anything, there are a lot of great things we have been doing behind the scenes but before we get to that... let's talk about the delays.
The Elephant in the Room
We are late in delivering and although we aren't even close to being as late as the majority of other Kickstarters, it does not change the fact that we are late. Part of that was our fault and the other half is outside of our control. I'm not blaming them as we know there are always delays in manufacturing but I will update on how we got here.
Through the Kickstarter we unlocked 17 miniatures; 10 Anazi Dynasty Blincs, 4 Federated Commonwealth Corers, 1 Ex-Inquisitor, and 2 Corsair Mercs. 10 of them we have already previously done a test casting run with so we already had masters and production samples. The rest we had not done masters for yet.
That first delay basically lost us our spot in the production queue. It was a hard decision but one that needed to be made to allow things to be easier and faster future releases. We did research which took longer than expected to get samples back from the various prospects but ultimately made a decision to get a 3D Printer to print masters. As such once we got everything together and shipped out to our caster, it has just been a waiting period.
Why didn't we just cast in-house?
It is a good question since we have the ability and capability to do so. We made the decision long ago that Kickstarter Campaigns were to be fulfilled through outside sources and not in-house. Future releases would be handled in-house but fulfillment was handled by someone else. The main reason is because we still work full full-time jobs on top of us building this business. I have seen many other Kickstarters go astray as they try to balance work while working on their Kickstarter. We didn't want that to happen. That meant that there could be delays which there usually always are and they would be outside of our control.
At this time casting is still proceeding. I am waiting to hear a better timeline on when it will be completed and shipped. Once I hear that, I will be able to share it but until then things are still proceeding.
Wave 1 and Wave 2
I understand that no one likes to wait and delays are sometimes unavoidable and annoying. For this reason, we have decided to do two waves. Wave 1 will be for those that do not want to wait for resin casts. We can fulfill pledges with 3d master quality prints. You will not be able to tell the difference between these and resin casts and will have a better detailed and better resin miniature. You don't have to take our word for it though, this weekend we should finish photos and will be adding them to the Pledge Manager. Wave 2 will be for those who want the resin casts.
Pledge Manager
Originally the Pledge Manager was going to be through GameFound which is the system that Awaken Realms created. They were offering to Kickstarters to utilize for free. This meant we didn't have to pay a $250-450 setup charge like other Kickstarter backerkits which we didn't initially plan for. Unfortunately when they utilized it with a couple Kickstarters there were some issues. At the time it isn't ready for release.
Some of what we have been doing has been modifying our own e-commerce package with our online store. We have been working on it and testing it to see if it will work as a Pledge Manager. It took some work but we are about done and it will function as our Pledge Manager. When the work is complete the link will be sent out. The pledge manager will stay open until we start shipping Wave 2.
We are still waiting on a few new pieces of artwork to be completed. In the meantime here is an image dump of some photos as well as artwork we have been working on. Sunday we hope to do another image dump, this time of all the miniatures, to add to the Pledge Manager so we can open that up next week.
Image Dump
The Future
I am excited about the future because throughout this process we have been spending time doing comprehensive tests of Tradition Resin Casts Vs 3D Master Prints in terms of durability, paintability, costs, and what it can mean for future production and manufacturing.
Resin casting gets us great quality miniatures but the downside is the labor cost in the casting process. Like all casting processes you can lose a small %, usually 1-10% of details due to the casting process, which is one of the reasons sculpts are exaggerated and details aren't soft. A mould can last for 30-40 pulls before having to be redone. You can mix resin, pour, put it in a pressure pot then demould with the process taking roughly 20 minutes. That means having someone spend that attended time doing that, producing 5-10 miniatures every 20 minutes. You can add more moulds but the resin as a working span so there is a limit how many moulds one person can pour resin. You can increase the output by adding more labor which gets increasingly more expensive. If you have someone just doing casting, when you aren't doing production, you now have wasted labor.
That brings us to 3D Printing manufacturing also known as Additive Manufacturing. For the most part unless you are using a $100-200K 3D Printer, most average resin printers can't keep up reliably. Each printer SLA or DLP have their own strengths and weaknesses. The costs have come down, printers have improved greatly in the past 5 years.
SLA uses a laser that is round 70-140microns circle. That means that the surface texture is smooth but because it is a laser, it does have trouble with some details depending on how your model is orientated. It is slower than DLP and prints similar to a FDM printer in how it prints tracing the design and infills. A 32mm miniature with SLA could take 3-5 hours to print and if you did multiple ones, they'd each take that much time for each additional miniature. You don't get a benefit from doing a full plate of printing. If I was to do 5 miniatures, then it would take 15-25 hours, 3-5 hours per miniature. You can create a printer farm but for manufacturing, it would be better to have a caster.
DLP printers however print a full layer at a time, instead of tracing your design. They operate much faster and can get a better resolution at a voxel level. That comes at a price, mainly a much smaller print volume. However the same 32mm only takes 1-2 hours to print and if I do extras, it doesn't add any extra time per miniature because it does a full layer at once. The same 5 miniatures would only take 1-2 hours vs 15 hours of the SLA.
We already utilize 3D Printers today in miniatures manufacturing. Almost the majority of digital miniatures print 3D Masters to either cast from or create 3-Ups for injection moulding. Antenociti's Workshop uses a Formlabs Form 2 SLA to print masters and Awaken Realms uses a Solus DLP printer to print masters. Normally we would print a 3D master, create a silicone mould of that master and cast from that mould.
We decided to take it one step further and skip casting entirely. For commercial printers and even some hobby DLP/SLA printers reliability, consistency and ability have greatly increased. Once you have created your main print file, I only have to press print and walk away. We can offer 3d master quality printers, at a slightly higher material cost per miniature but at a much lower labor cost. 3D Printing allows us to make better use of our time, freeing up time to design, test and do other things other than just casting.
Like all resins, not all 3d printer resins are the same. For example, Formlabs resin tends to be brittle. It is a great resin but has a small learning curve to work with it and one I didn't feel customers should have to deal with. We have been doing quite a bit of testing with multiple resins and believe we've found a good medium with EnvisionTec as well as Solus resins. It closely matches traditional resin in miniatures, if not stronger and more durable.
Not only do we get the benefit of greatly reducing labor costs, one of the larger costs of casting. It also means we don't have to wait for a casting run to be completed. Normally we have to wait until all 50-200 casts are complete before we get the shipment. But with this method we can literally print on demand, once sculpting is complete we can just go straight to manufacture and then shipping. It becomes a win/win situation for both us as a company and for the consumers. We also believe this is where future is going towards for miniature manufacturing. We have already started to see a couple companies start to make this shift.
77209
Post by: Gallahad
Cool artwork, I like the environments in particular. With the 3d DLP printed miniatures you will be selling will they still have the supports attached or will you remove those? I'm open to the idea that support rod burs are the mold lines of the future, but I had some terrain 3d printed and have found the support bars a huge pain to remove.
58873
Post by: BobtheInquisitor
The artwork is amazing. Was there an art book or something like that for this campaign?
When do the minis hit retail?
Also, what are you doing with the 3D print scaffolding after you remove it? It looks like it would be great for 6mm or 10mm terrain...
68139
Post by: Barzam
Are the scientists in that location artwork wearing dog hats?
Still looking forward to this. The power armored jackal guys were pretty cool looking, so I hope they'll be available as well before too long.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
 Gallahad wrote:Cool artwork, I like the environments in particular. With the 3d DLP printed miniatures you will be selling will they still have the supports attached or will you remove those? I'm open to the idea that support rod burs are the mold lines of the future, but I had some terrain 3d printed and have found the support bars a huge pain to remove.
In my opinion supports are definitely the equivalent to mold lines or snipping a miniature from a sprue. I believe future manufacturing this is the next step, mainly because it allows on-demand manufacturing without the need of keeping large amounts of stock. It obviously won't work for everything but for the most part can be a valuable addition.
Supports and the ease of removal depend on the printer, material, and slicer used to prep the file. FDM/FFF supports are annoying to deal with if I use Cura or Slic3r but come off easier when sliced with Simplfy3D. For resin SLA/DLP printers it depends on how the supports are created. If using meshmixer or a free program, they tend to be harder to remove while Solus Contour or PerfactoryRP supports separate fairly easily. A lot of times they'll separate as part of the cleaning process.
If someone wants to remove supports themselves they can request it however supports will usually be removed. However, there might be some spurs that need to be trimmed or touched up (I'll try to get a picture to demonstrate). After they are cleaned with alcohol I use an air compressor to dry them off, also makes sure no liquid resin got stuck in cracks or creases. The compressor will separate some supports, the rest I pull away before putting them in a UV cure box. It is easier to remove supports before the final cure because the alcohol makes the touch points weaker when it is fully cured they become stiffer.
 BobtheInquisitor wrote:The artwork is amazing. Was there an art book or something like that for this campaign?
When do the minis hit retail?
Also, what are you doing with the 3D print scaffolding after you remove it? It looks like it would be great for 6mm or 10mm terrain...
There is no artwork planned at this time. I don't feel there is enough artwork to warrant that... yet. Once we get a lot more then that is something that could happen if there was interest.
It won't be open for purchase until after KS backers receive orders. However the Pledge Manager will open up and allow late backers, it will close once we start Wave 2 shipping. After Wave 2 is complete then they will be on the online store.
I never thought about the scaffolding... currently, all the scraps are sitting in a box. I guess I could see how it could be used as that, an interesting idea. I might have to see about doing some terrain designs that incorporate the supports generated with them.
Barzam wrote:Are the scientists in that location artwork wearing dog hats?
Still looking forward to this. The power armored jackal guys were pretty cool looking, so I hope they'll be available as well before too long.
Yes some of them are. Most of the armors have them or something similar designed into them, similar to the horns for the Blinc troopers. Even if someone didn't have horns or was human and not a gene-splicer, foreign units wouldn't know how to tell the difference. This lends to their psychological profile as other factions want to avoid them because they are mutants. It is a bedtime story that others tell their children to behave, "Be a good citizen and behave otherwise the devils and demon dogs will come for you in the night and turn you into a monster".
The Jackals are one of the next things up along with lizards. We want to wait until we have more tactile feedback about the miniatures, pros, cons, strengths, weaknesses. That way when we do the next batch or sculpts we can adjust or correct any issues and continue to create better products.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
Update #24 - Incoming Images
In order to help people decide if they wanted to wait for Wave 2 or be part of Wave 1, I will be doing a few of these image updates.
I apologize for the quality but I'm still learning, there definitely a learning curve when you actually have a decent camera to take better pictures with. The good news is they take good details, the bad news is everything shows up and when I mean everything, I mean every dust particle or hair. It does look like I'll need to hit the miniatures with the air compressor before priming them. I should also add another light source, towards the bottom or change the angle of my camera for photos.
Once I get these primed up and it dries, I'll take another batch of pictures for the pledge manager and update.
I will start with the control image, this is one of our traditional resin cast miniatures.
When you put it next to a 3D print, it is hard to tell the difference other than the color. The photo doesn't do it justice but once they are primed as one color you will be able to tell better... or rather won't be able to tell the difference between the two.
One advantage of 3D printing is that we get access to product faster which means getting to customers faster. Another advantage is things that normally require multi-piece casting or needing to be cut, can be done easier with 3D Printing.
Normally if the above or below miniature were to be cast, it would have been cut into multiple pieces. The legs on the Shadowbeast and the clothing on the one below can make them more difficult to cast. Extra cuts can add extra costs so not having to do that and gaining access to more easily done dynamic posing is a plus.
Here are some other prints:
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
77209
Post by: Gallahad
I love those security guard human types and the big robots! I also really like the big guy firing the two guns!
58873
Post by: BobtheInquisitor
So the pledge manager will be open until wave 2 ships...? What is the estimated date for that?
Everything looks amazing, but with some surprise KDM shipping and other commitments, my budget isn't allowing any purchases right now.
119114
Post by: Hanksingle
Buh, kind of bummed that my favorite mini of the bunch, by a large margin, was the KS exclusive. That Ex-Inquisitor model is terrific.
86322
Post by: Dark Severance
The pledge manager will be open until Wave 2 ships, which should hopefully no longer than 2 months out. I don't have a more exact date yet because I haven't had an update from the casters yet. However, once Wave 2 has finished shipping, we'll also open online retail after it is complete.
The good news about the KS Exclusive is if you miss it this batch, it may be available in future KS. The idea was that the exclusives would stay exclusive to Kickstarter, but future KS would have options of getting them for those that may have missed previous campaigns. We want to reward those that back us but at the same time don't want to punish those who may not have seen the campaign until later or didn't have funds to back at the time.
Any future campaigns will be paying for artwork and sculpting of miniatures with production going straight to 3d printing. This should allow us to deliver much faster and not wait for a "full casting run" before we can ship anything. That puts more control of timing in our hands only waiting on one source, the artists, to complete their tasks.
|
|
