Hello Again,
As most of you are aware, the NOVA Open just wrapped up this past weekend. With that, we saw similar trends in the armies that made it to the top tier or fought for No.1 in their respective tournament. In fact, in the top tier 1 bracket we saw 5 Space Wolf and 4 Grey Knight players out of a total of sixteen total participants. That is more than half the field. Hmm.... I guess no one would be surprised to learn that they also took home the top prizes in two of the more significant events.
1) Winner of the NOVA Open Invitational 2011 - Grey Knights
1a) Second place was awarded to a Space Wolves Player
2) Winner of the NOVA Open 2011 - Space Wolves
2a) Second place was awarded to a Grey Knight Player
Both lists utilized:
- Razorbacks and rhinos transporting minimum sized squads with some form of anti tank weapon (Meltagun or Psycannon).
- Heavy Support that was capable of taking our light transports. Psycannon Dreadnought or Long Fangs w/Missile Launchers.
The notable difference in both armies is the Space Wolves fielded scouts and strong HQs such as Njal or Thunder Wolf Cavalry Lords.
This brings me back to one army I've been playing for years and one army I am currently working on. I've been playing Space Wolves for years. In the beginning, I utilized the Rhino Rush to great effect. When rhinos took a big hit, I switched to a hybrid Rhino/Drop Pod list and still did well. Lately, I've been using a Land Raider followed up by Rhinos and Drop Pods. This list has served me well, but I feel like the Landraider does not always make back its points. Therefore, I've contemplated a new list.
Space Wolves 2000pts.
275pts - HQ: Logan Grimnar
245pts - HQ: Njal Stormcaller
085pts - Elite: Spave Wolf Scouts w/Meltagun
225pts - Troops: Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Weapon, Plasma Pistol, Plasmagun x2 [Drop Pod]
215pts - Troops: Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2 [Drop Pod]
215pts - Troops: Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2 [Drop Pod]
120pts - Troops: Grey Hunter Pack (5) Meltagun [Razorback w/HB]
120pts - Troops: Grey Hunter Pack (5) Meltagun [Razorback w/HB]
115pts - Troops: Grey Hunter Pack (5) Meltagun [Drop Pod]
115pts - Heavy: Long Fangs (5) Missile Launcher x4
115pts - Heavy: Long Fangs (5) Missile Launcher x4
150pts - Heavy: Long Fangs (5) Multi-Melta x4 [Drop Pod]
Total Points - 1995pts
The idea behind this list seems pretty obvious, but I'll explain just in case.
Turn 1: Logan Grimnar w/MM Long Fangs and the PF Meltagun Grey Hunters arrive via Drop Pods. They target armor and other high priority targets. Twenty five Grey Hunters and Logan Grimnar are no joke and can cause some serious damage. The Long Fangs w/Missiles deploy in unison with the two Grey Hunter Packs in Razorbacks for support. The Long Fangs and GH in Razorbacks provide fire support while holding rear objectives/quarters.
Turn 2: Hopefully, the initial Drop Pod Assault is still alive and active to cause damage and create mayhem. Hopefully, the scouts and the last large Grey Hunter squad arrive to assist Logan and Boys. The Long Fangs w/Missiles and Grey Hunters in Razorbacks continue to harass the enemy and provide much needed fire support.
Turn 3 and 4: Njal arrives with the last Grey Hunter Squad in their Drop Pod. By this time, his tempest is raging to full effect and will wreak devastation for enemy squads. Njal will arrive in the middle of the enemy's lines in support of Logan and boys unleashing psychic powers and the tempest.
If all works out well, the Space Wolves Shock and Awe will cripple the enemy before they can react. Then the clean up crew (Njal and remaining Grey Hunters) will come in for the kill.
In regards to the Grey Knights, I've been working on an Adeptus Custodes army. I'm sure you were already aware of this per my last post. I've decided to alter the list slightly in favor of a different secondary HQ. The list would perform a little better in the tournament scene, but includes a few non competitive units (GK Terminators).
190pts - HQ: Grand Master w/Psychotroke (sp?) Grenades
175pts - HQ: Grey Knight Librarian w/Sanctuary, Shrouding, 3 other powers (Can't recall their names)
145pts - Elite: Vindicare Assassin (Love this model and its rules)
180pts - Elite: Purifier Squad (5) Psycannon x2, Rhino
225pts - Troops: Terminator Squad (5), Psycannon, Daemon Hammer
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
Total Points: 2000pts
Kill Points: 17
Scoring Units: 5 + D3
As you can see, I've removed the Brother Champion (it pains me) and Justicar Thawn for a Librarian with five psychic powers. The librarian can use two of his powers in my opponents turn and two in my turn. Most notably, he can turn my 4+ Cover save into a 3+ cover save making my units more resilient. He can also use Sanctuary to prevent or make it more difficult for enemy models to assault my units as they will be force to roll for difficult and dangerous terrain. Finally, he has some offensive psychic shooting attacks and a buff for combat. All for 175pts..... What a steal!
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
"Remember, where you are going, there are no roads."
Hello again, its been too long. Between wrapping up the last few semesters of school and work, there hasn't been much time for posting on my blog. The good news is I'm in the last semester and I expect to graduate in December. That means I can devote more time to my beloved hobby and devote more time to my blog. Until then, I'll provide a little update and hopefully post some pictures within a week or two.
I've started another army. Yes, you are probably asking yourself, why start another army when you cannot finish the first one or second, third, fourth, and fifth ones. I just love building and converting that much. Its much easier to design, build and convert, and play with an army than it is to paint it. Plus, I have trouble settling on one list.
The new addition to the family and flavor of the week is ...... (Drum roll)....The Grey Knights. I've always wanted to create a Grey Knight army since I read the first Grey Knight book. I didn't like the previous codex and line of models enough to dive in and join the Daemon Hunter band wagon. That all changed with the new Codex and line of models. Mostly, due to the new nice miniatures and plastic kits that were released. This gave me an idea. What if I created an Adeptus Custodes army. The Grey Knight models are perfect, well at least their weapons and rules. I'd need some additional bits, but nothing I couldn't handle. Therefore, I jumped in head first.
What came out the other end was a pleasant surprise. I'm quite happy with the models minus the storm bolter and lack of a gunglaive, but I'm pleased otherwise. I used the following bits.
-WH Fantasy High Elves New Plastic White Lion Head/Helms.
-Blood Angel Sanguinary Winged Shoulder pad for the Left shoulder pad.
-Mixed Shoulder pads for the Right shoulder pad (Blood Angels, Dark Angels, Grey knights, Etc.)
-Grey Knight Torso
-Grey Knight Back Pack (slimmed down)
-Dark Angels Plastic Robed Legs
-Grey Knight Halberd and Storm Bolter Weapon Arms.
With that in mind, here is my list. Its not perfect or finalized, but I'm pretty set on most of the units.
190pts - HQ: Grand Master w/Psychotroke (sp?) Grenades
100pts - HQ: Brother Champion (Just love this model's rules and I converted a nice mini)
145pts - Elite: Vindicare Assassin (Love this model and its rules)
175pts - Elite: Purifier Squad (5) Psycannon x2, Rhino
300pts - Troops: Terminator Squad (5) Justicar Thawn, Psycannon, Daemon Hammer
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
Total Points: 1995pts
Kill Points: 18
Scoring Units: 6 + D3
Certain elements in this list are tactically sound while others are more for fun and fluff.
1) The Grand Master provides the Grand Stratagem ability. This ability allows a few things to happen, but most importantly turns D3 other units into scoring units. This is obviously used to give the Dreadnoughts the ability to score and hold rear objectives.
2) The Brother Champion is a Death Star killer. More important to me is the picture and cool duel like rules his unit brings to the table. Did I mention I converted a really cool model to fit the picture in the GK book. Pictures to come at a later date.
3) The Vindicare is just plan awesome. Well and the coolness and fun factor are off the charts.
4) The Purifiers are a great unit with their psychic power cleanse and purifier (sp?). They also get two attacks, are fearless, and can sport two psycannons in a 5 man squad. Easy choice. The only downside is they cannot score unless the Grand Stratagem is used on them.
5) The Grey Knights Terminators are purely for fun. Thawn is interesting and can become climatic. I do like the Initiative 6 halberds. It also helps they are a scoring unit and my Grand Master can lead their squad.
6) The Basic Grey Knight Strike Squads are awesome. Storm Bolters and Pyscannon. Daemon Hammers might be a waste of 10pts, but I'm of the opinion its better safe than sorry. I cannot count the number of times a powerfist has come in handy versus a vehicle or lone MC. The daemon hammer is a Thunder hammer on Crack.
7) The Dreadnoughts with Autocannons and Psyammo is what my gangsta counterparts would call, "Money." They are soo good for the point cost and that's before you throw in fortitude and Aegis.
There you have it. Its not a Corteaz list, it does not include 10 Razorbacks with Psyammo, you won't find Paladins or that Death Star unit everyone keeps plugging away at. What you will find is an aesthetically pleasing army that packs a punch, but leaves the douchery at the door. Well, maybe all except for the third dread. That was a little too much.
See you on the battlefield and don't forget, Stay Classy War Hammer!
I've started another army. Yes, you are probably asking yourself, why start another army when you cannot finish the first one or second, third, fourth, and fifth ones. I just love building and converting that much. Its much easier to design, build and convert, and play with an army than it is to paint it. Plus, I have trouble settling on one list.
The new addition to the family and flavor of the week is ...... (Drum roll)....The Grey Knights. I've always wanted to create a Grey Knight army since I read the first Grey Knight book. I didn't like the previous codex and line of models enough to dive in and join the Daemon Hunter band wagon. That all changed with the new Codex and line of models. Mostly, due to the new nice miniatures and plastic kits that were released. This gave me an idea. What if I created an Adeptus Custodes army. The Grey Knight models are perfect, well at least their weapons and rules. I'd need some additional bits, but nothing I couldn't handle. Therefore, I jumped in head first.
What came out the other end was a pleasant surprise. I'm quite happy with the models minus the storm bolter and lack of a gunglaive, but I'm pleased otherwise. I used the following bits.
-WH Fantasy High Elves New Plastic White Lion Head/Helms.
-Blood Angel Sanguinary Winged Shoulder pad for the Left shoulder pad.
-Mixed Shoulder pads for the Right shoulder pad (Blood Angels, Dark Angels, Grey knights, Etc.)
-Grey Knight Torso
-Grey Knight Back Pack (slimmed down)
-Dark Angels Plastic Robed Legs
-Grey Knight Halberd and Storm Bolter Weapon Arms.
With that in mind, here is my list. Its not perfect or finalized, but I'm pretty set on most of the units.
190pts - HQ: Grand Master w/Psychotroke (sp?) Grenades
100pts - HQ: Brother Champion (Just love this model's rules and I converted a nice mini)
145pts - Elite: Vindicare Assassin (Love this model and its rules)
175pts - Elite: Purifier Squad (5) Psycannon x2, Rhino
300pts - Troops: Terminator Squad (5) Justicar Thawn, Psycannon, Daemon Hammer
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
170pts - Troops: Strike Squad (5) Justicar w/Daemon Hammer, Psycannon, Razorback w/Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
135pts - Heavy: Dreadnought w/Two Twin-Linked Autocannons, Psyammo
Total Points: 1995pts
Kill Points: 18
Scoring Units: 6 + D3
Certain elements in this list are tactically sound while others are more for fun and fluff.
1) The Grand Master provides the Grand Stratagem ability. This ability allows a few things to happen, but most importantly turns D3 other units into scoring units. This is obviously used to give the Dreadnoughts the ability to score and hold rear objectives.
2) The Brother Champion is a Death Star killer. More important to me is the picture and cool duel like rules his unit brings to the table. Did I mention I converted a really cool model to fit the picture in the GK book. Pictures to come at a later date.
3) The Vindicare is just plan awesome. Well and the coolness and fun factor are off the charts.
4) The Purifiers are a great unit with their psychic power cleanse and purifier (sp?). They also get two attacks, are fearless, and can sport two psycannons in a 5 man squad. Easy choice. The only downside is they cannot score unless the Grand Stratagem is used on them.
5) The Grey Knights Terminators are purely for fun. Thawn is interesting and can become climatic. I do like the Initiative 6 halberds. It also helps they are a scoring unit and my Grand Master can lead their squad.
6) The Basic Grey Knight Strike Squads are awesome. Storm Bolters and Pyscannon. Daemon Hammers might be a waste of 10pts, but I'm of the opinion its better safe than sorry. I cannot count the number of times a powerfist has come in handy versus a vehicle or lone MC. The daemon hammer is a Thunder hammer on Crack.
7) The Dreadnoughts with Autocannons and Psyammo is what my gangsta counterparts would call, "Money." They are soo good for the point cost and that's before you throw in fortitude and Aegis.
There you have it. Its not a Corteaz list, it does not include 10 Razorbacks with Psyammo, you won't find Paladins or that Death Star unit everyone keeps plugging away at. What you will find is an aesthetically pleasing army that packs a punch, but leaves the douchery at the door. Well, maybe all except for the third dread. That was a little too much.
See you on the battlefield and don't forget, Stay Classy War Hammer!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Project updates and status
1) Space Wolves.
By far my favorite army. My Space Wolves army is all but put together. Occasionally, I'll find myself tweaking it here and there leading to the assembly of new models. The army as a whole requires a little work on the bases and then it’s off to applying a base coat.
2) Chaos Space Marines.
My second favorite army. My Chaos Space Marines have been benched for the most part. The models are together and I really enjoy using them, but I'm just more focused on other armies at the moment. With any luck, I might be able to break them out when I assist a few friends in practicing for the NOVA Open. They sure do look great and I spent a lot of time on the models.
3) Eldar.
My Eldar have always been a solid army. However, I don't think I've ever been satisfied with the units I've used. I've either wanted to add certain units or wanted to get rid of others. I've bought the models and vehicles to put together a Mech Eldar, but have not had the time. To date, I'm considering selling the models. Especially, the older models.
4) My DIY Space Marines Chapter - The Sons of Ultamar.
Originally, I wanted to start a new chapter that uses the basic Space Marine Codex. Before long, I found myself building an all Terminator and Bike army. Therefore, I decided the purpose of this army would be to assemble, paint, and play the weird and unique marine lists (Deathwing, Ravenwing, etc.). So far, the 1st Company (all Terminators) has been assembled and is ready for a base coat. The 2nd Company (All Bike Army) needs to be assembled. I've assembled the Commander of the 2nd Company. I believe his picture is viewable on a previous blog posting. I'm quite happy with the way he has turned out.
5) My Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons Army.
The army is nearly complete with the assault squad remaining to be assembled. This army features several custom parts and conversions. Simple, but effective. The Army uses the Blood Angels Codex as it seems to be the best fit for a foot slogging army. I'm happy with the army, but it does seem to lack some soul. Perhaps by using the Blood Angels Codex, the army has an identity crisis.
All in all, I'm in love with most if not all of my armies. I'm going to try and get some more pictures up with in the next few weeks.
By far my favorite army. My Space Wolves army is all but put together. Occasionally, I'll find myself tweaking it here and there leading to the assembly of new models. The army as a whole requires a little work on the bases and then it’s off to applying a base coat.
2) Chaos Space Marines.
My second favorite army. My Chaos Space Marines have been benched for the most part. The models are together and I really enjoy using them, but I'm just more focused on other armies at the moment. With any luck, I might be able to break them out when I assist a few friends in practicing for the NOVA Open. They sure do look great and I spent a lot of time on the models.
3) Eldar.
My Eldar have always been a solid army. However, I don't think I've ever been satisfied with the units I've used. I've either wanted to add certain units or wanted to get rid of others. I've bought the models and vehicles to put together a Mech Eldar, but have not had the time. To date, I'm considering selling the models. Especially, the older models.
4) My DIY Space Marines Chapter - The Sons of Ultamar.
Originally, I wanted to start a new chapter that uses the basic Space Marine Codex. Before long, I found myself building an all Terminator and Bike army. Therefore, I decided the purpose of this army would be to assemble, paint, and play the weird and unique marine lists (Deathwing, Ravenwing, etc.). So far, the 1st Company (all Terminators) has been assembled and is ready for a base coat. The 2nd Company (All Bike Army) needs to be assembled. I've assembled the Commander of the 2nd Company. I believe his picture is viewable on a previous blog posting. I'm quite happy with the way he has turned out.
5) My Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons Army.
The army is nearly complete with the assault squad remaining to be assembled. This army features several custom parts and conversions. Simple, but effective. The Army uses the Blood Angels Codex as it seems to be the best fit for a foot slogging army. I'm happy with the army, but it does seem to lack some soul. Perhaps by using the Blood Angels Codex, the army has an identity crisis.
All in all, I'm in love with most if not all of my armies. I'm going to try and get some more pictures up with in the next few weeks.
RESPECT
Hello and welcome back to my Blog. It’s been a while and a lot has happened sense my last post. With the exception of a heavy work load, the holidays have taken up a good portion of my time. That said I'm glad to be able to focus on my Blog once again.
If you didn't already notice, the subject of this Blog is about Gaming Etiquette. I'll spare you the in-depth psycho analysis and lengthy discussion you'll find in some other blogs. In fact, I'll make this post simple and sweet.
Show some RESPECT!
-Be respectful of other gamers. If you are watching a game, keep the volume down unless they ask you to WAAGH for the greater glory of the Green skin horde. If they ask you politely to please lower the volume, please accommodate them or find another area to socialize with your buddy. Be respectful!
-Be respectful of your surroundings. If you are playing at a hobby store, pick up after yourself. Don't leave trash around. If you are not playing on the gaming surface, move your belongings when asked. Most important, if you are a guest in someone's home, show some manners. Not everyone puts their feet on the coffee table or pisses in the corner. If you are not sure, ask the host if it’s okay to eat in the living room or wear your shoes inside. Whatever you do, do not get confrontational with the host if they kindly inform you or ask you not do something or to be careful. After all, it is their home/store and they reserve the right to kick your ass out. Be respectful!
-Be respectful and plan accordingly. If you are playing a game, please make sure you don't have to suddenly leave in the middle. If you only have two and a half hours to play, don't start a game that takes three to five hours. If there is any doubt, be safe and avoid having to quit early. Its one thing if your opponent is okay with it. It’s quite another if they are not. Furthermore, please don't invite someone over for a three hour game only to quit after 30 minutes because your girlfriend came over. It’s okay if it’s an emergency, but if you anticipate your family or girlfriend coming over and will be forced to quit when they arrive, plan accordingly. Be respectful!
-Be respectful of the game. If you are losing and there is no way to win, play with dignity. Don't rob the winner or victor of their glory (so to speak). How would you like it if you are winning and the sore loser across the table gives up giving your nemesis an advantage when it comes to defending boarders, resources, and territories/properties. Some games its okay to concede (I.e. Warhammer 40k, Fantasy, Cards, Chess, etc). Other games where there are multiple opponents, it’s not okay to give up or concede. Twilight Imperium 3 is a classic example of a game where if one player gives up it will have an impact on other players. Whether positive or negative, the impact changes the game. Be respectful!
-Be respectful and lose the attitude or pity party. Throwing dice or quick rolling is unacceptable. If you play like you are depressed and the world is coming to an end, it will often lower the amount of fun your opponent is having. They might even begin to think it’s partly their fault. Play like a grown up and take your lickings like man. Learn from your mistakes and come back a stronger opponent. Whether a friendly game or a competitive game, its still a game. It’s not the end of the world. Be respectful!
Well, I hope you gained something from this little post. If anything, I hope you will show some respect if you don't already. I've found for the most part, people often show respect or conduct them selves in a respectful manner, but there are those bad apples out there that don't yet know how or forget to behave.
If you didn't already notice, the subject of this Blog is about Gaming Etiquette. I'll spare you the in-depth psycho analysis and lengthy discussion you'll find in some other blogs. In fact, I'll make this post simple and sweet.
Show some RESPECT!
-Be respectful of other gamers. If you are watching a game, keep the volume down unless they ask you to WAAGH for the greater glory of the Green skin horde. If they ask you politely to please lower the volume, please accommodate them or find another area to socialize with your buddy. Be respectful!
-Be respectful of your surroundings. If you are playing at a hobby store, pick up after yourself. Don't leave trash around. If you are not playing on the gaming surface, move your belongings when asked. Most important, if you are a guest in someone's home, show some manners. Not everyone puts their feet on the coffee table or pisses in the corner. If you are not sure, ask the host if it’s okay to eat in the living room or wear your shoes inside. Whatever you do, do not get confrontational with the host if they kindly inform you or ask you not do something or to be careful. After all, it is their home/store and they reserve the right to kick your ass out. Be respectful!
-Be respectful and plan accordingly. If you are playing a game, please make sure you don't have to suddenly leave in the middle. If you only have two and a half hours to play, don't start a game that takes three to five hours. If there is any doubt, be safe and avoid having to quit early. Its one thing if your opponent is okay with it. It’s quite another if they are not. Furthermore, please don't invite someone over for a three hour game only to quit after 30 minutes because your girlfriend came over. It’s okay if it’s an emergency, but if you anticipate your family or girlfriend coming over and will be forced to quit when they arrive, plan accordingly. Be respectful!
-Be respectful of the game. If you are losing and there is no way to win, play with dignity. Don't rob the winner or victor of their glory (so to speak). How would you like it if you are winning and the sore loser across the table gives up giving your nemesis an advantage when it comes to defending boarders, resources, and territories/properties. Some games its okay to concede (I.e. Warhammer 40k, Fantasy, Cards, Chess, etc). Other games where there are multiple opponents, it’s not okay to give up or concede. Twilight Imperium 3 is a classic example of a game where if one player gives up it will have an impact on other players. Whether positive or negative, the impact changes the game. Be respectful!
-Be respectful and lose the attitude or pity party. Throwing dice or quick rolling is unacceptable. If you play like you are depressed and the world is coming to an end, it will often lower the amount of fun your opponent is having. They might even begin to think it’s partly their fault. Play like a grown up and take your lickings like man. Learn from your mistakes and come back a stronger opponent. Whether a friendly game or a competitive game, its still a game. It’s not the end of the world. Be respectful!
Well, I hope you gained something from this little post. If anything, I hope you will show some respect if you don't already. I've found for the most part, people often show respect or conduct them selves in a respectful manner, but there are those bad apples out there that don't yet know how or forget to behave.
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