The Podcast Junkie - Week of 12/29/2014

The dreaded week between Christmas and New Years tends to be a barren wasteland when it comes to new podcast episodes.  Fortunately, there were a couple new ones released this week that I found quite enjoyable.


Ohiohammer - Episode 66

Once the episode moves past talk about college football, the discussion turns into an informative talk about the limited nature of the End Times books and their thoughts about using iBook/ebooks. I felt this was a great topic and really gave some helpful insight into the experience of using digital books.

The episode next shifts into a discussion about End Times: Khaine. A lot of what was expressed in this segment was reflective of what can be read across forums and twitter. I did find myself disliking the term garage-gamer that was batted around as it felt at times like they were implying a different class of gamer from those that frequent the tournaments. Overall, it was a decent discussion on the topic, but not one that I felt gave me knew insight into the End Times.

The hobby section of the episode was good as always. I really liked the talk about the show’s plans for the Adepticon WFB Team Tournament. It is an interesting theme that ties into some personal motivation for the host. It is a great idea and one that I plan on checking out at Adepticon.

As a side note, I really did like the short discussion about smoking and their experience of trying to quit it. It felt like a very honest moment between the show and its audience. The trials of the host and his health problems were a very interesting conversation that helped to remind us that there is more to life than Warhammer.

The main topic of the show was their review of 2014. The first half of the topic was their worst of review for 2014.  It was a decent mix of personal disappointments and general thoughts on what happened in the overall hobby. Of particular note, I agree with the rant about the digital magic cards and the inflated price. I may just need to bleep this review because of that particular topic.  I must also say that I loved the first part of Andrew's number 1 worst of for 2014.  I couldn't agree more with his comments about the nerd rage against the End Times.

As for the best of portion of the segment, I kind of felt that it was flat and not as interesting.  Again it was the same mix of personal triumphs and happenings in the hobby, but it just lacked something.  It may be that their choices didn't resonate with me in the same way as the first portion.  Overall it was a good listen, but not the highlight of the episode.



Forge the Narrative - Episode 77

While I wish Obama would use an executive order to remove Tasty Taste from the internet, his presence on this episode was not a distraction.   The opening discussion about formations and the rules around them was very helpful in understanding how they function within the game.  I also found the talk about Dante to be a fun one as it took me down memory lane a bit while talking about his role in the current game.  Lastly, the discussion about an army rental service was hilarious.

Beware the Dream Crusher formation… 


 

The Podcast Junkie - Week of 12/22/2014

The Heroic 28s Podcast – Episode 107
The focus of this episode is the Heroic 28s review of the Dark Eldar codex. There was a decent amount of detail and thought into each unit, but the overall review seemed to lack the energy of prior episodes. What makes this episode interesting is that the lack of energy is explained at the end of it. Needless to say, 2015 will be a very interesting year based on the announcement at the end.

The Southern State of 40K – Episode 31
There has been a lot of talk around the recent changes to base sizes in 40K, but this was the first discussion I have heard that was a well thought out view on the topic. This episode also does a great job of sharing the hosts’ love of the Imperial Guard.

Super Hero Speak – Episode 85
One of the fun things about podcasts in December is to hear the various year-in-reviews that each one does. One of the things that stood out to me in this episode was their talk about this season’s Doctor Who and the new doctor. I found it very entertaining to hear them refer to him as “Angry Eyes” and really found myself agreeing with many of their opinions about the show.

As for their usual discussion about all things Marvel and DC, this episode was very balanced when it came to talking about the two “factions” in the comic book industry. I was a bit surprised by their thoughts on Agents of Shield as I personally have not been enjoying this season. On the flip side, I totally agree with them when it comes to the Flash. Again, if you are looking for a non-GW podcast to enjoy, you cannot go wrong with SHS.

Preferred Enemies – Episode 90
This episode begins with the show venting about the limited nature of recent book releases like End Times: Glottkin and Shield of Baal: Leviathan. It was a very balanced discussion that got across the one host’s frustration with the situation while not becoming a diatribe against GW. This episode also dives into the change in base size, doing a similar job to the guys from SS40K when talking about the subject. When it came to reviewing the Shield of Baal: Leviathan and Shield of Baal: Deathstorm, the review was handled well.

The Podcast Junkie - Week of 12/15/2014

I recently decided to bring back an old article series that I did on my personal blog. The idea of the series was to provide brief reviews of podcasts that I had listen to in the last week. Since this is the first article in the new series, some of the episodes reviewed were released a little further back than last week.

T3 the Warhammer Podcast – Episode 6
This episode begins with a breakdown of the podcast’s experience at the North Star tournament in Minnesota this past year. During the discussion, they covered their experience at the event and provided a decent critique of the venue and system.

After recapping the North Star, they gave a review of the new Glottkin book. I felt this part of the episode was a bit biased against special characters and the End Times in general. It was an engaging conversation, but I would have preferred hearing one that was a little more balanced.

Overall, I felt it was a good show that has some room to grow. It had a regional feel to it with all of the references to Midwest events. This tends to be a mix bag as I enjoy hearing how the game varies based on location, but I also found the self-promotion of their gaming group a little annoying at times.

Signals from the Frontline – Episode 299
While I admit to listen to SftF on a regular basis, I find most episodes to be nothing more than a commercial for whatever Frontline Gaming is trying to sell at the moment. Episode 299 is no different, as the hosts (Reece & company) pretty much blast threw a few topics. If you are looking for a recap of the latest releases and rumors, this is a decent choice. If you are looking for in-depth discussion about 40K and the scene, I wouldn’t prioritize this episode.

The Heroic 28s – Episode 106
On the other end of the spectrum is the Heroic 28s, episode 106. This episode delivers a fantastic review of the Space Wolves codex while also providing a high level of entertainment. What I appreciated most with this review was that involved a couple of players who clearly had a love for the army but could also be honest with highs and lows of the new book. Of the 40K related podcasts I listened to this last week, this is the one I would most recommend.

Ohiohammer – Episode 65
I am not quite sure what to think about episode 65 as it is the second part of their review of End Times: Nagash. A lot of the discussion felt dated and conflicted with stuff we already know about in terms of the fluff and future ET books. Overall, the episode was reflective of the usual quality of the show; I just didn’t enjoy the content because of its age.

Super Hero Speak – Episode 84
This podcast has nothing to do with the Games Workshop hobby. That said, I loved listening to their banter about the latest in DC and Marvel television and movie news. If you are tired of hearing about WFB or 40K, I would recommend giving this episode a listen.

If you would like for me to start listening to your podcast, please drop me an email at unstabledice@gmail.com

Episode 40 - Chuck's Caboose

Welcome to the 40th episode of the Unstable Dice.  We start this episode with an update about our tournament at Adepticon 2015.  After we share the latest news about it, we transition to talking about the second End Times book: Glottkin.  After sharing our first impressions, we discover a new GT in the Chicago area: The Windy City Throwdown. 

After talking Glottkin and Throwdowns, we move into Marshaling the Host.  In this episode's hobby section, we share updates and John realizes that Andrew was two years old when Ghost and Goblins came out.  After MoH, Warboss Ontto unleashes a new Waaagh Ontto segment.  The show ends on a sad note with us saying goodbye to a friend.

Episode Timeline
00:01:45 - The Unstable Dice Present: End Times Tournament @ Adepticon
00:11:30 - End Times: Glottkin First Impressions
00:42:15 - Windy City Throwdown
00:54:30 - Marshaling the Host
01:21:30 - Waaagh Ontto (Stormboyz)
01:29:30 - Farewell to a Friend (Jeff B.)/End of Episode

Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS


Emails
The Show Email - unstabledice@gmail.com

Show Links

A Gathering of Might XIII 

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
Scatter Shot Painting: Facebook

Episode 39 - Aftermath Michigan GT

This episode kicks off with two Johns talking about the latest Tyranid release from Games Workshop.  We review each of the options for the new Tyranid kit and discuss the impact they will have on the 40K meta.

Next, we have a special Marshaling the Host where we discuss our experience at the Michigan GT.  We talk about the missions, discuss our games, and review our experience at the tournament.

Lastly, we introduce a new segment, Waaagh Ontto.  In this episode, John O talks about the Morkanaut and Gorkanaut.  He reviews how he uses them, their role on the battlefield, and what to watch out for when playing them.

Episode Timeline
00:01:45 - New Tyranid Models
00:30:00 - Marshaling the Host (Aftermath: Michigan GT 2014)
01:36:30 - Waaagh Ontto (Morkanaut/Gorkanaut)

Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS


Emails
The Show Email - unstabledice@gmail.com

Show Links

A Gathering of Might XIII 

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
Scatter Shot Painting: Facebook

Episode 38 - Tasteless Nurgle Reference

Episode 38 - Tasteless Nurgle Reference
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

In this episode, we break down the Blight Kings and Maggot Lords for the End Times, talk about our WFB hobby updates and make a big announcement. This episode gives you the treat so you can find your trick elsewhere this Halloween.

Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS


Episode Timeline
00:00:20 - Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:29 - Blight Kings & Maggot Lords
00:51:30 - Marshaling the Host
01:06:00 - Big Announcement

Emails
The Show Email - unstabledice@gmail.com

Show Links

A Gathering of Might XIII 

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook

The End Times: The State of the World

I just finished reading the 297 page textbook that is the fluff book. This End Times stuff is pretty dramatic! No character is safe, and no nation is immune to the catastrophic events told within.

So, to that end, I'd like to write up a post that pulls together all the fluff into a quick and easy to read collection of the who and the what. For the fluff-mongers out there that haven't been able to get their hands on a book, this should sate your appetite. Now, if you want to read it for yourself, then it would be remiss of me not to include this...


SPOILER ALERTS

The following list of nations will include details about the state they are in and what fate has befallen famous characters from each. The main nations dealt with in this book are Bretonnia, The Empire, Nehekhara, and Sylvania. At the end I'll include a list of the nine Mortarchs of Nagash for ease of reference. And here we go!




Bretonnia
- In the Bretonnian year of 1543 (2521 on the Imperial calendar), Mallobaude (bastard son of the king) and his ally, Arkhan the Black, attempted to take over the kingdom. This objective failed when Mallobaude was killed by the Green Knight.
- Plagues ravaged the southern provinces, warpstone meteors crashed down, and the city of Bordeleux has been completely destroyed, with a great keep of brass and bone replacing it in a daemon-land.
- 1/4 of the population has been slain, and another 1/4 has fled to the Empire.
- La Maisontaal Abbey (though it's now a massive fortress) was attacked for the 12th time because among its treasures was Nagash's staff: Alakanash, and the end result was its utter annihilation via a devastating explosion.

- King Louen Leoncoeur: MIA. He fell in a duel with Mallobaude, but his body was never found. [edit] He has returned to his people as the vassal to the true king (Warhammer: Glottkin).
- Morgiana le Fay, the Fay Enchantress: KIA. She was captured by Drycha and presented to Mannfred von Carstein as a gift, and he slaughtered her to summon Nagash.
- The Green Knight: Revealed to be none other than Gilles le Breton, the first king of Bretonnia, and has since been reinstated as the king in Louen's absence.
- Duke Theodoric of Brionne: KIA. Fell at the Battle for La Maisontaal.
- Duke Tancred II of Quenelles: KIA. Fell at the Battle for La Maisontaal.


Empire
- Sylvania seceded from Imperial rule and raised bone walls, though was surrounded by a magical cage of Balthasar Gelt's creation (he learned from a scroll provided by an unknown but disenchanted Lahmian vampire).
- The Claw of Nagash was hidden in Heldenhame, which was captured by Mannfred von Carstein.
- Kislev is almost entirely obliterated; a tiny slice remains behind the Auric Bastion, a kilometers-high magic stone wall raised by Balthasar Gelt, and Erengrad is the only city still standing.
- Only 7 of the 12 Elector Counts still live.
- The Amethyst College of Magic crumbled into dust, and most of its practitioners along with it.
- Because of Gelt's betrayal, the Gold College of Magic collapsed, and witch hunters burned most of the practitioners.
- Most of the Border Princes and Tilea/Estalia/etc are ravaged and destroyed by the Skaven.

- Valten: Came into power during the battle at Auric Bastion, wielding Ghal Maraz.
- Karl Franz: Wounded but not killed; behind enemy lines with his wounded griffon and working his way back to the Empire. [edit] Is returned to defend Altdorf from invasion. (Warhammer: Glottkin)
- Balthasar Gelt: Traitor. Is now a Necromancer in service to Vlad von Carstein.
- Volkmar the Grim: KIA. Captured by Mannfred and anointed to become the vessel Nagash pours his essence into to be corporeal once more.
- Emil Valgeir, Ar-Ulric of the Cult of Ulric: KIA. Killed and impersonated by The Changeling.
- Hans Leitdorf: KIA. Due to his impatience, he rode off without support and was killed in Sylvania.


Dwarfs
- Armies are being shattered by the sheer amount of evil armies in the world.
- The lost vaults that contained the sleeping Ancestor Goddess Valaya was found and opened, but lost. Valaya's magic was consumed by Nagash.

- Thorgrim Ironbrow: KIA. His last hammer fall detonated his anvil, stopping the undead so that the rest could flee.


High Elves
- Daemonic incursions happened in much of the land.
- Yvresse is all but overrun.

- Alarielle, the Everqueen: Fled to Athel Loren to seek help in rescuing Aliathra.
- Belannaer, Loremaster of Hoeth: KIA. Tried to rescue Aliathra and was killed by Mannfred.
- Eltharion the Grim: KIA. Tried to rescue Aliathra and was killed by Arkhan.
- Aliathra, the Everchild: KIA. Slaughtered to summon Nagash, though her blood was not divine and so he wasn't at his full strength.


Wood Elves
- Drycha gifted Mannfred with Morgiana le Fay to summon Nagash.
- The Vaults of Winter cracked asunder and spewed legions of daemonkind into the glades of Summerstrand.

- Ariel: Sick from some unknown malady, which is rotting the Oak of Ages.
- Araloth: Traveled to Sylvania, but then was prompted by his goddess to go through a portal to Ulthuan.
- Durthu: Can think and speak lucidly and without wrath now.


Lizardmen
- Massive daemon incursion; they've started the plans for "The Great Exodus".


Ogre Kingdoms
- All of the volcanoes in the Mountains of Mourn began erupting.
- They are no longer acting as a unified kingdom, instead breaking apart into many different factions.
- Because of the volcanoes, all Ogres are now on the march. It's a vast migration to somewhere new.


Tomb Kings
- Nagash invaded Nehekhara to humble Settra. After many days of battle, subterfuge and treachery broke the defense, and Settra suffered defeat.
- Khemri has been razed to the ground and covered by the shifting sands.
- Numas resisted Nagash and was similarly destroyed; the other Great Cities bent their knee in supplication.
- Buoyed by foul magic, the Black Pyramid lifted into the air and floats to Nagash's next destination.

- Usirian, God of the Underworld: Destroyed and consumed by Nagash, who is now the god of the underworld.
- Settra the Imperishable: Was torn limb from limb by Nagash, but eventually was reassembled by an unknown force. "Four voices that were somehow one."
- High Queen Khalida: Defeated Neferata in a one on one duel, but she escaped before Khalida could kill her.
- Arkhan the Black: Serves Nagash as his ever-loyal 2nd in command.
- Grand Hierophant Khatep: KIA. After telling Settra what he must find, he was killed.
- Prince Apophas: Used the Destroyer of Eternities to stab Nagash, but the weapon faded away and he was defeated.
- The Herald Nekaph: KIA. Nagash obliterated him with magic. Replaced by Nebbetthar.
- Ramhotep the Visionary: Fate unknown, presumably pledged himself to Nagash.
- King Phar of Numas: KIA. The only other king to proudly defy Nagash.


Skaven
- The Council of Thirteen has decided to finally enact their Master Plan, and the first stage has begun. Thus did they invade the surface world in unprecedented numbers.
- The Fellblade was stolen by Mannfred. During the ritual to resurrect Nagash, it was shattered into a thousand shards and became part of Nagash, restoring him to life.
- Destroyed the realms of Tilea and Estalia.


Chaos
- Swept down from the north, as in Storm of Chaos.
- Massive herdstones have erupted from the earth all over the planet.

- Archaon: Came into power, just as in Storm of Chaos.
- Crom the Conqueror: KIA. Lead the first breach through the Auric bastion, killed by Valten & Luthor Huss.
- The Changeling: Impersonated Emil Valgeir the Ar-Ulric in a failed attempt to assassinate Karl Franz.


Vampire Counts
- Sylvania was caged by Balthasar Gelt's massive spell. This was provided by one of Neferata's servants who was no longer in the queen's good graces for an unknown reason. Arkhan the Black expended a lot of energy to breach it, but he eventually succeeded, letting out the undead.
- Upon Nagash's return, he bade a few go north to defend the realms of man from the Chaos incursion so that he could take over instead.

- Nagash: Returned to life. Freed Death Magic from the High Elves' vortex that kept it in check, killed the god Usirian and drained the power from the Ancestor Goddess Valaya. Awoke every undead in the world.
- Neferata, Mistress of the Silver Pinnacle: Joined Nagash, was on the cusp of defeat by Khalida before escaping.
- Heinrich Kemmler, the Lichemaster: KIA. Revealed his true loyalty to Chaos and was killed by Arkhan at the 12th Battle for La Maisontaal.
- Krell, Lord of Undeath: Serves Nagash.
- Zacharias the Everling: KIA. Nagash burned his brains out for defying Nagash and thinking them as equals.
- Walach Harkon: KIA. First among the Blood Dragons, he turned to the worship of the Chaos God of Khorne, as did his followers. It is he who almost kills Karl Franz and defeats the Empire at Auric Bastion, and it is Vlad who kills him.
- Luthor Harkon, Pirate King of the Vampire Coast: Invades Nehekhara with Nagash, though it's more for plunder than otherwise.
- Vlad von Carstein: Resurrected by Nagash to be his northern emissary. Corrupts Balthasar Gelt to serve him and help him resurrect his love, Isabella.
- Mannfred von Carstein: Tried to taint the resurrection of Nagash and bind him to his will, but was unsuccessful.
- Dieter Helsnicht: Serves Nagash. Was transformed into the 3-headed guardian of the Underworld.


Dark Elves
- Valkia led the Chaos hordes into Naggaroth in a massive invasion.
- All Dark Elves were recalled from invading Ulthuan until the Chaos invaders were dealt with.


Orcs & Goblins
- Grimgor Ironhide led a Waaagh! to the north.





The 9 Mortarchs of Nagash
- Arkhan the Black
- Neferata, Mistress of the Silver Pinnacle
- Krell, Lord of Undeath
- Luthor Harkon, Pirate King of the Vampire Coast
- Dieter Helsnicht, Doom Lord of Middenheim
- Walach Harkon, First of the Blood Dragons
- The Nameless (the spirit of a once-great enchanter)
- Mannfred von Carstein
- Vlad von Carstein

Episode 37 - The Redstone Rumble GT

Episode 37 - The Redstone Rumble GT
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

The Redstone Rumble is happening this Oct 3rd, 4th & 5th.  Before the big weekend, Jeff Weibelt from the Rumble has come on to tell us all about the event.  He also shares his insight into his local meta and what it was like being a TO at the ATC.  

Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS


Episode Timeline
00:00:20 - Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:29 - Alabama 40K Meta (Special Guest Jeff Weibelt)
00:56:30 - Redstone Rumble Preview
01:41:30 - 2015 Sponsorship Drive

Emails
The Show Email - unstabledice@gmail.com

Show Links

A Gathering of Might XIII
Redstone Rumble GT

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook

Episode 36 - Renegade Open GT

Episode 36 - Renegade Open GT
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

Episode 36 is a preview of the Renegade Open GT happening this November.  The first segment of the show is a Q&A session with Jeff from the Michigan GT.  Next, everyone updates the world on their hobby progress in another Marshaling the Host.  After MoH, we breakdown all of the details for this year's Renegade Open GT. 

Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS


Episode Timeline
00:00:20 Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:29 - Michigan GT Q&A
00:23:14 - Michigan GT Preview

Emails
The Show Email - unstabledice@gmail.com

Show Links

Over Da Top Gaming (Chuck's Blog) 
A Gathering of Might XIII
Michigan GT
Renegade Open GT 

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook

Nerdrage: The "2-Source Limit"

I know, right? We haven't put out a nerdrage in AGES. Anyway, I want to talk about something that really has been annoying me of late, and how I think it's bad for the 40k hobby.

I'll preface my rant by saying that TO's have full rights to demand that participants play in whatever manner the TO decides, which is why we have a zillion sets of composition rules (comp.). John and I discussed that, for the most part, 7th edition is a sandbox of rules from which TO's can pick and choose what they want to use. That's their prerogative of course, but to me that doesn't make it any better.

The 2-source limit. Warhammer 40k tournaments have been all flustered by the new changes in 7th edition, what with "any ally goes", Lords of War, and so on. Because of that, "big name" tournaments have adopted a certain set of rules that, unfortunately, are seeping through the channels to many smaller 40k tournaments, fouling the experience along the way.

So, what is the "2-source limit"? Quite simply (not), it means that you can only use two "sources" to create your army. A source consists of any codex, supplement, or dataslate published by GW. However, even that isn't agreed upon by different events; some use different aspects, some include parts, not others, and so on.

I'm not quite sure what prompted its origin. Perhaps some yearning to keep playing 6th edition? That would make sense, because simultaneously, nearly all tournaments restrict players to a single Combined Arms Detachment (C.A.D.) and one Allied Detachment (A.D.). Sure, we only had 6th edition for two years, but 7th was required because of all the supplements that were being released. I understand the desire for unchanging and static tournament scenes, but...wait what?? Who in the history of ever said that change was bad in tournaments? From my experience, players want there to be constant changes so that armies don't stagnate and become homogenized across all events. The ultimate sandbox edition of 7th provides for just that sort of desire, without any arbitrary limits. Let's move on and embrace the new and awesome.

After all, whenever has the implementation of limitations ever led to more diversity? Reducing the number and types of choices does not encourage diversity in the slightest. "-" =/= "+".

Add to that, the 2-source limit isn't even really aware of 7th edition. For instance, I could build a Battleforged army, of one CAD and one AD, with 8 sources: [CAD] Codex + Codex Supplement + Lords of War Supplement + Fortification Supplement + Forgeworld sourcebook, [AD] Codex + Codex Supplement + Forgeworld sourcebook. Does that make it "broken as sin", or "thematic"? I guess it depends entirely on the units.

Two sources is incredibly limiting. Not including Forgeworld or LoW (because what tournament has ever included such "scandalous" units?), that means you can only have the following combinations:
- Codex + Codex Supplement (ie, one CAD from the supplement, with no allies or fortifications)
- Codex + Fortification Supplement (ie, one CAD from the codex and their fortification)
- Codex + Codex (ie, one CAD and one AD, with no fortification)
- Codex + Formation (ie, one CAD and one "other" detachment, which may or may not be allowed)

In terms of what this means for specific armies, you cannot use the Crimson Slaughter supplement to have a daemonic Chaos Space Marine force with Chaos Daemon allies, because that's three sources, despite the massive fluff appeal. They likewise cannot have any fortifications, because all of the fortifications are now in a separate supplement (ie, source) instead of the big rulebook.

Stronghold Assault (the Fortification Supplement) is never specifically stated as being an exception to the 2-source limit in any of the events I looked at. Now, maybe that's on purpose so that people are forced into the choice, but I know that's not true in a couple cases, and in some it gets even more silly.

The Bay Area Open's CAD rules say:

- Detachments may be produced from a maximum of one Codex / Codex Supplement
- Example - You may not selectively include units within one Combined Arms Detachment from both Codex: Tau and Codex Supplement: Farsight Enclaves, despite them being within the same Faction per the Detachment creation rules in the 40k Rulebook.

So what this says (I think) is that you can use either a Codex or a Supplement, but not both, in a CAD. The very real problem is that, to be able to play the supplement in the first place, you need to use both the supplement and the codex, which is made illegal by the "example". I don't understand the reasoning behind backwardly banning supplements in this manner.

The BAO is definitely a big influence on the national tournament scene, and quite often what they say will be echoed through the others, and this is evident in many upcoming events. It seems like they blindly accept the rules from on high, slightly modify them to their tastes, and move on. Since the original rules are so badly written and don't take into account the actual rules and what they're saying, this leads to twisted sets that are really quite confusing for a rules stickler like me.

It'd be quite bothersome to be in a game, thinking I could only have my Crimson Slaughter, where across from me I see a Farsight army with a Skyshield. That's illegal by the 2-source limit, but actually isn't because the Fortifications supplement is an unlisted exception to it.

All of this leads to a massive amount of inconsistency between events and in events themselves. If the bigger tier tournaments are meant to be scale ratings of players to produce a national champion of sorts (or prove who has the best score/biggest wiener/etc), how could it possibly be valid? When every event has a different set of house rules, the only marker for being a strong player is that they are adaptable to different environments, not that they are good at 40k.

For the rest of us schlubs that get stuck with undesirable house rules in events that should normally be fun to attend, we're left without an outlet for playing our themed armies. The 2-source limit, in my mind will only serve to stifle creativity and reduce variety in the big wide world of 40k tournaments. Perhaps if TO's took the time to take all aspects into account and wrote their rules clearly and simply (some do this, and thank you for being awesome!), there wouldn't be such an issue.

I think the inconsistent 2-source limit nonsense can be entirely replaced by the [x] Detachment rule, where "x" is any number you want (prefereably higher than 2). Consider that, as is, armies now are more limited than in 6th edition, and even just saying two detachments is more limiting than before, but at least it's a step in the right direction.

And that, my friends, is my nerdrage. Do you agree? Disagree? Let's discuss it in the comments section!

Episode 35 - Michigan GT Preview

Episode 35 - Michigan GT Preview
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

Episode 35 is all about breaking down one of the coolest GTs in the Midwest.  The show starts off with everyone chatting about the current state of 40K 7th edition.  After the break, we dig into the Michigan GT with Jeff and get all the details about what looks to be a great weekend of gaming this October. 
Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS



Episode Timeline
00:00:20 Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:40 - Midwest 40K Meta (w/ Special Guests Jeff C. & Puck)
00:23:14 - Michigan GT Preview

What Are You Drinking
Tucher Dunkles Hefe Beizen - 4+ Armour Save (Fair)

Emails
The Show Email - equinox999equinox@yahoo.com

Show Links

Over Da Top Gaming (Chuck's Blog) 
A Gathering of Might XIII
Michigan GT

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
 

Episode 34 - The End is Near

Episode 34 - The End is Near
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

The end is near.  In this episode, the guys talk about the leaked Nagash model and rules.  After sharing their thoughts on the Lord of the Undead, they discuss their latest hobby progress in Marshaling the Host.  Next, Chuck previews Waste Wars XIII while John drools over his new warpfire dragon.  Finally, John has a very special message for a friend of the show.
 
Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS



Episode Timeline
00:00:17 Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)

00:01:00 - The End is Near (Review of Nagash model and rules)
00:50:00 - Marshaling the Host (Michigan GT prep)
01:05:00 - Waste Wars XIII Preview (WFB Tournament)
01:23:37 - A Special Message for Richard

What Are You Drinking
Tucher Dunkles Hefe Beizen - 4+ Armour Save (Fair)

Emails
The Show Email - equinox999equinox@yahoo.com

Show Links

Over Da Top Gaming (Chuck's Blog) 
A Gathering of Might XIII
Michigan GT

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
Wargamma: Website | Facebook

Episode 33 - Codex Ork Part One

Episode 33 - Codex Orks Part One
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

In this episode, the crew talks about the new Tyranid Dimachaeron, the Michigan GT this October, and the first part of their Codex Orks review.

Be warned, the grots were working the soundboard and this episode is why John G. is buying a pop filter for the next one.
 
Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS



Episode Timeline
00:00:17 Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:15 Michigan GT
00:19:00 Dimachaeron Review
00:32:23 Marshaling the Host
00:56:00 Codex Orks - Part One

What Are You Drinking
Tucher Dunkles Hefe Beizen - 4+ Armour Save (Fair)

Emails
The Show Email - equinox999equinox@yahoo.com

Show Links

Over Da Top Gaming (Chuck's Blog) 
A Gathering of Might XIII
Michigan GT

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
Wargamma: Website | Facebook

Welcome Back to the Machine

I am in the process of giving my necrons an overhaul (full discussion about the whats and whys will be in the next episode) and am looking for feedback on a couple of things.  As of right now, the necron army is still a 3rd edition build that was pretty effective at the time but has now become rather outdated.


Necron Overlord: warscythe; sempiternal weave; resurrection orb; phase shifter 190
• 1 Cryptek: Harbinger of Destruction (solar pulse) 55
• 1 Cryptek: Harbinger of Destruction 35
• 1 Cryptek: Harbinger of Destruction 35

C'tan Shard: Time's Arrow; Transdimensional Thunderbolt 270

10 Necron Warriors 130
10 Necron Warriors 130
6 Necron Immortals 102

3 Canoptek Scarabs 45
4 Canoptek Wraiths: 4× whip coils 180
5 Necron Destroyers: heavy gauss cannon 220

1 Canoptek Spyder 50
1 Canoptek Spyder 50

1,492 points



Looking ahead, I have a few deadlines and goals that I want to meet with the army:

Goals:
1.  Want to update the color scheme.
2.  Want to re-base the army
3.  Want to add some of the new units from the codex
4.  Want to add a Lord of War unit
5.  Want to include some Forgeworld units

Deadlines:
Immediate: Add 350 points of stuff (unpainted)
08/09/2014: Swap out the C'tan for ~250 points of newly painted stuff.  Play in the 1500 point tournament at Draxtar
09/13/2014: Swap out Destroyers with ~250 points of newly painted stuff.  Play in the 1500 point tournament at Draxtar
11/21/2014: Swap out Wraiths for ~250 points of newly painted stuff.  Play in the Renegade Open GT.

Feedback:
I am looking for feedback on the following things:
1.  I want to re-base the army using scenic resin bases.  I am thinking something ancient that can be painted with earth tones.  Given that criteria, I am looking for suggestions on potential bases.
2.  Looking at the pictures below, what would people suggest I do to update the color scheme as I work on new models?
3.  Considering my goals above, I believe what I am hoping to achieve is 1500 point necron airforce, with the 1850 list containing the LoW (Obelisk is the likely choice given most tournaments are not allowing the C'tan).  Looking for suggestions on what should be my first 250 points of newly painted stuff to swap out the C'tan for in the list.
4.  What would folks suggest I use to fill the 350?  I would like to combine efforts if possible, but also need to start playing next week.  I have the following available:

Lychguard/Praetorian kit
Immortal/Deathmark kit
Annihilation Barge kit
$50 hobby budget

Episode 32 - @Gortexgunnerson

Episode 32 - @Gortextgunnerson
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

In this episode, John is joined by his friend from the UK, Andrew H.  They discuss Andrew's views on the WFB UK tournament scene, what it is like to play an avoidance list, and Andrew's goals for AGOM XIII.    
 
Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS



Episode Timeline
00:00:17 Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:15 UK WFB Meta
00:46:30 What are You Drinking!
00:50:15 Marshaling the Host (Avoidance Lists, Anti-Avoidance Lists, and AGOM prep)

What Are You Drinking
New Holland Brewery Dragon's Milk - 6+ Armour Save (Horrible)

Emails
The Show Email - equinox999equinox@yahoo.com

Show Links

Over Da Top Gaming (Chuck's Blog) 
A Gathering of Might XIII

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
Wargamma: Website | Facebook

Episode 31 - Midwest Rampage

Episode 31 - Midwest Rampage
Sponsored by Heroes Haven Comics and Games & A Gathering of Might

It is time for the Unstable Dice to get ODT with Chuck.  The focus of this episode is Chuck's review of this year's Midwest Rampage, a yearly WFB tournament in central Illinois.  Before breaking down the event, Chuck and John talk about the latest WFB rumors.  They also share what they have been doing in the hobby lately.  During MoH, John dives into his experience playing in his first Magic the Gathering tournament in the past 8 years.  Also, this episode includes an interview with Mr. Dandy, the genius behind Wargamma! 
 
Download: Direct Download | iTunes | RSS



Episode Timeline
00:00:17 Sponsors (Heroes Haven Comics & Games)
00:01:30 WFB Rumors (Brettonia & Daemons)
00:23:30 Marshaling the Host (Chuck's Midwest Rampage Prep, John's MtG Tournament Experience)
00:57:30 Interview with Mr. Dandy from Wargamma
01:02:45 Midwest Rampage Recap/Discussion


Emails
The Show Email - equinox999equinox@yahoo.com

Show Links

Over Da Top Gaming (Chuck's Blog) 
A Gathering of Might XII

Sponsors

Heroes Haven Comics & Games: Website | Facebook
A Gathering of Might: Website | Facebook
Wargamma: Website | Facebook