We discuss what makes tabletop wargaming communities unique compared to other gaming communities like video games or TTRPGs?
Another Long War Two-Fer is HERE: Keep those hobby muscles strong with this week’s webcast and the latest exciting podcast of table-top wargaming awesomeness mostly centered around Warhammer 40k.
Show Summary:
This week brought a new Chapter Approved Objectives and some Space Wolves leaks. Here are the key takeaways:
- Games Workshop Sales & Product Issues (05:00–14:00)
- GW’s 2024 sales are up to £560M, a £60M increase from last year.
- Retailer supply issues noted—stores received only 12–15 of the new card decks despite ordering 30–120.
- Lack of product availability (cards, command terminals) is a recurring trend and impacts playability.
- Product Distribution & Forecasting Failures (14:00–18:00)
- Examples: Titanicus and Leviathan product shortages.
- Inconsistency in supply undermines customer engagement; players can’t get necessary items to play.
- Licensing Success vs. Hobby Frustration (18:00–22:00)
- Licensing revenue nearly doubled in two years (from £24M to £50M).
- New players drive demand (e.g., Space Marine 2), but supply can’t meet it.
- Veteran players feel alienated—GW is focusing on new customers, not retaining long-time hobbyists.
- Suggestions & Alternatives (22:00–27:00)
- Solutions proposed: free PDFs for cards, print-on-demand novels, in-app rules purchasing.
- Comparison to other companies (e.g., Marvel Crisis Protocol) offering free updates and better accessibility.
- Hobby Tools & Paint News (28:00–33:00)
- Monument Hobbies launches expert artist acrylics—aimed at serious artists, not casual painters.
- Discussion on paint quality, customization, and how it’s not beginner-friendly.
- Model & Miniature Highlights (33:00–39:00)
- New Space Wolves models from ArtelW praised for high quality.
- 14 Space Wolf units moved to Legends—some controversial choices.
- Horus Heresy box preview looks great but limited utility if models aren’t compatible with 40K.
- Community Trends & Inclusion (43:00–59:00)
- Culture has evolved: more inclusive and open, but toxicity remains (not unique to 40K).
- Social media and pop culture references (e.g., “Blood for the Blood God”) have grown.
- Tabletop communities praised for mentorship and in-person learning.
- Diversity, Canon, and Representation (59:00–1:03:00)
- Controversial topic: female Custodes and canon revisions.
- Hosts emphasize respecting lore and fan investment.
- Artificial diversity changes seen as alienating when not properly explained.
- Final Thoughts (1:03:00–End)
- 40k’s strength is its IP—must be protected and respected.
- Caution against following failed trends of other major IPs (Star Wars, Marvel, etc.).
- Encouragement for community support, constructive criticism, and enjoying the hobby in your own way.
- Warhammer Isn’t For Everyone
- LVO Tickets
- Monument Hobbies has some of the best paints in the business
- Get your hobbies for less from Fabricators Forge
- J15 Games Has Your Game Aides, Tokens & Templates!
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