Sunday, July 30, 2023

JeffCon 2023 Recap

JeffCon 2023 was back at Lake Kachess this year, and it was another great weekend of gaming for the (full) six attendees! The group tried out a mix of new and classic games, creating lasting memories and enjoying the time together.

Games Played:

  • The Builders: Antiquity
  • Eight Minute Empires: Legends
  • Big Money
  • Vaalbara
  • Ra
  • Eclipse (2nd Edition)
  • Western Legends
  • Yucatán
  • Unfathomable
  • Steam Barons

Eclipse (2nd Edition) - Gaufre d'Or Winner

Eclipse is a strategic space civilization game where players take on the roles of different interstellar civilizations, exploring the galaxy, expanding their empires, engaging in diplomacy, and battling other factions. The game features a unique mix of resource management, area control, and combat. As players build their space fleets and develop their technologies, they must balance alliances and rivalries to achieve their objectives. The game offers depth and complexity, making it a favorite among strategy enthusiasts. The group thoroughly enjoyed the epic space-themed gameplay and found it to be a worthy recipient of the Gaufre d'Or.  I liked how the different abilities of the factions drove the action forward, giving some variety to the game.

Steam Barons - Gaufre d'Argent Winner

Steam Barons is a board game set in the 19th-century where players become railway magnates, connecting cities with steam-powered trains. The objective is to build tracks, establish profitable routes, and deliver goods efficiently. As the railway networks expand, players face challenges such as competition for routes and limited resources. Steam Barons combines strategy, economics, and route-building mechanics, providing a satisfying gameplay experience. The intricate gameplay and the thrill of creating an efficient railway network earned Steam Barons the Gaufre d'Argent.  I enjoyed the stock market action and the decisions it posed.

Ra - Gaufre d'Bronze Winner

Ra is the classic Reiner Knizia auction and civilization-building board game set in ancient Egypt. Players bid on tiles representing various aspects of civilization, such as monuments, pharaohs, and disasters. The key is to strategically gather tiles to form sets and maximize their points. However, players must be cautious as some tiles can have negative effects, adding an exciting risk-reward element to the game. Ra is known for its elegant design, engaging auctions, and timeless appeal. The group had a fantastic time with this classic and awarded it the Gaufre d'Bronze for its engaging gameplay and strategic depth.

Overall, JeffCon 2023 was a resounding success, with Eclipse, Steam Barons, and Ra shining as the top three games of the weekend.

Monday, June 19, 2023

Sword Weirdos Battle Report - Elsa and the Defenders of Arendelle Triumph over the Blood Cult of Sanguivor

In a recent 75-point game, an extraordinary clash unfolded between the formidable alliance of Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Conan the Barbarian, and their loyal wolf companion, and a menacing warband consisting of three Blood Daemons led by the wicked cult wizard, Sanguivor. 

In a land far from Arendelle, an evil plot was attempted by Sanguivor to unbind an ancient daemonette from her bronze prison. The objective was to claim the coveted bronze daemon statue, with the side that had the most models within one stick's distance of the statue (at game end) emerging victorious.

The battle commenced with swift and decisive action. One of the Blood Daemons boldly charged forward, only to be intercepted and swiftly subdued via a pounce by the ferocious wolf. Seizing the opportunity, Conan the Barbarian launched a furious assault, delivering the finishing blow that sent the daemon back to the shadows.

Meanwhile, Elsa showcased her formidable magical prowess, deftly harnessing her powers to eliminate another Blood Daemon with a precise icy Magic Missile spell. 

The remaining daemon, undeterred, sought to strike back, targeting Anna. However, the fearless Anna valiantly defended herself, and with help from Olaf, skillfully evaded the daemon's attacks and held her ground until the daemon’s eventual defeat by the powerful greatsword of Conan.

The climax of the battle unfolded as Sanguivor, driven by his sinister ambitions, rushed towards the statue with hopes of claiming victory for the daemonic forces. However, Elsa, ever resourceful and quick-witted, unleashed an icy spell that sent the cult wizard sprawling to the ground. Seizing the opportune moment, the loyal wolf delivered the final blow that brought an end to Sanguivor's nefarious plans.

The outcome of this epic confrontation was resoundingly in favor of Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Conan, and their loyal wolf companion. Not a single casualty was suffered by the valiant heroes, while the Blood Daemons were completely vanquished from the battlefield!

As the victors bask in the glory of their triumph, they serve as a shining example of friendship and unity, reminding us of the power of courage, friendship, and unwavering determination. The legends of this fateful battle will echo through the ages, inspiring future generations in Arendelle.

Sunday, June 11, 2023

Sword Weirdos Review and Battle Report - Undead Unleashed!

Sword Weirdos by Garske Games is a sequel to the sci-fi skirmish ruleset Space Weirdos. This new fantasy version has been highly anticipated by its fans for some time. Although the approach to Maneuver Points and weapons is different here – with much more complexity - it does not disappoint, and I appreciated the sheer number of options in creating a unique warband.

I grabbed a few fantasy models from my collection, and in no time created a 100 point contingent of Citadel skeletons to be lead by the necromantic vampiress Cleomydia, Mistress of the Night. Little did I know my opponent would choose Thorns of the Briar Queen models for his warband – an epic undead battle of ghosts versus Harryhausen-inspired skeletons would soon commence!


The Treasure Surprise scenario was rolled. The spear-armed skeletons outnumbered the ghosts, but the ghosts were casters with the Magic Missile spell. Luckily for me, Cleomydia had the Majestic Leader Trait, allowing her skeletons minions to use her Will when testing for the opposed roll, as long as she was in line-of-sight. The game centered around me rushing the skeletons forward (as quickly as Speed 1 skeletons can move), while both protecting Cleomydia and ensuring she remained in line-of-sight of the skeletons. Cleomydia also used her Unlife spell to return dead skeletons back as… zombies!


In the end, the sheer numbers of skeletons and resurrected zombie-skeletons (skeleton-zombies?) was extremely beneficial for me, and while we both took one treasure chest off the board early, I was able to pickup another mid-game without it being a Mimic. My opponent had access to other chests, but they all turned out to be Mimics. Victory for Cleomydia and her undead band!


With just one game under my belt, I do hereby declare Sword Weirdos as my preferred fantasy skirmish ruleset. Like Space Weirdos, the game's mechanics are innovative and accessible, and although they are more complex than Space Weirdos, Sword Weirdos is able to again strike the trifeca of fun, flexibility, and simplicity. I become a bigger fan of the use of the five-inch-long sticks for measuring movement and ranges each time I’ve played either ruleset; the approach tends to suck you more into the action without the need to measure for movement or ranges all the time. The innovative use of dice, again like Space Weirdos, makes rolls simple, but meaningful.

As I eye my expansive collection of fantasy models, I eagerly await my next encounter on the battlefield, ready to delve deeper into the story and action-packed adventures that I know Sword Weirdos will offer.

Monday, April 24, 2023

Classic Warhammer Fantasy Miniatures: The Tikiwood Sentinels (Wood Elf Army)


Nestled deep within an enchanted forest, a unique and spirited band of Wood Elves known as the Tikiwood Sentinels passionately defend their sacred home against the forces of darkness. Led by their valiant bowleader, Thornstrike, and guided by the wisdom of their enchanting sorceress, Blossomshade, this lively and diverse group consists of the mighty wood golem Spiritbark, mystical Dryads, elusive Waywatchers, and fearsome tiki-masked halflings. Each group brings their unique skills and abilities to form an extraordinary and unforgettable team. Together, the Tikiwood Sentinels employ their diverse talents to protect the forest from the encroaching darkness.


Thornstrike is the respected leader among the Tikiwood Sentinels, and he is known for his courage and determination. Thornstrike is known for his deadly accuracy with his bow. Thornstrike's sword is called the "Blade of the Forest." It is a powerful weapon that is said to be made of the finest steel. It is engraved with ancient runes, and it is said to be imbued with the power of the forest. Thornstrike is incredibly skilled with his sword, and he is able to wield it with deadly precision. Thornstrike often leads the Waywatchers in their hunt, as they silently strike from the shadows, eliminating key targets and sowing confusion among the enemy ranks.

Blossomshade is a powerful sorceress who is deeply devoted to protecting her forest. She is a master of nature magic, and she uses her powers to repel her enemies. She is particularly skilled at fighting the undead and the Dark Elves, two of the greatest threats to her home. Blossomshade is also a wise and compassionate leader. She is always willing to help those in need, and she is always looking for ways to improve the lives of her people. She is a true inspiration to the Tikiwood Sentinels, and she is a symbol of hope for the future. 

In times of great need, Blossomshade is known to call upon the power of the legendary Queen Ariel herself. Queen Ariel is the goddess of the Wood Elves, and her power is immense. When Blossomshade calls upon Queen Ariel, it is a sign that the situation is dire. However, it is also a sign that there is still hope. With the help of Queen Ariel, Blossomshade and the Tikiwood Sentinels can overcome any challenge.

The tiki-masked halflings, despite their small stature, are a formidable and awe-inspiring force to be reckoned with. They expertly blend the ancient art of song and dance with the ferocity of battle, creating a unique combat style that is both mesmerizing and terrifying. As they charge into combat, their captivating and haunting chants echo through the forest, striking fear into the hearts of their enemies. These masked warriors are truly a fearsome presence on the battlefield.

The spiritual heart of the Tikiwood Sentinels is the wood golem Spiritbark, who serves as the ultimate guardian and protector. With his immense strength and resilience, Spiritbark can tear through even the most formidable of foes. Spiritbark, once a noble Treeman, was transformed into a living tiki totem by the mystical powers of the tiki-masked halflings. Seeking to strengthen their bond with the forest, these enigmatic beings remade Spiritbark with the essence of tiki, enhancing his connection the forest. In this new form, Spiritbark stands as a symbol of unity and harmony between the Wood Elves and the tiki-masked halflings, embodying the spirit of their shared love for the forest.

The Dryads, as magical creatures bound to the trees, command the very essence of nature to entangle and ensnare their foes, creating a formidable barrier between the darkness and the sanctity of their home. They patrol the forest, looking for signs of danger. They heal wounded plants and animals and protect the forest from harm. The Dryads are a symbol of the strength and resilience, and they will never hesitate to fight for their home.

Soaring high above the Tikiwood Sentinels, the majestic eagle Windtalon keeps a watchful eye over the enchanted forest. As a trusted and loyal companion to the Wood Elves, Windtalon is a symbol of freedom and the untamed spirit of the skies. Windtalon's keen eyesight, unmatched by any creature in the forest, allows him to spot approaching enemies from great distances, enabling the Tikiwood Sentinels to prepare for battle and strengthen their defenses. In times of need, Windtalon's razor-sharp talons effortlessly tear through the flesh and armor of any who dare to threaten his friends. Thornstrike and Windtalon often work together to coordinate the Tikiwood Sentinels in battle. Windtalon's aerial perspective allows him to relay valuable information to Thornstrike, giving the Sentinels a tactical advantage in the heat of combat.

The Tikiwood Sentinels play a crucial role in defending the enchanted forest from those who seek to corrupt it. As a united force, they are a symbol of the power of unity and the enduring spirit of the forest, proving that even the mightiest of foes can be vanquished when the hearts of brave warriors beat as one. Their combined might, along with their unique blend of song, dance, and battle, make the Tikiwood Sentinels an awe-inspiring and unforgettable force within the Wood Elf realm -- a testament to the power of unity and the enduring spirit of the forest.

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

Team Yankee - USA vs. Yugoslavia (50 Points)


Skirmish of Kranj's Fuel Depot: Dawn Assault, September 1st, 1985

As Yugoslavia mobilized its forces, the US military forces launched a bold pre-emptive strike in the country's northern region, setting the stage for a high-stakes skirmish at the strategically located town of Kranj, Slovenia. The objective of the US forces was to defend a critical fuel depot and gas station recently captured by NATO forces, essential for the continuation of their operations in the region.

Two seasoned warriors found themselves pitted against each other: Daro Petrović, a skilled Yugoslav tank commander, and Lieutenant John Baker, the resolute American in command of Bravo Company. Both men had faced prior engagements that had shaped their resolve and understanding of warfare. The stage was set for an intense showdown between American and Yugoslav forces, with both sides determined to achieve victory.


Under the cover of the early morning light, the Yugoslav forces approached the outskirts of Kranj. They launched a surprise attack with Gazelle helicopters, aiming to weaken the American defenses. However, the thunderous roar of American anti-aircraft fire filled the air, swiftly decimating the helicopters and leaving the Yugoslav attackers without air support. Undeterred, Petrović led his T-55 tanks and mechanized infantry in a relentless assault on the fuel depot and gas station.


Lieutenant Baker and his platoon braced for the coming onslaught, their hearts pounding in anticipation. When the Yugoslav T-55s engaged, the American forces unleashed a hailstorm of fire and fury, initially gaining the upper hand due to their superior firepower and formidable armor. However, as the battle raged on, the relentless numbers of T-55s started to wear down the American forces. The smell of smoke and the cries of the wounded filled the air as the defensive perimeter around the gas station began to crumble.


Sensing the opportunity to turn the tide of the battle, Petrović quickly maneuvered his forces toward the more undefended oil depot. Skillfully using the forested terrain and roads to their advantage, the remaining Yugoslav tanks closed the distance and partilly negated the Americans' technological edge, despite raining down of artillery from the Americans. The T-55s swarmed the defenders like a relentless tide, their cannons roaring and engines rumbling as they inflicted heavy casualties and pushed the American forces to their breaking point.



Despite their best efforts and tactical prowess, Lieutenant Baker and his battle-weary company were defeated, leaving the fuel depot in Yugoslav hands. Though the two Abrams tanks in his forces had proven to be nearly invincible, the overwhelming number of T-55s and the unyielding determination of the Yugoslav soldiers allowed them to recapture this critical objective, and seize victory.


In the aftermath of the battle, both Petrović and Baker reflected on the human cost of their victory and defeat, respectively. Petrović took pride in the bravery and tenacity of his men, while Baker mourned the loss of his fallen comrades and the strategic setback. Amidst the smoldering ruins and the heartache of loss, both sides counted their losses and steeled themselves for the next inevitable confrontation in a somber reminder of the consequences of a new world war... in the year 1985.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

JeffCon 2022 Recap

Due to COVID, just five of us could attend our annual long weekend of gaming the summer of 2022. Despite that, “JeffLessCon”, hosted in Sequim this year, was a good weekend of fun where we tried out a mix of old classics and new games. Games played included:

• Blitz Bowl (using a five player mat)

• Cartographers Heroes

• Cheaty Mages!

• Fantasy Realms

• For Sale + For Sale: Advisors

• Foundations of Rome

• Furnace

• Long Shot: The Dice Game

• Lords of Waterdeep

• The Mind

• Race for the Galaxy

• Smartphone Inc.

• Space Base

• Tournament at Camelot

• Unmatched: Buffy the Vampire Slayer

• War Chest

The Gaufre d' Or went to Lords of Waterdeep. Although it has been around for some time, it was the first time we had played it. Each player takes on the role of a secret lord of Waterdeep, a powerful figure in the city who has the power to recruit adventurers and send them on quests. The goal of the game is to earn the most victory points by completing quests and building buildings. The game is easy to learn and has a great mix of strategy and luck. You must carefully manage your resources, build buildings, and recruit adventurers in order to complete quests and gain victory points.

The Gaufre d' Argent went to Foundations of Rome. Foundations of Rome is an excellent city-building board game that puts you in the shoes of an architect competing to own land and build magnificent structures. The artwork and miniatures are incredibly detailed, and the game itself is easy to learn. The gameplay was fairly straightforward - players select from purchasing a new lot, building a new building in the shared city, or collecting income. The scoring system is unique, as players can gain glory not only for their own buildings, but also for those of their opponents. Foundations of Rome is a good game and one of the better city-building games I’ve played.

The Gaufre d' Bronze went to Marvel Champions. Marvel Champions is a fantastic deck-building game that really captures the feel of a Marvel superhero team-up. Each character plays differently and has their own unique abilities, which makes for a lot of interesting decisions. The villains are tough, but not unbeatable, and the different modules keep the game fresh. We found the rules a bit daunting at first, but then the game kept pace, if not a little long with four players. I’m still enjoying deck-building and playing it solo.

Monday, August 22, 2022

Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition Spoilers

More details are emerging about Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition as the game has already been released in other countries. It appears this version of Blitz Bowl has a large number of fundamental changes to the different teams and players.

For example, the normal Armour of a Human players is now 3+, while Orcs have a normal value of 2+; many of the changes to Armour values for different teams is likely is due to the new "Fouling" rule which allows attacks on prone players.

Touchdowns are now worth four points, the "Get On With It" rule is gone, and and there are a great number of changes to the different challenge cards.

A few other tidbits include:
  • Black Orc Blockers and Saurus Blockers don't have any skills, but both have Block of 2. The Mummy also sports a Block of 2 with a nice skill (called Bonebreaker) which counts a Smash as a Kerrrunch!
  • The Snotling Pumpwagon has a Block of 3, Throw of "-", and an Armour of 3+.
  • The Chamelon Skink now has a typical Catcher skill (like the Human Catcher, etc.)

Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition Preorder at Barnes & Noble

Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition is now available for pre-order at Barnes & Noble's website and its official release date is Saturday, October 22, 2022.  Its price is $49.99, which is the same original price of Season 2 (which is still listed for sale at Barnes & Noble) and five more bucks than the original game (which is also still listed for sale at Barnes & Noble). Also, there is a maximum of two per order!

Sunday, August 7, 2022

Fantasy Flight Games Announces Star Wars: The Deck Building Game

Today, on the last day of Gen Con, Fantasy Flight Games announced Star Wars: The Deckbuilding Game at the very end of their Day 4 in-flight short. The stream ended without further details, leaving only a few images, including one of what appears to be the box cover. 

The game is designed by Caleb Grace, the lead developer of Lord of the Rings: The Card Game, and one of the three designers of Marvel Champions: The Card Game.


With no additional details, we'll need to wait for FFG to reveal more information about the game and a potential release date.

Friday, July 8, 2022

Blitz Bowl Ultimate Edition Leaked Images

Earlier this year, Games Workshop announced "Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition".  Leaked images have now been found showing some of the changes to the game, including what looks to be a new stat for blocking!


The leaked photos confirms that 19 teams will be included in the box, which means all but one of the 20 existing teams in Blood Bowl will have rules in this edition.  It appears that the individual player cards have been replaced with team cards which will have all the stats for every player on the team.


In addition to some stat tweaks to a few positions on the Human team (the Blitzer is now Move 7, and the Catchers is Move 8), the inclusion of a brand new stat for every team is getting much attention - what appears to be a block stat (of 1) in shown for both the Humans and Skaven.  This would allow certain players to roll a certain amount of block dice without the need of special text (see for example, the Black Orc).  This also opens up possibilities for even stronger positions or players, such as Ogres.  The fact that now three block dice (of a single color) are included in the game (instead of two block dice for each of the two teams) further supports the expectation that blocking rules have changed.


Further leaked images show a new "Rookies To Watch" card (which will help out inexperienced players) and the two pitches included in this edition.


If past timing is any indication, Blitz Bowl Ultimate Edition will release this fall. The original Blitz Bowl was first available for purchase at Gen Con 2018 (in August) and was later was available for purchase in early September 2018. Blitz Bowl Season 2 had an official release date of Monday, September 21, 2020.

Sunday, May 15, 2022

Conan the Barbarian - 40th Anniversary Showing Movie Review

On May 14, 1982, Conan the Barbarian was released to theaters in North America.  To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the cinematic Arnold classic, Mezmaron's Lair helped host a private showing at the North Bend Theatre yesterday.

To me, this is Arnold’s best movie -- and it is still one of my favorite movies of all time.  Despite limited dialog and dated special effects, the movie still holds up after forty years -- the lack of CGI only adds to the movie's authenticity and grit.  I always underestimate how important and effective Basil Poledouris’s legendary score is to the film.   The pacing is generally good and Jon Milius' social commentary about the 1960s is... amusing.

In the beginning of the film, Conan's father tells a young Conan, "for no one - no one in this world can you trust - not men, not women, not beasts... [points to sword], this you can trust."  Despite this advice, after Conan's final victory, it is his father's broken sword that Conan holds aloft - his triumph (at the Battle of the Mounds) only possible due to his reliance on his companions and the actions of his (deceased) lover.  The best stories and movies provide a character not just with a great challenge and adversary, but embark the character on a journey of growth and evolution.




Friday, April 22, 2022

Tiki, Wood Golem: Reaper's Dark Heaven Legends

I finished painting up a Wood Golem, which I will proxy as a Treeman for my small Warhammer Wood Elves force.  The Tiki, Wood Golem miniature was sculpted by Jason Wiebe and is from Reaper's Dark Heaven Legends line.  I really like the small creature hiding in the hollow in his back.

I painted him in the same manner as the Dryads that I recently painted up.  I also added some pink highlights and flowers to match the rest of the force, including two new painted miniatures that I bought off Ebay (to which I simply added few details - mainly, the pink color scheme).


 

Sunday, February 27, 2022

Tau XV25 Stealth Battlesuits

I recently finished painting up some Tau XV25 Stealth Battlesuits for use in One Page Rules (Grimdark Future: Firefight) and Warhammer 40,000: Fireteam 

I wanted to build a squad of transparent troops to reflect the cloaking technology of the Tau.  I painted the other miniatures (markerlight drone and the a homing beacon) in a mottled pink camouflage pattern (using a small piece of sea sponge) to match the surrounding landscape, complete with pink flower tufts from Shadow's Edge Miniatures.



Saturday, February 5, 2022

Games Workshop Announces "Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition"

On it's Warhammer Community page, Games Workshop has announced Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition, (along with a number of other games).

According to Games Workshop, Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition includes "two new teams are ready to tussle in a tumultuous try-out – six Human players form The Reavers, while six Skaven make up The Scramblers"

On close examination of the picture, it is hard to make out the main changes to the game, other than the inclusion of the Skaven as a team, the color of the plastics, a new format for the cards, a new board option (with fire pits), and pink dice.

Based on prior releases (that were first shown at the New York Toy Fair), we can expect Blitz Bowl: Ultimate Edition (and the other games previewed) to be released this fall.  The first Blitz Bowl was previewed at the New York Toy Fair on March 1, 2018.  It was first available for purchase at Gen Con 2018 (in August of that year).  It later was available for purchase (from Barnes and Noble stores) in early September 2018.  Blitz Bowl Season 2 was announced on February 22, 2020 and had an official release date of Monday, September 21, 2020.

One other thing to take note of is that while in the past these releases were "available in select independent retailers in the USA, Canada and Germany, including Barnes & Noble stores," there is no mention of Barnes & Noble in this year's announcement.  There have been rumors that the games previewed will be released through Games Workshop stores and not be limited to Barnes & Noble (and a limited number of other select retailers) that prevented many from buying them.

Friday, December 31, 2021

Team Yankee - Yugoslavian Aérospatiale Gazelles

My Team Yankee JNA (Yugoslavian) force is now complete after recently painting up two Aérospatiale Gazelle attack helicopters, which will join the T-55s, BTR-60s, and infantry that I have already painted.

Soko was a Yugoslav aircraft manufacturer based in Mostar. The company was responsible for the production of many military aircraft for the Yugoslav Air Force. Originally, twenty-one French-built Aérospatiale Gazelle were bought by Yugoslavia, but after that, the Soko factory started serial production. 

I plan to use the Iraqi rules in Oil War for them....



Sunday, November 21, 2021

Classic Warhammer Fantasy Miniatures: Dryads

I recently again painted a few classic Warhammer Fantasy Battle miniatures, this time the Dryads sculpted by Trish Morrison back in the mid-1990s.  

I won these off of Ebay about a year ago and they had been sitting around primed Army Painter Leather Brown until a week ago.  I picked out some simple details, washed them with Army Painter Dark Tone, and then lightly dry-brushed them.  I aligned the style of their bases to join my pack of Wood Elves by added some pink flowers in an attempt to tie them all together.