8 replies to this topic

[Nameless]

Didn't know where to post my question, but is somehow connected to LE, so I'll try here

One of reasons stated by Reaper peeps for use of broccoli bases in DHL line was ease of use for RPGamers. With coming release of LE line, which is aimed at RPGamers, will DHL line receive more painters-friendly bases?

[Madog Barfog]

One of reasons stated by Reaper peeps for use of broccoli bases in DHL line was ease of use for RPGamers.

Ease of use? I don't find cutting it off, finding a way to cover it, or figuring out exactly how to paint whatever the heck it's supposed to be particulary easy!

In fact, given the complaints, I'm surprised Reaper is still using it.

Integral bases are fine - as long as they look like something.

[kristof65]

I kind of find the "brocolli" base aversion funny. While they aren't my favorite, they aren't an abomination, either. Well painted, the "brocolli" base can look like ground cover or grass or even trees/shrubs. Take a look at some of the various collector lines of miniature houses, like Lilliput Lane. You'll note that almost all of their trees and shrubbery are sculpted in the same manner as the "brocolli" bases. That technique is a favorite in all the polymer clay crafting books I've read for making miniature shrubs and grass.

And it looks to me like Reaper is listening - far more of the later DHL releases have a better sculpted integral bases than the early stuff. Plus you have to remember it's the sculptor as well - Niether Werner nor John Manor have had anything but a nice integral base on their sculpts in the 3200s/3100s (I didn't go back any further than that), and most of the other sculptors have gone with putting extra detail on most of their bases in the same time frame. Just because they haven't gone back and redone bases on the early line doesn't mean you can fault them for not listening.

[GreyHorde]

IMHO, DHL 'broccoli' or integral bases are here to stay. LE seems intended to supplement DHL's RPG flavor -- debated extensively here .

The rationale, as near as I can tell, is that DHLs are purchased more by RPGers, whose focus is more on the game and player interaction. So, the minis are made to come out of the blister and stand on their own, without glue or tools, so the players & referee may quickly set up 'marching order' and play, fight out encounters, and ignore the minis the rest of the time. If a favorite character survives long enough to warrant a 'permanent' mini representation, it can be painted and based as needed. That's the way I used to do it, and still might if I were actively playing RPGs. YMMV.

Tabletop battle /war /skirmish games require more attention to the minis, so they are produced on slotted bases to make it easier to assemble with (A) just glue, or (B) customizing, basing, facing, etc.

DHL and WL are intended for somewhat different target markets. There's crossover between them, sure, but they are different lines for a reason. Dedicated painters cross over between the lines at will, and some might like the products to follow suit. But not everyone. Again, refer to the merged debate thread above for both sides of the coin.

That's the beauty of LEs...prepainted, freestanding, ready to set out & play either game. A hybrid of the two styles. Not exactly the best of both worlds, but good aspects of both. They go between the two lines without having to overhaul either one or both.

[Nameless]

Ease of use? I don't find cutting it off, finding a way to cover it, or figuring out exactly how to paint whatever the heck it's supposed to be particulary easy!

IIRC the reason stated was: 'they can tak it out of a blister, put in on a table and play - without brush, paint and glue'.

I kind of find the "brocolli" base aversion funny.

I don't have aversion to them, am just curious

Tabletop battle /war /skirmish games require more attention to the minis, so they are produced on slotted bases to make it easier to assemble with (A) just glue, or (B) customizing, basing, facing, etc.

I don't agree GH. Minis always require the same amount of attention, no matter if you use them for rpg or tabletop of any kind. Modelling aspect was always important and stressed in tabletop gaming hobby, but is not a requirement to use minis or play tabletops.
The only difference I see is that tabletop rules usually specify size and shape of a model base.

Anyway, pros and cons of brocolli bases have already been discussed and it is not my intention to go back to that discussion. I'd just be grateful for more or less official reply to my question

[Reaperbryan]

I am currently unaware of any plans to begin issuing Dark Heaven figures without integral bases.

I am certain that we will not go back and retool the 1200+ figures already in Dark Heaven Legends to remove their integral bases.

I hope this answer settles the question without resparking the integral/broccoli vs. slotted/unbased debate all over again.

[Sergeant_Crunch]

Bryan, since the broccoli bases seem to be such a point of recurring contention here's my suggestion. Replace the broccoli with something everyone loves....

HOTWINGS!

That's right, hotwing bases. It'll be the rage of the miniature community. Familiars could be mounted on celery bases or bases resembling small containers of blue cheese dressing.

[mattmcl]

That's perfect. Bryan could get paid to generate chicken bones for bases. If you get the huge bags of wings at Costco, it's probably cheaper than pewter.

[JoeGKushner]

I have no problem with integrated bases, just the default brocoli one. Standardized streets, stones, or even plain, should be the norm.