Quote attributed to Hammacher - Beerfest.
I had been quietly pondering over the past few weeks what army to take to the NOVA Open.
I was torn between Blood Angels, Witch Hunters, Guard, or Eldar.
Today I have decided. I will be taking Witch Hunters.
Canoness w/Book of St. Lucius, Eviscerator, Bolt Pistol
10 Sisters w/Meltagun, Flamer, Veteran, Brazier of Holy Fire
Rhino w/Smoke, Searchlight
10 Sisters w/Heavy Flamer, Flamer, Veteran, Combi-Flamer
Rhino w/Smoke, Searchlight
10 Sisters w/Meltagun, Flamer, Veteran, Combi-Crossbow
Rhino w/Smoke, Searchlight
Allied Imperial Guard Infantry Platoon
Platoon Command w/4 Sniper Rifles
Infantry Squad w/Autocannon
Infantry Squad w/Autocannon
Infantry Squad w/Autocannon
5 Celestians w/2 Meltaguns
Immolator w/Smoke
5 Celestians w/2 Meltaguns
Immolator w/Smoke
5 Celestians w/2 Meltaguns
Immolator w/Smoke
5 Dominions w/3 Flamers
Immolator w/Smoke, Twin-Linked Multi-Melta
5 Dominions w/3 Flamers
Immolator w/Smoke, Twin-Linked Multi-Melta
Exorcist w/Smoke
Exorcist w/Smoke
2000
And as an added bonus, my list for the ICGT, happening this Saturday.
Librarian w/Shield of Sanguinius, Sanguine Sword
10 Tactical Marines w/Plasma Cannon, Plasma Gun, Combi-Plasma
10 Tactical Marines w/Lascannon, Flamer, Combi-Plasma
10 Tactical Marines w/Lascannon, Meltagun
10 Tactical Marines w/Lascannon, Meltagun
Attack Bike w/Multi-Melta
Attack Bike w/Multi-Melta
Attack Bike w/Multi-Melta
10 Devastator Space Marines w/4 Missile Launchers
10 Devastator Space Marines w/4 Missile Launchers
10 Devastator Space Marines w/2 Multi-meltas, 2 Plasma Cannons
1850
I know, foot marines. I do not expect to do great at the IGCT, but it is either that or the Eldar.
-Mike
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Some July Battle Reports!
So, I played some games in July, with a list I hope to take to the ICGT on July 31st.
Below are some links to the Battle Reports (on my clubs website)
Battle 1!
Battles 2-4!
Battle 5!
Battle 6!
Went a total of 5-1.
Brings me to 69W 24L 20D
Look Matt Stanley! A Fully Painted Army!
Enjoy the reports.
-Mike
Below are some links to the Battle Reports (on my clubs website)
Battle 1!
Battles 2-4!
Battle 5!
Battle 6!
Went a total of 5-1.
Brings me to 69W 24L 20D
Look Matt Stanley! A Fully Painted Army!
Enjoy the reports.
-Mike
Monday, June 14, 2010
Thoughts on Mech Guard
Before I took my list to Blobs park, I got 6 practice games in.
I first played "Capture and Control" (one objective each player) to a draw. My opponent had 1 scoring model left and made a ton of cover saves. Oh well.
The remaining 5 games, I played using Blobs park missions and won. I found that when I went first or seized the Initiative, games could effectively end turn 1.
I want to flash back for a bit and go through my thought process in building this list.
The first thing I knew was that I wanted 2 Vendettas. As an eldar player, I saw a similarity between the vendetta and Wave Serpents/Falcons/Fire Prisms. Point for point, the Vendetta is in a class above the Eldar vehicles. Vehicles are a BIG part of 5th edition, I welcome the awesome anti-tank capability.
My next thought was "two vendettas will not cut it for pure Anti-Tank", I need more. Months ago I had ordered two manticores from Forgeworld and finally assembled them. Bingo. I will take two of these. Lets quickly discuss the manticore. The manticore is a force multiplying machine. It is proportionately effective the more vehicles the enemy has. At blobs park, it was not uncommon for a manticore to fire and be able to hit two vehicles at full strength. There were at least two cases at blobs park where I would fire, hit two vehicles, destroy one and immobilize the other. In a war of attrition, the manticore is an unparalleled equalizer.
By now, I have a good amount of non-infantry anti-vehicle firepower. Time to look for my needs elsewhere. Next up was the role of vehicle mounted, anti-infantry firepower.
For this role I chose two Valkyries (in a squadron) and a Leman Russ Executioner with Plasma Cannon Sponsons and a Hull Mounted Heavy Flamer. This vehicles would later be dubbed "The Sexecutioner" because it is a sexy, sexy beast of a tank.
The squadron of valkyries had an unintended benefit. Usually I have 1 anti-tank unit and one other unit embarked. I can choose which one to take single hits on. (downing the "other' unit if I like)
The Sexecutioner is responsible for more death on the battlefield than any other non-superheavy unit I have ever used. It kills Infantry, period.
With my Heavies and fasts maxed out, I need to focus on other mandatory things.
For psychic and deep-strike defense I took an Inquisitor with Psychic Hood and Mystics. (I know, overplayed. But at least I do not use a Tarot, so it could be worse.)
I took a Company Command squad with 3 plasma guns for killing monstrous creatures and small, remainder Infantry squads.
I took a vet squad with 2 meltas.
I took a Platoon Command squad with 3 Flamers, in a Chimera
Two Infantry squads with flamer, Autocannon, in Chimeras.
A special Weapons Squad with 3 meltaguns.
These round out my 5 scoring units.
3 are in Chimeras.
The Company Command, Inquisitor and Retinue, Special Weapons Squad, and Veterans all hitch rides in either Valkyries or vendettas (depending on opponent/Objective/etc...)
To round out the points? 2 Psyker Battle squads in Chimeras for eliminating non-fearless Deathstar units, with a secondary purpose of being able to ordnance Infantry squads. (i keep mine 7 strong, so no high-strength ordnance blasts)
That rounds out my thoughts on behind building my guard army.
Including playtesting and Blobs, I am now at
64W 23L 20D in 5th edition.
-Mike
I first played "Capture and Control" (one objective each player) to a draw. My opponent had 1 scoring model left and made a ton of cover saves. Oh well.
The remaining 5 games, I played using Blobs park missions and won. I found that when I went first or seized the Initiative, games could effectively end turn 1.
I want to flash back for a bit and go through my thought process in building this list.
The first thing I knew was that I wanted 2 Vendettas. As an eldar player, I saw a similarity between the vendetta and Wave Serpents/Falcons/Fire Prisms. Point for point, the Vendetta is in a class above the Eldar vehicles. Vehicles are a BIG part of 5th edition, I welcome the awesome anti-tank capability.
My next thought was "two vendettas will not cut it for pure Anti-Tank", I need more. Months ago I had ordered two manticores from Forgeworld and finally assembled them. Bingo. I will take two of these. Lets quickly discuss the manticore. The manticore is a force multiplying machine. It is proportionately effective the more vehicles the enemy has. At blobs park, it was not uncommon for a manticore to fire and be able to hit two vehicles at full strength. There were at least two cases at blobs park where I would fire, hit two vehicles, destroy one and immobilize the other. In a war of attrition, the manticore is an unparalleled equalizer.
By now, I have a good amount of non-infantry anti-vehicle firepower. Time to look for my needs elsewhere. Next up was the role of vehicle mounted, anti-infantry firepower.
For this role I chose two Valkyries (in a squadron) and a Leman Russ Executioner with Plasma Cannon Sponsons and a Hull Mounted Heavy Flamer. This vehicles would later be dubbed "The Sexecutioner" because it is a sexy, sexy beast of a tank.
The squadron of valkyries had an unintended benefit. Usually I have 1 anti-tank unit and one other unit embarked. I can choose which one to take single hits on. (downing the "other' unit if I like)
The Sexecutioner is responsible for more death on the battlefield than any other non-superheavy unit I have ever used. It kills Infantry, period.
With my Heavies and fasts maxed out, I need to focus on other mandatory things.
For psychic and deep-strike defense I took an Inquisitor with Psychic Hood and Mystics. (I know, overplayed. But at least I do not use a Tarot, so it could be worse.)
I took a Company Command squad with 3 plasma guns for killing monstrous creatures and small, remainder Infantry squads.
I took a vet squad with 2 meltas.
I took a Platoon Command squad with 3 Flamers, in a Chimera
Two Infantry squads with flamer, Autocannon, in Chimeras.
A special Weapons Squad with 3 meltaguns.
These round out my 5 scoring units.
3 are in Chimeras.
The Company Command, Inquisitor and Retinue, Special Weapons Squad, and Veterans all hitch rides in either Valkyries or vendettas (depending on opponent/Objective/etc...)
To round out the points? 2 Psyker Battle squads in Chimeras for eliminating non-fearless Deathstar units, with a secondary purpose of being able to ordnance Infantry squads. (i keep mine 7 strong, so no high-strength ordnance blasts)
That rounds out my thoughts on behind building my guard army.
Including playtesting and Blobs, I am now at
64W 23L 20D in 5th edition.
-Mike
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
The Battle for Blobs park
Over the weekend (Saturday, June 5th), I attended the Battle for Blobs Park, a 2000 point 40k tournament.
I brought with me my newest army, Mech guard. (which I will post about later, here is my list)
Company Command Squad w/3 plasma
10 veterans w/2 melta, shotgun on sarge
Platoon Command Squad w/3 Flamers
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Infantry squad w/Autocannon, Flamer
Chimera w/heavy Flamer
Infantry squad w/Autocannon, Flamer
Chimera w/heavy Flamer
Special weapons squad w/3 Meltaguns
7 Psyker Battle Squad
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
7 Psyker Battle Squad
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Inquisitor w/Psychic Hood, 2 Mystics, 2 Hierophants
2 Valkyries w/Multiple Rocket Pods
Vendetta
Vendetta
Manticore
Manticore
Leman Russ Executioner w/Plasma Sponsons, Hull Heavy Flamer
Four rounds, lets get started.
First Opponent: Will Hamilton, and his nicely painted, some converted, Mech Guard. Will brought...
Lord Commissar
Company Command Squad w/Lascannon, Astropath
10 veterans w/3 meltas, fist, demo charge
Chimera
10 veterans w/3 meltas, harker
Chimera
Platoon Command w/2 meltas
Infantry Squad w/commissar, 2 power weapons
Infantry Squad w/power weapon, plasma gun
Infantry Squad w/plasma gun
Heavy Weapons Team w/ 3 Lascannons
Heavy Weapons Team w/3 Missile Launchers
Heavy Weapons Team w/3 Missile Launchers
Penal Legion
Penal Legion
2 Armored Sentinels w/Lascannons
2 Hydrae Flak Tanks
Leman Russ w/Hull Lascannon
Leman Russ Executioner w/Hull Lascannon
The mission was to take a Center objective. Will won to go first and deployed in a common firepower horseshoe. He reserved both Veteran Squads and his executioner, and outflanked with both penal legion. He mobbed up his Infantry squads, the heavy guns went in cover.
I deployed in a similar formation, but with nothing in reserves.
I seize the Initiative (this would become an all day theme)
I had a great first turn. I fired Multi-lasers and Autocannons at the Heavy Weapons teams, forcing them all to go to ground. (or suffer "Instant Death") Some died anyways.
My manticores did not do great, but managed to cause some damage. (and pin the big infantry block)
My vendettas pasted the Sentinels. My valkyrie squad punished the Infantry block with Multiple rocket pods and Multi-lasers, the executioner took aim on the Company Command squad and killed all but the Officer.
The only thing Will had to retaliate with was the Hydras (which killed a Chimera) and the Leman Russ (which scattered)
My seizing of the Initiative, coupled with Wills horribly poor reserve rolls (even with the Astropath) caused him problems in being able to retaliate effectively to my incredible first turn.
In gentlemanly fashion, Will conceded a few turns later.
Second Opponent: Doug McNaron, Iron Fist League (who gifted me with a die bearing his club symbol) Doug was playing Mech World Eaters, he brought...
Kharne
Summoned Greater Daemon
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Combi-Melta
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Combi-Melta
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Combi-Melta
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Dozer Blade, Twin-Linked Bolter
8 Berzerkers w/Champ
Rhino w/Twin-Linked Bolter
Dreadnought w/2 DCCWs
Dreadnought w/2 DCCWs
Defiler w/2 Extra DCCWs
Defiler w/2 Extra DCCWs
The mission was straight Objectives (5 on the board, 1 in Center, 4 we set up)
Doug won the roll to go first.
He deployed across the board, Defilers on the ends Dreadnoughts on the left, Rhinos in the middle and on the right.
I deployed toughly the same way. The first thing I noticed was the lack of ranged firepower.
2 Battle Cannons and 3 one shot Combi-Meltas, thats it.
So, for the second game in a row, I seized the initiative. (remember, theme.)
So I unleashed a FURY of firepower. 2 Rhinos Destroyed, 2 Immobilized, 1 Stunned.
I also took the Battle Cannon off of one defiler. In Dougs turn, he ran the Defiler forward instead of firing (which I can see) and he smoked everything. He began running his disembarked Berzerkers towards objectives (in some form of cover).
Doug would later write that the battle ended when I seized the Initiative. I do believe he was correct. The remainder of the game was me trying to hunt and kill all the Berzerkers (not an easy task) At the end of the game 1 berzerker stood victorious on one objective. Kharne and his 2 Zerk escort were just shy of another and two immobile dreadnoughts stood in the middle of the field. I had 4 objectives, so a solid victory, but not a full point massacre.
Opponent 3: Chuck Clynes and his Blood Angels. Chuck brought with him...
Dante
The Sanguinor
Corbulo
Saguinary Guard w/Chapter Standard, Plasma Pistol, Infernus Pistol
5 Assault Marines w/melta, powerfist, Storm Shield
Land Raider Redeemer w/Multi-melta, Extra Armor
5 Assault Marines w/melta, powerfist, Storm Shield
Land Raider Redeemer w/Multi-melta, Extra Armor
5 Assault Marines w/melta, powerfist, Storm Shield
Land Raider w/Hunter-Killer Missile
The mission was Victory Points. I actually win the roll-off. I deploy a Chimera filled with an Infantry squad directly in the middle of the board as it was Dawn of War and I wanted a spotlight close by. Chuck deployed a Redeemer with 5 occupants and the Sanguinor on the board.
On my turn, I move everything on, spotlight the Land Raider and Manticore it to death.
I, sadly, cannot see the Sanguinor. Chuck moves his remaining 2 land raiders on the board. He lascannons a Chimera away. On my next turn I remove a weapon from the other redeemer. I also do a wound to the Sanguinor (he uses his corbulo re-roll to save another)
On his turn, Dante and friends arrive! ...And eat an executioner due to Mystics. I roll VERY poorly and only 3 die. Their melta pistols Immobilize my executioner. (SWEET.)
In the next two turns, everyone on his side dies, save his last redeemer...
That is how the game ends. Not a huge win for me. I am undefeated at this point, but so are 7 others...
Final Opponent of the day: Vaden Ball, aka. The "Hobby Breaker" who brings the list also titled "The Hobby Breaker"
Company Command Squad w/2 melta, standard, officer of the fleet
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Inquisitor Lord w/Emperors Taror, Psychic Hood, 3 Mystics
Vindicare Assassin
5 Inquisitorial Storm Troopers w/2 Plasma
Platoon Command Squad w/4 Flamers
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Infantry Squad
Infantry Squad
Veteran Squad w/3 Flamers, Demolition Charge, Meltabombs
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Veteran Squad w/3 meltas
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Veteran Squad w/3 meltas
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Vendetta
Vendetta
Vendetta
Leman Russ Demolisher w/Heavy Flamer
Leman Russ Demolisher w/Heavy Flamer
Colossus
Mission: Recon (Get your scoring units into your opponents deployment Zone)
Vaden (using the Tarot) won the roll to go first.
He set up mostly on one flank with his demolishers guarding his flank.
A few thoughts went through my head. He has just an effective Alpha-strike, like me.
He has an officer of the fleet. If I reserve, I lose.
He only has 3 vendettas, the colossus, and the vindicare that can unleash on me turn 1.
I decide to deploy on the opposite flank. Chimeras guarding manticores, Executioner at the front.
We then Scout move our fliers all over the place...
Then, in an unprecedented amount of luck, I, for the third time this tournament, seize the initiative. (told you there was a theme) Mike Brandt showed up (there is your plug!)
In the first turn, I downed two Vendettas, Immobilized the third, destroyed a Chimera, Immobilized two others and stunned a demolisher. In one turn, I pinned most of his forces in his backfield (figuratively and in some cases, literally) He retaliated by shaking a manticore (with the Vindicare) and lascannoning a Chimera apart.
In the next two turns my infantry squads (in chimeras) moved up on my right flank (where there were no intervening models) Vaden moved his dismounted Infantry forward, since they were not in Chimeras anymore, the Executioner and Valkyries had no trouble killing the Infantry.
Like a true gentleman, Vaden conceded the game. Then we hugged.
So, 4-0 is a good showing.
Sadly, there were three people ahead of me in Battle points. My army was not painted.
Ergo, I was out of the "prize bracket". The day was still successful nonetheless.
Great tournament, tons of fun, cheap beer.
-Mike
I brought with me my newest army, Mech guard. (which I will post about later, here is my list)
Company Command Squad w/3 plasma
10 veterans w/2 melta, shotgun on sarge
Platoon Command Squad w/3 Flamers
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Infantry squad w/Autocannon, Flamer
Chimera w/heavy Flamer
Infantry squad w/Autocannon, Flamer
Chimera w/heavy Flamer
Special weapons squad w/3 Meltaguns
7 Psyker Battle Squad
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
7 Psyker Battle Squad
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Inquisitor w/Psychic Hood, 2 Mystics, 2 Hierophants
2 Valkyries w/Multiple Rocket Pods
Vendetta
Vendetta
Manticore
Manticore
Leman Russ Executioner w/Plasma Sponsons, Hull Heavy Flamer
Four rounds, lets get started.
First Opponent: Will Hamilton, and his nicely painted, some converted, Mech Guard. Will brought...
Lord Commissar
Company Command Squad w/Lascannon, Astropath
10 veterans w/3 meltas, fist, demo charge
Chimera
10 veterans w/3 meltas, harker
Chimera
Platoon Command w/2 meltas
Infantry Squad w/commissar, 2 power weapons
Infantry Squad w/power weapon, plasma gun
Infantry Squad w/plasma gun
Heavy Weapons Team w/ 3 Lascannons
Heavy Weapons Team w/3 Missile Launchers
Heavy Weapons Team w/3 Missile Launchers
Penal Legion
Penal Legion
2 Armored Sentinels w/Lascannons
2 Hydrae Flak Tanks
Leman Russ w/Hull Lascannon
Leman Russ Executioner w/Hull Lascannon
The mission was to take a Center objective. Will won to go first and deployed in a common firepower horseshoe. He reserved both Veteran Squads and his executioner, and outflanked with both penal legion. He mobbed up his Infantry squads, the heavy guns went in cover.
I deployed in a similar formation, but with nothing in reserves.
I seize the Initiative (this would become an all day theme)
I had a great first turn. I fired Multi-lasers and Autocannons at the Heavy Weapons teams, forcing them all to go to ground. (or suffer "Instant Death") Some died anyways.
My manticores did not do great, but managed to cause some damage. (and pin the big infantry block)
My vendettas pasted the Sentinels. My valkyrie squad punished the Infantry block with Multiple rocket pods and Multi-lasers, the executioner took aim on the Company Command squad and killed all but the Officer.
The only thing Will had to retaliate with was the Hydras (which killed a Chimera) and the Leman Russ (which scattered)
My seizing of the Initiative, coupled with Wills horribly poor reserve rolls (even with the Astropath) caused him problems in being able to retaliate effectively to my incredible first turn.
In gentlemanly fashion, Will conceded a few turns later.
Second Opponent: Doug McNaron, Iron Fist League (who gifted me with a die bearing his club symbol) Doug was playing Mech World Eaters, he brought...
Kharne
Summoned Greater Daemon
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Combi-Melta
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Combi-Melta
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Combi-Melta
8 Berzerkers w/Fist
Rhino w/Dozer Blade, Twin-Linked Bolter
8 Berzerkers w/Champ
Rhino w/Twin-Linked Bolter
Dreadnought w/2 DCCWs
Dreadnought w/2 DCCWs
Defiler w/2 Extra DCCWs
Defiler w/2 Extra DCCWs
The mission was straight Objectives (5 on the board, 1 in Center, 4 we set up)
Doug won the roll to go first.
He deployed across the board, Defilers on the ends Dreadnoughts on the left, Rhinos in the middle and on the right.
I deployed toughly the same way. The first thing I noticed was the lack of ranged firepower.
2 Battle Cannons and 3 one shot Combi-Meltas, thats it.
So, for the second game in a row, I seized the initiative. (remember, theme.)
So I unleashed a FURY of firepower. 2 Rhinos Destroyed, 2 Immobilized, 1 Stunned.
I also took the Battle Cannon off of one defiler. In Dougs turn, he ran the Defiler forward instead of firing (which I can see) and he smoked everything. He began running his disembarked Berzerkers towards objectives (in some form of cover).
Doug would later write that the battle ended when I seized the Initiative. I do believe he was correct. The remainder of the game was me trying to hunt and kill all the Berzerkers (not an easy task) At the end of the game 1 berzerker stood victorious on one objective. Kharne and his 2 Zerk escort were just shy of another and two immobile dreadnoughts stood in the middle of the field. I had 4 objectives, so a solid victory, but not a full point massacre.
Opponent 3: Chuck Clynes and his Blood Angels. Chuck brought with him...
Dante
The Sanguinor
Corbulo
Saguinary Guard w/Chapter Standard, Plasma Pistol, Infernus Pistol
5 Assault Marines w/melta, powerfist, Storm Shield
Land Raider Redeemer w/Multi-melta, Extra Armor
5 Assault Marines w/melta, powerfist, Storm Shield
Land Raider Redeemer w/Multi-melta, Extra Armor
5 Assault Marines w/melta, powerfist, Storm Shield
Land Raider w/Hunter-Killer Missile
The mission was Victory Points. I actually win the roll-off. I deploy a Chimera filled with an Infantry squad directly in the middle of the board as it was Dawn of War and I wanted a spotlight close by. Chuck deployed a Redeemer with 5 occupants and the Sanguinor on the board.
On my turn, I move everything on, spotlight the Land Raider and Manticore it to death.
I, sadly, cannot see the Sanguinor. Chuck moves his remaining 2 land raiders on the board. He lascannons a Chimera away. On my next turn I remove a weapon from the other redeemer. I also do a wound to the Sanguinor (he uses his corbulo re-roll to save another)
On his turn, Dante and friends arrive! ...And eat an executioner due to Mystics. I roll VERY poorly and only 3 die. Their melta pistols Immobilize my executioner. (SWEET.)
In the next two turns, everyone on his side dies, save his last redeemer...
That is how the game ends. Not a huge win for me. I am undefeated at this point, but so are 7 others...
Final Opponent of the day: Vaden Ball, aka. The "Hobby Breaker" who brings the list also titled "The Hobby Breaker"
Company Command Squad w/2 melta, standard, officer of the fleet
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Inquisitor Lord w/Emperors Taror, Psychic Hood, 3 Mystics
Vindicare Assassin
5 Inquisitorial Storm Troopers w/2 Plasma
Platoon Command Squad w/4 Flamers
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Infantry Squad
Infantry Squad
Veteran Squad w/3 Flamers, Demolition Charge, Meltabombs
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Veteran Squad w/3 meltas
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Veteran Squad w/3 meltas
Chimera w/Heavy Flamer
Vendetta
Vendetta
Vendetta
Leman Russ Demolisher w/Heavy Flamer
Leman Russ Demolisher w/Heavy Flamer
Colossus
Mission: Recon (Get your scoring units into your opponents deployment Zone)
Vaden (using the Tarot) won the roll to go first.
He set up mostly on one flank with his demolishers guarding his flank.
A few thoughts went through my head. He has just an effective Alpha-strike, like me.
He has an officer of the fleet. If I reserve, I lose.
He only has 3 vendettas, the colossus, and the vindicare that can unleash on me turn 1.
I decide to deploy on the opposite flank. Chimeras guarding manticores, Executioner at the front.
We then Scout move our fliers all over the place...
Then, in an unprecedented amount of luck, I, for the third time this tournament, seize the initiative. (told you there was a theme) Mike Brandt showed up (there is your plug!)
In the first turn, I downed two Vendettas, Immobilized the third, destroyed a Chimera, Immobilized two others and stunned a demolisher. In one turn, I pinned most of his forces in his backfield (figuratively and in some cases, literally) He retaliated by shaking a manticore (with the Vindicare) and lascannoning a Chimera apart.
In the next two turns my infantry squads (in chimeras) moved up on my right flank (where there were no intervening models) Vaden moved his dismounted Infantry forward, since they were not in Chimeras anymore, the Executioner and Valkyries had no trouble killing the Infantry.
Like a true gentleman, Vaden conceded the game. Then we hugged.
So, 4-0 is a good showing.
Sadly, there were three people ahead of me in Battle points. My army was not painted.
Ergo, I was out of the "prize bracket". The day was still successful nonetheless.
Great tournament, tons of fun, cheap beer.
-Mike
Monday, May 24, 2010
What to do?
I forgot to mention previously that my recently failings at winning bring me to...
55W 23L 19D (in 5th edition)
I have two big tournaments coming up (Battle at Blobs park and the NOVA Open)
These events are both Fully-Painted, Fully-Based (FPFB) events.
Battle for Blobs park is in less than 2 weeks.
The NOVA Open is in August.
I have some choices of which army to bring. (Eldar, Guard, Sisters, and Blood Angels are the front runners as my Alpha Legion, Grey Knights, and Daemons are still mostly un-assembled ) Pardon me while I briefly list my thoughts on each.
Eldar - They have been harder and harder to get wins with. As one of the most outdated codices, Eldar have significant problems in terms of cost versus efficacy. (As an example, the Vendetta costs less than my Wave Serpents and performs their role MUCH better.) They are, however, mostly painted.
Sisters - Many of my key units are on loan to a friend for ard boys. This sucks, as they would be my current favorite.
Guard - I am updating my guard to become more mechanized. They are nowhere near painted (In fact, I am still working on assembly and waiting for some parts from ForgeWorld), it is unlikely that it will be ready in time. Unless the stuff from Forgeworld arrives very quickly, this may have to wait until the NOVA Open in August.
Blood Angels - I started playing Blood Angels when Codex: Angels of Death came out. The army didn't have their own stand alone codex until this year. My Blood Angels have always been played as slightly different Space Marines. They are certainly NOT updated for a modern tournament structure. I am also waiting for an order from GW...
So, I need to pick a direction and go with it. Do I build the guard hoping the ForgeWorld order I placed arrives in time? Do I spend time updating the Blood Angels hoping the models will arrive? Do I play my drastically under-performing Eldar?
Deep thoughts for a monday.
-Mike
55W 23L 19D (in 5th edition)
I have two big tournaments coming up (Battle at Blobs park and the NOVA Open)
These events are both Fully-Painted, Fully-Based (FPFB) events.
Battle for Blobs park is in less than 2 weeks.
The NOVA Open is in August.
I have some choices of which army to bring. (Eldar, Guard, Sisters, and Blood Angels are the front runners as my Alpha Legion, Grey Knights, and Daemons are still mostly un-assembled ) Pardon me while I briefly list my thoughts on each.
Eldar - They have been harder and harder to get wins with. As one of the most outdated codices, Eldar have significant problems in terms of cost versus efficacy. (As an example, the Vendetta costs less than my Wave Serpents and performs their role MUCH better.) They are, however, mostly painted.
Sisters - Many of my key units are on loan to a friend for ard boys. This sucks, as they would be my current favorite.
Guard - I am updating my guard to become more mechanized. They are nowhere near painted (In fact, I am still working on assembly and waiting for some parts from ForgeWorld), it is unlikely that it will be ready in time. Unless the stuff from Forgeworld arrives very quickly, this may have to wait until the NOVA Open in August.
Blood Angels - I started playing Blood Angels when Codex: Angels of Death came out. The army didn't have their own stand alone codex until this year. My Blood Angels have always been played as slightly different Space Marines. They are certainly NOT updated for a modern tournament structure. I am also waiting for an order from GW...
So, I need to pick a direction and go with it. Do I build the guard hoping the ForgeWorld order I placed arrives in time? Do I spend time updating the Blood Angels hoping the models will arrive? Do I play my drastically under-performing Eldar?
Deep thoughts for a monday.
-Mike
Forgot I had a Blog?
So, it has apparently been some time since I updated my blog.
A few personal things first. My wife and I bought a house, so that took up a majority of my time.
I recently found myself with much more free time. In my "downtime" I did find time to play in some tournaments. I will quickly sum them up.
Inner Circle High Stakes Jamboree and Pancake Breakfast.
I took Sisters, went 2-1 (my loss was to Chaos in the Second round, I totally screwed up my deployment)
FrAG tournament. (March)
I took my Eldar, went 2-1 (lost first round to a poor mission matchup for my list)
FrAG tournament (April)
I took my Sisters, went 1-2 (ouch)
Lost first round to the Hobby breaker, third round to Fate-crusher.
Between these, I managed to get in a practice game against Nob Bikers, which I lost.
So, 10 games 5-5. Not a good track record in 2010.
I just discovered today at work, that while I am not able to view my blog, I can apparently post updates. Who knew?
-Mike
A few personal things first. My wife and I bought a house, so that took up a majority of my time.
I recently found myself with much more free time. In my "downtime" I did find time to play in some tournaments. I will quickly sum them up.
Inner Circle High Stakes Jamboree and Pancake Breakfast.
I took Sisters, went 2-1 (my loss was to Chaos in the Second round, I totally screwed up my deployment)
FrAG tournament. (March)
I took my Eldar, went 2-1 (lost first round to a poor mission matchup for my list)
FrAG tournament (April)
I took my Sisters, went 1-2 (ouch)
Lost first round to the Hobby breaker, third round to Fate-crusher.
Between these, I managed to get in a practice game against Nob Bikers, which I lost.
So, 10 games 5-5. Not a good track record in 2010.
I just discovered today at work, that while I am not able to view my blog, I can apparently post updates. Who knew?
-Mike
Sunday, December 13, 2009
12/12/09
The Inner Circle Holiday Beatdown.
Here is a quick recap.
Round 1: I faced MARC!
He brought with him a Khan themed Bike army.
Khan
7 bikes, attack bikes, meltas
7 bikes, attack bikes, meltas
7 bikes, attack bikes, meltas
Dreadnought w/Multimelta
Dreadnought w/Multimelta
Dreadnought w/Multimelta
Land Speeder w/Multimelta
Land Speeder w/Multimelta
Predator w/Autocannon, Heavy Bolters
Predator w/Autocannon, Heavy Bolters
Predator w/Autocannon, Heavy Bolters
I, of course, kept everything in reserve.
A good amount of my stuff came in turn 2. I was quickly able to start firing and killing things at my leisure. Marc suffered from some unfortunate rolling (having a skimmer Scatter into me whilst deep striking, failing a few ld tests) I was able to stay out of melta-range for a good part of the game, although I lost a few tanks to melta fire. I combined prism fire to great effect in this game, using it to whittle away units of bikes. In the end, I had destroyed all of Marc's scoring units while having all of mine intact. A solid victory for the Eldar.
Game 2: Mark Ferek
Mark brought with him some Tau!
Shas'el: Plasma Gun, Missile Pod, Poitional relay, multitracker, 2 Shield Drones
2 bodyguards: plasma guns, missile pods, multi-trackers, targeting arrays
3 Crisis Suits: twin linked missile pods, flamers
2 Crisis Suits: missile pods, fusion guns, targeting arrays
2 Crisis Suits: twin linked fusion guns, targeting arrays
12 fire warriors: shas'ui, bonded
12 fire warriors: shas'ui, bonded
4 pathfinders Devilfish: smart missile system, multi tracker, targeting array, disruption pod
4 pathfinders Devilfish: smart missile system, multi tracker, targeting array, disruption pod
Hammerhead: railgun, smart missile system, target lock, multi-tracker, disruption pod
2 Broadsides: targeting arays, leader, HW target lock, 2 shield drones
2 Broadsides: targeting arays, leader, HW target lock, 2 shield drones
As usual, I set up i reserves, and came in on turn 2, where I promply killed 1 pathfinder, on a miffed scatter. Mark fared a little better he destroyed the fire dragons ride and de-gunneanother serpent. During my next turn (bottom of 3) I killed the crisis suits that had deep struck behind my fire dragons serpent, seems like the eldar did not feel like hitting with their "advanced" weaponry. During Mark's turn he exploded the rest of my wave serpents, killing about 1/4 of each avenger squad, he destroyed a fire prism, and took all of the guns off another. So, at the top of turn 4, i had one unharmed fire prism, one with no guns and some infantry that was hugging their craters. (did I mention there was only one piece of area terrain on the board?) At this point, the game was effectively over, I could just try to get a many points as possible (I only managed to kill 1 4 man pathdfinder squad the rest of the game)
A crushing defeat for the eldar. I have not been beaten this bad in a very long time. Good thing is, I know exactly what I did wrong.
Good job Mark!
Game 3: PJ Brady and his "Space Angels" (Space Marines w/Dark Angel iconography)
Master of the Forge
5 scouts: sniper rifles
10 marines: lascannon, melta, power weapon, Rhino
10 marines: lascannon, melta, power weapon, Rhino
10 terminators: Chain fist, 2 Assault Cannons
5 Assault Terminators: 2 lightning claws, 3 thunderhammer, stormshield
Ironclad: heavy flamer, Drop Pod
Ironclad: heavy flamer, Drop Pod
Ironclad: heavy flamer, Drop Pod
I did the same routine, all in reserves, everything but the guardians came in turn 2. I popped a Rhino. PJ was a little unlucky with his assault cannons and did nothing. In my next turn I moved some vehicles around to get into position. PJ managed to shake a wave serpent. I disembarked my dragons and doomed the scouts. My fire dragons killed about 6 terminators. Sadly, I was unable to do anything else. PJ hit my dragons with assault cannon fire, killed 7 and they broke. PJ assaulted them and they were instantly wiped out. His dual-iron clad beatdown saw my guardians break and run, at under half strength. In my turn (bottom of 5), I deperately moved as many serpents as I could onto objectives and to try and contest some. I finally managed to kill 2 scouts and get them to break. Sadly, that and 2 marines were all I was able to kill with my fire. Unfortunately, the game ended at the bottom of turn 5!
At the end, I had one objective, PJ had one and we each had 2 kill points. Seemed to be a draw, but there were special mission rules for a draw, tiebreaker came down to...painting!!
Ironically, (or karma) the time I had spent painting the Iyanden payed off in giving me my 50th win in 5th edition. Had this game gone another turn, I think I might have been badly beaten.
This tournament brings me to 50W 18L, 19D.
Some thoughts. In most of my games I was simply unable to reliably kill anything! In the last 2 games, I wiped out 4 units, combined. The Eldar codex just seems to overpriced and underpowered when it comes to busting tanks and reliably killing power armored infantry...
The fire dragons only seem to kill one thing a game befoe they are rendered useless...
The fire prisms had an awful day, they accounted for one unit in the last two games. (it was a unit of 4 pathfinders with a disperssed shot). Hmm. All in all, I was not pleased wth my performance in this tournament. I think I made a lot of bad decisions, while my opponents made pretty sound tactical decisions. The tournament itself however, was great fun.
Until next time.
-Mike
Here is a quick recap.
Round 1: I faced MARC!
He brought with him a Khan themed Bike army.
Khan
7 bikes, attack bikes, meltas
7 bikes, attack bikes, meltas
7 bikes, attack bikes, meltas
Dreadnought w/Multimelta
Dreadnought w/Multimelta
Dreadnought w/Multimelta
Land Speeder w/Multimelta
Land Speeder w/Multimelta
Predator w/Autocannon, Heavy Bolters
Predator w/Autocannon, Heavy Bolters
Predator w/Autocannon, Heavy Bolters
I, of course, kept everything in reserve.
A good amount of my stuff came in turn 2. I was quickly able to start firing and killing things at my leisure. Marc suffered from some unfortunate rolling (having a skimmer Scatter into me whilst deep striking, failing a few ld tests) I was able to stay out of melta-range for a good part of the game, although I lost a few tanks to melta fire. I combined prism fire to great effect in this game, using it to whittle away units of bikes. In the end, I had destroyed all of Marc's scoring units while having all of mine intact. A solid victory for the Eldar.
Game 2: Mark Ferek
Mark brought with him some Tau!
Shas'el: Plasma Gun, Missile Pod, Poitional relay, multitracker, 2 Shield Drones
2 bodyguards: plasma guns, missile pods, multi-trackers, targeting arrays
3 Crisis Suits: twin linked missile pods, flamers
2 Crisis Suits: missile pods, fusion guns, targeting arrays
2 Crisis Suits: twin linked fusion guns, targeting arrays
12 fire warriors: shas'ui, bonded
12 fire warriors: shas'ui, bonded
4 pathfinders Devilfish: smart missile system, multi tracker, targeting array, disruption pod
4 pathfinders Devilfish: smart missile system, multi tracker, targeting array, disruption pod
Hammerhead: railgun, smart missile system, target lock, multi-tracker, disruption pod
2 Broadsides: targeting arays, leader, HW target lock, 2 shield drones
2 Broadsides: targeting arays, leader, HW target lock, 2 shield drones
As usual, I set up i reserves, and came in on turn 2, where I promply killed 1 pathfinder, on a miffed scatter. Mark fared a little better he destroyed the fire dragons ride and de-gunneanother serpent. During my next turn (bottom of 3) I killed the crisis suits that had deep struck behind my fire dragons serpent, seems like the eldar did not feel like hitting with their "advanced" weaponry. During Mark's turn he exploded the rest of my wave serpents, killing about 1/4 of each avenger squad, he destroyed a fire prism, and took all of the guns off another. So, at the top of turn 4, i had one unharmed fire prism, one with no guns and some infantry that was hugging their craters. (did I mention there was only one piece of area terrain on the board?) At this point, the game was effectively over, I could just try to get a many points as possible (I only managed to kill 1 4 man pathdfinder squad the rest of the game)
A crushing defeat for the eldar. I have not been beaten this bad in a very long time. Good thing is, I know exactly what I did wrong.
Good job Mark!
Game 3: PJ Brady and his "Space Angels" (Space Marines w/Dark Angel iconography)
Master of the Forge
5 scouts: sniper rifles
10 marines: lascannon, melta, power weapon, Rhino
10 marines: lascannon, melta, power weapon, Rhino
10 terminators: Chain fist, 2 Assault Cannons
5 Assault Terminators: 2 lightning claws, 3 thunderhammer, stormshield
Ironclad: heavy flamer, Drop Pod
Ironclad: heavy flamer, Drop Pod
Ironclad: heavy flamer, Drop Pod
I did the same routine, all in reserves, everything but the guardians came in turn 2. I popped a Rhino. PJ was a little unlucky with his assault cannons and did nothing. In my next turn I moved some vehicles around to get into position. PJ managed to shake a wave serpent. I disembarked my dragons and doomed the scouts. My fire dragons killed about 6 terminators. Sadly, I was unable to do anything else. PJ hit my dragons with assault cannon fire, killed 7 and they broke. PJ assaulted them and they were instantly wiped out. His dual-iron clad beatdown saw my guardians break and run, at under half strength. In my turn (bottom of 5), I deperately moved as many serpents as I could onto objectives and to try and contest some. I finally managed to kill 2 scouts and get them to break. Sadly, that and 2 marines were all I was able to kill with my fire. Unfortunately, the game ended at the bottom of turn 5!
At the end, I had one objective, PJ had one and we each had 2 kill points. Seemed to be a draw, but there were special mission rules for a draw, tiebreaker came down to...painting!!
Ironically, (or karma) the time I had spent painting the Iyanden payed off in giving me my 50th win in 5th edition. Had this game gone another turn, I think I might have been badly beaten.
This tournament brings me to 50W 18L, 19D.
Some thoughts. In most of my games I was simply unable to reliably kill anything! In the last 2 games, I wiped out 4 units, combined. The Eldar codex just seems to overpriced and underpowered when it comes to busting tanks and reliably killing power armored infantry...
The fire dragons only seem to kill one thing a game befoe they are rendered useless...
The fire prisms had an awful day, they accounted for one unit in the last two games. (it was a unit of 4 pathfinders with a disperssed shot). Hmm. All in all, I was not pleased wth my performance in this tournament. I think I made a lot of bad decisions, while my opponents made pretty sound tactical decisions. The tournament itself however, was great fun.
Until next time.
-Mike
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