This months issue is themed around Pulp gaming in the 1920's. Although I'm not into playing the period straight (I like my gangsters mixed with secret cults and eldritch monsters) I have enjoyed this issue immensely. Its given me lots of ideas for my next Hollow Earth Expedition adventure which I am preparing at present. HEX is based in or around 1936, so a little after the period covered by this theme, but many of the miniatures and ideas covered could be utilised with minimal conversion.
As always with their themes there are plenty of ideas for models and scenery that I'm sure anyone into the period will find useful. The review of available miniatures was particularly interesting as it highlights manufacturers that carry suitable ranges.
Another good article is by Dr Phil Hendry who it seems has become an advocate of Dip for painting large units of miniatures. In fact he's the guy responsible for painting much of the Early Imperial Romans released by Warlord Games seen on their website. As a recent convert to the wonders of 'dip' I felt a certain kinship with Dr Phil's initially lukewarm feelings towards this technique. But like the good doctor I found that the finished product looks pretty good and its a great way to get lots of miniatures on the games table in a short time.
There is also a regular column by industry veteran Rick Priestly. Part two Of Dice and men - This gaming Life looks at the humble d6 and follows on from an equally interesting article last month about the d100. Both articles looks at the uses and restrictions implied by the choice of dice to the games designer and provide an interesting look inside the head of one of the most influential rules writers in our hobby.
The standard of presentation and range of content in this issue is high and its clean uncluttered design makes this easy to read. The reviews of new miniature releases at the beginning of the magazine are also very useful, not only for finding out about new releases but also for seeing new trends that are emerging (the shift from metal to resin for instance). All in all a very good read.
I thought this was a great issue. I read it cover to cover on the way to Antwerp this weekend. The articles about Gangsters were very enjoyable, particularly the comparison of the various miniatures and vehicles available. Great review, Lee.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review. My copy is somewhere in the USPS on its merry way to me. Just what the doctor ordered.
ReplyDeleteI really ought to subscribe. Mind you, I buy half a dozen different magazines on an ad-hoc basis and I suspect the combined subscriptions would make my eyes water. I know I'm paying more in the long run, but I can't bring myself to pay for it all up front in one lump like that.
ReplyDeleteI used to subscribe to the old version and must get around to doing the same with the new version, its a great mag!!
ReplyDeleteSounds like there is some interesting stuff in there. I would love to read the article on dice. I wish there were more magazines like this available in the U.S.
ReplyDeleteCool post, slowly, slowly my defences are weakening......Noooo (cant afford another gaming expense!)
ReplyDeleteLee and gents, glad you liked it. We'll try and deliver something different with each new issue.
ReplyDeleteMatt D, we are available in US Bookstores. WSS 57 will be available on December 1st.
Thanks Lee, glad you liked it! Matt: WSS IS available in the US at something like 480 Barnes & Noble's. If you want us to check which is closest to you, send an email to service@karwansaraypublishers.com and we'll figure it out for you.
ReplyDeleteJasper
I agree, its a very nicely produced magazine. I've really enjoyed the past three or so issues. I find its no better or worse than WI - just a different approach, which is great.
ReplyDelete