Back To Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game Clearing My Backlog

Hey guys! After a bit of a hiatus from the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game (MESBG), I'm super stoked to be diving back into this fantastic world of tabletop battles. Life, as it often does, got a little hectic, and my miniatures ended up gathering dust on the shelf. But no more! I'm determined to clear through my backlog of unpainted and unassembled models, and I thought I'd share my journey with you all. It's going to be a mix of painting guides, battle reports, and maybe even some hobby tips and tricks I pick up along the way. So, grab your brushes, dice, and let's get started!

The Mountain of Unpainted Miniatures: Where Do I Even Begin?

Okay, so let's be real here. My backlog isn't just a small hill; it's more like a mountain! We're talking about a mix of different factions, from the heroic forces of Gondor and Rohan to the menacing hordes of Mordor and Isengard. There are Elves, Dwarves, Hobbits – the whole shebang! And honestly, just looking at the sheer volume of plastic and metal can be a little daunting.

But that's okay! I'm not going to let it overwhelm me. I've decided to take a systematic approach. First things first, I need to do a proper inventory. That means pulling everything out, sorting it by faction, and making a list of what I have. This will give me a clearer picture of what I'm working with and help me set some realistic goals. I think tackling a smaller project first is key to building momentum and avoid burnout.

Choosing a Project: One approach I am considering is to focus on a single army or a specific scenario. For example, I have a decent-sized Rohan force that I could work on. Completing a Rohan army would be incredibly satisfying and allow me to field a thematic and visually cohesive force on the tabletop. I could even tie it into a specific battle from the books or movies, like the Battle of Pelennor Fields. This would give the project a narrative element and make it even more engaging. Alternatively, I might choose a smaller, more manageable project, like painting a hero or a small squad of warriors. This would allow me to experiment with different painting techniques and color schemes without committing to a huge project.

Planning the Paint Scheme: Another important step is to decide on the color scheme for my miniatures. While I could simply follow the ‘Eavy Metal style of the studio models, I want to add my personal touch and create something unique. I've been spending some time looking at various color palettes and considering different painting techniques. I'm leaning towards a slightly grittier and more realistic look, but I'm also open to experimenting with different styles. I might even try some non-metallic metal (NMM) techniques for some of the heroes and leaders. This is a more advanced painting technique that can create stunning results, but it also requires a lot of patience and practice.

Gathering the Necessary Tools: Of course, no painting project is complete without the right tools. I've made sure I have a good selection of brushes in various sizes, as well as a palette for mixing paints. I also have a hobby knife for cleaning up mold lines and preparing the models for painting. Lighting is crucial for painting miniatures, so I've invested in a good desk lamp with a daylight bulb. This will help me see the details clearly and ensure that my colors are accurate. Finally, I've stocked up on paints, including a variety of base coats, layer paints, washes, and highlights. Choosing the right paints is essential for achieving the desired effect.

Tackling the Assembly Line: From Sprue to Shining Miniature

Before I can even think about painting, there's the small matter of assembly! Some of these models have been sitting in their boxes for ages, patiently waiting to be clipped from the sprue, glued together, and based. This part of the hobby can be a little tedious, but it's a crucial step in the process. A well-assembled miniature is much easier to paint and will look better on the tabletop.

Clipping and Cleaning: The first step is to carefully clip the parts from the sprue using hobby clippers. It's important to avoid cutting too close to the miniature itself, as this can damage the plastic. Once the parts are clipped, I use a hobby knife to clean up any mold lines or excess plastic. This is a time-consuming process, but it's well worth the effort. Mold lines can be very distracting and can ruin the look of a finished miniature. I try to be as meticulous as possible, removing even the smallest imperfections.

Glueing and Gap Filling: Once the parts are clean, it's time to glue them together. I use plastic glue for plastic miniatures and super glue for metal miniatures. It's important to use the right type of glue for the material, as using the wrong glue can damage the miniature. I apply a small amount of glue to the contact points and then press the parts together firmly. Sometimes, there can be gaps between the parts, especially on older miniatures. To fill these gaps, I use a product called liquid green stuff. This is a putty-like substance that can be easily applied to gaps and then sanded smooth once it has dried. Filling gaps is essential for creating a seamless and professional-looking miniature.

Basing: Basing is the final step in the assembly process. This involves attaching the miniature to a base and then adding some texture and detail to the base. There are many different ways to base a miniature, but I usually start by applying a layer of sand or texture paint to the base. This gives the base a rough, natural look. Once the texture is dry, I add some small rocks, pebbles, and static grass. These details add a lot of visual interest to the base and help to create a sense of realism. I also like to paint the rim of the base black, as this helps to frame the miniature and make it stand out.

Painting Techniques and Color Schemes: Bringing Middle-earth to Life

Now for the fun part: painting! This is where the miniature really comes to life. I'm by no means a professional painter, but I enjoy the process of applying color and detail to these tiny figures. There are so many different painting techniques and color schemes to explore, and I'm always learning new things.

Base Coating: The first step in painting a miniature is to apply a base coat. This is a solid layer of paint that provides a foundation for the rest of the colors. I usually use a spray primer for this step, as it provides a smooth and even finish. There are different colors of primer available, and the color you choose can affect the final look of the miniature. For example, a black primer will create a darker and more gritty look, while a white primer will create a brighter and more vibrant look.

Layering and Highlighting: Once the base coat is dry, I start layering on the colors. This involves applying thin layers of paint, gradually building up the highlights and shadows. Layering is a time-consuming process, but it's essential for creating a realistic and detailed look. I use a technique called edge highlighting to bring out the sharp edges of the miniature. This involves applying a thin line of a lighter color to the edges of the miniature, which creates a sense of depth and definition.

Washes and Glazes: Washes and glazes are transparent paints that can be used to add depth and tone to a miniature. Washes are applied over the entire miniature and flow into the recesses, creating shadows. Glazes are applied over specific areas and can be used to blend colors together or to create subtle highlights. These techniques are fantastic for creating realistic shading and bringing out the details of the miniature's sculpt. Applying a carefully chosen wash can make a huge difference in the overall appearance, adding depth and realism to the model.

Experimenting with Color: Choosing a color scheme can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with such iconic characters and armies. I find inspiration from the source material – the books and films – but I also like to experiment with my own ideas. For example, I might try a different color for the Rohan armor, or I might add some weathering effects to the Mordor troops to make them look battle-worn. The key is to have fun and let your creativity flow. I often find myself spending hours browsing online forums and painting guides, looking for inspiration and new techniques to try. There's a wealth of information available online, and it's a great way to learn from other hobbyists.

Battle Reports and Gameplay: Putting My Painted Armies to the Test

Of course, the ultimate goal of painting miniatures is to use them in games! Once I've got some armies painted up, I'm eager to start playing some MESBG battles. I'm planning to document my games with battle reports, which will include photos, descriptions of the action, and my thoughts on the gameplay.

Choosing a Scenario: There are many different scenarios available for MESBG, ranging from small skirmishes to large-scale battles. I enjoy playing both types of games, but I think I'll start with some smaller scenarios to get back into the swing of things. Scenarios based on specific events from the books and films, such as the defense of Helm's Deep or the siege of Minas Tirith, are always a lot of fun. They add a narrative element to the game and make it feel more immersive.

Tactics and Strategy: MESBG is a game that rewards careful planning and tactical thinking. It's not just about rolling dice; it's about positioning your troops, choosing the right moment to attack, and exploiting your opponent's weaknesses. I'm looking forward to testing out different strategies and learning how to use my armies effectively. For example, Rohan armies excel at cavalry charges, while Gondor armies are known for their defensive strength. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your army is crucial for success in MESBG.

Sharing the Experience: I'm also excited to share my MESBG experiences with others. I'm hoping to find some local players to game with, and I'm also planning to post battle reports and photos online. The MESBG community is a friendly and welcoming one, and I'm looking forward to connecting with other hobbyists and sharing our passion for the game. The online community is a great resource for learning about the game, finding opponents, and sharing your own hobby progress.

Hobby Tips and Tricks: Learning and Improving Along the Way

Throughout this journey, I'm sure I'll pick up some new hobby tips and tricks. I'm always looking for ways to improve my painting, assembly, and gaming skills. I plan to share these tips and tricks with you all, so we can learn and grow together as hobbyists.

Organization is Key: One tip that I've learned the hard way is the importance of organization. A well-organized workspace is essential for efficient hobbying. I've invested in some storage containers to keep my miniatures, paints, and tools organized. This makes it much easier to find what I need and helps me to stay focused on the task at hand. A cluttered workspace can be distracting and can make it difficult to concentrate.

Practice Makes Perfect: Another important tip is to practice regularly. The more you paint, the better you'll become. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and try new things. There's no such thing as a perfect miniature, so don't be too hard on yourself if you make mistakes. The key is to learn from your mistakes and keep practicing. I often find myself practicing new techniques on spare miniatures or test models before applying them to my main projects. This allows me to experiment without risking damaging my prized models.

Community and Inspiration: Finally, don't forget to connect with the hobby community. There are many online forums and groups dedicated to MESBG and other tabletop games. These communities are a great source of inspiration, advice, and support. Sharing your work and getting feedback from others is a great way to improve your skills. I've learned so much from other hobbyists, and I'm always grateful for their help and encouragement.

The Adventure Begins!

So, there you have it! My plan to conquer my MESBG backlog is in motion. It's going to be a long journey, but I'm excited to tackle it. I'm looking forward to painting, assembling, gaming, and sharing my experiences with you all. Stay tuned for more updates, battle reports, and hobby tips as I dive back into the world of Middle-earth! Thanks for joining me on this adventure, guys! Let's get those miniatures painted and ready for battle!