Concrete Barriers and Barrels new 15mm release

Need a road blocked or a hasty defensive works put in place? Sculpted by Christian Cuello (he who created Barkhoven and Valon Civilians). See FMS06 in our Battlefield Bits range (28mm and 15mm useful things) or in the HOF 15mm Science Fiction Range (where it joins our Tents, Cans and Boxes, Body Bags etc).

FMS06 Concrete Barriers and Barrels.  This code contains six different 15mm resin pieces giving you a series of concrete barriers and barrels.  Just the thing for modern, near future, science fiction and other gaming.  

You can select a set of six pieces or using the menu on the page select any of the pieces (A to F) in any quantity allowing total choice! Go HERE.

As you can see these go really well with Security Force Alpha miniatures (remember he is on a 20mm round base thus the added height).

Enemy is incoming!  Female SFA troopers get ready behind their barricades.

Have you seen HOF122 Media Team?  If you are planning an urban campaign then reporters might well be a cool addition.  All of our non-military 15mm codes in the HOF range can be seen on the CIVILIAN tag for the range.

Thanks for Reading,

GBS

A Retained Knight drawn by Christian Cuello

My good friend and sometimes sculptor and artist Christian Cuello has given me a pleasant surprise with a brand new piece of hand drawn artwork.  Click on it on the blog to enlarge.

Drawn with the stippling effect which used to be common in wargaming artwork in the glory times of the 1980's this picture captures the essence of the armour and determination of the Retained.  Enjoy!  Mr Cuello has a brand new presence on Facebook which you can join and see his art in this style check it out.

Miniatures from The Ion Age ranges come in 15mm Scale and in 28mm Scale.  I believe that this artwork is based on IA017 which is in pack IB05 Retained Esquires a solid core for any force.  It could also be one of the knights from IAF002 Retained Post Beta but I think it is IAF017 for the win!

We have a total of four free blog articles this week before the month ends.  Two are small, one is medium and one is huge!  Covering The Ion Age as well as Sengoku Monster Hunter and USEME as well.  All author and fan created content for your enjoyment.

Thanks for Reading,

GBS

The Orrox released at Alternative Armies

A brand new miniature sculpted by Christian Cuello now added to the SHM Range.  From an alien world or from the gene factories of the future it is a great creature to add to your collection.  Go HERE for SHM with near 100 codes.  The fiction here is written by the sculptor...you can do a lot with an Orrox.

SHM95 Orrox

This one piece metal miniature is great for any game system and works well in several scales being a huge beast in 6mm, a large creature in 15mm and a farm yard sized animal in 28mm scale.  It measures 38mm from end to end and is covered in fur and armour scales.  Hunt it today!  Go HERE.

“That burger you’re eatin’? Orrox. That milkshake you’re swillin’? Orrox. The caravan that brought it here? Orrox. This vest I’m wearin’? Orrox. Yessir, ain’t a thing that can’t be made of orrox. Ain’t no gentler critter this side of the galaxy, neither. Has a temper, though, jus’ like everyone else. And you don’t wanna be ‘round when they sees red… nosir.”

Jeb, Orrux farmer, Xanium 12, Quoketh cluster

Common name: Orrox

Scientific name: Ankyloceras Oropus

Habitat: Alpine tundra to temperate savanna

Diet: Herbivorous

Threat: Varies - mild temperament with occasional territorial/protective behaviour

The Orrox is a large, herbivorous creature adaptable to various climates due to its peculiar anatomy. The Orrox has vestigial armour plates, hypothesised to have origins as defensive plating in earlier stages of its evolution. The plates offer environmental protection to the Orrox from extreme heat and airborne debris, and so they can even survive in more arid climates for moderate periods of time. However, extended desert dwelling is rarely observed without the intervention and care of a handler. The Orrox is typically mild in temperament, and has been domesticated with great success. Ethnographic and archaeological study has revealed that the creatures had coexisted with the primitive inhabitants of their home world from early times. More enterprising races have taken to Orrox farming on numerous planets. It is not unusual to find Orrox meat as a cheap and easily sourced foodstuff alongside synthetic ingredients. The meat of the Orrox is incredibly nutritious, and its fur and armour plates have been utilised in numerous ways in clothing and other accessories. The relative ease of domestication and robustness of this creature also makes it ideal for transportation and travel. Today, as in more primitive times, the Orrox is employed in battle to carry rudimentary artillery pieces and other machines of war.

Thanks for Reading,

GBS

Harringtorc Parte the Second a continued Flintloque tale by Christian Cuello

Welcome to part the second in a short series of Flintloque fiction concerning the campaigning of Lieutenant Harringtorc of the Albion Army.  If you missed part one please read it first on our blog HERE.  Written by Christian Cuello we and he hope that you enjoy this story and we look forward to more to come which will also be published for free on our blog.  The artwork in this article was drawn by Valonian artist Edward Jackson.  If you are looking for a miniature to match Harringtorc then we suggest an officer on foot from the 54506 Orc Command set.  Enjoy and I know that I did! GBS

Parte the Second

A steady drizzle of rain pattered against the window.

Captain Gustave Coeur du Bouef squinted in the grey daylight that filtered into his office as he looked at the scrawled balance sheets that had been laid on his desk. His eyes carefully followed the lines on the impeccable handwriting, admiring every loop and curl as he became slowly drowsier. Of course, he understood none of it: numbers had never been his speciality and he was too old to learn now. That was best left to the legion of accountants, lawyers and bankers - in a word, bureaucrats - which appeared anywhere the army set foot.

The army may march on its stomach, but the road was padded with reams of paperwork. 

There were conventions, agreements, taxes, fees, royalties… and ever since he had settled into Vigore it seemed to have gotten worse. Every day he was asked to approve or ratify administrative documents, and today was no exception.

One particular glorified clerk commissioned to him, Hugo, peered smugly over the edge of the ledger he had produced.

Gustave looked back blankly.

The clerk seemed to expect some kind of acknowledgment, but received none. This only seemed to make him more eager, and Gustave more irritable. He coughed politely to clear his throat as he prepared for his moment of glory with a deep breath.

“In one word, Hugo”. Gustave interjected.

“Spies.” He responded, deflated.

Gustave looked at the sheet.

He looked back at Gaston.

And back at the sheet.

“But… how?” he gestured at the sheet incredulously.

“Some nights ago. The port master was caught with some shillings on a surprise inspection.” Hugo fumbled and spilt the coins on Gustave’s desk as he simultaneously tried to get his presentation underway. “This wouldn’t be unusual under normal circumstances, but it is a discrepancy nonetheless. I had a word to the Watch and we were able to get an account from some witnesses which lead us to believe that… one moment, I’ve prepared slides.”

“Mon Dieu… put them away. I’ll take your word for it. The question is: what do we do about it?” he asked, mostly to himself. 

Gustave levered himself out of the desk chair and turned to an open window, considering the city below as the mist gently cool his skin – a relief from the stuffy air of his room.

In reality, he was miles away.

He had been relegated to this office in a temporary arrangement during the early stages of the occupation of Vigore. This had been, at first, novel. Some reprieve from months on campaign. He knew he was no longer the strapping cavalryman of his younger days, and it seemed this was Commands polite way of saying so. Make no mistake, he was a soldier through and through, but the years had been, well… he looked down to where his waistcoat started to stretch across his belly.

“Spies, you say?”

“Oui, mon capitaine.”

He stroked his stubbly chin.

This could be the opportunity he was waiting for. But would he feed this up the line and wait for approval?

He skipped to a cupboard and swung the doors open.

“Hugo, get your things. Ready the horses. We’re leaving - you can tell me more on the way.”

“Do you mean the slides?” Gaston dropped the pieces of cardboard as a carbine flew at him. He caught it gingerly in a delicate, uncertain grip. 

Gustave adjusted his scabbarded blade, strapped on a bandoleer and holstered his pistols across his chest. He shouldered an additional musket and satchel and made his way out the door, pulling his dusty greatcoat off its hanger and disturbing the thin layer of dust that had settled on it.

He was going to catch a spy.

***

Steel clashed on steel, and the sound rang out through the ancient settlement. The duellers danced to the rhythm of a flurry of precise strikes, their skill with a blade quite remarkable to the untrained eye.

Harry knew he was starting to lag slightly, but could see no sign of his opponent feeling the same. 

A small dishevelled crowd watched, cheered, and exchanged coins as the swordsmen exchanged blows.

“Come on, ‘Arry!” yelled Rotter, perhaps a little too enthusiastically for Harry’s liking. In the space of a heartbeat he flicked his eyes across to see his chaperone in the thick of the crowd. He’d have to have a word about his gambling later… if he managed to get out of this alive.

He instantly regretted taking his eyes off his opponent, as he frantically defended himself - did this elf never tire? 

A badly calculated step backwards and he felt his heel slip on the wet ground.

He repelled a heavy blow, the clang reverberated through his bones. Somewhere between keeping his balance and fending for his life, he flicked his wrist and to his surprise grazed his assailant’s cheek.

It seemed to Harry that the crowd made a collective gasp as the roguish elf took a step back, startled.

“Papa!” screamed one of the crowd in a shrill cry.

Harry’s body seemed to react on its own to the sound of a loud thwang, his sword sweeping in a back-hand motion as he moved to intercept the bolt aimed squarely at his chest.

A spark.

A sting on his brow.

The world faded to darkness.

Harringtorc Parte the First a Flintloque tale by Christian Cuello

Welcome to the initial offering in a short series of Flintloque fan faction concerning the campaigning of Lieutenant Harringtorc of the Albion Army.  Written by Christian Ceullo we and he hope that you enjoy this story and there will be more to come which will also be published for free on our blog.  The artwork in this article was drawn by Valonian artist Edward Jackson.  If you are looking for a miniature to match Harringtorc then we suggest an officer on foot from the 54506 Orc Command set.  Enjoy and I know that I did! GBS

It was a fine day, the finest the Lieutenant Harringtorc had seen for a long time during this arduous campaign in the Catalucian Peninsula. Yes, Sentinel knows, it had been difficult. But today was a day for victory! He took in a deep breath, the air a bouquet of fragrant pine, a waft of salty ocean spray, with an unmistakable note of blackpowder and grease.

Aye, a day for victory indeed.

‘Arry.

Harringtorc’s men stood behind him at attention, with the kind of discipline that would make any drill sergeant weep with pride. The men loved their Captain. “Harry” they called him, and he could hear them gently address him as he passed them for inspection. He had brought them glory in the name of Kyng George, and in return they gave him their undying loyalty. Fine men every one; their buttons and tusks gleaming in the rays of the early morning sun. It was enough to put the fear of the Almighty into any of Mordred’s troops.

He rubbed at a sudden pain in his side, took in another deep breath and cleared his throat ready to address his platoon.

“Ahem. Men – ow!”

He rubbed his side again.

‘Arry.

There was a sudden change in the air, the sweet fragrance of the forest, the sea, and the glory of battle was replaced with an unmistakable, foetid odour that could only mean one thing.

‘Arry!

He felt himself floating away from the scene before him, his troops standing stock still, the campfire and perfectly ordered tents, each moment smaller and smaller.

He slowly opened his eyes: it was not a beautiful day dawning, but the slow realisation that he had been dreaming.

“’Arry – it’s time.” The rancid stench of Rotter’s breath was enough to bring him back to reality. As Harry’s eyes adjusted to the scene around him, his memory filled in the rest.

They had been trekking through the Catalucian wilderness for days with some local guides on what was slowly revealing itself to be a particularly awful assignment. 

It had all sounded grand from the outset, it was finally a chance for Harrington to leave the safety of the Horse Guards and prove his mettle on the field. Younger than most officers, he was typically the butt of jokes about his protective uncle, a senior officer who had taken him in at his mother’s wishes to protect him from the worst of the Mordredian Wars.

What seemed at first to be a mission of the highest secrecy revealed itself to be little more than a jaunt to a Catalucian backwater to meet a probably useless informant nestled in the forests and mountains of Gallaecia.

He couldn’t have been further from the battle if he had stayed at Horse Guards.

“Yes, yes, Rotter – but couldn’t you have let me sleep just a few moments longer?”

Harry swore he heard Rotter mutter something under his breath about a spoilt brat as he shuffled out of the small round stone hut and into the misty morning rain.

“And was the kick necessary?!” Harry rubbed his side again.

This was a curious land.

The port city of Vigore that received them was indeed beautiful, with sights and sounds unfamiliar but at the same time known to a deeper part of Harry’s soul, like a memory. Under Rotter’s watchful eye they entered the city by night on a smuggler’s ship, daring to continue plying their trade despite Mordred’s blockade on commerce across the sea. 

With a clink of gold the captain was paid off, and with another so were the port officials. Taking numerous back alleys, and avoiding occasional Ferach patrols, now lazy with confidence of their supremacy over the port city, they reached a small, comfortable tavern with surprising ease. Harry’s heart pounded in his chest with excitement and terror all the same. 

They took a corner table and Rotter soon disappeared, leaving Harry awkwardly on his own. Moments later he’d forgotten the imminent danger as he delightfully sampled local food and wine, stumbling through conversations with the locals in what he knew of Catalucian (although their local dialect was almost lost on him), and let the local musicians entertain him with their curious music. In this part of Catalucia the music had a lilt that reminded him of home, rather than the fiery and altogether foreign sounds of the South.

Just as he was considering turning in for the night, Rotter appeared at his side, this time with a companion, an elf named Bieito. After a brief introduction they left the tavern and meandered through the city streets, finally leaving Vigore in the small hours.

That was days ago now.

He blearily looked around at his surroundings. The primitive huts that had offered shelter were very curious. The locals called them castros, reminding him of the ancient brochs he saw as an Orcling on a trip to Joccia with his father before he disappeared on one of his expeditions many years ago. The locals had explained that these dwellings had been built during the Darke Ages, but they did not know by whom. Mostly abandoned, they were used as shelter for travellers and bandits alike.

Harry picked up a small stone that had fallen from the ancient stacked stone walls, placed it in his pocket as a souvenir and skipped ahead in the drizzling rain to catch up with Rotter.

There was a brief commotion close by, and as Harry stepped forward to get a clearer view, Rotter’s surprisingly strong grip held him back. Harry’s short time in Catalucia made it difficult to tell when Dark Elves were enjoying a regular conversation or arguing, as both sounded the same to him. But from his vantage point the mob of rough-looking Elves, along with obvious disregard for concealing their collection of swords, knives, pistols, and occasional crossbow, were likely in for the latter.

Bieito gestured forcibly, occasionally flicking an upturned hand in the direction of the Orcs and then back to the leader of the small band.

The leader turned slowly to consider the Orcs. He held up a hand which caused Bieto to pause his rant, and turned his grizzled face to the pair. He was not a young elf, his long, dark hair tied up but greying at the sides in a way that aged the elf handsomely. The way his travel-worn clothes clung to him as he swaggered towards the Orcs with the rhythmic tinkle of concealed blades made Harry’s eyes roll.

In one fluid motion he snatched a sword from one his ruffians, and sent it sailing in a clean arc towards Harry. As the crude blade’s point embedded itself in the ground, he drew his own blade: the challenge was clear.

Harry took a confident step forward towards the blade, and again, Rotter’s steely grip held him back.

“‘Arry... are you sure?”

Harry took another step forward and drew the blade from the ground. He gave it a quick slash in the air to test its weight. Although young, but he was surprisingly  gifted with a sword, and he knew it.

“Well, it’s no sabre, but it will do.” 

With a wink, he turned to face his opponent.

“En garde!”

54506 Orc Command Set

VLE13 Gnomish Notary Set released for Flintloque last for 2016

The last release for Flintloque and Slaughterloo for 2016 from Alternative Armies is a character set sculpted by Christian Cuello unlike anything else in the whole range.  Limited to two hundred and fifty numbered packs with insert this new pack contains both miniatures and furniture in 28mm scale. A Gnomish Notary with his Half Ogre guard as well as the writing desk and a chair before it and a chest with two boxes.  A very unique and useful set.  Go HERE or read on for more information.

VLE13 The Gnomish Notary Set

This thirteen pack contains figures and furniture in a mix of white metal and resin 28mm scale pieces. Limited to two hundred and fifty numbered packs with insert this set was sculpted by Christian Cuello.  This pack contains a Gnome in sitting position along with a thick book and a chair upon which to sit, along with a writing desk in two pieces as well as a travelling chest and two small boxes; lastly a Half Ogre guard with pistol.  The set requires a small amount of assembly and pieces can be established using our image of parts as given.  The insert supplied can be had as a free PDF from our dropbox HERE and gives rules for use in Flintloque and Slaughterloo.  A unique and characterful set useful in any collection.  12.00GBP.  Go HERE.

Above is an image of all the parts in the set and it is very easy to assemble.  You can base it up as single pieces or create a vignette or diorama.

A free PDF is in our Dropbox for this set is online.  It contains rules and statistics for use in Flintloque and Slaughterloo.  CLICK HERE.  Enjoy!

Christian Cuello has sculpted other codes in the World of Valon and while this new limited edition is his most ambitious it will take a while for it to catch up with his others which are treasured by players of Flintloque and Slaughterloo all over the world.  You can see them on our website and they are 56131 Ludwig Von Barkhoven and 54050 Valon Civilians Set.  Nice!

We hope you like our last release for this annum and we will have more for you in 2017.  Alternative Armies will continue its release schedule for Flintloque and for High Fantasy too as well as other projects in the works.

Merry Christmas!

GBS

Spirit of Slaughterloo Scenario and Last Days for Free Monument

There are only a few days left to get yourself a free 59010 Slaughterloo Monument terrain piece in any order over 20.00GBP and to take advantage of our offers of 15% off the prices of a list of our most popular Elf, Orc and Dwarf codes. Visit our Deals and Offers Page HERE or to read the full details of the offers and the monument on the blog go HERE. Offers and free end on 29th June 2015. 

Inspired by the release of the Slaughterloo Monument sculptor and all round top guy Christian Cello has penned a short tale and Flintloque scenario called 'The Spirit of Slaughterloo. It concerns former combatants in the Mordredian Wars being brought once more into the fray long after the wars have officially ended for one last crack at the Ferach Elves. 

We have created a PDF which features artwork as yet never seen by Valonian artist Edward Jackson. 

You can download the full two page with artwork PDF from our dropbox account for free using this link. Click HERE. 

Thanks for Reading. 

GBS

Flintloque Catch the Pig AAR by Christian Cello

Presented in Full a Blog Post by Christian Cello reproduced here on the Alternative Armies blog with short added notes by Gavin Syme (GBS).  You can find the original post HERE and notes at the foot of this post.  Enjoy!

It has been a long time since my last update, mostly for health reasons. Without giving to much detail, you can imagine things are pretty awful when you can't even find enough energy to look at a miniature! However, I'm now on the mend and ready to get a few projects underway: a few commissions for terrain and some sculpting. For my self, I was able to set aside some energy to finish painting a few figures and, after a long wait, Romina and I finally got a game of Flintloque underway.

A couple of weeks ago we made preparations but didn't get much farther than that, which Gavin from Alternative Armies turned into a brilliant post about setting up for play. You can see some more of it here.

What follows is a report of the skirmish between the proud forces of the Free State of Schnöselberg, dubiously led by Rittmeister Heißhund, and the Ferach infiltrators lead by the devious, duplicitous and downright dangerous Captain Couteau.

The Ferach forces prepare to march on the Red Dragon!

The Objectives

The first stop on the Schnöselberg scenic tour is the lovely, rustic Red Dragon Inne - a popular watering hole for the locals and soldiers who pass through. Close by is the renowned chocolatier and master coffee roaster Herr Tobleron. At the centre of the town lies a well. This is the main objective of the scuffle, and needs to be captured by the end of combat.

Buildings lying around the town are also able to be captured, but this is a secondary goal - and quite dangerous! When entering a building, a character must roll a d6: 1 - 2 - The soldier easily makes his way inside, only to be knocked out by surprise! (lasts two turns); 3 - 4 - The door is locked, getting in will be tough; 5 - 6 - The soldier easily makes his way in!

Supplies are always needed, so grab that pig - if you can! Approaching within 5cm of the pig will startle it at 50%. If startled, it will move 3d6 in a random direction. Otherwise it will need to be led away.

Lastly, that pesky journalist Fritz Heulen is on the prowl for a good story - this might prove to your advantage! Have him in your possession by the end of the battle. However, an opposed melee roll will be required to stop him snooping around for his latest story. Otherwise, he moves 3d6 in a random direction.

Special Rules

Sneaking a visit to the house of Herr Tobleron is almost irresistible as the smell of roasting coffee beans and other tasty treats wafts over the battlefield. Roll a d6 at the start of the game: the result is the number of cups of coffee he is able to brew. Imbibing a cup will give you an extra move action next turn. No fighting in the yard, though. There's a good boy!

Oh... and be careful: the townsfolk haven't taken too kindly to the recent visitors. The Innkeeper is happy to take things into his own hands and there is a 50% chance he may appear at the start of a turn and blast at a random soldier with his musket! His wife, however, is rather interested in these fine specimens and they know it! They ignore Shaken results if in melee within 15cm of the Innkeeper's wife.

Get off my Lawn!

Well, well, well... 

The Battle at the Red Dragon Inn

as told by Herr Fritz Heulen 

in a letter to his cousin, the esteemed 

Herr Gunther Heulen Esq.

Dear Cousin,

It has been so long since we have spoken. My travels have taken me to the hot-bed of intrigue and skulduggery that is the Free State of Schnöselberg – and you all said it was a backwater! My latest adventures have landed me in a spot of trouble, but more on that later.

Be sure to pass on the following account of a recent clash for the key strategic point, the Red Dragon Inn… more importantly the well at the centre of the hamlet. Make no mistake - this could turn the tide of the war!

It was early on in the battle that I was whisked away by a Ferach soldier who, as he approached, brought with him a stench of alcohol that made my eyes water. He staggered over followed by a decorated superior. Unfortunately, he was well and truly legless a short while later: I barely heard the pop of the Ostarian Air Rifle that felled him. I never found out what happened to him after the battle but I seem to recall him getting dragged away by an angry mob of villagers...

The Jaeger von Meister sneaks around the back of the inn...

Pop!

Seeing that I was in danger the Ferach lieutenant attempted to lead me away to safety as the distinct crack of musket fire could be heard in the distance. The struggle for the well had begun!

I must admit that in the confusion I could make out few details. However I do seem to recall being passed on to several other soldiers before the battle was finished - so considerate! Even now the Ferach have taken precautions to set an armed guard outside my tent for my protection.

The elves quite deftly maneuvered their way to a good vantage point, intercepting the lone dogman that held the well. With a decisive order from their Leader, the small section of troops let rip from their muskets and felled the poor pup where he stood!

The Ferach Elves take position...

Fire!

The whole affair was very civil for the most part: I seem to recall two soldiers from opposing sides taking time to have a coffee break part way through the battle. I quite like the idea of a soldierin' life, and have often wished to take up the uniform of my native land, see the world... if only my health would permit.

Two soldiers take a moment to sample Herr Tobleron's finest brew... 

and benefit from a quick burst of energy in the next turn!

The supercharged Schnöselberg grenadier takes the initiative and makes a grab for the well... can the puppies hold it?

Covering Fire!

In a last ditch attempt at the well, the Ferach troops closed in to hand to hand combat. Lowering their bayonets and sounding the charge, they rushed in... however, they did not reckon with the good breeding of Musketier Sprungsteen, or "Knuckles" as he is known to his peers! He felled two Ferach elves with one almighty right hook. It would have done his litter proud.

 Knuckles gives the Ferach more than they bargained for... his pal von Schnussel does the same!

At this it seemed that Cpt. Couteau of the Ferach elves used his better judgment and sounded the retreat, after passing through the hands of what seemed all the nations of Valon it was time to leave the battlefield - but not before a last, desperate attempt by the young Schnöselberg drummer. Unfortunately, he was quickly dispatched by the cruel elf who eyes glinted as he sliced the poor young pup. There is something really off about this guy... I only hope I do not suffer the same fate!

Cpt. Couteau swoops in and snatches Herr Heulen from the unsuspecting drummer... nasty!

He who fights and runs away... the Ferach grudgingly make their escape through the trees and back to camp...

but not empty-handed!

And so, dear cousin, here I sit in solitude, awaiting my fate! Who knows where my adventures will take me, and what thrilling tales I will have for you when next I write! Farewell!

- Fritz Heulen

***

And that wraps up our first "full-sized" Flintloque battle! The Schnöselberg troops held the well as, quite simply, there were too many casualties on the Ferach side to do much more than grab Herr Heulen and make a quick exit (and it was quite late in the evening when we finished up anyway). While most of my section survived to do battle another day, they had many injuries so I'll be interested to see how they fare next time. I'll definitely stay out of the line of fire of that deadly jaeger!

Hope you enjoyed it! Of course a few more things happened in the game that Fritz didn't account for... including the cowardly Heißhund emerging at the very end of the battle to catch the pig!

The Innkeeper kicks open the door and opens fire... I lost two of my elves that way!

The pig was tricky to catch, and almost overwhelmed my Volitgeur.

***

Gavin's Notes

Well that was a really awesome read with some excellent photographs of Mr Cello's collection of Flintloque miniatures some standard and some customised. I am not going to add much here except to recommend that you try the 'Catch the Pig' idea out in your own games of Flintloque.  A scenario like this with humour and pace in a fantasy world is the spirit of Flintloque and gives the rest of us 'FLQ'ers' a lot of enjoyment.  Did you see that Fritz Huelen the pesky journalist was a conversion of 56131 Ludwig Von Barkhoven adding glasses and a floppy hat?  Also the addition of cotton wool tufts to figures upon firing is visually pleasing and a great way to keep track of weapon use in play.  I want to thank Christian for taking the time to take all of these great photos and for showing how a small number of Flintloque miniatures can be used for an excellent couple of hours of fun.  Where next for these adventurers...I don't know, but I am looking forward to finding out!

Thanks for Reading.

GBS

Flintloque designer Christian Cello sets up to play...

This is a short blog post about a game of Flintloque that so nearly happened. Due to unforeseen circumstances designer Christian Cello and his opponent had to cease playing before they had even begun. However we are lucky enough to have three excellent images and a short account of the anticipated skirmish to show you here on the Alternative Armies blog. Christian is the fellow behind 56131 Ludwig Von Barkhoven and the great 54050 Valon Civilians pack of miniatures and while he is working on more sculpts right now he is also a firm fan of the great alternative fantasy skirmish game in the world Flintloque.  

8th of May, 1801 - forces of the Ferach Emperor Mordred face off against the defenders of the Free State of Schnöselberg in a border skirmish to capture the small town and its water supply. After several roll calls, cups of coffee, polishing of uniforms and going over their orders, the commanders realised it was almost tea time and promptly agreed to leave the battle for another day. They enjoyed a beef stew at the local inn, the Red Dragon.- Fritz Heulen, war correspondent. 

As the above image and short account show and tell you the battle did not take place. Boo Hiss! I am assured it will do but lets take a moment to look at that really nice gaming set up. Custom scratch built buildings and terrain features and a tightly focused playing area. In games of Flintloque that have only half a dozen or so miniatures per section per side you can play in just two square feet like this and have a really good time trading musket shots and sword duels. A copy of Death in the Snow along with all the roster sheets and dice complete the scene. I know I want to find out what would have happened next! So what of the two sections of miniatures? One of Dogmen and one of Ferach Elves. 

 

These are the defenders of the Free State of Schnöselberg a tiny dutchy somewhere in the Confederation of Finklestein area of Urop. The Confederation is a great place to create your own little kingdom as its an area of literally hundreds of comic opera dutchies and city states filled with Dogmen, Dwarves, Ogres and even some Burrovians and Todoroni. There is a lot about this region in the Beir & Bones book and a free PDF you can have by request from Alternative Armies by email. 

Christian's Dogman Section is kitted out in a fetching (fetch boy, fetch!) yellow, white and sky blue uniform and the miniatures are taken from several codes including Dog Jaers, Dog Grenadiers, Dog Line and Dog Command. You can see all of these codes on our website and we do offer a parts service if you want single miniatures from each code. Check them out HERE. 

The troops of the tyrant Ferach Emperor Mordred want to annex the Free State...why? Because its what the Elves do! Fast and well trained these High Elves are tough foes to overcome. Christian's Elf section is also composed of several different codes and makes a nice eclectic mix of infantry and also a high ranking officer and a master spy too. There are miniatures there from the original Deadloque classic set, from the original Flintloque classic set Voltiguers and a couple of small packs too as well as the favourite 51006 set. There is also a Bog Orc Drummer from the Guinalean Legion there to add some muscle. There are more than one hundred different Elves in the range and you can see them all HERE. 

I am hoping eventually for more pictures and a full report as I know you fellows out there love to see good stories, scenarios, fiction and miniatures in use. What will happen to the Free State of Schnöselberg? Time will tell. 

Thanks for Reading.

GBS

54050 Valon Civilians by Christian Cuello released!

Flintloque players went slightly bonkers over Mr Cuello's last miniature 56131 Ludwig Von Barkhoven in 2014 with hundreds of castings of it winging around the world when it released and way more when it went out free as an offer too.  After that success five more civilians for use with Flintloque were created and now they are on general release.  Five diverse characters with a lot of potential uses which could be fitting in to any number of collections and scenarios.  I can see them being many things and I think this was Mr Cuello's idea as well.  There are some civilians in our range but certainly there is room for many more too. Go HERE.

From the left, in the line across images, these 28mm white metal miniatures are:

Hanz Stammerhunde

A Dogman in civilian costume with Tricorne Hat and Blunderbuss which stands 30mm tall.  A brave fellow Hanz Stammerhunde used to be a country gentledog until the war with Pudigrochumberg rolled across his small estate and ruined it.  Now Hanz has no choice but to be a highway robber and rascal and while he attempts to be harm innocents he is no stanger to danger. At home in Ostaria or the Confederation of Finklestein.

Bernurd Mucksorc

An Orc in civilian costume with buttoned up coat and Tricorne Hat which stands 30mm tall.  A shady chap Bernurd Muscksorc is a wanted Orc.  He used to work in the stamping works of the Banke of Albion until the lure of coin took his mind.  Making off with two sacks of groats he is now in hiding from the Bone Streete Rumblers.  His presentable appearance is his best asset but how long will he avoid the noose? Many uses both urban and rural but in Londinium or Wheeling-Turns Camp in Catalucia you could use him. 

Alf Graxley

An Orc in civilian costume with the look of a miner or other manual worker which stands 28mm tall. Alf Graxley wears a flat cap and has a knife in hand and he is an honest Orc.  He used to be a thug and leg breaker in Skarkills Trade Onion but now he has gone back to work in the barrel cellar of the Pixie's Rear a pub in Cheapestsides in Londinium.  His accent often gets him into scrapes as he is from Yorcshire but he holds his own.  Many uses in scenarios.

Otto Von Slacken

A Dwarf in civilian costume which stands 22mm tall.  Otto Von Slacken is a lumber jack (Wood Cutter) who carries an Axe and is wearing a fur trimmed cloak and sock cap.  In the rough and tumble of Kartoffelburg the daily trades continue despite the carnage and war in the region and this Dwarf fells trees and then sells fire wood as he travels around.  He has great knowledge of the region and is willing to act as a guide for those soldiers who lose their way..for a price.

Nico Ebayrisold

A Gnome in well fitted civilian costume wearing spectacles with his hand behind his back he stands 18mm tall.  Nico Ebayrisold is from the Swizzic Republique like the rest of his kind his passion is counting and banking.  With a mind that is as fast as Mr Babborcs Differecing Engine he is currently in Catalucia assisting Wheeling-Turn in the accounts for the Army of Albion.  He would make an excellent scenario objective or assistant to any Army or perhaps a wealthy merchant with a personal bodyguard. Our first Gnome of Zoorik in the miniature range.

54050 Valon Civilians

This pack contains five different 28mm white metal miniatures for use in Flintloque or any other fantasy system.  A Dogman armed with Blunderbuss, an Orc in Tricorne, an Orc with knife, a Dwarf carrying an Axe and a Gnome wearing spectacles.  Five civilians with many different scenario uses.  This code can be purchased as a pack or as single miniatures from the pack in a choice in the on page drop down menu.  You can also purchase the pack and singles pro-painted and based by selecting those options in the drop down menu.   Go HERE.

If you have not seen Barkhoven then you can go to our website HERE.  There is a free download character sheet for him too which is on these links.  Its a rock and roll period for fans of Alternative Armies and especially Flintloque and Slaughterloo with many new releases as well as offers and much excellence being put up on our Notables Yahoo Group.  Its well worth joining this Yahoo Group and while you must apply to join this is just a formality and I will sign you in where you can pull up a virtual armchair and talk about our games and miniatures.  Here is the link:  Notables Group.

Thanks for Reading.

GBS

First Look at Flintloque Characters by Christian Cuello

Flintloque players went slightly bonkers over Mr Cuello's last miniature 56131 Ludwig Von Barkhoven in 2014 with hundreds of castings of it winging around the world when it released and way more when it went out free as an offer too.  After that success Mr Cuello has decided to sculpt five more civilians for use with Flintloque.  Five diverse characters with a lot of potential uses which could be fitting in to any number of collections and scenarios.  I can see them being many things and I think this was Mr Cuello's idea as well.  There are some civilians in our range but certainly there is room for many more too. 

From the left these as yet untitled miniatures are:

Dogman in civilian costume with Tricorne Hat and Blunderbuss.  Could be a country gentleman or a highway rascal in Ostaria or the Confederation of Finklestein.

Orc in civilian costume with buttoned up coat and Tricorne Hat.  Many uses both urban and rural.  I see him in Londinium or Wheeling-Turns Camp in Catalucia.

Orc in civilian costume with the look of a miner or other manual worker.  A flat cap and a knife in hand suitable as hired muscle or thug.

Dwarf in civilian costume who could be a lumber jack or such trade carrying an Axe and wearing a fur trimmed cloak and sock cap.  Could also be festive fun!

Gnome.  A Gnome of Zoorik! A first really and could make an excellent assistant for an Elf, Orc, Dogman or anyone else.  Wearing squared glasses and merchant's garb.

If you have not seen Barkhoven then you can go to our website HERE or see a blog posting about this miniature on our blog HERE.  There is a free download character sheet for him too which is on these links.

This set will be released as a pack code with the option of single miniature purchase from it.  This will be during our convention season which starts this month and the details of this convention season will be published soon. So you will be able to purchase in a few weeks time. Its going to be a rock and roll period for fans of Alternative Armies and especially Flintloque and Slaughterloo with many new releases as well as offers and much excellence being put up on our Notables Yahoo Group.  Its well worth joining this Yahoo Group and while you must apply to join this is just a formality and I will sign you in where you can pull up a virtual armchair and talk about our games and miniatures.  Here is the link:  Notables Group.

Thanks for Reading.

GBS