Space Hulk - beyond the hype

[Denzark]

Some thoughts about Space Hulk:

1. Yes the miniatures are good. But GW has been doing a higher proportion of exquisite minis for a while. On the flip side you'll have to convert to get away from BA and they won't fit a standard carry case - incorporation into standard armies would be hard(er).

2. Yes Space Hulk the original was tops with the 2 expansions. I still play 1st Ed. Yes all the game and both expansions goes for £150 on Ebay. But can GW be trusted not to dumb the rules down because look what happened to 2nd Ed? Where is it now?

3. It might be a limited edition. It might be an old favourite. But this rehash is far from the 'never been done before'. With the ability to have done a plastic tile board using the cities of death tech, that alone would have been revolutionary for GW.

Quite frankly whilst it looks good I don't think this matches the hype and I have no idea what is making grown men run around creaming themselves. Next you'll be wanting mass hysteria if a princess dies in a car crash.

Space Hulk is about game play. As stated you can get brilliant minis already. So not sure why a true fan would not just have ebayed 1st edition - the only thing about this set is if you are a collector and want all 3 eds or a complete game to sit on a dusty shelf.

I for one don't think the hype has been lived up to and as, after the revolution, advertising executives are amongst the first to go up against the wall, I feel just slightly disappointed that it is ops normal for GW, as opposed to something truly earth shattering.

[Aldramelech]

You have my full agreement there. What a fuss about nothing.

I don't own Space Hulk but if I did I would not buy this. As it is I'm not buying this anyway, I don't agree with the rose tinted spec comments on other threads, It is far too expensive!

[Gotthammer]

"True fan"? What defines that? I see it thrown about on many sites (mostly Transformers and GI Joe ones) - and usually it means 'people who agree with me'.

I own both other versions (multiples of 1st ed in fact), Ultra Marines, have most of the WD and Journal articles, and the PC game. I've converted up several squads from the current terminator boxes onto 25mm bases. I have a 4 litre ice cream tub filled with genestealers.

I'm still getting this version. The minis are amazing - sure GW makes other great minis, but I don't see where else I can get these. New missions, new background, more floor tiles - all sounds good to me. Should I miss out on the off chance that GW has screwed up the rules? No, if the rules suck I can just use 1st ed with some new, really cool models.

So people are excited, let them be. I'm sure you've been excited over things I couldn't care less about - doesn't mean it's the end of the world (like some people might feel when who they find an insipring role model dies in a car crash), just means people are excited over something you're not.

[miksaa]

I think the hype is a bit odd, but according to many; Space Hulk is a great game and many missed it.

And as for the items in the box, three cool markers/objectives for use in the game and in your normal 40k games, 11 Terminators and a Librarian who looks great, these things alone would be around 50£.

So I guess the extra 9£ for 22 Genestealers and a Broodlord and a great game sounds all right to me.

Fan-boy or not…

[GMTA]

What excites me:

1.) Rediculously detailed plastic models

2.) The ability to get more people that play that weren't around or missed it when it came out in 1989!! (or 2nd ed in what, 96?)

3.) The amount of stuff you get for the price.

4.) The quality of everything in it.

What doesn't:

1.) The *****ing and whining over rampant rumor and speculation put out by the community.

2.) The price point, despite the value.

[Xas]

I just want to comment on the price-issue:

Other similar compelx board games cost roughly the same. I too remember the times when a nice boradgame was less than 30€ but today 80€ for one like SH is pretty standard.

One oxample would be the starcraft boardgame.

[Rapture]

I don't know. A board game is a board game and $100 is a lot to ask for one. I am very on the fence but right now I might just skip Space Hulk.

If the models were multipart (even just Black Reach style) or the board was plastic sections then it would be a different story. It kinds of seems like they knew the game would be a success so they didn't bother with making the best out of it.

[Forhekset]

"1. Yes the miniatures are good. But GW has been doing a higher proportion of exquisite minis for a while. On the flip side you'll have to convert to get away from BA and they won't fit a standard carry case - incorporation into standard armies would be hard(er)."

That's the dumbest argument I ever heard. Almost half my minis don't fit in a standard carry case, even when not converted. And that's hardly a reason to not be into the game altogether.

Just cause they've been doing good minis for ages doesn't mean these arn't also desirable, as they're one of a kind. I'm not to fussed about the game but I would really love to have those Blood Angels, because they're unique.

I'm still kicking myself over not getting the limited edition Ethereal that came with the box set after the last codex. I'll probably never get the chance to own one now.

[Rapture]

Just cause they've been doing good minis for ages doesn't mean these arn't also desirable, as they're one of a kind. I'm not to fussed about the game but I would really love to have those Blood Angels, because they're unique.

These Space Hulk terminators are sharp (I have only seen pics of three of them) with all of the unique poses that couldn't be made from the regular kit. The only problem is that they are so unique that everyone's will look exactly the same. I am not shy concerning converting models but then their unique poses would be lost so what is the point?

I would just hate to see models that i put time, effort, and money into fighting a mirror match against another set from the same kit.

(Obviously I would want to use the terminators for 40k and Space Hulk, who wouldn't?)

[Straha]

Actually, all the stuff you're getting with Space Hulk is a great deal. Unlike most board games, the Space Hulk contents can be used with regular 40K. Also, I'm guessing that GW will write expansion rules (they need to put something with White Dwarf) to include other races. Some Imperial Guard rules for Space Hulk would be sweet.

Anyway, I want 2 sets. One will be a stand alone game (Blood Angels vs. 'Nids) like originally intended. Nothing like a quick 40K fix without the bother of setting up a 1500 point table.

The other set is for converting Blood Angels into Blood Ravens and starting a new army.

All in all, I'm really happy with the new release.

[UnionJackal]

I think the hype is a bit odd, but according to many; Space Hulk is a great game and many missed it.

And as for the items in the box, three cool markers/objectives for use in the game and in your normal 40k games, 11 Terminators and a Librarian who looks great, these things alone would be around 50£.

So I guess the extra 9£ for 22 Genestealers and a Broodlord and a great game sounds all right to me.

Fan-boy or not…

My sentiments exactly. Two boxes of Terminators and a Terminator Librarian would normally set you back £60.65, so you're making a saving on them alone. Add to that three boxes of Genestealers (£14.70 each) and a Broodlord (£11.75) and you're looking at a saving on the basic miniatures cost of almost £60. With the scenery on top of that, as well as the rules, I can't see any reason not to buy SH.

Admittedly a fair amount of that opinion is due to having a desire to start up small Astartes and Nid forces, but my old-school predelictions also play a large part.

There's more I would have liked to have seen done with the game- 3D terrain would have been froody, and more 'generic' rather than chapter-specific Terminators would have been preferable. However, there's always the option of building the board myself and I've no compunctions about filing off detail that doesn't fit my chapter of choice.

[Rapture]

My sentiments exactly. Two boxes of Terminators and a Terminator Librarian would normally set you back £60.65, so you're making a saving on them alone. Add to that three boxes of Genestealers (£14.70 each) and a Broodlord (£11.75) and you're looking at a saving on the basic miniatures cost of almost £60. With the scenery on top of that, as well as the rules, I can't see any reason not to buy SH.


You are comparing multi-part plastic kits to (what I believe) are single piece models without bases. I bought a Black Reach squad of terminators for $12.50 and they are nothing like the kit I bought for $50.

[Mormigan]

Personally i pre ordered it, i'll paint everything up according to what it's supposed to be in the game and if i need some terminators for 40K, i will sure as hell use em in a regular game (since i'll base em all). All in all, i think it's all very neat and if you go to a toy store and try and buy a board game of any kind don't be surprised by how much regular board games sell for. $100 US isn't that bad for a game i will have more than 1 use for. And SH at least i know my wife will play! WHICH IS A HUGE +. ( i'll let her play the good guys :P )

[Ciaphas Cain]

And SH at least i know my wife will play! WHICH IS A HUGE +. ( i'll let her play the good guys :P )

Hehe, my thoughts exactly. Pre-ordered.

Cheers

CC

[Galgaroth]

Some thoughts about Space Hulk:

I for one don't think the hype has been lived up to and as, after the revolution, advertising executives are amongst the first to go up against the wall, I feel just slightly disappointed that it is ops normal for GW, as opposed to something truly earth shattering.

Personally, I think it's a great advertising tactic by GW.

Over the year, I reckon September is probably one of the quietest times of the year for GW. Adults are shorter on cash from hols, and kids are spent out following the summer gaming. So I'd bet there's a lull around September to October.

Solution: A big, fresh release to grab new sales.

I think they've tried this in the past (wasn't Inquisitor realeased in September? Origonal Tau? And possibly Ogre Kingdoms?).

But the problem is, why would people want to BUY NOW? Most would await the festive season, and so the tactic wouldn't work. Unless, you make it limited edition, and get to people to Buy Now.

And why the secret on the lead up to the release? Because if everyone expected this back in May and started saving then, GW would have lost potential sales in July and August. Borrowing from Peter to pay Paul.

So overall, a nice publicity campaign, and massively effective. I think GW's ad execs will be getting bonuses this year, rather than facing the wall.

So, back to those nice, new models:eek:

[Aldramelech]

My sentiments exactly. Two boxes of Terminators and a Terminator Librarian would normally set you back £60.65, so you're making a saving on them alone. Add to that three boxes of Genestealers (£14.70 each) and a Broodlord (£11.75) and you're looking at a saving on the basic miniatures cost of almost £60. With the scenery on top of that, as well as the rules, I can't see any reason not to buy SH.

Admittedly a fair amount of that opinion is due to having a desire to start up small Astartes and Nid forces, but my old-school predelictions also play a large part.

There's more I would have liked to have seen done with the game- 3D terrain would have been froody, and more 'generic' rather than chapter-specific Terminators would have been preferable. However, there's always the option of building the board myself and I've no compunctions about filing off detail that doesn't fit my chapter of choice.

Ive brought my entire 1500pt space marine army from Ebay for less then £50. All are brand new, unpainted, unassembled. There are 4 metal character models in that lot too. By buying shrewdly and being on Ebay at off peak times Ive managed to assemble an entire ARMY for the cost of that box!

Quit telling me its value for money, cause it just ain't.

[HappyHaunt]

My issue with it is that it just doesn't grab me like I thought it would. Yes it is Space Hulk, but I see too much GW marketing in this release - I bet a friend jokingly that they would make sure the bases were non standard for this and, surprise surprise, they are non standard. Ain't no reason regular bases would not work with these out of the box. Yes, I can do it myself, but why could GW not do it?

I don't agree with the costings here either, you cannot compare the items in the box to the items you buy seperate. I've seen too many GW Specialist releases over the years which enjoy a couple of months support then get relegated out of memory, this seems too much like a stop gap to Xmas.

By all means I am not saying it is a bad release, just not as earth shattering as I was expecting, there is nothing really new in all honesty except in the most generous of terms. I am a slow painter so I don't want to add to the pile unnecessarily!

[Skoby]

I don't see what there is to argue about really, yes it is expensive for a "board game", but then again games workshop is expensive compared to airfix models, but come on, look at those models they are amazing and all these exclusive miniatures sculpted and produced for a limited run? I think £60 is cheap given the amount of work put into the models and compared to the cost of buying the original set. Also if they were to sell this set much cheaper everyone would buy it just for the models, this has already happened with black reach and whilst these may be Blood Angels and require converting, Ive seen several people converting black reach to Chaos so Im sure people would do it.

I can see everyones points and if you were around for the original release then I'm sure you will think this pales in comparason, but I only got to play a handful of times and that was using normal models on a squared whiteboard since the guy didnt want to damage his precious first edition boxset. For me tho, this is a chance to get my hands on some beautiful models that I will want to spend my time painting and keep on display and hopefully persuading my gf to play once in a while :D

[Deej]

I missed out on the original version, but remember being a youngster and staring longingly at the adverts in White Dwarf. Hence I've ordered it without hesitation, despite the fact I'm skint.

Disappointed that the miniatures aren't on proper bases, but then I already have 40 genestealers and probably don't need any more for 40k purposes.

[GMTA]

I don't agree with the costings here either, you cannot compare the items in the box to the items you buy seperate. I've seen too many GW Specialist releases over the years which enjoy a couple of months support then get relegated out of memory, this seems too much like a stop gap to Xmas.


What support? It's a stand-alone boardgame.

[UnionJackal]

You are comparing multi-part plastic kits to (what I believe) are single piece models without bases. I bought a Black Reach squad of terminators for $12.50 and they are nothing like the kit I bought for $50.

True, the posability may not be the same. But from what I've seen I'd put the SH Terminators a rung above the Black Reach ones in terms of quality. And bases can always be pulled out of the bits-box if they're required.


Ive brought my entire 1500pt space marine army from Ebay for less then £50. All are brand new, unpainted, unassembled. There are 4 metal character models in that lot too. By buying shrewdly and being on Ebay at off peak times Ive managed to assemble an entire ARMY for the cost of that box!
Quit telling me its value for money, cause it just ain't.

It's entirely possible to get an army for a pittance if you're canny and your eBay-fu is strong. One of my friends hasn't paid close to store-price for a single unit in his army (though he's had to become adept at using Nitromors in the process) and I've picked up a couple of bargains here and there. But if everyone worked on that principle, then pretty soon there'd be no new miniatures to buy and no new rules to support them.

Gone are the days of the £3 character blister pack and the £10 Tactical Squad; personally for the quality of product I'm buying I think the costs are fairly reasonable- look at a current Tactical Squad compared to a 2nd Edition one and tell me that the miniatures aren't twice as good. Obviously I'd prefer to pay less (and I remember when I did), but it's not like I'm having to choose between a new model and food for a day. Sure, I bet I could get hold of miniatures to serve the roles that those in the Space Hulk box fill for less than the asking price. But would the models be as evocative? Would they be of the same quality? Would they come with the ruleset and additional components to rekindle my enjoyment of the game that got me into 40K in the first place? Sure, if I just wanted to pick up some Terminators then there's likely to be a cheaper way to do so than buying Space Hulk. But I doubt there's going to be any chance of getting the product in question any cheaper.

[Soundgear]

These Space Hulk terminators are sharp (I have only seen pics of three of them) with all of the unique poses that couldn't be made from the regular kit. The only problem is that they are so unique that everyone's will look exactly the same. I am not shy concerning converting models but then their unique poses would be lost so what is the point?

I would just hate to see models that i put time, effort, and money into fighting a mirror match against another set from the same kit.

(Obviously I would want to use the terminators for 40k and Space Hulk, who wouldn't?)

I hate to poke holes in your argument, but the 1st SH had only two models, 1 terminator and 1 genestealer. They went so far has to have a special bit that slide over the storm bolter to simulate a heavy flamer. The termies looked almost nothing like what was already being produced, and were incredibly bland. Not just one distinct set of 10 terminators that look like everyone else's, but only one terminator.

So, could they have done more? Yes. Am I disappointed. No. I will enjoy my two new sets, and have a great time using my old termies as fallen brothers or ancient relics.

[bsmoove]

I'm not sure what "hype" we've gone "beyond" with this diatribe about GW. The company didn't say a word about this release... that was the point. All of the speculation and hysteria came from enthusiasts outside the company, but some people want to blame GW for that as well. puh-lease. I know that moaning about GW is something of a past-time with people on these forums, but it is tired, and old, and dreadfully misplaced.

The minis look amazing. The poses for the Terminators are incredibly dynamic, more so even than the "multi part plastic" kits you can get for 40K and waaaaay more so than the plastic termies that come with AoBR. The tyranids are the same. You couldn't convert regular 40K plastics into this kind of nastiness in a month of sundays. That's a fact.

...and yet people want to moan about floor tiles not being plastic. oh boy.

[Hashshashin]

clearly GW did the ol' bait and switch...First they confirmed the plastic floor tiles, then hey specified exactly how many of these were going into production, then they told everyone in no uncertain terms that people could only buy one FROM a GW hobby center only, geez the nerves of these guys...Oh wait, they never said any of that?

Oh us on the intertubes made that all up...Well damn them for not meeting all of my total fantasies about what I made up in my mind...
OT after the 'hype' I think it looks awesome and I've already ordered one. Looks as good as anything I could have wanted.

[Dezartfox]

clearly GW did the ol' bait and switch...First they confirmed the plastic floor tiles, then hey specified exactly how many of these were going into production, then they told everyone in no uncertain terms that people could only buy one FROM a GW hobby center only, geez the nerves of these guys...Oh wait, they never said any of that?

Oh us on the intertubes made that all up...Well damn them for not meeting all of my total fantasies about what I made up in my mind...
OT after the 'hype' I think it looks awesome and I've already ordered one. Looks as good as anything I could have wanted.

But did GW actually say any of that? Or was it just the "rumours" ;) Think what GW have actually said, as they said next to nothing on the mystery box.
Just because something is posted on here or on warseer doesn't make it true.

[whitewolfmxc]

well for the price issues (here is Aus its 160 au for the game) i totally agree on it a bit over priced , looks at other board games

Axis and allies 50th anniversary edition (around 150 au) it has 600 plastic models , of course it isnt as detailed as the GW ones , but it also includes a huge map and around 100 other items in the box , so i really think GW is simply setting the line of price too high (mainly because they already did with other lines , so a big why not do this one too lol)

[Forhekset]

It's only $120 if you buy it from the UK or the US. Go figure.

And for that price I could only buy 2 boxes of terminators.

Sounds like a bargain to me - I don't know what the hell you people are talking about with it being overpriced. Even at $160 AU you could only get 10 termies and 8 genestealers, and SH comes with ALOT more than that.

[edit] Actually 2 boxes of terminators is $140 - so you couldn't even get that.

[Hashshashin]

But did GW actually say any of that? Or was it just the "rumours" ;) Think what GW have actually said, as they said next to nothing on the mystery box.
Just because something is posted on here or on warseer doesn't make it true.

That was basically my point. The rumour mills were exploding, and then when people don't get the product they visualized based on nothing more than whispering and speculation they cry mutiny.

Maybe compared to other games its a little overpriced, but we're talking about GW here, so what did you expect? As far as I'm conserned It's a pretty sweet deal, 35 models plus a boatload of cardbboard for $99 US is worth it to me anyway.

[eldargal]

Exactly, give this man a medal! GW said they had a mystery box that they would be unveiling. The rest was rumour and people saying "my buddy at my local store says...". Not to mention we had virtual confirmation that it would be Space Hulk weeks ago. Which didn't stop people saying "No wai, mah frend down at teh store sayz it r a new race k." and then having the nerve to be enraged when it turns out merely to be Space Hulk.
My brothers introduced me to Space Hulk when I was four, I love and an Iand two of my brothers have pre-ordered. As to the minis, worst comes to worst I will blutack them regular bases or something, if I feel the need to start a BA army.
Dont like? Don't Buy. Don't Whine.


That was basically my point. The rumour mills were exploding, and then when people don't get the product they visualized based on nothing more than whispering and speculation they cry mutiny.

Maybe compared to other games its a little overpriced, but we're talking about GW here, so what did you expect? As far as I'm conserned It's a pretty sweet deal, 35 models plus a boatload of cardbboard for $99 US is worth it to me anyway.

[Denzark]

I'm not sure what "hype" we've gone "beyond" with this diatribe about GW. The company didn't say a word about this release... that was the point. All of the speculation and hysteria came from enthusiasts outside the company, but some people want to blame GW for that as well. puh-lease. I know that moaning about GW is something of a past-time with people on these forums, but it is tired, and old, and dreadfully misplaced.

The minis look amazing. The poses for the Terminators are incredibly dynamic, more so even than the "multi part plastic" kits you can get for 40K and waaaaay more so than the plastic termies that come with AoBR. The tyranids are the same. You couldn't convert regular 40K plastics into this kind of nastiness in a month of sundays. That's a fact.

...and yet people want to moan about floor tiles not being plastic. oh boy.

Re-reading my post I can't find a diatribe. I didn't say GW were responsible for the hype. I said I didn't know what was making grown men cream themselves - not that GW were responsible. And if you think announcing a 'mystery box', wearing T-shirts that say everything you have been told is a lie' and a you-noob video with flowery choral music isn't hype, I don't know what is.

Any talk about price comparisons between how much to buy these minis individually has also been done before about what good value for money AOBR was.

If all they had done was announce it as a release this would not have sparked as much interest really. Actually I have a suspicion that whilst some natural fans must have the latest plastic crack (and who doesn't) other people are falling under the thrall of the Shampoo Warlock's spell.

[LongFang]

As an old, old, old 40k gamer I have always loved Space Hulk. It was the gateway into the hobby for me, and has always been my first love. I have the first and second edition all the expansions, the campaign book and most of the WD articles. Heck, I even have a Wolflord, Runepriest and Wolfpriest in termi armor, supported by 20 Wolfguard termis assembeled and painted for Space Hulk, I,ve held the new edition and the quality of the minis blew me away. The fact that the board sections are interchangable between all three editions is the icing on the cake. So you know I have a copy on order at my local B&M. But all that aside it is a great entry vehicle for the nube. It evens the field between the new player and grizzled veteran. And while a challenging play for oldtimers it can be easily dare I say it be "accidently" lost by the experienced player(wink, wink, nudge, nudge, enough said). In conclusion, in this age of wild eyed "tournamentitis:, foaming "apocalypseaphobia", and rabid "planet strikeamania" isn't time for some good old school "beer and pretzel" gaming.

[Ray]

Unfortunately, I never got into SH. However, SH was what got me into the miniatures wargaming hobby. Let me explain.

I was in a store in San Antonio, TX looking for something completely unrealated to gaming.One of the employees was assembling terminators. Overwhelmed with curiosity, I asked him what it was that he was doing. He described playing 40K to me. Being an adept plastic modeler, the idea of painting miniatures appealed to me. When he invited me to come back on game night, I accepted.

The group of gamers took me in even though I was much older than any of them. I played a game and was hooked. I later moved on to play historical miniatures games, but looked back at what got me started with fondness. When a historical gaming buddy sent an email to me about the release of Space Hulk I was thrilled. Here was an opportunity to make up for missing Space Hulk so many years ago. I had it on order within minutes of recieving his email.

Today I happened to go by The Bookery in Fairborn, OH (in the Dayton area) to pick up a copy of Martians!!! and a copy of the latest White Dwarf. They have a prerelease copy of Space Hulk on the shelf. The miniatures are assembled, but not painted and the card parts are un punched.

I have to say that these miniatures are masterpieces! They are better than could ever be hoped for in metal and push the envelope of plastic miniatures design. The flowing robes, scrolls and strategic positioning of parts to cover seams makes each one of the sculptures a work of art. Did I mention that each model is unique? If anyone has any doubts about the quality of plastic miniature detail compared to metal, they won't after they see these. The September issue of White Dwarf is full of pictures of Space Hulk along with great painting guides. I must say, though, that the pictures don't do justice to the figures. They really cannot be appreciated fully by viewing a two dimensional image.

After seeing the box contents in real-life, I sitting on pins and needles in anticipation of seeing my box on porch next month.

[Alex Knight]

I've had the opportunity to play the new Space Hulk rules and it's mostly 1st Ed Hulk with a few minor tweaks. The best change is that they added the guard action for the Marines. Now the Heavy Flamer can do something when the rest of his buddies, "move forward two and go into overwatch." But yes, fun, exciting and I can play more than one game in the same time it takes to play a single 1850 game of 40K.
Note: Admittedly I used my old 2E Hulk components. The guy that runs the games department here at work didn't punch all the tiles... And for the record 40mm bases on my termies didn't hurt *too* much...

[Aldramelech]

I see individual figures from the box have started to appear on Ebay

[Asymmetrical Xeno]

I'm very glad I didnt get my hopes up. I expected something utterly boring for the masses to eat up and thats exactly what they delivered, even down to the template-marine chapter :D.

Afterall, they are a company out to make money first and foremost so I cant blame em at all, its worked brilliantly it seems :). Personally though, I wont be buying a copy as I find the whole set about as appealing as burning dog-feces.

I think ill stick with my homemade Flying Polyps VS Yithians lovecraft skirmish game instead.

[emperorsaxe]

I too like many here on BoLS own the two previous copies of SH along with the two expansions. I took a pass on this one for one reason and that is due to the new SW codex and minis that are due out in oct. The most common thing that I hear at the local B&M is "Why was it made a limited run?". Here's my two bolter rounds worth on this.
1. Because SH is a self contained game there isn't anywhere to go with the game system beyond SH.
B.IMHO SH is being used to showcase the two 'new' armies that are to be released next year, BA's and 'nids. However it will remain to be seen if the minis in SH are the same size as the current 40k minis 'cause IIRC the previous mini's made for SH were a tad bit smaller than the 40k ones.
Of course it's just me and I could be WAAAAAY off base with the above two examples. One thing I will say about the mini's in the new SH they are beautiful looking minis and that it's hard to believe that they're plastic. That being said $100 isn't a bad price for the game, considering that a box of plastic termies run about $50.00 anyways or at least that's the way I look at it. However my choosen army isn't BA's, soooooo...........
Respects, Emperorsaxe

[Ivarr]

Does anyone else remember the spread GW had for 1st edition SH at Gencon '89 in Milwaukee? Space Hulk and the Battletech simulators were just inside the doors (SH was to the left) By the end of that weekend I was converted from roleplayer to wargamer and have never looked back.:p I am very excited about this release, and I feel bad for anyone who is not.:(

[Wildeyedjester]

I was skeptical about the hype too, but after playing 3 games I want to play more. It is solid.

[volrath8754]

I missed out on space hulk in the past as I am a recent 40K convert. And frankly I didn't believe all of the "old guards" lamenting about how sweet it was. Well it turns out they were right and it is awesome! I truly enjoy SH and hopefully ill find the 100$ laying around somewhere...

[Zaklifean]

I am pretty excited as well. My copy should be delivered tomorrow (Friday). I cant wait. I am a 35 year old dude that feels like a kid at Christmas. I have the original version, and my 9 year old son and I play it all the time. I think he is just as excited as I am.

A couple of things though. You can hardly compare SH to Axis and Allies. Yes there may be hundreds of pieces with Axis and Allies, but they are completely different pieces. That would be like comparing Risk to SH. There are hundreds of pieces to that game too. If you went that route, you could compare the floor tiles of SH to the board of Axis and Allies. With SH you can customize your board, where-as with Axis and Allies you are stuck with the same boring board. Asinine? I think it is.

I also think its petty that someone is bashing those of us that are excited for this game. Thats like me bashing your 40k army just because I dont play it, or bashing a game you play just cause I dont like it. Let those of us that are excited for this game enjoy it.

[M'yen'shi]

The components for this game are indeed impressive, and not just the miniatures, which of course are amazing. The regular counters, board sections and markers are all top notch too. Look out Fantasy Flight if GW gets back into board games.

[chapterhousestudios]

I almost want to bet money GW will release a "Non-Limited Edition" version of Space Hulk next year. Or at least the book. Will this be a let down or not is the question for me...

Seems like a silly business decision to make a ton of money on a product and never release it again dont it?

[Shallowain]

My copy of Space Hulk just arrived today. I try to give you my first impression.

1: The miniatures

The Marines are just stunning, especially for monopose miniatures with not more than 4 parts. There are only minor mold lines and most of those are quite well hidden with well arranged details. The details are great and the go together close to perfect, especially the cloak on the sergeant where it fits so well (even without glue) that it is almost impossible to notice the connection.

The poses are simply great, very dynamic and they still have this feeling of lumbering monstrosities to them. There are no awkward poses or anything silly. You get a really great image of the mobility of such a heavy armour suit and especially the limitation thereof. All of them together convey IMHO the best image of a terminator unit in combat ever. I must say, that the multipose termitatores, while having the obviously the advantage of posability, pale in comparison to those. These are some of the most characterful miniatures GW has ever made, hands down.

I especially like the Psyker. To me it is the best Marine Psyker GW has ever made. Especially the pose and the whole optical composition of this model is a major improvement to the metal one IMHO (I never liked this "fighting monk" pose)

The genestealer are also very dynamic and impressive and the broodlord is actually quite a bit bigger than he looks in the images. I really like the ones that break through the ground and the ones that climb on the ruins/machine parts. These miniatures really convey the image of super agile extremely fast predators.

But, unlike the marines there are multiples of the same type and some are just "mirrored" variants of another (actually, there are only two different genestealer sprues, one is included twice. I really would have preferred them all to be unique and considering the limited run it wouldn't have been too much to ask for. To me, they somewhat lack variety.

One thing I noticed, there are some genestealers that only have three arms (excluding the one emerging from the ground). They kind off stand out and look "wrong". I suppose this was a casting issue (they are singlepart and in a very dynamic pose) but they should have made them two part then to include all arms.

The objectives also look great. the C.A.T. really looks over the top gothic but in a nice way, somewhat like a cross between a miniature gothic cathedral, a servo skull and bits and pieces from a 50's SF movie set. I really thik its kind off cute and like it. The Dead terminator on the other hand is absolutely stunning and total bad ***. It manages to show all the majesty this warrior must have shown while he was alive, simply stunning. Then there is this grail like thing. It has good surface detail, but I think it is somewhat small.

2:
The cardboard pieces.

These pieces are awesome although I would have preferred 3D plastic tiles as much as anyone else. The details of the printing are very good, much better than the tiles from 2nd Ed. SH. They are really thick and sturdy (about 1,5 times the thickness of the 1st Ed. tiles) and they have a bit of "surface detail". They actually have a bit of structure stamped in . If you take one of the deck plates you will see, that the recession has actually been stamped in it, sometimes only partially if the rest is filled with dirt and sometimes there are bullet holes and similar details also "stamped" in the surface. Makes those tiles really nice.

BUT, for many people the most important part, they are completely compatible with the 1st and 2nd Ed. tiles! They might be thicker but that is not much of an issue.

The Cardboard counters and doors are also very nice and detailed and they are made of the same sturdy cardboard. A nice touch IMHO is the addition of markers for genestealer entry points.

3:
The rules.

These are basically slightly modified 1st Ed. rules. No big experiments, no dumbing down, a bit streamlining and the addition of an overwatch equivalent for close combat. The Psyker rules are quite minimal and comparatively simple, but they look ok. The Broodlord is a Monster! It can only reliably killed by the psyker (if he has enough psi points left) or the assault cannon. If he gets in close combat the marine is most certainly toast. And he ignores the Flamer! good luck hunting it down...

All in all, If you know 1st Ed. you basically know this Edition. I dare to say, that all the optional rules from 1st Ed. can be easily incorporated in this edition, It should give a nice mix.

The only things I really miss is, a notion of how long the timer actually goes (in case it breaks or you lose it) and a Mission generator specifically adapted to this tile set. A "points" system to modify the terminator forces would have been nice also, but since I have 1st Ed. I don't mind to much.

The rule and mission booklets include some new artwork and some old, it looks great. In general both are full colour, but I noticed some artworks being black and white despite them originally being coloured.

There are 12 missions. These missions are from 1st Ed. and can be found in Space Hulk, Deathwing and Space Hulk Campaigns. Some have slightly modified layouts and obviously adapted Marine units.

1: Suicide mission, Space Hulk 1st Ed.
2: Exterminate, Space Hulk 1st Ed.
3: Rescue, same as 1st Ed.
4: Cleanse and Burn, Space Hulk 1st Ed.
5: Decoy, Space Hulk 1st Ed.
6: Alarm Call, Deathwing m.1
7: Artifact, Deathwing m. 2: The Ship's log
8: Delaying Action, Space Hulk Campaigns, p. 74/75
9: Regroup, Deathwing m. 4
10: Defend, Space Hulk 1st Ed. m. 6
11:The Unknown Lifeforms, Deathwing m. 6
12: Pitfall, Space Hulk Campaigns, p. 72/73

NOTE: Since I have only been able to get the german version of the new Space Hulk, some mission names are probably different different. I used mostly the 1st Ed. mission names.

I must say, that I am a bit disappointed about the lack of entirely new missions, but the selection of missions is good and diverse. And in the end, There is only so much you can do without drastically altering rules or expanding the tileset. I am interested to see if GW releases new (or maybe old) missions in white dwarf. But honestly, I expect to find the best support in the community.


German Translation:

Not that bad, but I don't like the translated versions So I usually get the english original. This translation looks quite good but I expect to get severely disappointed once I get my hands on an untranslated one. This time I got the german version because I didn't want to take the risk in not getting my hands on this game.

But I have to admit, ruleswise there is nothing noteworthy wrong except that at one place the refer to "inches" where they clearly meant squares.

Genral Advice to the GW translations department:
Please, stop translating names, especially if they are well established for over a decade (Leman Russ Belagerer err, Demolisher, I'm looking at you...)

Conclusion:

Well worth it.

GW really managed to make a quality game here. Except some minor downsides (lack of diversity of genestealers, 3 armed genestealers, no new missions) The made everything right. The miniatures are great and so are the tiles. The rules are as good as 1st Ed. and include a wide variety of marine equipment and old expansions can still be used if someone wants to. There where no bold experiments that went wrong. I did'nt expect such a good product from GW and (especially ruleswise) I consider Space Hulk one of the best products they ever made.

[Chris*ta]

I don't understand the OP at all.

It seems to me that:
a) Space Hulk was a fantastic game.
b) They've done a fine job of NOT messing with the original rules
c) They've made some great minis and other pieces
d) This is a fantastic way to convince people who might not usually play a wargame (or those who never had a chance to play it with either of the previous two editions) to play a game

I'm looking forward to getting my copies from my FLGS (when they come in).

And as for the argument that you could ebay a copy of the 1st ed Space Hulk for £150 -- isn't this notably more than they're selling this version for -- which has much nicer pieces to boot!

Perhaps he's jealous that some new people will get a chance to enjoy Space hulk?

[Jive Tyrant]

Genral Advice to the GW translations department:
Please, stop translating names, especially if they are well established for over a decade (Leman Russ Belagerer err, Demolisher, I'm looking at you...)

In my RL job, I have to work with various translations, and I can tell you that nothing annoys non-English speakers more than having original English words stay in the product. It's fine for you, who speaks both languages well, but a lot of non-English people are actually offended.

Okay, it's mainly the French who are overly proud about their language, but the principle is the same. So I totally get why GW does this.

Oh, and what about non-English alphabets? Cyrillic and Japanese spring to mind - they could only ever sound the same, not read the same, so there's even less point to keeping the original name.

[Ma'rk]

I wouldn't be surprised if the miniatures were available separately in the regular line later on. With the Chapters slowly being refreshed with new source books and miniatures, it seems inevitable that the Blood Angels are going to come around eventually. It would make sense to make use of these figures in the regular line since they've spent time and resource developing them.

I might go and check out Space Hulk in the flesh today, but I don't think I'm going to buy it. At $168 it's a bit steep. Mind you a lot of the releases lately have been pretty pricey in Aus - $86 for the new Leman Russ, $96 for the Valkyrie... ouch! Hmm wonder how long it will take for the Space Hulk minis to show up on eBay? Apparently there have been people placing bulk orders, so if it's anything like the Black Reach Starter, it's probably bound to turn up in pieces too.

[grail]

things seem to be getting out of control on ebay

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Space-Hulk_W0QQitemZ220476564198QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_To ys_Wargames_RL?hash=item33556d62e6&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

at least they are offering free postage :eek:

so glad i pre ordered mine from Gw had it since wedensday hopfully get a few games in tomorrow

[RocketRollRebel]

things seem to be getting out of control on ebay

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Space-Hulk_W0QQitemZ220476564198QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_To ys_Wargames_RL?hash=item33556d62e6&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

at least they are offering free postage :eek:

so glad i pre ordered mine from Gw had it since wedensday hopfully get a few games in tomorrow

wow thats nuts! I was going to get it but I ended up not spending the money on it. It is a very fun game tho and I do play Blood Angels but I'm over the initial "OMGZ Space Hulkz!" and I'm content with playing with my friends copy.

[Prometheus]

I just finished playing my first game of Space Hulk. I have been trying to get my hands on a copy of the old one for years now but never could, or if I could find it people were selling old used copies that thier dog had chewed on and where missing pieces for like $150-$200. So excuse me but I was excited to get one of the new ones. Also although I believe the hype was a bit out of proportion (but so is all hype... that actually might be the definete of the term especially when used in relation to GW gamers) it doesn't make the product any less cool. Its a fun game, the models are nicely designed and its a good deal for the models, since that many Termies will set you back about $100 anyway, and that doesn't include the Genestealers of the tiles/gameboard/rules.

In the end all I can say is that my buddy and I split the game and so far are really enjoying it. I'm sure at some point in the future we will put it away as we grow bored with it, but that is true with video games, other board games, TV shows, kittens, and loads of other things.

[thewickedworm]

I bought a copy at the store on Saturday. The Readshirt told me that GW had already destroyed the molds. Anyone hear about it?

[ssylyss]

I was happy to see they finally reprinted this game, sad to see that it was limited edition. I pre ordered 2 sets the day they anounced it on the gw site. I think the hype was complete warrented considering the quality of everything in the box.

I played the 1st edition back in the day with my son. By comparison the quality/sculps of 1st ed is laughable.:D

[Anggul]

Ive brought my entire 1500pt space marine army from Ebay for less then £50. All are brand new, unpainted, unassembled. There are 4 metal character models in that lot too. By buying shrewdly and being on Ebay at off peak times Ive managed to assemble an entire ARMY for the cost of that box!

Quit telling me its value for money, cause it just ain't.

Someone had to buy that army brand new at some point. I'm sure they'd probably think so.

[Red__Thirst]

I have purchased my new space hulk box today and have to say: It's beautiful.

Everything in the box has met my expectations. The Terminators are simply jaw-dropping. Makes me excited to see just what is in store for the future of the Blood Angels.

I'll be playing my first game of space hulk on Saturday. Going to try and start painting on some of these models ASAP. REALLY looking forwards to painting them.

More later, but in closing, let me say:

Kudos GW. Nicely done, nicely done.

-Red__Thirst-

[M'yen'shi]

So far this weekend I've worked my way through the first 6 missions. I love the mechanics that really lend themselves to the feel of the game. Some of the missions are really tense and have come done to the last dice roll.

One game of Mission III: Exterminate had only the marine with an assault cannon left with two shots remaining and one 'stealer blip. Blip reveals as a single 'stealer and comes around the corner at the marine. First over watch shot misses, leaving only a single shot remaining. If triples are rolled the assault cannon explodes killing the marine. The 'stealer moves into the square in front of the marine ready to tear him to shreds and the final shot comes up 5,5, and last dice almost rolls to a 5 but settles on 3. 'stealer gets greased and it's easy to imagine the marine standing there with the smoking assault cannon with the ammo counter reading 000, but listening to silence of empty corridors.

Needless to say its a fun game.

[ThreadNecromancer]

i quite enjoy this game