The new Chaos models are no different, but for the first time in a long time, the new models haven't triggered my "Ooooh, Shiny!" response...
Now just because they didn't trigger an instant want to own them, does that mean they are poor models? No, absolutely not. The models overall are intricately detailed and offer an amazing continuation of the new feel Chaos Marines received with the Dark Vengeance box set. I'm honestly thrilled for Chaos players, as they finally get an array of models that aren't just loyalists with some spiky bits tacked on. Personally though, these new models are a mixed bag for me.
I just can't get past it…it reminds me of the Doom Wing of ye olden days of Epic. A weird, amalgamated mass of machine and mutated, demonic biology that only the warp could make sense of. I'm very much hoping that this one, kind of shiny magazine picture is discoloring the potential of this model for me, because I'm not impressed. Where are it's legs…how does it land…why did someone bob it's tail???
Ahh yes, the new demonic walkers. Believe it or not, I'm actually okay with these. Especially the Maulerfiend. They make no pretense about what they are supposed to be, and I can easily see the conversion possibilities for Demon Princes and the like. Maybe its because I didn't know about these particular additions to the chaotic arsenal, and therefore had no preconceived notions about how they were supposed to look. The sculpts are dynamic and give a breath of fresh/foul air to the army.
No. Just…Just no. It's too much. The models are crazy busy with detail and it feels like they added spikes, barbs and horns where ever possible, just to fill up room. Another reason I'm unimpressed with these models is from a converter's standpoint. I'm afraid they did with these what they did with the Grey Knight models in that they made the kits so specific, reposing will be a nightmare and I hate having the same 5 models repeating in my force, no matter how good the sculpts are.
I'm a sucker for anything Mechanics, including Techmarines of either flavor. I think this is a poor picture and can't wait to see one up close. I'm really hoping it's a plastic kit, but I'd settle for Finecast. The conversion possibilities that I see with this figure are numerous and even though I don't play Chaos, I'll buy one. 'Nuff said.
Ultimately, I'll wait to see non-glared, first-hand pictures and models to render final judgement, but I'm really not chomping at the bit to go buy these…well, except for the Warpsmith.
What about you? Are you dying to get your hands on these new kits, or do you find yourself wondering what all the hype was about?
- Tim