Entry into Shatterpoint
11 March 2024
WTC 2022 – Meet the Players Pt2
Last weekend I was fortunate enough to be invited to attend one of the practice days for the Australian WTC (World Team Championship) teams. Held in Brisbane, at the local game store, Irresistible Force, 15 players and a couple of coaches practised matchups, talked through tactics, and honed their skills against the other top players. Overall it was a fantastic weekend, but there were a couple of moments that I really want to mention.
Firstly, I will apologise for the lack of photos. I know there are a few people overseas who are following this series, and I don’t want to give away any of the secret tech the teams have come up with. So everyone will have to make do with me just retelling everything, instead of being able to see all the wonderfully painted armies (there will be pictures of wonderful players though).
So, with the super secret time and date, I packed up some models, and headed out. Now, I haven’t played Warmachine properly since the last time I went to the WTC in 2018. I’ve had a couple of smaller games, but the local scene died out pretty soon afterwards, as people moved on with life, some settled down and had kids, and others moved away. But that is how a lot of systems go, so I packed away my Warmachine, and unpacked my Age of Sigmar. But, unpacking all my models, after almost 4 years, was fun in itself.
The amount of nostalgia as I opened a box, grabbed out a packed up model, unwrapped it, was amazing. Every model I pulled out (quite often the wrong one), had some memory attached to it. Whether it was an amazing game moment, or it just reminded me of a fun event I attended, it was an awesome experience. I put this solely down to the community that formed around this game. Even after being out of it for so long, simply looking at the models reminded me of all the good times I had with these ridiculously fun people. And so, basking in those good memories, I was looking forward to the next day.
So the next day arrived, I hopped in the car, and drove to the game store they were meeting at. Irresistible Force is about one and a half hours away, so it’s not somewhere I go to unless there is a particular reason. But when I arrived and walked into their gaming room, I was instantly greeted with a chorus of cheers. Now, I’m not sure if people were pumped that I was there, or if they were just interested in the massive box of stuff I was bringing in, but the excitement was infectious. After several handshakes and hugs, the most complicated part of the whole endeavour loomed before us, the group photo. Trying to get everyone in the shot, and then trying to get the right people into the right team photo, pushed everyone to the limits of their sanity, but we managed. I was even invited in a photo with everyone showing off the PMTT Logo on the left sleeve.
But, the majority of people were here to play, so soon afterwards, two teams had moved off, worked out the matchups, and were setting up for the first practice games of the day. I’ll have to skim over this part as I can’t give anything away, but I can say that those games were some of the tightest and most intense I have seen in a long time. I watched one game were there was a 20 minute plan for an assassination, but it all failed due to some horrible luck. Another game was an absolute grind, with it coming down to the last couple of minutes before it could be called. These players were the ones representing Australia, and Australia would be represented well.
After a break for lunch, the teams swapped out and another round of practice games started. I actually lined up a game against one of the coaches, and he swiftly reminded me how out of practice I was. I lost my warlock to an assassination on the second turn, and if I had kept them back an inch, I probably could have won it. But it reminded me why I enjoyed the game so much. Watching Nic setup and then pull of the assassination against me was an absolute joy, even though it I lost because of it.
But losing quickly does have its advantages. I spent the rest of the time catching up with old friends, offering my meagre input into planning for this event, and getting everyone’s opinions and thoughts on what the new edition of Warmachine was going to bring. This was a really interesting chat, as everyone offered their own unique perspective, but overall everyone was quite positive about the new edition. Some of the people, myself included, had reservations about certain aspects that seemed a little unfamiliar, but the guys with experience with similar rules in different games quickly assuaged our fears. Overall, I think that Mk4 will be a big hit in Australia, with the easier rules it will be an easy sell to the more casual players, and with the top tier guys pumped for it as well, it is bound to be popular.
But as I haven’t fully dived into the new ruleset yet, with real life getting in the way, I won’t offer any more thoughts on it. I am very interested to see how the new edition goes, and how the communities respond to it. I did ask the players what their thoughts on it are, and you can read them at the end of the article. They are interesting to read, but remember that these guys represent only one part (albeit a quite experienced part) of the wider community.
I also asked them what their thoughts are on the current game, and why they played it over another game. The answers here were very interesting, as some ranged from the simple, I like big stompy warjacks and monsters, to the more nuanced responses about the depth of the rules. And this is exactly what you want to hear, all of these players are highly skilled and very experienced, but they are all playing for slightly different reasons. That is a good sign of a nice well-rounded game. The one thing a lot of them came back to is the community, which is a fantastic thing to hear, and every Australian Warmachine player should be proud about that. Actually, let’s extend that to the international community as well, as most of these guys have played overseas and they keep going back, so there must be something that everyone is doing right!
In addition to getting their thoughts on the current and new editions, I also asked everyone to list their favourite model, and their top tip. And now I feel like I’m waffling, so I’ll pass you off to everyone’s opinions.
Aaron “Waley” Wale
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
For me the 2D6 dice system is a great system and the rule set of the game, being one of the better rule sets for miniature games. I also love the steampunk setting and the fluff was a big draw card for me. I love my Undead factions so Cryx was an easy choice.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Asphyxious, The Lich Lord has evolved throughout the years into some great casters and his back stories are great. I have had some very memorable games over my playing career using him.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
I’m excited for the reset of the game and the ideas of the new factions and a streamline rules set that will be easier for me people to get into the game.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Post game discussions with your opponent in a constructive and positive manner to learn and develop. There are always little takeaways from each game that you learn that allow you to improve and do a little better for the next game.
David “Pottsy” Potts
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
I love the models for Warmachine and the game style that rewards skill more than luck. It’s a game with a lot of balance between aggression and defence and rewards skill and practice more than any other game I have played.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
I am a fan of Xerxes. He is a big unapologetic brute of a caster, wielding two giant Tetsubo clubs. From a game perspective, he rewards my brick style of play and always seems able to bounce back from any alpha and has game, provided I don’t get him killed in turn 2, which seems to be most of the ways I lose his games. 🙂
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
It looks good to me. I like the idea of the Jacks being big behemoths, performing almost like Colossals do on the table currently, and units being 5 men instead of 10, but more nimble and able to achieve the same effect with half the models is good. They should always feel like mice running around the feet of the Warmachines.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Start with Brawlmachine and try lots of different styles of play so you don’t get fixated on one style/combo to win. Set yourself challenges – this game I am going to win on attrition/scenario, not assassination for example. Assassinations are fun, but on the top tables they are less common than attrition wins because going for a 75% assassination attempt means you still fail 1 out of 4 games. play the safe longer game.
Josh “Gigantor” Bates
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
The depth of the game is like no other and the community is the absolute best
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Captain Allister Caine, highly mobile guns blazing alcoholic.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Very excited for the huge shake up, I’m still concentrating on this edition as we have 2 big events still.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Just play games and find out how you like to play any game.
If you’re enjoying it getting good will come, but it should not be the sole focus or you will burn out
James “Moops” Moorhouse
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
For me, Warmachine provides a very elegant set of foundational rules. Primarily, these are the 2D6 > 3D6 dice curve that is a mathematician’s wet dream. Additionally, I appreciate the precision of rules and interactions that remove any grey areas from games, allowing the game’s inherent tactics and strategy to shine through. Finally, I am a low fantasy kinda guy, so the hordes aesthetic has always appealed to me.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Ghetorix (The Circle Warpwolf). I’ve been playing him since the model came out in Hordes: Domination in 2011 and he’s been a staple of my circle rosters since. He’s our best melee beater and always has a use on the battlefield.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
I’m cautiously optimistic. The breadth of the game meant it really needed an overhaul, and I think all the changes we’ve seen are exactly what the game, hobby and community were after.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Analyse your games afterwards and spend time “off the table” thinking about the game. Don’t write off a win or loss immediately, instead walk through the key decisions made and what you could have done differently.
“You either win, or you learn”
Robin “Washed Rob” de Oliveira
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
Precise, clean movement and well written rules that get rulings regularly. Variety of list building options without minutiae that doesn’t really add to the experience.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Kreoss3, specifically his BDE.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Reserved
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Stop caring so much and attack what’s in front of you.
Ian “Overlord of Adelaide” Fraser
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
Really deep and well constructed ruleset that enables creative strategies on and off the table. Also a two dice system makes for a more rewarding experience when you can execute a great plan.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
I have, and always will be a massive Magnus fan. Not only was he the first warcaster I ever ran, but his character background of the grizzled loyalist fighting the war long after it was over is my kind of story.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Cautious optimism. As a veteran, there are lots of interactions I am sad to see go, but I think overall it will be a great move for the health of the game. The move into 3D printing and a dedicated mobile platform are really exciting to see.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Play more games! But especially learn to take pride in each skill you get. From basic strategies, to more complex synergies between units to developing a pairing. Some of my proudest games have been the ones where I could make the best players in the world have to stop and think about what to do next. Also remember to play what you love – more often than not you can make it work 😉
Jack “The Saviour” Ding
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
The game has a very clear and well designed rules system for competitive play. The IP and world building is also well done with their roots from the IKRPG.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Falcir. Doing melee work with your warcaster every turn without dying is really fun.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Mk4 looks promising. While the game system did not necessarily need an overhaul, from a company perspective this will be a good way to attract new players by streamlining both the rules and the production process. The new models look excellent.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
The tip would be to always know your win conditions every turn and play accordingly
Dan “Nads” Tacken
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
Warmachine’s rule system is very tight and well defined. I can count on two hands how many times I’ve had a rule question over 6 years of playing. Means you and your opponent can focus on fun and playing the game.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Madrak the Thornwood chieftain. Was probably the first caster I played where I genuinely felt like I was starting to get good at the game and writing good lists around his toolkit.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
I think MK4 is a great step forward for Warmachine and PP as well. Looking at Khador but the Dusk faction could get me.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
My best advice is set small incremental goals and spend games just focussing on meeting those goals. Don’t clock out by turn 3. Don’t get assassinated until turn 4. Don’t lose on CPs till turn 5. Sooner or later once you master all these goals, you’ll notice you’re doing these things reflexively when you play.
Aleks “Touchdown” Glavas
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
WMH has a clean ruleset and is incredibly well balanced. The depth is huge. Steamrollers is a great competitive packet that is forever evolving. Steampunk is my subgenre of fantasy/sci fi.
Last, but most importantly, I have met so many people through playing WMH and several of them are like family now.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
I have 2!
Issyria – I love the pacifist support mentality that she brings. Floating around the battle, legs crossed, eyes closed. Blinding light is my favourite spell in the game.
Captain Eira Mackay – Her story is brilliant. Gifted young lass enlists to fight against khadoran oppressors. Warcasters are rare, she was willing to put it all on the line for the sake of the people. Her father, afraid she would die, creates the railless interceptor for her to pilot. A steam engine equipped for chemical warfare. I like trains.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
I’m happy about the time jump and fixing the SKU bloat. I like many of the rule changes. The only part I’m not convinced on is the unit movement and free strike removal. But we’re only in the beta test, so let’s all start calmly and let it evolve! I’ve preordered Orgoth for now and I am all in on the Dusk faction ASAP.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
These tips are a package deal.
Play against the best players you can, review your games with them when finished. Set aside any need you may have to win. You will learn more from your losses.
Be humble in victory , and gracious in defeat.
Chris “Active Player” Davies
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
A combination of factors really. From a mechanics standpoint the game has an elegant system of controlled random chance which I have not seen any other game come close to replicating, mixed with an emphasis on positioning. It makes any game feel like a test of skill and wins feel well fought for. The models are fun to play and the rules they have make them feel dynamic on the table, there’s rarely any “Man with Gun shoots at Other Man With Gun, one of them falls over”, when in this game one of those models might be a ninja sniper and the other guy a man with a grappling gun and a crowbar. Finally, and most importantly, I love the community. Welcoming, helpful, accommodating and great to hang out with.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Supreme Kommandant Irusk. I have a lot of favourites (and some I’m infamous for, including this guy 😛 ) but he was one of the main casters I played throughout my entire Warmachine career, the one I’ve played the most overseas tournaments with and I feel the lists and their evolution mirror a lot of my own progress within the game. Plus as a caster he’s got a lot of fun tricks whilst presenting himself as a rock solid defensive skew list. It’s rare that I feel I have no game into someone with him.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
I think a lot of the changes and goals of the new edition are smart, I just hope they’re executed well. Warmachine has needed a shakeup for a while and I feel, if done correctly, MK4 will be this and so much more. I’m excited for it.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Have fun. Look practice makes perfect and Warmachine rewards hard work, but it’s also a game. Don’t stress about trying to make the perfect meta warping list and winning the next major tournament at all cost. If you’re having fun with the game, it’ll make the hard work so much more enjoyable and let you get there at your own pace.
Look for all its complexity and rewarding mechanics to figure out, Warmachine is a game of War Barbies rolling dice at each other. Enjoy yourself and the great community that shares your passion.
Sam “Deathclock” Evans
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
Stopped playing 40k years ago then got hooked on Warmachine after a mate gave me a demo. Love the rules, love the game, but really it’s the WMH community that has been amazing and keeps me playing
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Has to be the Archangel. Such a beautiful model to paint and converting my Mekadragon was amazing how well it came out.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
In a word, hyped. Always been an infantry player and love jank, Rube Goldberg plays, so the new movement rules combined with command cards, customisable jacks, and spell rack options have me excited for 2023.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Mk4 will hopefully be a lot easier on new players. Don’t buy into the “you’ll lose your first hundred games” skill cap argument. The game should be fun, first and foremost. Find an experienced player or players that are happy to help you learn the game and play to level you’re happy with. Not everyone wants to compete at the top level.
Dimitri “Dimi” Sarbanis
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
I greatly enjoy the aspect of building many different lists across multiple factions and the diverse rules set of the game that allows for complex and detailed theory based analysis
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Imperatus – I like the idea of a model that can rebirth itself back to life after it has been destroyed
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Very excited for the changes and looking forward to a fresh set of rules that I will have to re-familiarise myself with (it feels like only yesterday that I got the hang of MK 3!!)
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Read the rules and understand what your models and more importantly what your opponents models can do
Brian “Actual Canabal” Woods
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
I love the community. I’ve made friends all over the world and they keep me engaged and interested with their own enthusiasm. I keep coming back for the tightness of the rules, the careful positioning, and the 2D6 system.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
My favourite characters in the fluff are the Defiers, humans who were punished by Menoth for their defiance and essentially sent to hell where they eventually carve out their own kingdom. I would like to see more from these characters whose personalities and beliefs are so strong they literally bend reality to fit their views. My favourite model is Doomshaper 3 for his dynamic, well crafted sculpt and he was one of my favourite casters to play back in MK2.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Very keen for the shake up it will bring and the new stories it will bring to the setting.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Communication. Clear communication before, during, and after the game is the key way to learn, analyse, and digest the lessons the game has to teach you.
Peter “Tyrant Crumpet” Bates
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
2 reasons – I love that the super tight rule set facilitates a super competitive gaming experience. The people!! I don’t know what it is about WM but the community is just fantastic, I’ve made lifelong friends from this game.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
The model that got me into the game was Kromac 1, he was an absolutely amazing model and I loved him the first time I saw him.
Nowadays, I think OW2/3 is an absolute boss. Love the baba vaga theme and she’s just a riot to play, so many options, and has a tool for everything
Also Baron Tongelick is without a doubt the coolest character in all of Immoren
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
I am pleasantly surprised! I think it’s going to be great for the game in the long run. I look forward to beating some face with massive superhuman orgoth Vikings
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Find a single caster you love and play the hell out of that list. Try not to make too many changes to your list design and just get comfortable with the models you have.
The Secret Weapon
Why do you play Warmachine over a different game system?
I play many game systems, but I originally moved towards Warmachine because of the tight ruleset and clean play. It’s a slick game with really cool and intricate combinations and synergies between models. Each turn is like trying to solve a puzzle and I like this aspect of the game.
What is your favourite model/character and why?
Garryth. Really love the idea of this mysterious figure lurking in the shadows and secretly doing his bit for the Retribution.
What are your thoughts on Mk4?
Very optimistic. The game has needed a reset for a long time and I only hope it isn’t too late. Happy with the rules I have seen so far and I hope the community embraces the changes.
If you had one tip for someone looking to get better at the game, what would it be?
Play more games but also think about where you can improve. Set little challenges or goals for each game and over time these little improvements should gel.
These guys might be some of the best players in Australia, but they are still human (we think one of two might be robots), so take all these opinions with a grain of salt. But overall, everyone has a model or two that they love, they are playing a game they enjoy, and looking forward to the changes the new edition will bring. That pretty much wraps up this article, next time, we will be focusing more on the game itself, and what makes it so very enjoyable.
As part of our sponsorship, we gave each player a set of proxy bases, for them to use overseas. These sets cover all the base sizes, including the new super-heavy size! In addition to each player getting a set, we also gave them some extra sets, enough to give one to every single one of their opponents at the WTC!
We are also selling these exclusive proxy bases, with part of the profits going towards helping the teams out with some expenses. These will be available for sale on our online store, costing $60 for a full set (plus postage), with $10 going towards the team’s drinking budget. We only have 30 sets available for purchase, so make sure you keep an eye out as they won’t last long!
So stay tuned for more details, more interviews, and more entertainment.
Until Next Time,
Henry
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