When miniatures go rogue: how 3D printing is either saving or killing wargaming (video).

Who would have thought that the quiet, meticulous world of wargaming miniatures would be thrown into a tizzy with the advent of 3D printing? Well, buckle up, because that’s exactly what happened! Enthusiasts, with their basements turned into miniature factories, are now giving the big guys like Games Workshop a run for their money.

For decades, wargaming was pretty much a “what you see is what you get” kind of deal. If you wanted an army of orcs, elves, or space marines, you had to shell out a good chunk of change and hope that the manufacturer had exactly what you were looking for. But now, thanks to 3D printing, the only limit is your imagination (and maybe your printer’s resolution).

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But wait, doesn’t this mean the big companies are losing money?” Well, yes, Sherlock, it does! Games Workshop, with their Warhammer series that’s as expensive as it is intricate, is feeling the pinch. But let’s be real, when was the last time you bought a miniature and didn’t think, “Did I just spend my entire paycheck on tiny plastic soldiers?” It’s like the gaming gods heard our collective sighs and bestowed upon us the magic of 3D printing.

Of course, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns in the world of 3D printed miniatures. With great power comes great responsibility, and some folks just can’t resist the urge to recreate their favorite designs, copyright be damned. The legal battles ensuing are more epic than the Battle of Helm’s Deep, with companies fiercely protecting their designs while the 3D printing rebels continue to share and create.

Who are the major players in this field feeling the (war)hammer?

First up on our list is the legendary Games Workshop, the veritable godfather of miniature warfare. With their Warhammer and Warhammer 40,000 series, they’ve basically written the book on how to create a universe so detailed, you’d need a PhD in imaginary cartography to navigate it. But beware, dear hobbyist; while their miniatures are as breathtaking as a dragon in flight, their prices might just slay your wallet.

Not to be outdone, Privateer Press storms onto the scene with their steampunk-inspired Warmachine and Hordes ranges. If you’ve ever thought, “My orc needs a giant, smoke-belching cannon,” then congratulations, you’ve found your tribe. Privateer Press marries the fantastical with the industrial, creating miniatures that are as unique as they are cool.

Now, for those who prefer historical accuracy over fantastical flair, there’s Perry Miniatures. Run by twin brothers who’ve spent more time studying historical battles than some generals have spent in the field, Perry Miniatures offers a range of figures that span from the medieval to the modern. It’s like a time-traveling adventure in miniature, and who wouldn’t want that?

Let’s not forget Mantic Games, the new kid on the block that’s been kicking down doors and taking names. With ranges like Kings of War and Deadzone, they’re proving that you can have high-quality miniatures without having to sell a kidney. It’s a breath of fresh air, and your wallet will thank you.

And finally, for those who like their warfare with a side of space exploration, there’s Infinity by Corvus Belli. Imagine if someone took all the cool parts of cyberpunk, threw in some interstellar travel, and turned it into a tabletop game. Well, imagine no more because that’s exactly what Infinity is. Plus, their miniatures look like they’ve just stepped out of a sci-fi blockbuster, so there’s that.

And what about the 3D printer firms stealing all this wargaming marketshare?

First in line is the formidable Ultimaker. These guys are like the wizards of the 3D printing world, and their printers are nothing short of magical. With top-notch resolution and a reliability that would make a paladin proud, Ultimaker’s machines are perfect for printing those intricate details that make your miniatures pop. Just be prepared to pay a princely sum for the honor.

Next up, we’ve got Prusa, the plucky underdogs who took the 3D printing world by storm. Their Prusa i3 MK3 is a fan favorite, offering a perfect balance between price and performance. With a community of users that could rival the fellowship of the ring, you’ll never be alone in your printing journey. Plus, they offer a kit version if you’re feeling particularly adventurous (or thrifty).

For those looking to tread the line between affordability and quality, Creality’s Ender series is a solid choice. Their printers have become a staple in the wargaming community, known for being user-friendly and easy on the wallet. While you might not get the same level of detail as the higher-end models, your miniature army will still look pretty darn good on the battlefield.

And then there’s Anycubic, the dark horse of the 3D printing world. Their Photon series offers resin printing, which is like the secret sauce for super-detailed miniatures. It’s a bit more fiddly than filament printing, but the results can be absolutely stunning. Just be ready to get up close and personal with your printer, as resin printing requires a bit more TLC.

Last but not least, we have Formlabs, the Rolls Royce of 3D printers. Their Form series offers unparalleled detail and precision, making them a top choice for professional model makers and serious hobbyists alike. Of course, all this luxury comes at a price, but if you’re looking to print the Michelangelo’s David of wargaming miniatures, this is the way to go.

It’s a wild, wild west out there in the wargaming world, and no one quite knows how it’s all going to shake out. But one thing’s for sure: it’s never been a more exciting time to be a gamer with a love for miniatures. So, whether you’re printing an army of custom-designed elves or just enjoying the show from the sidelines, grab some popcorn because the revolution is here.