The world of Oldhammer—a nostalgic nod to the early days of Warhammer—draws in veterans and new players alike, captivated by its unique aesthetic and gameplay style. If you’re embarking on the journey of building your own Oldhammer army, you’re in for an engaging experience filled with lore, creativity, and the charm of vintage miniatures. Here are some essential tips to guide you along the way.
1. Understanding the Oldhammer Aesthetic
Oldhammer refers to the original style of Games Workshop’s Warhammer Fantasy and 40,000 games from the 1980s and early 1990s. Familiarize yourself with the unique visual elements:
- Miniature Design: Embrace classic sculpts, often characterized by exaggerated features and less refined proportions compared to modern miniatures.
- Painting Style: Celebrate the vibrant colors and less precise paint jobs typical of the era. Dry brushing, layering, and washes can add to the nostalgic look.
- Bases: Use older style bases (like slotted) to enhance the authenticity of your army.
2. Choosing Your Faction
The first step in building an army is deciding which faction you want to represent. Consider the following:
- Lore and Background: Delve into the rich histories of the factions. Whether it’s the grimdark nature of Chaos or the noble aspirations of High Elves, make your choice resonate with you.
- Available Miniatures: Check your local shops, eBay, or online marketplaces for the availability of vintage miniatures for your chosen faction.
- Army Composition: Think about how you want your army to perform. Classic lists often have quirky, fun combinations that may differ from modern meta.
3. Sourcing Miniatures and Models
Building an Oldhammer army often entails hunting down vintage models. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- eBay and Second-Hand Shops: Regularly check these sources for lots of unpainted or painted miniatures.
- Online Marketplaces: Utilize specialized forums and websites dedicated to selling Oldhammer models. Engage with community members who may have items for sale or trade.
- Conversions and Scratch-Builds: Don’t shy away from using models from other games or miniatures that can be converted. A bit of creativity can yield interesting results.
4. Painting Your Miniatures
Painting is a labor of love in Oldhammer. Here are some techniques to help you embrace the spirit:
- Historical Techniques: Try out retro painting methods. Use a simple palette to mimic the early Games Workshop style, focusing on block colors and minimal blending.
- Batch Painting: Tackle miniatures in groups to maintain consistency. This also speeds up the process, allowing you to field a larger army more quickly.
- Personal Touch: Add unique details or touches to each model. The individuality of each miniature adds character to your army, aligning perfectly with the Oldhammer ethos.
5. Engaging with the Community
Oldhammer enthusiasts are passionate about sharing their experiences and knowledge. Immersing yourself in the community can be one of the most rewarding parts of building your army:
- Forums and Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Reddit often have dedicated Oldhammer groups where you can seek advice, find trades, and discuss strategies.
- Events and Tournaments: Participate in local or international Oldhammer events. They’re excellent opportunities to showcase your army, learn from others, and forge friendships.
- Blogs and YouTube Channels: Consume content that focuses on Oldhammer, as it can provide inspiration and practical tips for painting, conversions, and gameplay.
6. Playing Games
Once you have a solid collection, it’s time to play! Oldhammer games often prioritize fun and narrative over strict competitive play:
- Home Rules: Feel free to tweak rules and create scenarios that reflect the spirit of fun and storytelling.
- Narrative Campaigns: Engage in narrative-driven games that allow players to explore character arcs and evolving storylines within their armies.
- Embrace Imperfection: Accept that your army won’t look like the latest studio model; instead, focus on the joy of gaming and storytelling.
Conclusion
Building an Oldhammer army is not just about assembling miniatures; it’s a journey steeped in nostalgia, creativity, and community. By understanding the aesthetic, choosing the right faction, sourcing unique miniatures, exploring vintage painting techniques, engaging with the community, and focusing on fun gameplay, you’ll create an army that pays homage to the past while carving out new adventures. So grab your paintbrush and miniatures, and dive into the whimsical world of Oldhammer!