So I have a concern to voice. And it may be an unpopular opinion so I am prepared for a bit of push back and I very much so accept and respect that.
I dont like the visual direction the models for Malifaux are taking.
When I got into the game (very much so for the rules, background, and location at first) I noticed right off a stark and amazing difference between the Wyrd models and the systems I had been playing (primarily Warmachine and Warhammer). The difference was level of detail, not abundance of detail.
I mean that guns seemed to scale, pistols looked like the size of pistols, buckles and belts were small, but sized reasonably on the models, things of this nature.
However, there was not a focus on an excessive amount of just, stuff.
For this review, I will use Hans as an example.
Rifle over shoulder (made unique by fine detailing in the sights, barrel, and stock), long coat over most of the miniature, a few other helpful small details like his goggles and his left hand artfully fiddling with a single bullet. I. Love. This. Mini.
But after a while I saw the style shift. I noticed it most around Broken Promises. Models began to scale up slightly (not a bad thing on its face). But along with this something else occurred. Models began to accumulate more, well, stuff.
Compare the Monster Hunters of the Guild with the rest of the Latigo Posse. They just have a bunch going on. To me, an excessive amount.
Which then brings me to M3E.
So far, I am absolutely loving the rules, changes, rebalancing of Malifux the rules. However I am growing concerned about the miniatures. Which crystalized the most seeing the new design for Hans.
Hoooooo boy...
Starting off, the rifle now seems to be the size of a light artillery piece. With all the stereotypically steampunk bells and whistles. And then... there is the pauldron or pauldrons. This is a prime example of an unnecessary detail. It adds nothing to the idea of a consummate early 20th century sniper. But seems to be there because, 'pauldrons are cool man.'
I guess my concern is this.
I dont want to see Malifaux sacrifice its unique story, setting, and feel, on the alter of fitting in with its competitors.
Already this if far longer than I wanted it to be.
And again, I very much so understand many others may not agree with me.
I just felt I had to give my input on this game that is very dear to me and my friends.
Thank you.