I play a lot of other miniature war games (Infinity, KoW, LADG, Bolt action, Gaslands) . Most of those games, you can agree to a scenerio before meeting. Additionally, if you wanted to play a specific set of models/theme/tactic/style you can choose a battle format that accommodates. You can then build a list tailored to what you want to field and how you want to battle. Then when you meet you can immediately start playing the game. With Malifaux, you cannot do this. You have to bring all your figures. Meet your opponent. Then simultaneously reveal your faction? Then determine how you will fight and why you are fighting. Then build lists. Often times you cannot play a specific style/leader because of the opposing faction or because of the scheme/strategy type.
I remember wanting to play Rasputina (slow moving ranged combat). But then drew strategy/scheme were she had no chance to win because of lack of mobility. I had to play a faster crew.
Or the reverse, wanting to play a fast caster good at getting around and accomplishing objectives, then a strategy/scheme pops up forcing brawl/kill scenario.
The schemes are so aggravating. Some are non confrontational. Some force you to see the other persons cards so you can figure out targets. Alot of them are "secretly pick". More trash.
Games should be easy to setup. Easy like, lets play malifaux, choose a scenerio. See you saturday. Play.