The world of Warhammer 40,000 is vast and immersive, drawing players into epic battles across the galaxy. For many hobbyists, a key aspect of this experience is the collection and customization of armies. With the rise of 3D printing technology, a common question arises: Is it acceptable to use 3D printed components in your 40k games? Let’s delve into the community’s perspective and the nuances surrounding 3D printed 40k models and terrain.
Are 3D Printed Models and Terrain Generally Accepted in 40k?
For casual games amongst friends or at local game stores, the answer is overwhelmingly yes. Most players are perfectly fine with opponents using 3D printed terrain, models, and objective markers. The focus in these settings is typically on enjoying the game and the social aspect of the hobby. As long as it’s clear what each piece represents on the tabletop, the origin of the miniature is often secondary. Whether you’ve purchased official Games Workshop models, opted for alternatives from other companies, converted your own using bits and pieces, or employed 3D printing, the spirit of inclusivity generally prevails.
What About Proxy Models and Clarity on the Tabletop?
The community largely embraces the use of accurate proxies. The key is ensuring clarity. As long as your opponent can easily understand what each unit represents on the battlefield, using proxy models is rarely an issue. This flexibility extends to 3D printed miniatures. You can confidently use 3D printed models as stand-ins, conversions, or even complete units. The emphasis remains on clear communication and a shared understanding of the game state, rather than strict adherence to model origins.
Where Might Players Draw the Line with 3D Printed 40k?
While tolerance is high, there are boundaries. A widely recounted anecdote involves a player attempting to use tokens with pictures and cardboard cutouts as an army. This was deemed unacceptable at a game store, primarily due to the negative impact on the store’s model sales. While 3D printing could theoretically be seen in a similar light by some, the crucial difference is the visual representation. 3D printed models, especially when painted and based, still present as miniatures on the tabletop, maintaining the visual appeal of the game. Players observing a game with 3D printed models will still see miniatures in play, connecting to the core aesthetic of Warhammer 40k, something absent with mere tokens.
3D Printed Terrain vs. Models in Competitive Play
Terrain crafted through 3D printing enjoys widespread acceptance across the board. Regardless of whether terrain is officially Games Workshop branded or from another source (including 3D printed), clarity is paramount. Each terrain piece’s rules and characteristics must be explicitly stated before the game begins to ensure fair play.
Models are a slightly different consideration, particularly in competitive environments. While casual play is generally permissive, tournament organizers often have specific rules. A tournament sponsored by a company, for instance, might reasonably mandate the use of only their products. However, when it comes to 3D printed copies or “inspired by” models, a pragmatic approach often emerges: “As long as the quality is good enough to pass as the original & it’s at least primed… Don’t ask & Don’t tell.” This suggests a tacit acceptance of well-executed 3D prints that are indistinguishable from standard models at a glance, especially when painted to a tabletop standard.
Penalties for Using 3D Printed Stand-ins?
In most casual gaming scenarios, players will not face penalties for using 3D printed models instead of official Games Workshop products. However, it’s essential to respect the rules and conventions of specific groups or events. If a tournament or gaming group has explicit rules regarding model authenticity, those should be followed. Just as the player with tokens faced repercussions for violating the implicit norms of a game store environment, players should be mindful of the expectations within their gaming community. Generally, within friendly games and even some less stringent competitive settings, the focus remains on the game itself and the shared enjoyment of the Warhammer 40k universe, with 3D printed 40k models fitting comfortably into this landscape.
