2012 - A Year in Review

What a year eh?

Was it good? Well.....50/50

There were a few bad parts, mostly just the last few months, though that incident that forced my mother and little sisters to move house (psycho next door neighbour....I know, cause he threatened to kill me too). I guess apart from those things, it's been an alright year.

Got through a lot of projects this year, including Skaven, Chaos and of course my Brothers Army Challenge. While I have wound down from all it, I did get some great models done. Certainly Skrag the Gatekeeper is a  popular choice for some. Character wise, this was the year for Storm Spear, Sparky and Lord Corrupticus Fellwing. These three seemed to have a great focus and were well fleshed out character wise.

This leads to a big THANK YOU to all the Artists who I commissioned work from. The pieces they produced were fantastic and I will continue to commission more works as long as I have ideas and the money to get them done. Extra big thanks goes to SupaCrikeyDave, who has done a number of the commissions I've requested. Thanks Mate!

So what does 2013 hold. Well....13 is apparantly my lucky number....and the sacred number for Skaven is 13...sooo...

In all seriousness, I plan to get back into other forms of art. I'm already set up to begin oil painting and should receive my microphone soon so I can begin practicing voice recording. I'll get back into photography and of course, will still continue converting and painting models. I've also started a Tumblr account, which was ment just to watch other Tumblr's, but I will do something with it depending on what you guys think. So in truth, it looks to be a good year to come.

So a Happy New Year to you all and hope 2013 proves to be an even greater year.

New Years Eve Update

Got night work tonight, but finish before midnight so I guess that's good. Not sure what I'll do tonight to celebrate the new year cause I don't see how next year is going to be better.

Actually, let me rephrase that: What I ment was January is going to be a nightmare for me, but if I can pull through it then perhaps 2013 will be good (should be, seeing as the number 13 is actually considered a lucky number for me.......maybe that's why Skaven appealed to me?).

Speaking of those ratty devils, nearly finished work on that GD model. Had a gap behind him when he was glued to the base, so will add a big rat behind him (which, in my opinion, actually improves the model). After that? Well, I might paint up that Genestealer Cultist model thingy I got off Ebay (it's been tempting to start work on it, but I have other projects to finish first).

Also, can't wait to start oil painting again (it's been 10 years since I last did it.....wow, now I just feel old).

Finishing Games

So, just finished both Monkey Island 2:SE and Bastion. I gotta say both games are very good, but Bastions final level really got me good. Not only does the full weight of the story really hit you, but you're given choices on what to do. For the choices I made, I felt the emotion that it gave (it was deep enough for me anyway). As for MI 2, apart from Dinky Islands jungle part and the constant going back and forth (a trademark of point and click adventures) it was good and the voice acting for the most part (the game itself was text talk based, not ment for actual speech) was brilliant.

Not much else game wise, though while typing this I got a text offering more work, so tonight I work.

Update and a little MI

So, got brushes, paints and canvas's......not all I need is for my flatmate to go back to work so I can start painting again. Also, Microphone ordered and projects have started up again, though somehow all this gaming is distracting.

I can't help it, it's Monkey Island. Just finished the first one and nearing the final part of the second. Not sure why, but this series is just fantastic. The characters, story, humor and music is what a great adventure is all about (even if the damn thing gets too repetitive). I admit I did play these two years ago and I've also played MI 3 and the telltale game too. In fact, MI 4 is the only one I haven't played, and from what I heard it was the weakest of the series. If you haven't played it, then go do it (or at least look it up on Youtube).

Actually, that gives me an idea.......

Back from Christmas

Just got back from mum's place after a great Christmas there. I admit I didn't have much hope that Christmas this year would be good, but it was (for the most part, with the exception of the idiots in her street setting off illegal fireworks and upsetting the kids and pets...and waking us up).

Moving on from that: Bananaman (yep, completely different). A classic old show about a less then intelligent super hero, some rather idiotic bad guys and the worst puns you'll ever hear......which is why most of us love it.

 OK, so not my most favourite of episodes, but I had to put this one up because of the final part with Bananaman playing the piano and the police chief singing (or whatever you call that). For some reason I can't get that scene out of my head.

Steam Shopping

So many great deals on Steam at the moment. So far I've got myself Terraria, Secret of Monkey Island and Monkey Island 2.

Steam at least has some decent sales on, better then most gaming companies at the moment.

Update: Just got Bastion. Great game too.

Tumblr

I set up a Tumblr account just to follow a few people, but now that I have one I have to ask, what should I use it for? Just general stuff? An 'Ask me anything here' page? Maybe one of those pages where you ask my characters questions and they respond to them?

Is it worth even using? Have I just opened myself up to abuse from random people for their amusement? What have I gotten myself into?

Perhaps I should have looked into Tumblr more deeply before I through myself into it. Maybe I should just ignore it and leave it for the moment, see what happens, that sort of thing (unless anyone else has any suggestions, which I'm willing to listen too).

Planned 'Art' Dump

An art dump is basically a big upload of art on my Deviant Art account. Sketches, Photos and various bits and pieces. Still working out what to add, seems a lot of my photography snaps to go through. A couple in particular a just asking to have a few words added to give it a comical feel. I'm hoping to do it once I've finished another painted model or when one of my commissioned works is finish.

Of which, I do upload those works that I have commissioned. The reason being is that I link them to the artists own page in order to help promote that artist. I do make it quite clear that they did the art and all I did was give them the idea of what I wanted. I love character creation, but my skill in drawing them is terrible, so it's nice that I can finally see my ideas come to life through the work of other artists. In this day and age, we should always support our fellow artists.

End of the World....Again

Seriously, I've been through god knows how many 'end of the world' days, only to be disappointed that we still had crap on T.V the next day. My question is why does everybody want the world to end? Do they think life will be better in an apocalyptic wasteland or something? Side note: the world ended long ago, but nobody's bothered to check :)

Since I'm working till midnight, the only thing ending tomorrow is my shift. Then it's home to bed.....assuming I don't run into any zombies along the way (Don't worry, I've seen the Dead Rising games. All I need is a wheel chair and a lawn mower....yeah, that's it).

GD Warlord Update

It's still bloody hot.

Anyway, base is just about done. Just need a few highlights on the gravel/slate and it's finished.

As for the Warlord, he's slowly getting done. I may have to files his toes as the metal doesn't seem right. Also, there is a gap in his neck when you place the head in, so I will need to green stuff that one up too.

His tail is very well molded, so I hope I can paint his up better then I do most Skaven (the tails are by far the hardest part on a Skaven to paint).

Heat Heat Heat

Damn I hate summer, heat really slows me down.

Nothing else really.


Sorry if you were expecting some exciting news or something.......it's the heat you know.
( Yes, it's a very slow day)

Skryre Base

I have the Skaven Warlord Games Day model and I want to paint him up as a side project while I work on my conversions. Given that I am of Clan Skryre, I wanted a base that would make this model stand out (as it should, givin it's limited status). All I needed was a $2 clock, some cheap clips and match sticks.

This is what it'll probably look like. I'm not sure if there is anything I can add or change to improve it. The top itself has not been glued on yet so I can paint it.

This is what it looks like without the platform. With any luck, once painted it should look good enough.

Snorta Klaws

He's finally done:

Snorta Klaws

A project that was way overdue, Snorta Klaws is one of those projects that you do for a bit of fun and nothing else. Was it's paint job rushed? Perhaps, but I really don't care. I was just a fun little project that I'm glad I did.

OK, so now you might want to know what was used to make the model.

Snorta Klaws is a Bloodbowl Chaos Dwarf with green stuff hat and skeleton flail top. His bag is an Ogre bag with some filing and green stuff. His mace is that from a Chaos Warrior with mace top off a Plague Monk census flail top.

The Snowmen Shield-bearers are made from modeling clay, with a green stuff coal,carrot and hat. As previously mentioned, the hats weren't smooth enough, so they became metal as befitting a Chaos Dwarf. Their arms are bits of wire with some liquid green stuff to make them more like sticks and the weapons are from Skeleton and Plague Monk kits.
Note: One of the eyes went missing and so I used the problem to make an opportunity to show the dark magic that's inside them. The 'snow' effect Snowman was simply white paint and Bi-Carb Soda mixed to make a textured paint effect.

Finally, the shield is a small flying base with some green stuff.

Wait, what??

Ross Noble, you can take the realm of fantasy and make it a greater place to be.

Wait, bogan Skaven? Beards into mullets?

Now there's a conversion challenge.

Bi-Carb FTW!

With the snow textured paint haven dried up, I decided to try something different. I mixed Bi-Carb Soda with white paint and dabbed it around the model. The coal and arms need to be re-touched, as does the nose and that just leaves the weapons of the snow men and each will be finish (about half-way completing the shield).

Also, the reason for the metal hat was that my green stuff version didn't come out as smooth as I'd like. Given that my 'Santa' model is based on Chaos Dwarves, a metal hat doesn't seem unreasonable.

Update:

 The shield is done. All a bit of fun really and not ment to be fantastically painted. More information on it will be said when it's finally uploaded to Deviant Art.

Blog Updates

More Storm Spear commissioned work now added to Project: Storm Spear page and to Deviant Art account. Also note more information has been added to the characters.

Getting closer to finishing Xmas project. snow texture paint dried up (must of been that heat wave we had), but perhaps some Bi-Carb soda can solve that problem (is there anything problem that stuff can't solve). Now just have to design a sort of twisted seasonal image to paint on the shield.

Life Up-date Up-date

Went in to discuss about the study options and the results were not what I expected. This has left me contemplating my options. Turns out that study may not give the out come I had expected, that I may have to do more research and check out my options to determine if they can lead me to my goal.

This won't put me off from my plan to do painting/photography/sound recording and I will continue with that even if study proves fruitless.

Life Up-date

Where to begin? Let's just say that if you've read previous entries that you'll know my life has hit a bit of a wall. One of my major flaws (a flawed human being, who'd a guessed) is a complete lack of focus. This seems obvious with the lack of finished projects. Unfortunately, when my life does hit a wall, this lack of focus does become a serious problem for me.

I am cutting down on my miniature projects, partly due to taking so long to do them, but also I'm not enjoying them as I once did. Don't worry, I'll still continue to do them, I just won't go overboard like I've previously done. So what else will I do? I plan to go back into some study and finish that Art course I was doing years ago, but never completed it because I could no longer afford the materials to do my work. This means I plan to go back into painting, along with my photography. I also want to try my hand at voice recording, maybe even do up a voice resume for a possible chance at some voice acting roles (even if all I say is one line it'd be a great start).

They say 'if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself' and that's exactly what I'm doing. So between now and next year (which is when these study courses begin) I've got a lot of work and thinking to do.

But to show this post isn't a total waste, here's a quick preview/teaser of the Xmas project:

What could it mean?

Oh yes, got this one from Ebay too (another project that I'm still collecting pieces for).

Sound Recording

One of those things I'd love to do in my life would be some voice work, be it character voice's (which I'd love), gaming let's plays or even be part of a podcast. While I doubt that anything could happen, I'm willing to try it out.

I know Brad (from theradbrad youtube channel) did a recent video explaining products he uses. The microphone he uses seems to be a popular choice and I am looking around for a good price on it (seriously, Amazon.com had it for around $99, not including postage but it seems the only place I can purchase it here in Australia is around $238.........eh what??). Not sure on voice recording software, still looking into that.

Not sure why I didn't do this years ago, but I'll never know if I don't give it a shot.

PM Conferms End of the World

No, I doubt the CSRIO could actually confirm anything. That said, I doubt most Aussies would actually notice the world ending or even think it a problem. Considering that most of the animals here can kill us, what do we have to fear?

Critic Opinion: Practical vs Rage

I've watched a number of critic reviews of movies/games by a number of critics and the one thing that seems to come up is people who respond to them. Their responses ether tend to have creative criticisms or flat out immature raging. What I don't get is why rage? It seems to serve no purpose and doesn't convince others you should be taken seriously.

Critics try to provide a non-biased view and tell of the positive/negative parts in a constructive way. If you disagree with their opinion, give reasons in a constructive way. Don't come out saying things like "OMG U SUX IT WAS AWSOME" or "YOU DON"T KNOW SHIT". How is anyone going to believe your side or believe your right if you act like a nob with no real evidence or explanation why.

I don't know. I'd like to hear peoples reasons for why they think the critics are wrong (and try to convince me that their side is right), but it seems that until they do, I'm just stuck scrolling through crap.

Thoughts on: Captain Planet Movie

Recently there are rumors going around about a possible live-action Captain Planet movie. I'm probably one of the few fans of the actual show (since any reference to the show on the internet tends to be negative based). Given it had so many moral and environmental messages it was trying to convey, it's probably people saying "We don't want you telling us what to do, just give us action". But anyway, my thoughts:

First up, I find most shows/games/etc that get turned into movies don't turn out so well. Given that one of the major people behind this also worked on the last Transformers movie really has me worried. Why? The human factor. While Captain Planet's heroes were the Planeteers, Transformers were the Transformers, but it never seemed like it (and what the hell did they do to Soundwave?), it just seem too focused on the humans. If they plan on going down the 'humans' path, then at least limit the focus to just the Planeteers, not all sorts of people as it just leads to boring sub-plots and stupid awkward situations that drive me nuts. I would still like to see the Wheeler/Linka romance in it though. As for the character actors, I'm not sure since I can't think of any teen-like characters that would fit each roll.

Secondly, the semi-human/non-human like characters. I would like them to at least go for a decent villain, but actually keep as close as possible to the looks of them. Take Hoggish Greedly. He's a large, overwieght, pig-like character, so keep him like that and not just name a fat guy that name and be done with it. I think Dr. Blight would be the best villain to use for a starter movie, but they could even attempt to get Meg Ryan to play her (she was the cartoon Dr. Blight's first voice actress). Heck, then they could get Tim Curry to voice MAL, Dr. Blight's computer A.I. assistant (Tim Curry was MAL's second voice actor).

Finally, Gaia and Captain Planet. Would they get Whoopi Goldberg to play as Gaia again? Would they get Captain Planets original voice actor back? And would he look good or bad as a CGI character? Again, these questions may not seem like much, but if you take a T.V show and replace everything so that it resembles very little like it, it tends to remove the nostalgia experience, which if at least half your ordinance.

Apart from those worries, I think it's a great idea. In this day and age, Captain Planet needs to return to educate the younger audience, and if they can modernize them without going overboard, it should do alright.

December Project Update

OK, so I'm just about finished doing the banner for the Skryre BSB (then I just have to glue it on and cover the gap) and only have a few more things to do to finish the Chaos Ogre. From there, I work to finish my Xmas project (one that I've been on and off for so long).

What is it? Well, let's just say it's a Warhammer one with snowmen involved.

#%&* $@%^&T%&$@#&*^&!!!

Venting my fury for a bit. Have just learned that the company that employs me can now only really give me late night hours. The only problem is I can't work those hours. Unfortunatly, no one really knows about this due to my store manager being fired on Friday (thank you for NOT telling me when you wanted me to work on Saturday!) and my Support officer was still away. As if this heat wave wasn't enough, I now have to deal with more work related crap. I have only recently returned from work related stress leave only to become involved in more work related stress.

Fan-tucking-fastic and Merry Christmas.

Up-date: Did talk to the new store manager and she is very understanding of my situation. It's good to know that there was some good news in all this.

Art Studio

I've made references to the show Art Studio in the past. Thanks to Youtube, I can now show you the show I'm talking about. This one is also one of my favourites.

Slaying Song

Work called me up yesterday wanting me to work that night to help with stock. That was fine and all, except that they played this once Christmas song over and over and over again, four hours straight. No song or ads in between, just that one song being played over and over.......Jingle Bells will be the death of me, I swear it.

In other news, started playing League of Legends and I gotta say it is fun. I did play DotA for a while years ago and this is a better version of that. My fav character so far is Twitch, whom is very much like a Skaven. I did try playing various characters, but Twitch is my fav so far (mostly cause I suck at melee characters). 

Empire Archer/Huntsmen Unit

Done. Despite the heat I finally completed the unit.

Most of the snow did cover some of the rocks I wanted to show, but considering the unit is in deep snow I was quick to ignore it.

Photos do tend to show too much detail, thus my human faces look bad. Given my style though, I can't complain too much. Certainly the grey hunters outfit blends the uniform well with the snow theme.

Damn some of these guys look like clowns. It's amazing how a little drybrushing can fix some of the stand out colour of the bows. Overall, pleased with the results. Now all I have to do is finish a 19 man Swordsmen unit and a 10 man Handgunners unit (AAAGGGHHHH!!!!!!).

Movember Ends

Farewell Mo of 2012, you will be missed......well, not really.

Did I Mention.....

.....I hate painting Empire models. Seriously, why is it most good armies have so many fiddly bits that need to be painted. Compared to most evil armies, good one just seem to be a real headache when it comes to adding colour.

Anyway, the Archer/Huntsmen unit is nearly done, just have the bows, bags, hair and that blasted bird to touch up and they'll be done. From there I'll start on finishing that Xmas project, along with the BSB and Chaos Ogre in between.

Movember 2012

And so Movember 2012 begins to draw to an end.

Ugh...I should have taken the photo before I had the haircut.

Though I still didn't reach my goal of a minimum $100, any money I've raised so far is still better then nothing. Given that this is my second year doing it, I feel great that I've managed to raise money for such a great cause (and one that's close to my heart). I will continue to do this every year from now on and hope to have better luck fundraising in the future.

There still is time to donate if you wish. My page is here or you can support any friends or any local business which is also a Movember fundraiser.

Back to work

Back to work today and due to the reasons I took leave, I'm on basic duties until they can find me a similar position as before (at least that's what I was told).

Love playing the Demon Hunter in Diablo 3, really does remind me of all the things Storm Spear tends to get himself into.

Project update: The Archer/Huntsman unit just needs a highlight on their coats, their hair and eyes finished, weapons and extras done and snow based. Then that'll be finished. Will probably finish painting my Skryre BSB and Chaos Ogre before working on my Hurricanum and Xmas projects.

Angry again

I was going to put up a happy post for my 200th post, but it seems life wants to frustrate me once more. This time it revolves around two things, the 60 Minutes report on the parents of the four sisters who were forced back to Italy and the comments on the facebook page Kids Without Voices.

To simply put, the 60 Minutes story was a complete mess. The innocent father, the lying mother and the government who help kidnap children. Of course, none of it makes any bloody sense and there is nothing in the story about the girls current health status or even how this story would benefit them. Simply put, it doesn't. It's the usual News show giving a biased story to bring in ratings, it has nothing to do with the girls.

If that wasn't enough, the support page Kids Without Voices seems to be coping crap because of the mother (or rather, her mothers) performance in the interview. At what point was the page ever about the mother, or even any other member of the family. It isn't, it was about the kids and them not having a voice.

I guess I shouldn't be too surprised, after all, the internet is full of haters/trolls/flamers. The thing is, I take issues like domestic violence and child custody/abuse issues very seriously (having been in a few myself), so it's probably why I take comments from a few dim-witted people to heart.

Sometimes I really wonder what this world is coming too......

Demon Hunting

Turns out my laptop can in fact run Diablo 3. I downloaded from Blizzard the trial version and it runs smooth enough. Given my obsession with my character Storm Spear, I decided to play a Demon Hunter and I'm enjoying it so far. It's a little distracting, but since I defeated the undead king and now I have to pay for the rest, I can go back to trying to finish my Archers.

Back on track

With all the shit that's been happening over the last month or so, it's nice to finally get some things going again. In between watching old Nostalgia Critic episodes and playing SC2/AC3, I actually got some projects complete.

The first is my second Herald of Tzeentch, which was designed to be used in conjunction with my Chaos Arcane Fulcrum. The second is my Empire Master Engineer, who is a classic Marco Colombo model from the Lustria campaign GW had years ago. Finally, finished converting a Chaos Ogre of Tzeentch and have started giving it a base coat.

Well, it'll should look better once it's painted.

finally.....huh?

So finally got through and we fixed the problem. 'Great' I thought and began playing again. Got halfway through the second mission and then suddenly the game just closes itself without any reason:

..........to hell with this I'm going to bed.

So yeah, yesterday sucked. With any luck I've now fixed that problem, so today I'll have a little fun and get a few projects done on the side.

Still waiting...

So, having taken up over half a day, I've decided to call them....and been on the line waiting now for over half an hour. All this just so I can play one game. Worse, I've noticed one of my projects is missing a piece and I can't find it anywhere. AARRRGGHH!!!!

Work on my Skryre Battle Standard Bearer has somewhat changed....along with his banner. It wasn't good enough, so I changed the banner. I've also decided to finish sculpting the final parts to one of my Chaos Ogres so I can get that out of the way too.

Projects I hope to finish within the next week:

Archer/Huntsman Unit
Master Engineer
Poisoned Wind Mortar
Tzeentch Herald
Chaos Ogre

In the meantime....videos

Well, while I wait for Blizzard to fix my account (sometimes I wonder why I bother), here is a video from youtube:

and of course, my fav Muppet playing one of my fav classic songs:

Make what you will of this. Now I'm going back to do more painting as I continue to wait pointlessly.

ZERG!!

Pre-ordered my Starcraft 2 'zerg' expansion (SE version). I admit I am so looking forward to this.

I love the idea of ever evolving xenomorphic aliens. The idea of evolving xenomorphs has been around for ages (I know, as Zargooran was himself originally based on the same idea) and the original Starcraft's world editor did allow me to bring Zargooran and his Bloodclaws to life (story wise at least). I have oftern thought of using the Warhammer Tyranid rules and models to re-create the Bloodclaws, though I don't know if I'd ever have the time or money to go through with it.

Back on topic, I can't wait to play this and see how well they implement the whole 'Evolution' thing into the campaign story.

Supanova -Round 2-

Err...sorry about that. Anyway, Supanova was...well...wet. It rained and as such, the sheltered areas were very crowded. It seems that there was a rise in Sailor Moon and Slenderman cos-players this year and it was nice to see more Bronies showed up too. Despite the rain, it wasn't too bad.

My Bro and his girlfriend give us their opinion of the queues

Plenty of Cos-players with various levels of success. As I said before, lots of Sailor Moon & Co and Slenderman, but others I liked were the Star Wars charity workers (their outfits are always perfectly done), Steampunk (who have some of the best and creatively made outfits) and of course there were the two Predators (which standing next to one felt really freaky, particularly when he moved his finder across my cheek).

Yes, I really do look terrible in photos (which I why I have too many of them)

I admit I was still majorly stressed out at the time, a massive headache with no pain killers and yet I still had a really good time. Heck, I even got a nice Zerg t-shirt while I was there. 

 Overall, despite the pain, it was great.

Remembrance Day

Lest We Forget...

Today we remember the fallen, those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Yet it disturbs me just how many people have little idea about this day or what it even means. It's sad that such things are rarely talked about in schools or television specials talking about events. It's as if it's just swept under the rug and forgotten, an insult on the 'Lest We Forget' saying.

May we never forget.

Supanova....

......updating tomorrow. To tired tonight to talk about it.

Some Positives

Despite things going from bad to worse, it's good to know there are some positives. My book order arrived...yes. Elysium - The art of Daarken is a book with many wonderful and amazing art pieces by the artist called daarken (daarken on DeviantART)

While I haven't had much time to look through it, what I have seen so far is amazing. I recommend you check out daarkens page and if you like artwork, get the book. I was lucky enough to get the bonus pre-order prints.

I also came home to find the poster for Ponycon AU had also arrived.

Shame I can't make it to Sydney for it now, but no less I hope many others will enjoy it.

And speaking of events, Supanova Brisbane 2012 is on tomorrow. While I know I should be resting, perhaps this outing can help pick up my mood. We'll see...

The wrong madness

As if things couldn't get any worse, they do. All I needed was a week or so from work to recover, now it seems I'll need more. Turn's out my so-called 'support worker' isn't so supportive when it comes to my work getting into trouble. All I wanted was to rest and instead I get a shit load of more stress. Now I got to go back to my doctor and get the Union involve too. I seriously can't take much more of this shit...

Movember Challenge Again

My Movember Page

I'm once more doing the Movember challenge. I'm hoping to beat my previous raised amount of $70, though I will begin my fundraising next week once I have had time to recover myself.

Down and Out

Well, this day has sure changed things. Visited my doctor and am now on one week leave of work due to stress. Now my focus will be to de-stress and re-focus. Will it work.......we'll see.

AC3

Love the story to this game so far. In sequence 4 so far and it is very good. Given the shit day I've had, this has helped change my mood.

Errr...

Still sick, feels like my heads being crushed. This of course means projects have slowed. I had hoped to finish my Summoner Storm Spear pic before Halloween, but given I suck at both drawing and computer colouring (all my programs are useless and have to use MS Paint) this is taking a lot longer then I thought. Also hope to finish the Archers/Huntsmen unit within the next few weeks.

In other news, the new Chaos releases look awesome. I'd love to paint one of the Chaos Shrines, although only after I make a few changes to the model.

You may also remember I read the book Valkia the Bloody and while I'm Tzeentch and not Khorne, I love the model they made of her. It does match the artwork well.

What I really like about this model,apart from the fact that GW are now starting to actually make more female characters (seriously, a fantasy game should be equal rights as females are just as capable as being a powerful character as any male), is the shield.

That Daemon Prince head shield is just bloody amazing.

The Stanley Parable: HD Remix

Love the way sarcasm was placed in this. Looking forward to seeing this new version.

Well......that explains it all.

Bad to Worse

Sick.....head cold. I'm writing this week off as a run of bad luck and moving on. Damn I feel like crap.

Got Borderlands working but seems to crash occasionally when transitioning between locations. Still, my Hunter is currently level 21. Called him Storm Spear (seems to be something I'm doing lately) because Storm Spear is a hunter. Current focus is on the Sniper chart, which I enjoy doing as this game lets me pull off it without too many problems, which is why I keep guns like a shotgun in my quick slot.

Why Steam...WHY??

Not sure if my laptop could play Borderlands 2 but my bro suggested I play the first one. Unfortunately, after purchasing it off Steam the blasted thing refuses to install. It also appears I'm getting another head cold again and they predict more hot weather coming. Well this weeks going to shit real fast.

Am trying to do another Storm Spear pic, this time as the Summoner from Dungeon Defenders (cause I named my Summoner after him). Plan on adding Sparky to this one......actually I should really start doing a few pics of Sparky as the only references I have a written ones. Also, Corrupticus plays the Barbarian (Scottish version) so I do plan on doing a similar pic on that too (it will be his Series 2 form, when the crystal from his old armor is now imbedded in his chest).

Bad Day?

Let's see, Shit day at work, too bloody hot and...oh yes...coffee mug broke. This week isn't starting too well. Aggression and agitation through the roof.

I guess the only good news was the arrival of the chaos cultist model. Got it from Ebay cause I can't afford to buy a whole set just for one model, but it's the leader wearing the Commissars jacket. I feel the model really brings out the traitor feel by taking something iconic with loyalty and twisting it. Will be a little while before I get a chance to paint it unfortunately.

Uploads and Downloads

Just finish two more uploads. With the first being my Flamers of Tzeentch and the second being my Archer/Huntsman test paint. It's been a struggle trying to get these done and future projects will be just as bad. None the less, I really think the Archer/Huntsman unit should be completed within the next month, as should the CSM Aspiring Champion.

In other news, Dungeon Defenders is celebrating it's 1st Anniversary with a special Anniversary pack. Tavern defense? Hell Yeah!!

Comic Dub

Cute, but Ditzy's gotta stop breaking the Doctors mind. He's a sensitive individual.

There and back again

Like I previously said, I went to my local GW store today to get some tips on fixing my Flamers, and tips I got. With what I was taught today, I think I can salvage some of the models dignity from this mess.

Plan on giving my graphics pad a real test after I ink and scan my latest image into my laptop. From there I'll probably go over the image and colour it. I can only hope this goes well, cause with some practice this could improve some of my art styles.

Update: So far, so good. I've managed to fix some of faces for the Flamers. With any luck I should have them uploaded within the next few days, along with a test paint of one of my Empire Archers/Huntsman.

Fails applenty

Flamers of Tzeentch are a nightmare to paint in seems. It's the faces, cause once the colours on you can't pick out the face details as well. Just have to ask around for help on them I guess.

Meanwhile, decided to install the software for the USB Graphics Pad and give it a test run. Unfortunately, the program I was using kept crashing.


Also, bought me that new Chaos Space Marine Aspiring Champion model. Decided I needed to do a few one off models during all these other projects (which, quite frankly, are pissing me off) and this one just seem to catch my eye. Note sure on a colour scheme, but I'll see what hits me when I do it.

New Look??

Turns out after visiting the optometrist that I'm light sensitive, so intense light from sunlight or shopping centre lights can cause headaches and dizziness. Given my current job, that can be a problem and as such, I've gone out and gotten some prescription glasses. These are basically tinted class (around 20%) and are ment to reduce the light level enough to stop it from being a problem. Unfortunately, I just don't look good in glasses and these were the only frames that seemed half decent.

Sleeep.....

Bloody hell, it's 1:30am and I'm still awake. As much as I've tried I can't seem to get to sleep. Now I don't know if it's worth it as I need to be up in about 3 hours to get ready for work.

On the plus side, two new uploads are now....well....uploaded. Custom paint Storm Spear and Skrag the Gatekeeper are now up. Should have a few more in the next week or so....assuming I ever get some sleep.

Depressed

As you may have already known, I suffer depression. Most days you can barely notice it, but there are times where it can really effect you. The weekend was one of those times. If you have never suffered a bad case of it, it's almost impossible for me to describe it to you. The best I can do is a sort of sad/empty feeling. We know that it is caused by a chemical imbalance, but for all medical science can do, helping with the feelings is something they just can't. Thankfully, things are going back up again, but one can never tell when the next bad batch will strike again.

On a more positive note, I should have some uploads in the next day or so. Also, got myself a USB Graphics Pad to try out for my laptop. Only cost about $50 from Aldi, so I don't expect great things, but it's the perfect opportunity to have a bit of fun with it.

A Sad Day Indeed

I can't really describe how I'm feeling at the moment. Turned on the T.V this morning and to my horror, saw the footage of four girls, against their will, kicking and screaming as they were dragged into cars and taken away to be sent back to Italy. WHAT THE FUCK?!?!

I was sick to my stomach, ill as I saw it. I cried (for once it wasn't my depression) and at the same time burned with rage. Where was my government? Where was the Australia I knew? I love my country, but how can I call myself an Australian if I could not protect the rights of children. The rules of the international court doesn't seem to take the children's rights into account. Never are the children given a voice, never given any rights.

Then there are the actions of the police. What did they expect? That they would go quietly? What's worse is that they've been separated from each other, unable to reunite until they all arrive in Italy. I.....what can I say. What can I do if my country is unwilling to do anything? So much sadness, so much anger. I feel for these girls and can only pray for them.

What can anyone do in a world of madness......

Projects Update

As you may have noticed I have been updating this Blog to a more web site look and as such still have lots more work to do in updating the pages listed under the Blog banner. What is lacking is updates on actual projects, particularly the Warhammer ones. Fear not, as I have been slowly working on them when I get the chance, although I do mean slowly as it is hard to focus on projects lately due to my depression suffering a low patch.

Should have some uploaded by this week, including the long awaited Skaven Skryre warlord or rat-ogre model I converted ages ago.

As for future projects, apart from next years Armies on Parade and the agonizing project called 'Empire', I do plan on eventually making a monster for my Skaven army, a Clan Skryre version of a Warpfire Dragon (hybrid made of Zombie Dragon parts and parts from the new Chaos Space Marine Heldrake).

Summoner Lesson

Decided to do the Assault challenge maps today so I could try and get that Unicorn pet (I like Unicorns, so what of it), but learned a very important lesson........Summoners suck at Assault maps. Turns out I can't summon minions, which kind of leaves my character useless in this situation.

As Storm Spear says, time for Plan B. Now I'm leveling a Series EV character designed for (almost) pure assault (named the character after Storm Spears companion 'Sparky'). Am trying to get the male version skin, but trying to beat that desert level on medium with Summoner hasn't been too successful so far.

Bunyip design

Up until now, I had never thought much when it came to the Bunyip. I knew the name and that it was a mythological creature, but I never really considered what it looked like. Having searched the net for pictures and descriptions, it is a rather confusing design due to different versions of it. I feel the need to design a character of one, but want to steer clear of the more horror/ugly designs (which is just about all of them).

The image will be of a sort of tribal/native/shaman like character who draws his power from the dreaming, the energy of dreams. As for which version of the Bunyip I'll take my designs from, I'm still not sure of that yet.

Endless Waves

Ok, so I may be a  little addicted to Dungeon Defenders. My Summoner is level 45 and still having trouble with some of the newer maps. Still, that's the fun of it, cause with each defeat I find ways to better my defense's the next time round. I recommend you try the demo and see if you like it.

White Dwarf n Chaos

The new look White Dwarf was released today and at the near same price as the old version, you get double the size. I have to say I am impressed by this new look and the extra bits n pieces they've added, though I fear a price rise in the near future may be inevitable. Also, damn those new Chaos Space Marine daemonic engines look good, just as I'd imagined what a like that would posses (ok, I'd imagined them to be far more horrific, but then you can't sell that to kids).

Forge World's latest releases have the Preyton, a chaos mix of Stag, Lion and Eagle, and yet nether. It's a scroll of binding monster and one that really appeals to me, as does the Warpfire Dragon and the Basilisk. Creature's like this really have that fantasy terror taste to them. I guess things like the Cockatrice and the Jabberslythe are also good Storm of Magic ones to add to my Tzeentch themed chaos army, perhaps like a traveling zoo or sideshow...who knows.

Zoggin Laptop

For some stupid reason, my laptops so-called shared graphics ain't so shared. Upping it from 2GB to 6GB did nothing. As if the constant playing up wasn't bad enough I lost the use of it over night. Oh well, gives me more stuff to update on then.

The Slender Games

If only they had $20

Great Spawn Designs

Spent my weekend in pain again as I did my neck/shoulder out. Still, was able to finish the planned design for the Great Chaos Spawn of Tzeentch.

The original design was more of a crazy design attempt with a more comical look. Again, I said I couldn't draw so forgive these bad sketchs.

This is more of the final design look for the spawn. The tail still needs some work as the prawn cross scorpion tail design still looks off. Otherwise, the design seems good enough to begin sculpting.

Todays Updates

I admit things are quite slow at the moment, but they are moving. I am currently still painting models and have begun to add text to the pages under the title banner.

I have also begun playing Dungeon Defenders on Steam (I'm currently a lever 10 Summoner) and am having a blast. Hopefully get some models done within the next week so I can start posting pics.

Hugh Jackman on R U OK? Day

R U OK?Day (September 13) is a day dedicated to suicide prevention, which sadly has gotten worse over the years. So on September 13 talk to your family, friends and school/work mates and ask the question "R U OK?".

Characters Playing Games

I've always wanted to do voice acting so it's no surprise that I'm a fan of people like Little Kuriboh, ShadyVox, Oxhorn etc (there are so many I could name). The one thing I like what these people do is not only do they give characters personality with their voice, but then do other things and using their voice, make it seem that the character is doing it. The most obvious, and thus the most entertaining, is through playing a video game. There are two ways that this is done:

Straight up role play in-game recording. This one seems to give the effect that any reaction from the characters seems real enough to believe they could be playing it and how they'd react. The only problem is that it's easy to slip out of character or the character may do things that some might not see that character doing or saying. The series above is one of my favorite because these two portray these two characters the best.

Record over play. Not entirely sure if that was what was done in this series, but from the sounds of it, it was. Basically, it's when you record a session of playing and while doing it probably come up with a script or record some speech. Then afterwards, you record the voices and place them in to make them sound clearer and sharper (Ok, this explanation was terrible, but you get the idea). The voices are of parody characters, so you may have to see the series before you can understand the characters.

Damn I'm so jealous.

Ross Noble GNW

The best Good News Week episodes were when Ross Noble was on the show:

Game Jokes

When bored and looking for something to watch, stumbling on game April Fools jokes is always good for a laugh.

Given the style of the cartoon, I'd defiantly watch a series of that show.

Hmmmmm

The Chamberlain

Face it, no Greater Daemon of Tzeentch is as awesome as this guy!

I use to play

Because it's true.

The Story Behind Dust

Article

A brief insight into the history behind Dean Dodrill and his game Dust.

Daemon Rules Update

Ok, so they haven't updated the rules with an FAQ, but while I was looking on their website I did notice that Flamers of Tzeentch are indeed a special choice. I guess this counts as a confirmation to that question.
That said, for a Tzeentch themed army that leaves the whole rare slot without a Tzeentch unit. I guess you could use a Soul Grinder to fill that spot, or even use rules for a Beast of Nurgle and just make it a Tzeentch daemon that 'count's as'. Still, for a basic 2,000pts list there is enough Tzeentch daemons to easily fill it without needing those rare slots.

Up-date (5/9/12): There is one type that could be a substitute in replacing the Beast of Nurgle / Fiend of Slaanesh. Called the Firewyrm of Tzeentch, it was a type of Chaos Spawn in Warhammer Online.

Tyranids would give some parts for a conversion.

Site Re-look

Been looking at other Blogs on blogspot and I really feel mine just looks dull. The solution is to give it a new look. Still not too sure how I'll do it but we'll see what happens. So basically, if the blog looks a bit funny over the next few days, it's because I'm testing various designs.

Up-date (4/9/12): I always thought that Chaos Fulcrum had that certain image, so with some photo editing it makes a neat title banner. Plan on adding links underneath it to ether projects (like the ones on the side bar) and maybe a brief page about me/Zargooran.

Up-date (7/9/12): A space background is good, but I need to find one with stars that don't interfere with reading the side bar. I'm also not entirely sure about what articles should be put in to main bar under banner (I know I mentioned some recently but I'm not entirely sure what else to add).

More Spawn Ideas

Just about finish the Spawn design.

A couple of long Squid tentacles flaying about on it's back really appeals to me.

Who writes this stuff?

The Smurfette Principle

After watching this I have to agree. Even though the shows shown are based around the 80's & 90's, the facts here are the truth. Even in most animations today there is a level of male dominance and despite trying to give the image of equal standings, looking at them now shows it was more an illusion if anything.

The anime 'Slayers' (the series, not the movies) sort of had that equal image, but then the two back-up characters seemed to confuse that. The only thing I can see different was the work done by Lauren Faust, who's work on the girl's show 'My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic' seems to have altered one of the comments in this video, by making a 'female focused' show getting the attention of the 'male demographic'. Trying to explain that part however is proving harder then I thought.

Assassin's Creed Blade

As part of a promotional thing leading up to Assassin's Creed 3, EB Games was releasing Ezio's Hidden Blade (a Role-play one).

As you can see, you put the blade part on first and the outer cover on last. It's plastic, but is still dangerous in the hands of stupid people. Unlike the finger string put blade that most role-players use, this one is a push button that can be locked (so you don't accidentally set it off and hit someone).

Finally, here's a picture of the lamest assassin ever......me. No wonder the Brotherhood turned down my application.

Ranting Apologies

Yeah, as you may of noticed from a previous post, I was a little peeved. This was probably due more to my health then anything else. I've been advised to take a day or so off work to relax as my Stress/Depression seems to be hitting a rather bad patch. Sorry about that.

Project: Stormspear

Collection of all Project: Stormspear posts.

1.Stormspear: It starts with Warhammer
2. Stormspear and Corrupticus Designs
3. Corrupticus sculpt research
4. Coming Soon

Good Game Dust Review

I'm a little disappointed of Good Game's Dust review. First off, Fidget is a Nimbat, they made it quite clear through out the game. Second, did they even finish playing it? I mean the Amnesia claim was atleast better used and explained in this one then in the game Amnesia (A great game too, but an Amnesia potion?).

Given that Dean is an Artist, the art work of the game isn't really mentioned at all. That's a big insult to an artist. And even at the end of the show's 'Guess that game' segment they show Jazz Jackrabbit 1 claiming that Dean's work on it would later inspire Dust, yet I recall that Dean never worked on JJ1 and was only the Cinematic Animator for JJ2. He did have major influence on both JJ2's add-on 'The Secret Files' and the never completed Jazz 3D.

I respect Bajo and Hex's comments, but considering many of the games that have been released this year, I feel  that this one deserved better. Guess they were too caught up in the new Transformers game to really enjoy this one (I did leave them a comment on Facebook, so I expect to be flamed for that one...Bring it on!).

Chaos Up-dates

First up is the disc. I admit my plan was to build up the shape and sand it flat, but it seems the sander is taking a hell of a lot longer to do it (not to mention that the vibrations are sending the nerves in my neck into pain overdrive). It would seem I may have to do it manually or try and come up with another idea.

The Flamers have been base painted to test what two colours I want for each of them. I want them to be different and colourful (Note that the base colour has not been blended in yet).

Finally, I have finish converting the second Herald and about time too as this little bastard was started the same time as the other Herald and has been causing no end of problems. I've also designed his base so that it matches the Chaos Fulcrum, just in case I do decide to to a Chaos themed Armies on Parade board.

Nostalgia Critic - Starscream Cookies

Top 11 - More Eps

While I don't agree with all of them, No 1 had me in stitches.

It's amazing just how well these Batman episodes were written.

Even when this guy makes mistakes he's willing to make a video showing them and still make it funny (if not somewhat having an annoying character involved).

Daemons of Cluelessness

So,was thinking about the whole Tzeentch themed army and when reading through it and all the recent updates a few things occurred to me:

The first is that the Flamers were changed from Rare to Special in the little update booklet in White Dwarf, yet the issue it came with had the staff using them as Rare. So what are they, Special or Rare Choice?

Second is a Daemon Prince. Dedicating them to a god lets you use their spell lores and their Greater Damon gifts, but nothing else (so technically, it seems a Daemon Prince of Tzeentch is weaker in the Daemon book then the Warriors book, e.g 5+Ward vs 4+Ward), but it's one gift in particular that has me. Flames of Tzeentch is a shooting attack almost the same as a Flamer's attack, except that a Daemon Prince has a Ballistic Skill of 0, which means he is incapable of using any ranged attack (except spells). I wanted to add this gift but realized this problem straight away. It would be easier (and cheaper) to simply paint one to look Tzeentch themed and not pay for dedication.

With nothing in the Daemon FAQ on ether of these issues (and nothing released through GW channels), I've got to wonder how such things were so easily missed (or not corrected yet for that matter).