What's this then?

 

No, they're not tombstone markers. These are strategic points for my Dawn of Warhammer 40k table.

In the Dawn of War video game, you have to capture strategic points in order to gain requisition. Requisition is vital to building and equipping your army. They generate a continual "revenue" stream of requisition that enables you to build your forces. Their loss can cripple your economy to the point where you can no longer field enough troops and equipment to remain a viable force on the map.

So, I wanted to make a total of eight strategic points that could be captured on an average sized (i.e., 6ft x 4ft) gaming table. I didn't just want a boring location on the map either. I wanted something that stood out as obviously a special location.

Reaper Miniatures make some good statues, and I chose a suitably looking Warhammer 40k type statue for the standard strategic point. I plan to look for more interesting statues for the critical locations and relic locations that can also be found in the game. Something that will look more shriney :)

The holders in front of the statue are vases and a central flag holder. These are made from rubber washers I purchased from the local hardware store, glued together using PVA glue. The flag holder will hold flags from the various factions when the point is captured.

Each is base coated in black, then painted grey with a very heavy dry brush before a final light dusting dry brush of white. This is to a concrete look in keeping with the austere 41st Millenium Imperium style.

I applied river sand that I also got from the hardware store and inked it in Agrax Earthshade. The "flowers" are alien flytraps from Gamers Grass.

So that's eight strategic points done! The Waaagh banners are getting near completion. And some 3d printed and MDF scenery are also on its way. But as for the forces themselves? Well, you may be surprised.