Friday, 12 January 2024

From Curt: School of Stealth Heroes for 'Hametsu' (15 points)

Hi All!

Moving forward with my 'Hametsu' project, here are three characters from the School of Stealth: a Shinobi (ninja), a Geisha (bard), and a Matagi (archer). These archetypes are very different from the previous School of Magic in that they are a little more subtle in their support of the larger group, but are still very powerful in their own manner. 

All three of these models are 3d prints from MyMiniFactory. I usually print my '28mm' skirmish stuff at a more heroic 32-35mm as it seems more in-tune with the small-scale action on the tabletop.

The Shinobi is from 'Artificers Mini'. Not much to say about this guy. A black-on-black badass ninja fella - death in goth pyjamas. Nice simple pose, which I prefer to the more over-the-top models frequently on offer. 

He'll be a great addition to the party due to his obvious stealth and assassination abilities.

The Geisha is from 'The Dragon Trappers Lodge'. I really like how the game reflects this character-type without regressing to the standard trope. She uses songs and deception/inspiration to either influence her fellow heroes, or mess with the opposition.  

I really like this mini with her elegant pose, and all shrouded in magical energy. She was a lot of fun to paint. Nonetheless, she is quite delicate, so I'm not sure on her survivability on the tabletop, hopefully she holds up well.


The Matagi is from 'Kyousheneko Miniatures'. As you can imagine, the Matagi are a great at long-range missile support, and suppressive fire. They're also good a setting traps, which can be very handy. 

I love the distinctive over-the-head draw back pose of this figure and the elegant asymmetric bow. Very evocative to those who have seen Japanese archers ply their craft.

...and I'll close with a group shot of the heroes so far. One more 'School' to go!

These three models will give me 15 points to add to my tally.

Thanks for dropping in for a look! 

- Curt

From Millsy: Oh wow! Such a contrasting set of minis and so much to love about each of them.

The Shinobi exudes menace in his all black with his matched weapons. I really struggle with getting variation in my blacks without them looking dirty or grey so you will have to share some tips!

The Matagi is all action and I think his cool palette is a great counterpoint. It makes him feel like he's having a Zen moment where he breathes out and settles himself as he prepares to shoot. Only someone in the right space could hold the draw on such a large bow.

And whilst the other two are wonderful the Geisha is my absolute favourite. The pastels and flowing clothing surrounded by smoke from her magic are wonderfully thematic. We understand so little about Geishas in the west and the ideal they are magical in the true sense and not just through our lack of understanding is a great twist.

15 gorgeous points for you mate!

35 comments:

  1. Very nice on all of these! The bow stance is distinctive, I'm sure there are schools of thought on the advantages and disadvantages.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Barks. Yeah, the pose is very distinctive. It rates high in the looks cool factor.

      Delete
  2. Nice subtle shading on the ninja. The geisha is colorful and magical but the archer is my favorite. A really striking pose.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Cheers Tom. Yeah, I really like the archer's pose. Not something you'd see with a European bowman.

      Delete
  3. These are really strikingly painted. Especially the shot of all of them together. They are so perfect for a skirmish game. You've really done these models proud.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Lovely work Curt, those models are so characterful they’re going to really bring your game to life.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Beautiful work as always Curt -- I really like the ombre effect on the Geisha and the pose of the yumihiki is spot on

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Simon. They are terrific little models for sure.

      Delete
  6. WoW! All 3 are great but the Geicha is sublime!!!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Simply awesome Curt. Wonderful brush across all miniatures.

    ReplyDelete
  8. These are some lovely models with great dynamic poses. You have done them justice too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Peter. Nice models definitely help the process.

      Delete
  9. Excellent work Curt. Look forward to seeing these on table.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Another great group! I’m with Millsy, the geisha is especially fantastic!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Dropdead gorgeous work yet again!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Lovely stuff Curt, especially the Geisha -a printer is a must I think

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Kerry. Yes, the 3d printer is a wondrous thing.

      Delete
  13. Noice! Love the colours and the models - so much great 3D printable stuff out there now.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Truly, it's getting better all the time. Spoiled for choice.

      Delete
  14. These are stunning Curt, the colors are perfect, 3D printing opens ones self to an endless array of minis

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Kent. Half the work is trying to figure out the colours for the female figures.

      Delete
  15. More figures upto your usual fantastic standard, simply lovely mate 👍

    ReplyDelete
  16. These three figures are great. The Geisha has some very nice brushwork, Curt. I also like the pose of the archer figure.

    ReplyDelete