Right now, it seems as though there is a pretty clear divide between "This is the most amazing consumer product of the decade" and "Waste of time, it's not meant for consumers."
My take is closer to the former, and I'd suggest that even the past 1-2 years have shown significant steps that are worth getting excited about - especially if you've ever held a "mini" in your hand, played a tabletop game, or a collectible card game.
So are you wondering who those 10 crazy characters are in the picture? I'll tell you anyway. Those are the 10 gladiators in the beta set of a tabletop Ophidian Wars game. They are 54mm tall, and printed in ultra high detail plastic.
Why is this potentially interesting?
- The printing methods are allowing for ever-better detail. Previously 3D printing was fairly held back by lower quality visuals. They just couldn't compare to a more traditional process. That gap is getting very narrow. Our minis don't require assembly and still carry very fine details.
- In fact, the detail is so great, that I am able to print fully legible text on the pedestals of these gladiators that can be used IN GAME (see pic below).
- It begins with a digital file, not a sculpture. So every advantage that comes with a digital format (and there are many), is true here.
- The barrier to entry is significantly lower than traditional plastic molding/casting/manufacturing methods - both in terms of money and skill set. That's not to say it's "easy" or "cheap" but that's still much better than 'pretty much impossible.'
- You can print 3D direct-to-customer, or direct-to-partner/storefront. Self-distribution seems manageable, at least on a small-business scale.
If you want to follow the progress of the Ophidian Wars tabletop game, stay tuned here or on the Facebook page. We're currently beta testing and polishing up the rule book. Then we're hitting the road to show off our minis and visit game shops.
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