The Weekly LIVE 268 – PAX Unplugged 2024, Amazon Warhammer Deal, Elven Expansion for the One Ring and Free League Partners with 2LM

Posted on December 16, 2024December 16, 2024 by upturnedtable_sx8obi

PAX Unplugged has solidified its position as the second-largest tabletop gaming convention in the U.S., boasting its largest post-pandemic event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. Its prime location near major metropolitan areas like New York City and Washington, D.C., gives it a significant advantage, drawing attendees and exhibitors alike. While specific attendance numbers weren’t disclosed, experts estimate that its turnout exceeds the 17,706 reported by Origins Game Fair by 50-100%. With nearly 400 exhibitors, compared to Origins’ 326, PAX Unplugged provides a robust showcase for board and card games, often serving as an alternative to the oversaturated Gen Con.

Games Workshop has taken a bold step by granting Amazon exclusive rights to adapt Warhammer 40,000 into film and TV. This move has fans both excited and wary, given the mixed history of geek franchises transitioning to mainstream media. While licensing promises a lucrative revenue stream with minimal costs, mishandling the beloved Warhammer IP could alienate the loyal fanbase that has sustained Games Workshop since 1983. Amazon’s track record—ranging from the success of Fallout to the controversial Rings of Power—underscores the risks and rewards of this partnership. If successful, it could position Games Workshop as a leading player in media licensing while drawing new fans to its tabletop universe.

Free League has unveiled two elven expansions, Realms of the Three Rings for The One Ring RPG and Keepers of the Elven-rings for its 5E counterpart, deepening players’ exploration of Tolkien’s Middle-earth. These expansions focus on the realms of Lórien, Rivendell, and Lindon, highlighting their lore, landmarks, and the enduring power of the Three Rings. Players can also delve into Sauron’s dark schemes and take on the roles of High Elves or Elf-lords. Available for pre-order with immediate PDF access, the expansions continue Free League’s tradition of blending rich storytelling with accessible game design, appealing to both Tolkien enthusiasts and tabletop RPG fans.

Free League has partnered with Italian studio Two Little Mice to publish the cinematic action RPG Outgunned. Drawing inspiration from classic action and heist films, Outgunned uses innovative “Director’s Cut” dice mechanics, emphasizing combinations over totals. Players take on the roles of heroes fighting against formidable villains in high-stakes missions. With the core rulebook, expansions, and a mini-campaign now available, Outgunned joins Free League’s portfolio of award-winning games like MÖRK BORG and ALIEN RPG. This new addition reflects Free League’s commitment to delivering immersive and genre-diverse gaming experiences.

#paxuplugged #oneringrpg #warhammer #2LM #freeleague

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The Weekly LIVE 265 – Household Bundle, Star Trek 2E Starter Set, N5 Delayed and Higher Tariffs

Posted on November 17, 2024 by upturnedtable_sx8obi

The “Household Bundle” offers English-language PDFs of the tabletop RPG “Household” by Riccardo Sirignano and Simone Formicola from Two Little Mice. Set in a wainscot fantasy world reminiscent of 19th-century Europe, players, as littlings (miniature folk), navigate political and social upheavals in a large abandoned house over five years following the First Household War. For $14.95, buyers receive the core rulebook, a practical guide on navigating the world, and a campaign sourcebook titled “A Saga of the Fragile Peace,” all available as DRM-free ebooks. Additionally, Two Little Mice will soon launch a new expansion, “Welcome to the Garden.”

Modiphius has announced the release of a new “2nd Edition Star Trek Adventures Starter Set,” launching in December 2024. The set includes everything new players need to begin exploring the Star Trek universe, such as a condensed rulebook, a 60-page sandbox campaign, reference sheets, dice, and tokens, retailing at $31.12.

Corvus Belli announced a delay of the new N5 Infinity ruleset release until December 2024, initially slated for November. The update was communicated via social media platforms, leaving fans disappointed but hopeful that the issue would soon be resolved. Pre-orders for “Operation Sandtrap,” a related set including starter forces and a play mat, continue to be available.

Concerns loom over potential tariffs proposed by the incoming Trump administration, which could severely impact the tabletop gaming industry. Experts fear tariffs on non-US goods (20%) and particularly harsh tariffs on Chinese imports (60-100%) would significantly raise production costs, potentially leading to increased prices, financial strain, and possible closures of game retailers and manufacturers. While some companies are preparing contingency plans, there remains hope that these tariffs may not be implemented or could be mitigated through industry adaptation and resilience.

#householdrpg #startrekrpg #modiphius #infinityN5

Order Operation: Sandtrap for N5:
https://store.corvusbelli.com/en/infinity/wargame/miniatures/operation-sandtrap

Household Bundle of Holding:

https://bundleofholding.com/presents/Household