The Comm Guild Maelstrom's Edge

Game Primer: Updated Base Rules


Posted on Wednesday Aug 04, 2021 at 06:00pm in Gaming


In Maelstrom's Edge games, a model’s base represents the space that they occupy on the table, and is used for measuring distances for movement and weapon ranges when shooting. Maelstrom’s Edge bases also include arc markers which define the model’s front and rear arc, which is relevant for various in-game interactions. With the release of our new, expanded range of bases, the original rules for using different or customised bases on Maelstrom’s Edge forces need a little bit of an update.



The Maelstrom’s Edge rulebook includes various guidelines for customising your models without inadvertently breaking the rules by changing how that model functions on the tabletop, and a part of that covers appropriate basing. Originally, these rules only had to deal with four different bases (including the hex-shaped flying bases), but with that number expanded out to nine, we wanted to allow players some freedom for creative modelling without forcing anyone to rebase existing models. As such, the text from the ‘Custom Basing’ section on page 132 of the Maelstrom’s Edge rulebook should be replaced with the following:

CUSTOM BASING

Models are normally mounted on the base specified for them as part of their model kit.

Conversions will sometimes result in a model not fitting on the correct base. Some players also like to use larger, impressively-detailed bases to make their character models and other significant units stand out on the table. While using a different sized base has an impact on how the model functions on the table, particularly for things like movement and unit coherency, so long as the change is not too extreme this has minimal practical effect on the game. As such models may be mounted on a base one size smaller or larger than specified in their instructions. In units of more than one model, all models with the same original base size must be mounted on the same alternate size.

You can use custom bases, or bases from another manufacturer, but these must have appropriate arc markings modeled or painted on, and fit within the same size range as above. For example, if a model would normally have a 32mm base, then any alternate base would need to be within 28-36mm in diameter. If the alternate base has modeled elements on it that significantly raise the height of the model compared to a standard base, then this qualifies as the model being converted as detailed above.




As we update the build instructions for our kits, these will include the relevant base size for each model. In some cases the default base size for a model may change – for example, the Remnant Nimbus is being updated to use a new 40mm base instead of the original 46mm, although the kit will come with both for the moment – and in these cases both the original and the updated base size can be considered valid. We don’t want anyone to feel like they need to pull apart their carefully finished models to update them!

While you're playing with bases, check out the Hobby Basics and the Tips & Techniques pages in the Hobby section of the Maelstrom's Edge website for some tips and tutorials covering different basing methods. Find them here!





Get your game on by ordering the Battle for Zycanthus set, along with the rest of the Maelstrom's Edge range, from the webstore here! Free shipping applies to qualifying orders - check your cart for details.

If you have any questions on bases, model building, or any other aspect of Maelstrom's Edge gameplay, feel free to pop in to the Comm Guild Facebook group here.

Find the Maelstrom's Edge rules and the full range of models at www.maelstromsedge.com

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