Base size and 2"

[storeylf]

I gather new base sizes are larger than 2", though I haven't got any. Which raises an issue which our group once had a discussion on, but wasn't quite as relevant as it may be now, and even less relevant when we were using the older 2400 models with smaller bases.

Several rules require things ti be within 2" to work - tractors, transporters and Ph3 and gatling killzone).

The rule book says ships cannot stack, but it doesn't actually say what it means by that. Is the base important, or is it just the 'stem' that counts, or the model itself.

Importantly, does it mean you can only go to base contact, but not overlap bases. That would mean that you cannot use some actions if it isn't possible to be within 2" range due to larger bases, and 2" killzone becomes an irrelavance.

 

[billclo]

Good question.

I allow bases to overlap, so long as the model isn't tipping over. For this reason and others, I use the small bases for frigate hulls, as it allows them to get closer to things.

As for being required to be in "base contact", I basically ignore it when I have to. For example, with transporters, the 2" range makes little sense to me. In SFB the range is 5 hexes, halved for this game I think, which equals 2.5". I tried to use 2" in a convention game where the ships had to go to a planet and beam down to a particular location. 2" was not workable due to crowding between the ships and planet. I used 3", figuring 2.5" rounded up was not that unreasonable.

But yes if the rule says bases have to touch, it's going to affect things. Which is probably one of those unintended consequences of Mongoose changing bases. I don't know why they did, probably to save money, but it's far less convenient for some of us players.

I've been hoarding the last of my socket and ball adapters to put on minis that come with the new style bases - I cannot and will not use glued on stands, as it takes up way too much storage and transport space. But buying a bunch of Corsec or Ninja Magic bases is a significant expense and hassle as well. :?

 

[Keeper Nilbog]

If your interested, Billco, i have a few of the ball and socket stems, as i don't use them. If you want them PM me.

 

[Iain McGhee]

I'd suggest just going with base contact when the stand size doesn't allow you to place them within 2", an extra inch or less range isn't that big a deal when so much is abstracted anyway.

BTW Billclo, you might want to take a look at the Litko bases. They use a peg-topper "washer" mount which lets you detach the model from the stand as needed. I'm taking a look at their 35mm hex bases as an alternative to the standard ones, although you can buy their pegs and toppers seperately and modify the current/new round bases to take them.

 

[nekomata fuyu]

What's the dimensions on those flight peg toppers? They seem a little information averse on their website.

 

[Iain McGhee]

They look to be around 6mm, let you know when I get them