By: Andrew Scholl
I remember when I first saw a Youtube video on 3D printing. This huge machine making a working tool (wrench) and thought of how cool it was that we have something that brings us a step closer to the replicator-type invention from Star Trek. But the question that we should be asking is: to what extent will 3D printing affect our beloved hobby?
I remember when I first saw a Youtube video on 3D printing. This huge machine making a working tool (wrench) and thought of how cool it was that we have something that brings us a step closer to the replicator-type invention from Star Trek. But the question that we should be asking is: to what extent will 3D printing affect our beloved hobby?
3D printing is very close to being affordable to be in every home. Recently there was a successful kickstarter for a 3D printer, were you are able to pick one up at around the $300 mark. This was very closely followed by the Xia: legends of a drift system, who offered certain backers the information to make their own 3D ship models and pieces. With 3D printers becoming more affordable and accessible, these new tools are a thing of possibility for both the industry at large, and for us gamers.
For miniature gamers, 3D printing does not necessarily mean that you will be able to make FREE warhammer, malifaux, or what ever else figure (hello copyright laws), but it will mean that you could make your own realistic terrain, or enhancements to your figures (like making that big freaking cannon to replace that arm on your Orc). For companies, it could mean lower cost, and avail consumers to the ability to create their own army using 3D printing (Xia anybody?). Can you imagine going to a game store, and buying the code to print your own tanks for 'Flames of War'? Or replacing pieces from a board game on demand?
As 3D printing becomes more and more accessible to creative minds in the gaming industry, the easier it will be for them to see their vision become reality, without wasted man-power, money and time.
I don't have a magic mirror to see into the future (stolen by gnomes, long story) but its easy enough to think and dream of what the possibilities this technology will have for designers and us, as gamers.
For miniature gamers, 3D printing does not necessarily mean that you will be able to make FREE warhammer, malifaux, or what ever else figure (hello copyright laws), but it will mean that you could make your own realistic terrain, or enhancements to your figures (like making that big freaking cannon to replace that arm on your Orc). For companies, it could mean lower cost, and avail consumers to the ability to create their own army using 3D printing (Xia anybody?). Can you imagine going to a game store, and buying the code to print your own tanks for 'Flames of War'? Or replacing pieces from a board game on demand?
As 3D printing becomes more and more accessible to creative minds in the gaming industry, the easier it will be for them to see their vision become reality, without wasted man-power, money and time.
I don't have a magic mirror to see into the future (stolen by gnomes, long story) but its easy enough to think and dream of what the possibilities this technology will have for designers and us, as gamers.