Gaming and Related Links - Updated 12/14/09

Online Retailers

Auggie's Games: I have ordered Star Wars miniatures from Auggie(?) three times. One time a miniature was missing. I emailed and was sent the figure without any hassle. I like Auggie's previously used Star Wars prices, because I could really care less if it is in the plastic or not, as long as it is undamaged. Slightly sketchy looking storefront, but a real fast-shipping company.

Miniature Market I have now ordered from Miniature Market three times. They have very competitive pricing, similar to the WarStore's, but oftentimes better. For example, Miniature Market has had AT-43 packs for $10.00 vs. $30.00 MSRP. Even the WarStore might only discount that to $22. 

Strike Zone Online I've placed maybe 3 orders through Strike Zone Online myself and received them each time in excellent condition and fairly quickly. I've also gone in with Harry on other orders. Their site is kind of an eyesore, but who am I to talk? The prices have been pretty good, as far as I can tell. Obviously, as an economist might point out, I found them to be acceptable.

The WarStore, as many gamers know, does excellent business. I haven't had any orders screwed up by Neal, but as I understand it, he will readily fix any mistakes. Love the discount and love the communication!

Terrain Manufacturers

Hirst Arts: Almost everything about Bruce Hirst and Hirst Arts is commendable and worthy of emulation. I qualify my statement, because I'm pedantic. Hirst Arts is awesome! The tutorials are excellent and I read them even if I don't buy the product. I've bought 14+ molds though. He also has some video tutorial support too!

Terranscapes makes awesome terrain. I have a section of modular Martian boards from Mike and the pictures do the product justice. I check Terranscapes daily as well as his Youtube channel. Well worth the wait.

World Works Games is on the same level as Hirst Arts. Great product. I can't see playing Heroclix without World Works Games. The community support is excellent. I personally love to hear Denny's Canadian accent as he explains scoring and gluing.

Miscellaneous

Unshelved: Unshelved is arguably the best web comic that I've ever read. That said, I don't read many web comics because the quality is usually inconsistent. Penny Arcade, for example, certainly has its fans, but one day it can be exactly spot-on hilarious commentary about a video game and then the next day it's some pointless sketch. Some of the references also go over my head. Unshelved though consistently either brings a smile to my face or makes me laugh out loud. Plus I just receive it via email each day, so it's quite easy for me to keep up with it.