The point has been made and it is valid, that FFG is not making WZ but a different aspect of the universe. Yes, we all (or at least most) have enjoyed the MC universe in various incarnations. As part of my Crusader application I even boasted that I have a complete set of DoomTrooper (the card game for those who don't recognize the name). However, how often do we actually play those other incarnations? My SotC/Fury/ Blood Beret pieces are converted/painted and used for my UWZ games. The bottom line is that we (here at this forum) are here because of the metal-mini game and not the other aspects of the universe. All of the other incarnations are fine for what they are but, the backbone of this universe has been the metal table top for many years now. It has even usurped the genesis of this universe, the RPG!
I harbor no ill will towards FFG. They are a business and they are doing what businesses do. They are indeed doing what they feel they must in order to MAKE MONEY! The game may or may not be fun and successful, however, many of the things that have been mentioned as improvements to the system, I take as a slap in the face. What they call tediousness in creating a force list I call an opportunity to showcase my strategy and style. Why do the rules need to be streamlined? As a community we tend to agree that (typos and editing aside) we have one of, if not the best rules system around in the realm of miniatures gaming.
I actually do wish FFG luck and appreciate them adding another option to the MC universe. However, I feel as if they are not considering the desires of the current fan base of this universe. They seem to be going out of thier way to design a game which does not appeal to the group which kept this universe alive, only for them to grab the license and CAPITALIZE on the blood, sweat, and tears of those who have sponsored the game before them!
I encourage everyone who is a fan of the MC universe to try out the game with an open mind. I think that it may indeed find a place within the realm of MC much like SotC, Fury, DoomTrooper, etc. but, I think that FFG is fool-hearty if they think that it will take the place of the table top metal-minis.
That said, I further encourage everyone to not panic and start selling off your metal thinking that the system is dead. I know that Joe, myself, Topkick and others are looking at preserving UWZ and keeping it not just alive, but thriving. If you don't believe me, make your way to Origins this year. The Mid-Western Crusaders' Club will be hosting enough UWZ and Chronopia events that we do not have a break in the schedule from Thursday morning to Saturday at midnight.
Respectfully,
Stalker