In this episode of Rogue & Blasted, the boys tackle one of the big questions in Warhammer 40k: is the Warhammer 40k more fun when you stop trying to win?

The guys dig into the balance between competitive play and enjoyment, exploring how tournaments, streaming, and pressure to perform can lead to burnout. Winning brings satisfaction, but chasing optimisation at all costs can strip the joy from gaming, painting, and army building. From commission painting expectations to the dangers of comparing your work to others, they talk about how subjective quality really is.

The conversation also highlights the social side of Warhammer: community, experimentation, and enjoying the journey, even in defeat. 

They discuss building versatile armies, trying new units, and finding fulfillment beyond the win-loss record.

Naturally, then wrap things up with a very serious debate: who would win— a Sister Repentia or a mob of Grots?

From confusing croutons and futons to Connor refusing to field 120 Kroot, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating fun, competition, and community in Warhammer 40k. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Warhammer 40k Fun

02:22 The Value of Winning vs. Enjoyment

04:33 Streaming Games: Pros and Cons

06:33 Painting Challenges: Time vs. Quality

09:23 Burnout in Competitive Gaming

12:24 The Balance of Being Good and Enjoying the Game

15:23 The Social Aspect of Gaming

18:23 Commission Painting and Expectations

21:15 Comparing Yourself to Others

24:11 The Trade-offs of Competitive Play

30:32 Aesthetic Cohesion in Armies

31:50 Experimenting with Different Units and Tactics

34:43 The Balance Between Fun and Competition

35:48 Building a Versatile Army

37:40 The Journey of Playing and Painting

39:41 The Importance of Enjoyment in Loss

43:19 Training Wheels and Community Engagement

45:10 The Painting Journey and Realistic Goals

46:32 Comparing Progress and Setting Realistic Expectations

50:27 Who Would Win: Sister Repentia vs. Grots?

👉 Subscribe for weekly Warhammer 40K podcast episodes

Looking for commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

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In this episode of the Rogue and Blasted Podcast, the crew jump back into one of their favourite debates this time with the full team, sparked by listener feedback and some very strong opinions. From the quality of modern models to the state of the rules, lore, and community, they dig into what’s changed and whether it’s all for the better.

As always, it’s a mix of hobby philosophy, competitive hot takes, lore nerdery, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a tournament regular, a casual dice-roller, or someone just getting into 40k, this episode tackles what makes the game great and where it might be holding itself back.

Keywords

Warhammer 40k, podcast, gaming community, tabletop games, Grimdark, competitive play, hobby, model quality, technology in gaming, narrative play, Warhammer 40K, tabletop gaming, competitive play, codex system, gaming community, lore development, Thunder Wolf, Bullgryn, gaming subscription model, casual gaming

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:01 Are We in the Golden Age of Warhammer?

02:05 Grimdark Would You Rather Segment

10:51 Community Engagement and Competitive Play

18:07 The Role of Technology in Warhammer 40k

28:23 Nostalgia vs. Modern Gameplay

36:55 Final Thoughts on the Current State of Warhammer 40k

42:13 Unlocking Codexes: A New Approach

44:00 The Impact of Technology on Gameplay

47:41 Competitive vs. Casual Play: Finding Balance

51:18 Stagnation in Warhammer Lore

01:08:09 Who Would Win: Thunder Wolf vs. Bullgryn?

In this episode of the Rogue and Blasted podcast, Steven, Matt, and Dan chat about what “tabletop ready” really means and where the idea came from. The lads compare tabletop-ready models to tournament-level paint jobs, share their own painting habits (and disasters), and talk honestly about the balance between speed, quality, and just getting models on the table. There’s plenty of banter, a few war stories involving questionable paint decisions, and some reassurance for anyone who’s ever been overly critical of their own work.

They also touch on approachable painting techniques for beginners like dry brushing and sponging and discuss why “good enough to play” often matters more than perfection. The episode wraps up with a chat about commission painting, encouraging people to have a go themselves first, as painting your own models can be surprisingly fun, relaxing, and rewarding.

Takeaways

'Tabletop ready' is often seen as a baseline standard for models.

The term likely originated from Games Workshop's early publications.

There is a distinction between 'tabletop ready' and 'tournament ready' models.

Quality of painting can vary greatly among hobbyists, influenced by experience and personal standards.

Self-critique can hinder enjoyment in the hobby, as many hobbyists are their own harshest critics. 'Tabletop ready is what you're happy to put in front of you.'

'It's about when to apply the paint more than anything.'

'You might find this is really enjoyable and relaxing.'

'You are always your own worst critic with this kind of stuff.'

'It's just about being in the game, having fun, having a laugh with your mates.'

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tabletop Ready

07:04 Exploring the Meaning of Tabletop Ready

09:46 Painting Techniques and Standards

12:30 The Painter vs. Player Dilemma

30:31 The Concept of Tabletop Ready

31:24 Painting Techniques for Beginners

34:09 The Role of Commission Painting

38:25 Personal Satisfaction in Painting

42:23 Final Thoughts on Painting Standards

👉 Subscribe for weekly Warhammer 40K podcast episodes

Looking for commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle

In this episode of Rogue and Blasted, the hosts discuss their experiences returning to the Warhammer hobby after a long break. They explore the changes in the gaming landscape, the evolution of painting techniques, and the impact of new game mechanics. The conversation also touches on the nostalgia of customization in the hobby and the rise of 3D printing and proxies. The hosts share their thoughts on the current state of the hobby and what they miss from the past. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of the Warhammer community, including the rise of independent 3D printing, the retail strategies of Games Workshop, the evolution of painting products, and the impact of mainstream appeal on the franchise. They discuss the growth of the community, the influence of corporate changes, and the current state of Warhammer as a hobby, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of its evolution.

takeaways

• The hobby has become more mainstream and accessible.
• Painting techniques have significantly improved over the years.
• Customization options in models have decreased with newer kits.
• Game mechanics have evolved to include more strategy and complexity.
• 3D printing is becoming more prevalent in the hobby community.
• The quality of models has drastically improved with new technologies.
• Nostalgia plays a big role in the hobby experience.
• The community around Warhammer has expanded with more shops and events.
• The hosts reflect on their personal journeys back into the hobby.
• There is a balance between maintaining game integrity and allowing customization. Independent 3D printers fill a niche that Games Workshop overlooks.
• Games Workshop's retail strategy focuses on premium shelf space.
• The variety of painting products has significantly improved over the years.
• Warhammer's mainstream appeal is generally seen as positive.
• Concerns exist about the potential dilution of Warhammer's grim themes in mainstream adaptations.
• The community has grown and become more welcoming over time.
• Corporate influence has improved customer experiences in the Warhammer community.
• The current state of Warhammer is viewed as a golden age for the hobby.
• The artwork and lore of Warhammer have become more formulaic compared to the past.
• Independent stores play a crucial role in the Warhammer ecosystem.

titles

• Back to the Hobby: Old Gits Unite
• Grimdark Woodgerraders: A Hobbyist's Dilemma

Sound Bites

• "I do kind of miss that"
• "I think most people want"
• "It's a great niche."

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Banter

02:46Hobbying and Painting Preferences

05:16Grimdark Choices: Lucius vs. Urien

07:52Would You Rather: Battle Choices

10:31Getting Back into the Hobby

13:15Changes in the Hobby Landscape

15:57Quality of Miniatures and Painting Techniques

18:55Gaming Mechanics Evolution

21:26Customization in Army Building

24:193D Printing and Proxies in the Hobby

27:18Mainstream Appeal of Warhammer

44:41Exploring the Dark Themes of Dune and Warhammer

48:04The Evolution of Grimdark Storytelling

51:42The Impact of Artwork on Lore and Imagination

53:56Community Growth and Corporate Influence in Gaming

01:01:56The Battle of Typhus vs. Helbrecht: Who Would Win?

01:18:47Copy of Rogue and Blasted Banner (Video) (1).mp4

It’s a quieter one this week as a few of the crew take a well-earned break over Christmas and New Year, so Steve and Konnor sit down for a relaxed catch-up on Episode 14 of The Rogue and Blasted Podcast. They chat painting dilemmas, how the Tau army has changed over the years, and what they reckon might be coming with 11th Edition. There’s also some talk about game balance, playing for fun vs playing to win. Less structure, more hobby chat, and plenty of opinions.

Looking for commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle

What’s worse in the Warhammer 40K universe: being flayed alive by the Drukhari, turned into corpse starch, or spending eternity as Servitor Santa?
In this episode of Rogue & Blasted, we push grimdark “Would You Rather” questions to their absolute limit — and somehow make them worse.

This episode dives headfirst into the darkest corners of Warhammer 40,000, mixing brutal lore, dark humour, and real talk about the hobby. Alongside some truly cursed scenarios (corpse starch mince pies included), we also break down the reality of competitive Warhammer — what it actually takes to win tournaments, why most players never break into the top tier, and when the game stops being a hobby and starts becoming a job.

We also recap the year in Warhammer, discuss GTs vs RTTs, tournament goals for next year, faction loyalty vs meta-chasing, and the uncomfortable truth behind coaching, practice time, and competitive obsession.

If you love Warhammer lore, grimdark humour, tabletop gaming podcasts, or honest discussions about the hobby — this episode of Rogue & Blasted is for you.

👉 Subscribe for weekly Warhammer 40K podcast episodes
👉 Comment below: which fate would you choose — flayed, servitor, or corpse starch?
👉 Watch till the end for competitive insights and next-year Warhammer goals

Looking for commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle

In this episode of The Rogue & Blasted podcast, the lads break down their favourite and least favourite armies in Warhammer 40K to face off against. From Custodes and Eldar to Blood Angels, Space Marines, and Votann. Expect plenty of banter as they dive into player stereotypes, “honest” vs. “dishonest” armies, and the realities of competitive play (including questionable tournament habits). Along the way, they tackle classic “Would You Rather” dilemmas, share personal tabletop experiences, and settle a very important debate: Guardsman vs. Termagant who actually wins? It’s faction talk, hot takes, and classic Warhammer humour all round.

Looking for commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle

In this grimdark themed episode of the Rogue & Blasted podcast, Steve, Konnor, and James dive into some of Warhammer 40K’s most disturbing (and hilarious) hidden bits off lore and gameplay. From nightmare encounters with Genestealers and Flayed Ones, to fleets of black ships scouring the imperium for psychic food for the emperor. We look at some of our favourite bits of grimdark which we have become accustomed to over the years. We feel like we have only scratched the surface here so prepare for a part 2! 

This episode is a fun, chilling walk through the darker corners of the Warhammer universe. 

Looking for commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle

In this episode, the guys explore the art  of getting better at the competitive side of Warhammer 40k. We dig into sportsmanship, mindset, and why taking a loss on the chin is one of the most important skills any gamer can learn. Winning feels great, but learning to lose well? That’s where the real growth happens.

Looking for box art style commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Looking for grim dark commissions: www.blastedminiatures.com

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle

In this episode, the lads dive head first into the irresistible Warhammer Whirlpool. Exploring why this hobby is so addictive, creative, and hard to escape once you’re in. From the joy of painting and the depth of Warhammer lore to the pull of community, tournaments, and face-to-face gaming, the crew share personal stories about falling back into 40K and why it still hits so hard as adults. They chat nostalgia, creativity, social gaming, new releases, and the darker corners of the 40K universe. And of course, things end with a very serious lore debate Valdor vs. Azrael. A fun, relatable look at how Warhammer keeps dragging us back in.

Looking for box art style commissions: www.rogue-miniatures.co.uk

Looking for grim dark commissions: www.blastedminiatures.com

Support the show - get discounts on UK Warhammer purchases by using our link to Wayland Games: https://affiliates.waylandgames.co.uk/1245.html

#Warhammer #podcast #gaming #40ktournament #Warhammercommunity #minipainting #hobby #mensmentalhealth #tabletop #Warhammer #tabletopgaming #mentalhealth #commissionpainter #eavymetal #spacemarines #Tyranids #tau #spacewolves #sistersofbattle