When did Warhammer go plastic?
Warhammer, the popular tabletop miniatures wargame, has a rich history that spans decades. From its humble beginnings as a small, niche hobby to its current status as a global phenomenon, Warhammer has undergone many changes over the years. One of the most significant transformations was the switch from metal to plastic miniatures. But when exactly did Warhammer go plastic?
The Early Years: Metal Miniatures
The first Warhammer miniatures were made of metal, specifically a white metal alloy that included lead. This was the norm for many miniature games at the time, and Games Workshop, the company behind Warhammer, followed suit. The use of metal miniatures provided a high level of detail and durability, making them ideal for tabletop gaming.
The Introduction of Plastic
In 1987, Games Workshop began experimenting with plastic miniatures under the names "Psychostyrene" and "Drastik Plastik." This marked a significant shift away from metal and towards a more accessible and affordable material. The use of plastic allowed for greater mass production, making it easier for Games Workshop to produce and distribute a wider range of miniatures.
The Transition to Plastic
The transition from metal to plastic was not immediate. Games Workshop continued to produce metal miniatures alongside their plastic counterparts, allowing players to choose the material that best suited their needs. This gradual shift allowed the company to fine-tune their plastic manufacturing process and ensure that the quality of the miniatures remained high.
Advantages of Plastic
So, what are the advantages of plastic miniatures? Here are a few:
• Cost-effective: Plastic miniatures are significantly cheaper to produce than metal ones, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
• Lighter: Plastic miniatures are often lighter than their metal counterparts, making them easier to handle and transport.
• More durable: Plastic miniatures are less prone to damage and can withstand the rigors of frequent handling and transportation.
• Easier to produce: Plastic miniatures can be produced using injection molding, a process that is faster and more cost-effective than traditional metal casting methods.
Table: Advantages of Plastic Miniatures
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective | Plastic miniatures are cheaper to produce than metal ones. |
| Lighter | Plastic miniatures are often lighter than metal counterparts. |
| More durable | Plastic miniatures are less prone to damage and can withstand frequent handling and transportation. |
| Easier to produce | Plastic miniatures can be produced using injection molding, a faster and more cost-effective process. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Warhammer went plastic in 1987 with the introduction of plastic miniatures under the names "Psychostyrene" and "Drastik Plastik." This marked a significant shift away from metal and towards a more accessible and affordable material. The advantages of plastic miniatures, including cost-effectiveness, lightness, durability, and ease of production, have made them the preferred choice for many Warhammer players.