Which Round Base Size is Right for Your 40k Miniatures?
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Miniature games like Warhammer 40k have a lot of rules and regulations that players need to follow. One of the most important is the size of the base that your miniatures are placed on. Choosing the right size of base can be crucial for the gameplay, aesthetics, and balance of the game. In this article, we'll discuss the different base sizes available for 40k miniatures and help you decide which one is right for you.
Table of Contents
- What Are Round Bases?
- Base Sizes Available for 40k Miniatures
- 25mm Round Bases
- 32mm Round Bases
- 40mm Round Bases
- 50mm Round Bases
- 60mm Round Bases
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Base Size
- Game Rules
- Miniature Size
- Game Balance
- Aesthetics
- Pros and Cons of Different Base Sizes
- 25mm Round Bases
- 32mm Round Bases
- 40mm Round Bases
- 50mm Round Bases
- 60mm Round Bases
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. What Are Round Bases?
Round bases are circular bases that are used to hold miniatures in tabletop games like Warhammer 40k. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, but the most commonly used material is plastic.
2. Base Sizes Available for 40k Miniatures
There are several sizes of round bases available for 40k miniatures. Here are the most commonly used ones:
2.1. 25mm Round Bases
25mm round bases are the smallest and most common base size for infantry models in Warhammer 40k. They are ideal for smaller, human-sized models and are used for basic troops like Space Marines, Imperial Guard, and Ork Boyz.
2.2. 32mm Round Bases
32mm round bases are slightly larger than 25mm bases and are used for models that are slightly larger or more detailed. They are commonly used for characters, such as heroes or unit leaders.
2.3. 40mm Round Bases
40mm round bases are used for larger models that take up more space on the battlefield, such as Dreadnoughts, Centurions, or larger monsters like Tyranid Warriors.
2.4. 50mm Round Bases
50mm round bases are the largest base size commonly used in Warhammer 40k. They are used for even larger models, such as vehicles, monstrous creatures, or larger units like Terminators.
2.5. 60mm Round Bases
60mm round bases are the largest base size available for 40k miniatures. They are used for massive models like the Imperial Knight or a Tyranid Hierophant.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Base Size
When choosing a base size for your 40k miniatures, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
3.1. Game Rules
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a base size is the game rules. The rules of Warhammer 40k state which base size is appropriate for each miniature, and using the wrong size can result in penalties or disqualification. Be sure to consult the official rules before making any decisions.
3.2. Miniature Size
Another factor to consider when choosing a base size is the size of the miniature itself. Smaller models like Space Marines or Ork Boyz will fit comfortably on a 25mm base, while larger models like Terminators or Dreadnoughts will require a larger base.
3.3. Game Balance
The choice of base size can also have an impact on the balance of the game. Larger models on larger bases may have a wider range of attacks and be harder to maneuver, while smaller models on smaller bases may be easier to surround and take down.
3.4. Aesthetics
The aesthetic appeal of the miniature is another factor to consider when choosing a base size. Larger bases can provide more space for detailed scenery and add more visual interest to the miniature, while smaller bases can make the miniature appear more compact and focused.
4. Pros and Cons of Different Base Sizes
Now that we've discussed the different base sizes available for 40k miniatures and the factors to consider when choosing a base size, let's examine the pros and cons of each size:
4.1. 25mm Round Bases
Pros:
- Ideal for smaller, human-sized models
- Easy to maneuver on the battlefield
- Often included in starter sets
Cons:
- Can appear cramped or cluttered with larger or more detailed models
- Can be harder to balance on the base
4.2. 32mm Round Bases
Pros:
- Provide more space for detailing and posing models
- Can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the miniature
- Provide a larger target on the battlefield
Cons:
- May require re-basing of older models
- Can be harder to maneuver in tight spaces
4.3. 40mm Round Bases
Pros:
- Provide a larger footprint for larger models
- Can add visual interest and provide more space for detailing
Cons:
- May not be compatible with some older models
- Can be harder to maneuver in tight spaces
4.4. 50mm Round Bases
Pros:
- Provide a larger footprint for even larger models
- Can add visual interest and provide more space for detailing
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than smaller base sizes
- Can take up more space on the battlefield
4.5. 60mm Round Bases
Pros:
- Provide the largest footprint for the largest models
- Can be visually striking and impressive
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than smaller base sizes
- May require custom-made bases for some models
5. Conclusion
Choosing the right size of base for your 40k miniatures can be a crucial decision for both gameplay and aesthetics. By considering the game rules, the size of the miniature, the game balance, and the aesthetics, you can make an informed decision about which base size is right for you.
6. FAQs
- Can I use a larger base than the recommended size for a miniature?
- No, using a larger base than the recommended size can result in penalties or disqualification.
- Can I use a smaller base than the recommended size for a miniature?
- No, using a smaller base than the recommended size can also result in penalties or disqualification.
- Can I re-base my older models to a larger size base?
- Yes, but be aware that it may impact the balance and appearance of the model.
- Can I use different base sizes for different models in the same unit?
- No, all models in the same unit must be placed on the same size of base.
- Can I use custom-made bases for my miniatures?
- Yes, as long as they are