If you play tabletop strategy games, you likely know the challenge of identifying different squads of infantry. Either the models are the same build, the weapons are similar, or the painting is similar, and when the units get bunched together, it is hard to separate which soldiers go with which squad. Or you don’t have time to paint and are fielding squads of gray plastic in an informal battle.
The solution for me at least in the past has been to either paint the rim of the base different colors or highlight a portion of the model with different colors (i.e., the shoulders of B1’s). Some players prefer to paint the unit in different patterns or colors entirely. In each case, it leads to 2 new challenges – either the unit now no longer fits “canon” and can look out of place (I am thinking of a unit of pink or purple Stormtroopers), or you lose the ability to mix and match the models to fit either the needs of squad size or the choice of specialized weapons and equipment.
In my mind, the hordes of B1 Battle Droids, or Stormtroopers, or Rebel Troopers, or German or British infantry – the ones that we field large numbers of that are otherwise interchangeable – should be painted the same to match the theme. Outside of officers and leaders, who naturally get designated differently anyway, every member of the squad should be the same as the others. But then we need a way to separate the units clearly to both players.
Enter the Wargame Widget – an idea I am sure is not new, but one in which the implementation I believe to be unique. These provide a clear color-coding for squad designation, but in a temporary manner that can be swapped out during or between battles. Each widget is modeled to match the official base size, and snaps easily into place, attaching to the figure. The piece is tall enough to be secure, but short enough not to interfere with all the detailed bases and decorations we like to add these days. One side is left open, so that it doesn’t interfere with measuring tools or melee contact with other models. And as many as needed can be added or removed as needed for variable squad sizes.
Now you can paint your models consistently (or leave them gray if needed), and mix and match weapon options, officers, and unit counts, without having to commit long term to a particular build.
I am finishing up a test batch currently but look to add these to our Etsy shop in the next couple of days as a 6-color “army pack”. I can currently model Star Wars Legion and Bolt Action (since I have models for both) but would be open for other games if there is desire. You will certainly be seeing them show up in our video battle reports as well.
