RichardL wrote:
I think it's worth noting that a lot of armies now have substitutes available from places like Vanguard and Onslaught, and that while some of the old plastics are still kicking around on E-Bay, it might almost be better to encourage new players to be getting the substitute models given it keeps those companies investing in new models.
While it's more expensive than a 'bargain bin' lot on E-bay, it's also not that expensive (certainly compared to something like a 40k army) - you'd probably drop around £120 for a 3k army, which i think is pretty reasonable overall. Also, you actually get what you want rather than a random selection of stuff...
^this^
if people want companies like Vanguard and Onslaught to keep producing new models, then they have to support them, I know some folks HAVE to have the GW aesthetic (le sigh) but that's hardly an itch to be scratched by a bunch of monopose naff old plastic models from 15+ years ago anyway
You can make complete and competetive (and great looking) IG, Ork and Marine armies from Vanguard miniatures alone, Onslaught cover a bunch of other stuff.... if you want to play the game but don't want to spend any money then maybe pic another hobby? if it's about intro games, buy two armies of your own and loan them out to beginners?