PUBLISHER: WIZKIDS | RELEASE DATE: AUGUST 12TH

Wizkids Icons of the Realms range are a set of models designed with specific Dungeons and Dragons Campaign settings in mind. The idea is that you buy a bunch of boxes and you end up with a random mix of pieces, four models per box. The range for Mythic Odysseys of Theros are rather exciting. They’re heavily inspired by the greek myths, but also the Theros range of Magic the Gathering cards

The art-work for Theros is quite extensive and eye-catching; anyone who’s played the card game will be familiar with the distinctive blend of classic myth and modern high-fantasy art. The question is, is it possible to turn this sort of things into a 3D painted model and keep the same sort of shock and awe we get from the card and roleplaying game?

It comes pretty close. For example the model ‘Emissary of Erebus’ is a giant serpent and the mix of purple and gold makes it look like it’s leapt straight out of the card and into your hand. The Theros version of a Nightmare (a demonic horse) is a mix of translucent black plastic and terror. It also captures the setting very well. Smaller pieces, such as the mechanical falcon known as the Anvilwrought Falcon, are simple but also very well done and reminiscent of Clash of the Titans. Pieces such as the Lampad Nymph capture the otherworldly strangeness of setting in a tiny bit of painted plastic.

Pre-painted models aren’t for everyone, but these are rather nice examples of what you can get and highly evocative of the setting. Worth adding to your collection.