Plastic Movement Trays For Tabletop Wargaming

Plastic movement trays are specialized accessories used in tabletop wargaming to facilitate the organized movement of multiple miniatures or units across the battlefield. These trays typically consist of a flat base with raised edges or individual slots designed to securely hold miniature bases of various sizes, allowing players to move entire formations as a single unit. By using movement trays, gamers can streamline gameplay, reduce the risk of accidentally knocking over models, and maintain precise unit formations during battles.

Movement trays are essential for large-scale battles because they streamline the process of moving multiple units simultaneously, significantly reducing game time and minimizing the risk of accidentally displacing individual models. By allowing players to move entire formations as a single entity, movement trays not only enhance gameplay efficiency but also help maintain the visual cohesion and tactical integrity of army formations on the tabletop. This is particularly crucial in massive battles where hundreds of miniatures are involved, as it ensures smoother gameplay and allows players to focus more on strategy rather than the logistics of moving individual models.

These movement trays are designed to be compatible with most standard tabletop wargame rules, as they adhere to common base sizes and formations used across various systems. They typically allow for easy measurement of unit coherency and movement distances, ensuring that your models remain in proper formation during gameplay without interfering with the game's mechanics. However, it's always a good idea to check your specific game's ruleset for any unique requirements or restrictions regarding movement trays.

You can find and purchase plastic movement trays for your tabletop wargames from various sources, including online retailers, local gaming stores, and specialty wargaming shops. The MiniWarGaming Forge website offers a selection of these products, as do many other online marketplaces dedicated to tabletop gaming accessories. Additionally, your local game store may stock movement trays or be able to order them for you upon request.

Plastic movement trays are compatible with a wide range of tabletop wargames that utilize unit-based gameplay, particularly those featuring large formations of infantry or cavalry models. These trays are especially useful in rank-and-file games where units are organized in tight, rectangular formations, but can also be adapted for skirmish-style games with more flexible unit compositions. The compatibility of movement trays ultimately depends on the base sizes of the miniatures and the specific rules of the game system being played.

Plastic movement trays for wargaming are typically made from durable, lightweight materials that can withstand frequent handling and transport. The most common materials used are injection-molded plastic and 3D printed PLA (Polylactic Acid), both of which offer excellent durability and precision in manufacturing. These materials allow for intricate designs and various sizes to accommodate different unit formations, making them ideal for organizing and moving miniatures efficiently on the tabletop battlefield.

To assess the quality of plastic movement trays for wargaming, particularly those made from 3D printed PLA, examine the smoothness of the surface, checking for any layer lines or imperfections that could affect miniature placement. Look for sturdy construction and precise dimensions to ensure proper fit for your models, and test the tray's durability by gently flexing it to gauge its resistance to warping or breaking during gameplay. Additionally, consider the tray's design features, such as raised edges or textured bases, which can enhance its functionality and ease of use on the tabletop.

Movement trays are often allowed in tournaments, but rules can vary significantly. Unofficial events are generally more lenient towards 3D printed products, including movement trays. However, official tournaments may have stricter regulations. It's crucial to check with the specific tournament organizers before using movement trays in competitive play, especially for official events. While many tournaments permit them, some may have restrictions or prohibit their use entirely. Always review the tournament guidelines carefully and contact the organizers directly if you have any questions about using movement trays in your army. This ensures you comply with all rules and avoid potential disqualification.

Movement trays are designed to be compatible with a wide range of miniatures and game components, including those from official manufacturers and independent producers. Their versatile design typically accommodates various base sizes and shapes, allowing you to use them with most standard infantry models across different game systems. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific dimensions of the movement tray and compare them to your miniatures' bases to ensure a proper fit before making a purchase.

To achieve the best results and durability when painting plastic movement trays, start by thoroughly cleaning the surface with soap and water, then lightly sand it to improve paint adhesion. Apply a thin coat of plastic primer, followed by your chosen acrylic paints in multiple thin layers, allowing each to dry completely before adding the next. Finally, seal your work with a clear varnish to protect the paint job and enhance its longevity during gameplay.