Only a minor grievance...

Now, like so many of you, I have no small number of bones of contention with the distributor of our most beloved plasticrack. But, one in particular gets to me more than almost any other... Games Workshop's persistent and determined tendency to favour Warhammer 40k more than any other system of theirs.

Don't get me wrong, 40k has its perks, and I certainly don't dislike it - heck, I have 15,000pts of Imperial Guard to prove that - I just object to its enforced domination over the other systems GW produce; several of which should and could eclipse it, based upon their own, individual merits. Its not only infuriating to us hobbyists - the singlemost important component of the hobby - but makes for bad long-term business sense... I mean, you don't see Bethesda Softworks sitting pretty after Oblivion, now do you?

I fully understand a company capitalizing on a hot franchise, with an almost guaranteed fast-move on any new product released each month, I really do. But, it is a short term solution to financial gains, it shows little sustainability, and whilst securing a rapid flow of sales for now, it could actually prove detrimental in the long run; driving away disenchanted hobbyists, tired of the systems they like being neglected in favor of the 40th Millennium.

When I walk into my local haunt, and it happens to be rammed to the rafters with squeaking little people, each as jumped up and conceited as the next, I am always willing to bet that its due to the latest 40k release. You see, the giddy, pubescent up-starts are only interested in the guns and explosions of the far future. Their imagination hasn't got the processing power to encourage their participation in the other systems. And, without the ballistic interest; inherent in every aspect of 40k; Fantasy, LoTR, Bloodbowl and Necromunda aren't of much concern.

What angers me most about all of this however, is that GW value these teenagers more highly than devoted, loyal fans. Why? Because they are an easy sale, and quick profit without much need for pitch or persuasion. My gripe, is that 99% will be in the hobby a year or two, and then ditch it for "cooler" things. Yet, you and I spend thousands, and remain in the hobby for years, all the while our needs, wishes and desires are always seen as a second priority.

All I really ask, is that GW value all of its customer base evenly, and treat all of its systems with the same passionate gusto that they do 40k...