A lot of table games even have ancient origins and popular casino-based games may have been invented hundreds of years ago. It isn’t the antique sets we’re focusing on here though it is the modern sets that can be made with 3D printing.
Amazingly, table games remain really popular in an age where ultra-realistic graphics mean games can focus on pretty much anything. Seemingly simple games like chess still hold up, partially due to the fact that no two games are the same and there are so many possibilities for how things pan out.
Table games have been on quite the journey and using 3D printing for the physical aspects of the games is another twist in the road.
Games like blackjack and roulette are thought to have origins in Europe and spread to the UK before coming over to America. Casinos became commonplace in America and some of them even adapted the games and invented new variations. Roulette is an example of a game that has been adapted with both American and European versions.
Another leap forward in the evolution of table games was when things moved online. The first online casinos gave us versions of these games in the 90s but they were very basic. Eventually, developers made more advanced versions of online roulette games with better graphics and a realistic look and feel. Even more variations in the gameplay became available and many table games had made a full migration to the digital world.
Chess and other table games have also been launched as apps and websites people can use to play against others. It is possible to connect with others and play games like roulette and chess at virtually any time and some people value the new convenience offered online.
Now, 3D printing has a part to play. Table games include a lot of games with models or chips and this means added options.
We’ve all seen novelty chess sets with characters playing the roles of king and queen, etc. Now they can be made at home, as one of the most exciting aspects of 3D printing is its ability to create highly detailed game pieces. Traditional games often come with standard pieces that lack personality. 3D printing has changed this by allowing enthusiasts to design and print their own pieces, infusing the game with a personal touch. It also means that a lost piece can easily be replaced (nobody wants to play chess using a makeshift item as a King.
In chess, each piece has a specific role and appearance, 3D printing can be used to create unique sets that reflect a player’s tastes or interests. Imagine a chess set where the knights resemble famous warriors from history or the rooks are modeled after iconic castles – even a set where your favorite animals represent the chess pieces! There is a way to print a “vertical chess set” which means the pieces aren’t as tempting for a cat to knock off the table!
In more complex strategy games, where players often use a variety of tokens and miniatures to represent their armies (we’re thinking D’n’D or Warhammer). 3D printing can be a game-changer. Instead of relying on mass-produced figures, players can now print detailed miniatures that bring their characters or units to life.
Lots of games can actually be played with pieces and units that are entirely 3D printed and there are a range of simple puzzle games as well as much more detailed miniature pieces. Historical wargames, which often rely on detailed miniatures and terrain, can be greatly enhanced with custom-printed figures and landscapes but the level of detail needs to be good if they are going to look right in your home.
3D printing allows players to create accurate representations of historical battles, adding a layer of realism and depth to the game.
3D printing isn’t really a new phenomenon anymore. That said, there are a lot of directions it may go in in the future and this means that exactly what happens is anyone’s guess. It’s hard to believe that it won’t become more common for people to be 3D printing at home.
In the not-so-distant future, it’s possible that entire games could be ed and printed at home, eliminating the need for physical packaging and distribution. This could lead to a new era of gaming, where players can instantly access and customize games to their own desires. Some people are much more drawn to this kind of practical hobby than others, but as it becomes easier it will be more of a mainstream thing to do.
From a full roulette set to just new pieces for a chess board when they inevitably go missing, 3D printing is big for table games and that won’t be changing anytime soon.
The early days of 3D printing were filled with big dreams and wild hopes. It seemed like the possibilities offered by these machines were limited only by the human imagination, the availability of the right materials and the size of the printer. The most amazing thing is that’s basically true.
3D printing has revolutionized many aspects of our lives, including the world of gaming. Whether you are a fan of classic board games or innovative new creations, 3D printing allows you to bring unique, high-quality gaming components to life. Here are five fantastic games you probably didn’t know you could 3D print, perfect for your next game night.
