DanTO
- Oct 20, 2023
- 4 min read

ArcFest: The Evolution of Miniature Wargaming.

In the world of miniature wargaming, there are events that stand out as l egendary… enthusiasts from across the country, around the world, gather to celebrate their shared passion for building plastic models and using them in tabletop strategy games in a

miniature scale in search of champions.

For more than 25 years Warhammer 40,000 has seen fans flock to the iconic Arc40k event in Australia. Known for its epic battles, amazing hobby output, camaraderie, and a competitive spirit which transcends every aspect of the miniature wargaming hobby.

But why should the winning formula created by Arc40k be limited to just one gaming system? So, it’s finally time to brace yourselves for a new era of the miniature Wargaming hobby in Australia - with the introduction of ArcFest.

We hope that this next phase where we grow and develop what hopefully will be the definitive festival that celebrates every aspect of table top wargaming hobby with Arc40k leading the way at it’s centre and the headline event Of the weekend.

Why has Arc40k been such a success and what do we want to spread across as many wargaming systems as we can?

The enduring principles of Arc40k - playing for fun, showcasing a painted army, and forging lasting friendships – can apply across to the entire wargaming world.

These values have been a driving force for Arc40k across its 25 years. Principles that created a camaraderie and passion that transcends any battlefield. Arc40k has engendered an environment of respect and acknowledgement that have forged rivalries and built friendships among our growing pool of veteran attendees.

So, with the inception of ArcFest, we hope these cherished principles are about to spread their wings to influence the broader tabletop wargaming community.

Whether you're immersed in the grim darkness of the 41st & 31st millennium, exploring other fantastical universes, or participating in historical re-enactments, ArcFest hopes to unite players of all systems, bringing some fundamental values to life in an inclusive and vibrant celebration of the miniature wargaming hobby.

In doing so, ArcFest hopes to exemplify its core overarching principles, that wargaming is not just about table top gaming, but that it is a gateway to joyous and enduring fun, a celebration of artistic expression, and an opportunity to create enduring bonds of friendship.

The Arc40k Spectacle

For 25 years, Arc40k has been the crown jewel of wargaming events in this country. It’s an undisputed fact that it has been an ongoing and amazing annual gathering of Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts in Melbourne Australia.

What started as an opportunity to be a battleground for Warhammer 40,000 armies to clash once a year, grew to become so much more.

Arc40k is a weekend where lifelong friendships have been forged, heroes have been crown and legends of the game and this hobby have been born.

So, Arc40k has created a grand tradition that will see it endure regardless of when and where it is held. But it is also set to be the headline event for the newly launched ArcFest.

The principles and practices that have created Arc40k are what will see Arcfest blaze a trail into the future. It promises to create more of the good times & fun that players have come to expect from Australia’s Premier Warhammer 40,000 event and spread that across many more table top gaming systems.

Events That Shine

ArcFest has so much to offer table top miniature enthusiasts:

ArcOpen Miniature Painting Challenge

Our premier miniature painting event allows participants to immerse themself in the challenge of painting fantasy wargaming and display miniatures to exceptional levels.

Painters of all levels are encouraged to showcase their skills in the ArcOpen Challenge. It’s about

displaying their meticulously crafted works of miniature art.

Display painting of miniatures is a unique, yet engaging way to share a creative vision with fellow enthusiasts.

Perhaps your participation could see you walk away with an accolade, recognition, or insights into where you need grow or need to do next in your painting hobby journey. Best of all everyone’s work is recognized and recorded at ArcOpen. It’s great to see this event return and grow with the ArcFest format.

Days of Future Past - A Marvel Crisis Protocol Event

Step into the Marvel Universe to engage in tactical combat in our unique Marvel Crisis Protocol event.

Join fellow heroes and/or villains in epic battles. Compete in some fast-paced skirmish games that capture the essence of the comic book world.

Days of Future Past will see you play 5 Games over 2 days - it’s a coming together of mates, bringing along fantastic miniatures that are fun to play with and battle against.

ArcHeresy - A Warhammer: Horus Heresy Narrative Event

Delve into the dark and involving lore of Warhammer's Horus Heresy.

In this 5 game, Zone Mortalis, narrative-driven event weekend, experience the opportunity to build your own epic story of betrayal or loyalty as events of this seminal moment in the battle of traitors and loyalists in the Warhammer 30,000 universe unfold on the tabletop.

and more on the way...

A long time ago... in an Age Of wargaming... yet just in the last century on the battlefields of Europe... or on the pitch in the old world... we have definitely have some planned announcements of some other events and activities going on at ArcFest, so keep a keen eye on the socials... May the wargames be with you...

A Festival of Friendship and Community

ArcFest represents the culmination of the wargaming enthusiasts' dreams - a place where a myriad of games, stories, and miniatures unite under one banner in one location.

Whether you're a fan of Warhammer 40,000, a painting maestro, a Marvel aficionado, a devotee of the Horus Heresy, or Star Wars strategist, this festival is your stage to celebrate the hobby you love.

ArcFest is more than just a collection of tournaments and competitions - it's a celebration of the friendships and connections that form within the wargaming community.

It's a place to meet like-minded individuals, share your passion for the hobby, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Mark your calendar and join us for the debut of ArcFest, where the legacy of Arc40k continues, and new adventures await.