Wargames Atlantic - British Expeditionary Force review It wasn’t so long ago that the British Expeditionary Force, and early WWII in general, got somewhat short shrift in miniature representation. That’s started to shift, with some fine metal figures available already, and now, an excellent set of 30 plastic figures from Wargames Atlantic (WA). These new plastics capably represent the mixture of veterans and green troops that headed to the continent at the onset of the war. Each of the five frames in this set contains enough parts to build six figures of wonderful-looking BEF soldiers, but can be used to make the doughty Home Guard, too, thanks to alternate heads. There are 17 head options per frame in total, with Brodie helmets (uncovered and covered), bonnets, Home Guard caps, and visor caps. This allows you to build quite the selection of men, as seen in the pictures here. Torsos include a kneeling and prone option; these will be perfect to mix up the look of your troops and use the heavier weaponry in the set. Sure, there should be very minor differences in elements between the BEF and Home Guard, such as webbing, but we’re not picky when the main options are here. Those include BARs, Lewis Guns, and Thompsons, ideal for assembling your ‘boys who will make Hitler think again’. SMLE and P-14/17 Enfield rifles make the cut, too, along with a Bren, and mortar. That’s a fine selection! Add in kit and officer bits, and we really are in a golden age of generous plastics! There is, of course, huge appeal in the later War, when troops got more elite and armour got more impressive, but there’s room in our hearts for these early troops. The initial fighting by the British in the opening months of the Second World War is great for wargamers who want a different kind of challenge. As Europe was overrun, Blitzkrieg warfare proved too powerful for the British infantry, which put the focus on survival and escape. If you enjoy imaginations gaming (A Very British Civil War, anyone?), then these will do the job, too, and the Home Guard bring further ‘what if?’ options. In short, this is a versatile set with some fine sculpts and a good bit of gaming potential behind it! There are plenty of modular kit options to add to your figures. Add a scarf and Private Pike from Dad’s Army can be constructed. Dynamic poses are easy thanks to the varied bodies. The prone body is a great addition.
