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CF Secret Santa LIGHTNING ROUND

CF SANTACF SANTA Registered User regular
edited December 2013 in Critical Failures
CF's Secret Santa Holiday 2013!


>Who Is This For?

While Critical Failures (nee Of Dice and Men) originated as a domain mainly to give a home to the miniature game posters outside of G&T, it has expanded to encompass all of our gaming brethren and sistren, and all are welcomed here.

Don't be discouraged if you've never set foot in the mini gaming threads. Be you an aficionado of D&D, WoD, Dresden Files, or even F.A.T.A.L. (wait, no, scratch that last one. Those people will be dragged into the street and shot) we'll find a Santa to give you your own special gift of Awesome.

>Awesome! What are the rules?

Just read on below!

Names will be taken until 2359GMT ON THURSDAY 31ST OCTOBER, at which point no further names will be accepted. In the day or two following that date names will be picked at random and assigned to individuals, one name per entrant. The name you receive will be the person you will be gifting - and the point of this event is that you are a Secret Santa, so please don't go spouting off to all and sundry. Based on the preferences that your recipient will post when they register to be a part of the event, you will then be prompted buy/convert/paint/whatever you deem suitable for a gift.

You will then be able to collect or work on whatever is being sent. The deadline for your recipient to get his gift is going to be 31st January 2014 - that leaves you with "plenty" of time to put together whatever it is and get it sent out.

THIS DOES NOT MEAN TO START THINKING ABOUT MAYBE BUYING A GIFT A WEEK BEFORE THE FINISH, YOU DOZY MONGBATS. If anyone fails to provide a gift within a reasonable time (or at all), they will be summarily barred from the next event - or possibly worse (if you've ever perused the Who was Banned thread, the forum's collective Santa events generally produce one or two deadbeats a year - don't be THAT guy!). The Holiday 2009 event went without a single hitch, 2010 was nearly as good and I'd like it to stay that way. Order sooner rather than later so you don't get screwed by some store/shipping/natural disasters.

As before, I will be offering an incentive:
When your recipient posts that they have received their gift, you may PM me and I will disclose the identity of your Santa. This means that if you get your stuff sent out and done early, you get to know who is sending you a gift. Some of you may not want to take advantage of this option and ruin the surprise, which is completely understandable, but it may help motivate a little bit.

>What would constitute a suitable gift?

This is where we unfortunately get subjective. I'd like to think we all have the good common sense to pick good gifts in this regard. For guidelines, I'd suggest something like $10/£6 (or $15/£9-ish with shipping) as a minimum. The minimum price on the gift is there to mostly prevent someone from sending like a single arm, half a body or the random pages that fell out of someone's crappily produced D20 OGL book. If you wish to do so then by all means go as far above this minimum limit as you want, it'd be awesome to see that sort of thing on the whole. Our current record, I think, is Gabriel_Pitt who sent someone an entire fucking tyranid army. You will basically be held to the honour system (and the threat of being pointed at and beaten with internet-sticks) to ensure that the person who you are gifting does not feel cheated. By all means, send a titan to your Santee if you wish!

Gift recommendation are a combination of what you're capable of, and what your Santee wants. A PnP gamer who's never touched bare pewter is probably not the right person to give a complete Cryx strike force too. On the other hand, they might greatly appreciate receiving a nicely painted rendition of their PC from their long-running forum game, or the latest expansion sourcebook in their setting of choice.

Even if you aren't that good with models, you can definitely still participate - nobody's ever said no to a boxed set, and it's a nice and simple gift. Books, modules, and other nifty aids to table top gaming will certainly go over well with the right people.

Single miniatures, books, or accessories are more than welcome and might actually be preferred in some senses, so long as they meet the $10/£6 minimum requirement. There's no need to feel obligated to get someone the Compleat Box set of D&D 4.0 core books just because they express an interest in the system (The PHB should suffice, but if you really are feeling generous...). Be careful though - it's no use having an amazing plan if your Santee never actually gets the gift. Don't go crazy and end up never getting anything sent.

>I live in [insert country no-one has ever heard of]. Can I participate?

ABSOLUTELY! Ideally, we would get a few people from all over to participate. To make sending the gifts easier, I will organize people into categories based on location while drawing the names to try and keep international mailing to a minimum.

>How do I sign up?

Entries are not considered official until I (CF SANTA) receive a PM from you containing the following:

1. Your name;
2. Your address - PLEASE MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE COUNTRY SO I DON'T HAVE TO GUESS;
3. What games you collect/play/would like a gift from.
4: Suggestions - 'I play Exalted' doesn't help your Santa much in narrowing down what would be a good gift. Saying something like, 'I play Exalted and have been looking at getting Dreams of the First Age, Graceful Wicked Masques, or Scroll of Heroes' gives your Santa an idea of what you wants, and helps Santa if he's not familiar with your chosen system.

If you do not send this PM, you will not be entered in the event!

I require this information to make sure that you won't all have to pay an arm and a leg in shipping to make sure these minis arrive safely and intact. Still, some of you may have to make the sacrifice and spend a little extra on international shipping. I will try to avoid this, but it may become necessary if I can't organize people close enough to each other.

DO NOT SEND ME A PM JUST SAYING "I'M IN"

Even if you participated in the last event,your personal information has not been kept. I also need to explain something - when your santa gets your information, they receive it in the form of THE SAME MESSAGE YOU SEND ME. I literally forward your contact information and model preferences to the person giving you your gift, so the reason to make you all jump through the hoops of filling the information out is so that I have something to supply to your Santa. I also want to make sure I have up-to-date information.

When you sign up, please put some money aside for the gift right then. If you do not have said funds, do not sign up. The overwhelming majority of excuses that we always get are from people not having enough money to actually purchase a gift for their Santee, so I want to nip this in the bud. I realize most of you won't know at the time of sign-up who you're getting or what you're going to be gifting, but it's not unreasonable to put twenty-ish dollars or fifteen-ish pounds aside for the event right at the off.

After you've sent the PM, I'd recommend you post the games you collect or are interested in in this thread, as well. Too specific makes the gifting process a bit silly. List the games you wouldn't mind receiving items from, as well as what you might already collect, so your gifter might have some starting point.

>How do you assign Santas?

Utilizing super-secret scientific method and a crack team of genetically modified English muffins, we assemble the Santa Master List™ at a classified military installation fourteen fathoms down in the general vicinity of the Marianas Trench.

As I don't have a swanky enough hat, Operation 'WHERE'D ALL THE MONEY GO 2011' will probably be run using the old staple of bunging your name on the back of one of my business cards and fishing them randomly out of a cardboard box.

It's all done in one completely random shot. I don't tamper with it in any way (UNLESS I REALLY NEED TO, YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE), though I do take some requests into consideration in setting the names in the box up (location, for example - I NO LONGER DO A SEPARATE DRAW for the regions of the world but if you have a real problem with postage, I can tweak this a bit).

>What do I do when I send/receive my gift?

A few suggestions for sending the gift:

* Include your name (forum name) so people have some idea of who is sending them this wondrous bounty! It really shouldn't be all that hard to just write your handle on a piece of paper and throw it in.
* Consider using Delivery Confirmation/Tracking so you can track your package and make sure it gets there.
* Check in with your recipient via PM a few days after sending to confirm receipt if you don't hear anything.


Also, some guidelines for receiving the gift:

* Let your Santa know it arrived! One less thing they have to worry about.
* VERY VERY IMPORTANT: Post in the thread that the package arrived, and show off what you got!
* Take some damn pictures! Your Santa probably worked very hard on the gift, and we're all dying to see what's being exchanged.


One last final point: While lurkers are welcome to participate, I reserve the right to use absolute discretion in ruling people out of participation. If you have absolutely zero posts or a bare minimum number and you register on the boards to try and take part in this, I probably won't let you participate. Past events have shown that these users have been the most likely to vanish off the board never to be seen again, or otherwise welsh on their end of participation.

And if you DO try to mess around with the system, Santa will have your address. And a crew of trained hunting reindeer.

P.S. Santa went on a bender this year and that's why things are a bit late. The consequences of this error I pass on to YOU! Lightning round means we have less of a turn-around for signups along with only a short extension to gift giving. Join now, but only if you know you can deliver within the 3 months (sounds like a long time right) or you will know my wrath!

santasig.jpg
Sterica on
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Posts

  • CF SANTACF SANTA Registered User regular
    Post reserved for important updates vis-a-vis reindeer feeding and breeding.

    santasig.jpg
  • TraceofToxinTraceofToxin King Nothing Registered User regular
    As someone who doesn't celebrate Christmas and generally derives pleasure from the misery of others, I've uncharacteristically excited about mailing one of you shmucks something to make you happy.

    Is this what having a heart feels like?

    Everyday I wake up is the worst day of my life.
  • Dr_KeenbeanDr_Keenbean Dumb as a butt Planet Express ShipRegistered User regular
    I will, in almost absolute certainty, not be participating this year.

    You're welcome.

    PSN/NNID/Steam: Dr_Keenbean
    3DS: 1650-8480-6786
    Switch: SW-0653-8208-4705
  • Mikey CTSMikey CTS Registered User regular
    I am filled with Christmas cheer!

    // PSN: wyrd_warrior // MHW Name: Josei //
  • see317see317 Registered User regular
    As someone who doesn't celebrate Christmas and generally derives pleasure from the misery of others, I've uncharacteristically excited about mailing one of you shmucks something to make you happy.

    Is this what having a heart feels like?
    That, or a bad case of gas.

  • SakutianSakutian Registered User regular
    I've watched the Secret Santa going on ever since I started posting here and I think I'd like to join in on the fun this year.

    My Games

    Dresden Files RPG- Dumb Luck

    Playing Phillip Hess in Motor City Blues

    GM of M&M "And Justice For All."
    GM of Dresden Files Low Life
    GM of Star Wars Sagas Into the Unknown
    GM of Star Wars Sagas Lost Hope- Concluded
    GM of Star Wars Sagas the Dark Times- Concluded.
    GM of Star Wars Sagas Jabba's Palace- Concluded due to injury.
    Bart Allen/ The Flash in M&M Metropolis- Concluded.
    Koyi Disturbances in the Force- Concluded.
    Jessup Owlbeard Forge of the Dawn Titan- Withdrawn due to injury.
    Sal Mander In the Shadow of Zeus- Concluded.
    Zevoto in Out in the Black- Withdrawn due to injury.
    GM of Wyvern Watch
    Berru Secune in Rise of the Jedi
  • NullzoneNullzone Registered User regular
    YESSS I was waiting for this to show up

  • vertrouevertroue I am Female Totes Not a SithRegistered User regular
    I think I will try this out this year.

    Blood and Fire
    From the Desk of Darth Vertroue Diplomat to the USA.
  • valhalla130valhalla130 13 Dark Shield Perceives the GodsRegistered User regular
    I've enjoyed this. It seems to be the only time I get something for Christmas I like. "No, mom. I don't like plaid shirts."

    asxcjbppb2eo.jpg
  • Khade97Khade97 Registered User regular
    Count me in Santa :) PM on its way.

  • Grunt's GhostsGrunt's Ghosts Registered User regular
    Can I do Christmas even if I'm Jewish? Or do I need to celebrate Hanukkah and send eight gifts?

  • The EnderThe Ender Registered User regular
    I better not catch you kids playing zoozit or kazay again this year.

    Oh the noise!

    With Love and Courage
  • E.CoyoteE.Coyote Registered User regular
    Winter is coming! That and profile stalking for gift ideas.

  • FaranguFarangu I am a beardy man With a beardy planRegistered User regular
    I only have the money for one of these, and the G&T one got put up first. :(

  • see317see317 Registered User regular
    I'm in, PM sent.

    @Echo, could we get this thread stickied?

  • ArchpriestArchpriest Fmr timfiji Halfway2AnywhereRegistered User regular
    I'm in! PM Sent. Been mostly lurking this past year, but board gaming going strong.

    Looking forward to wearing my Gifting +2 pants!

    Switch: SW-2322-2047-3148 Steam: Archpriest -- Selling Board Games for Medical Bills- Ask if interested!
  • ExtreaminatusExtreaminatus Go forth and amplify, the Noise Marines are here!Registered User regular
    Aw, yiss.

    Secret Santa time is here again. My body is ready.


    Let's do this.

  • TraceofToxinTraceofToxin King Nothing Registered User regular
    Aw, yiss.

    Secret Santa time is here again. My body is ready.


    Let's do this.

    my_body_is_ready.png

    Everyday I wake up is the worst day of my life.
  • Erin The RedErin The Red The Name's Erin! Woman, Podcaster, Dungeon Master, IT nerd, Parent, Trans. AMA Baton Rouge, LARegistered User regular
    I am also in. Let us get this thing on the road!
    In the time honored tradition of phalla, I totally ignored the OP.
    I just PMed with "i'm in!"
    That should be enough, yeah?

    Anyway, Woodhouse! Get the machine! It's party time!
    tumblr_m19484SXmv1qi7deco1_500.gif

  • Mad JazzMad Jazz gotta go fast AustinRegistered User regular
    In honor of my recent rejoining of the neckbeards of the world in playing the 'hams, I will delurk myself and end my secret santa hiatus. PM incoming.

    camo_sig2.png
  • Erin The RedErin The Red The Name's Erin! Woman, Podcaster, Dungeon Master, IT nerd, Parent, Trans. AMA Baton Rouge, LARegistered User regular
  • Iron WeaselIron Weasel Dillon! You son of a bitch!Registered User regular
    TRV didn’t include me in his invite, but I’m going to participate anyway, so nyah!

    Currently Playing:
    The Division, Warframe (XB1)
    GT: Tanith 6227
  • RetabaRetaba A Cultist Registered User regular
    Hmmm, it looks like this year will be a year of gifting for me.

    I was never good at that so I should get the practice in!

  • jdarksunjdarksun Struggler CORegistered User regular
    wat

    ok

  • Erin The RedErin The Red The Name's Erin! Woman, Podcaster, Dungeon Master, IT nerd, Parent, Trans. AMA Baton Rouge, LARegistered User regular
    TRV didn’t include me in his invite, but I’m going to participate anyway, so nyah!
    >:)
    Spite signups. Yes. All of them

  • Gabriel_PittGabriel_Pitt Stepped in it Registered User regular
    Woah, almost missed it this time. That would've burned - someone not getting the awesome experience of having me for a Santa. :lol:

    All I want for Christmas is a modicum of humility.

  • see317see317 Registered User regular
    Woah, almost missed it this time. That would've burned - someone not getting the awesome experience of having me for a Santa. :lol:

    All I want for Christmas is a modicum of humility.
    One Ketchum_Ash special, coming up.

  • DenadaDenada Registered User regular
  • Dr_KeenbeanDr_Keenbean Dumb as a butt Planet Express ShipRegistered User regular
    edited October 2013
    I'm rethinking my position on this since I realized I can totally just buy things and ship them and not have to take shitloads of time lovingly painting a mini.

    EDIT: PM sent. Let's do this.

    Dr_Keenbean on
    PSN/NNID/Steam: Dr_Keenbean
    3DS: 1650-8480-6786
    Switch: SW-0653-8208-4705
  • Erin The RedErin The Red The Name's Erin! Woman, Podcaster, Dungeon Master, IT nerd, Parent, Trans. AMA Baton Rouge, LARegistered User regular
    I'm rethinking my position on this since I realized I can totally just buy things and ship them and not have to take shitloads of time lovingly painting a mini.

    EDIT: PM sent. Let's do this.

    The games I play require like NO minis!
    So just get me!

  • DayspringDayspring the Phoenician Registered User regular
    edited October 2013
    I'm in, PM sent, let's do this
    I am primed and ready

    EDIT: I forgot to add to my santa PM: My twitter feed is almost exclusively pictures of stuff I paint, so if you want to know colours or ideas about what I already have, that's a good place to look.

    Dayspring on
    My Warhammer stuff online: Youtube Twitter Insta
  • GrimmyTOAGrimmyTOA Registered User regular
    Yeah, I'm looking forward to being part of this lunacy.

  • Dr_KeenbeanDr_Keenbean Dumb as a butt Planet Express ShipRegistered User regular
    What I will buy for @Dayspring should I get him:

    4870178035_9d4df565cd_z.jpg

    PSN/NNID/Steam: Dr_Keenbean
    3DS: 1650-8480-6786
    Switch: SW-0653-8208-4705
  • DayspringDayspring the Phoenician Registered User regular
    best gift ever

    My Warhammer stuff online: Youtube Twitter Insta
  • ArcticLancerArcticLancer Best served chilled. Registered User regular
    Oh hey, it's a good thing on Halloween day I remembered, "I should check to see about secret santa signups ..."

    I only have a little time tonight to write, so I hope it's not THE END OF DAYS if I send a better writeup of suggestions and hints in a day or two. You're all welcome to swear at me in the meantime. Just remember that if you turn out to be my Santee, I cannot be held responsible for what arrives on your doorstep.

    Seriously, love you guys, and looking forward to this.

  • Gabriel_PittGabriel_Pitt Stepped in it Registered User regular
    I hope I get someone who plays Eldar. I have some wicked ideas for well posed wraith stuffs.

  • ArcticLancerArcticLancer Best served chilled. Registered User regular
    Also, while I remember it: If any of you guys get a Canadian santee who plays miniatures games, miniaturemarket.com is pretty solid for shipping to Canada. Their prices are good, their shipping is very reasonable, and they do a great job with customs so that the recipient doesn't get dinged.

  • TraceofToxinTraceofToxin King Nothing Registered User regular
    I hope I get someone who plays Eldar. I have some wicked ideas for well posed wraith stuffs.

    I'd play the tits off some Eldar. You should just redact yourself from the event and send them to me.

    Everyday I wake up is the worst day of my life.
  • Erin The RedErin The Red The Name's Erin! Woman, Podcaster, Dungeon Master, IT nerd, Parent, Trans. AMA Baton Rouge, LARegistered User regular
    @CF Santa is there any chance of getting a list of who all signed up? I like to have a list of possible subjects for who could be stalking me :D

  • RetabaRetaba A Cultist Registered User regular
    Don't be silly, TRV, I am always stalking you. Like I know you've played Terraria 26.3 hours in the past two weeks!

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