In Episode 278 of The Independent Characters, Carl takes us along for the ride at The Maelstrom Mixer - a fantastic community event. Carl breaks down how the event is structured, walks you through the games he played, and shares the stories behind the people he met across the table. Whether you've attended a Mixer before or have always been curious what all the fuss is about, this is your inside look at what makes this kind of event so special to the narrative and community side of Warhammer 40,000.

Then we turn our attention to one of the most exciting things to come out of the new Armageddon launch box - the Dominatus Deck. This innovative new system promises to transform the way groups run Warhammer 40,000 campaigns, weaving individual battles together into a living, breathing narrative while keeping the bookkeeping refreshingly light.

We walk through the full four-step campaign loop: from rolling to determine contested locations and their war zone rules, to reading Alliance Briefing cards that set the narrative stakes, pursuing thematic Agendas instead of standard objectives, and earning Battle Honour or Battle Skill cards that follow your units through the campaign. At phase end, controlling alliances claim location bonuses and powerful Relic cards; all building toward a climactic three-phase arc that culminates in one decisive final battle.

If you've ever wanted a campaign system that tells a great story without drowning you in paperwork, the Dominatus Deck might be exactly what we have all been waiting for.

Time Stamps:

• 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played
• 0:22:00 – The Maelstrom Mixer
• 1:07:00 – Dominatus Deck Discussion
• 1:35:15 – Final Discussion and Show Closing

Relevant Links:

• The Independent Characters Patreon
• Tablewar! – SPONSOR
• Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR
• Adepticon
• Games Workshop
• The Black Library