Here are some photos and a report from this year's massive Hive, Queen, and Country 15mm game at Origins:
The Human aerial assault on the Hive began with some air combat and massive rocket bombardment from the Shakespeare-Class assault ships. This cleared a landing zone and allowed troops and tanks to deploy into a (relatively) uncontested region. Probably less than a quarter of the first wave was eaten, though the Hive took its revenge on several of the Shakespeare's, disabling them.
Some Hive flyers chewed through the remaining ornithopters before heading off to stop a second wave of Shakespeares. Others engaged the landing parties and inflicted a heavy toll – even Teddy Roosevelt himself was under threat (briefly, before a disapproving look from him sent the Hive creatures scuttling for cover) . A solid line of mechanical walkers pushed along a narrow bridge towards the heart of the Hive, clearing a path for infantry.
The Humans were able to force the Hive Queen and Hive King into the open, where she was quickly surrounded by aerolyth dropships. However, counterattacks by Hive shooters and flyers kept them tied up and they were unable to kill the insectoid monarchs.
In the end, the verdict was a marginal Hive Victory!
Many thanks to all the folks who participated, and our partners – Rosa Miniatures, Proving Ground Games, and Gaming Models.
Check out the new HQC Kickstarter: link