So... Bill and I got a playtest game in. The scenario and deployment for the new mission is nearly perfect. Also, 1 HQ and 1 Troop choice really helped out my Space Marines.
But our adventure was missing the same element as any good comedy.
"What element were you.." TIMING! ".. missing?"
Our game took two hours to play. Now, we puttered around the table and allowed ample time for fauxchismo. But we figured we could only shave 30 minutes off our time at best.
Now, this makes sense. Twice as many models on the table should take twice as long to play. 1 army @ 500 points, 45 minutes. Two armies @ 500 points, 90 minutes. But this makes 5 rounds very impractical.
More playtesting required, but for this to work, I believe it's very likely we'll need to limit matches to 5 rounds. No random game length. That should help, some.
If playtesting continues to go this long, something will need to be compromised and I can't figure out what. The last event went so well because all parts worked in harmony. 5 rounds, W-L format, brackets for more prizes, it all dovetailed nicely together.
I do strongly encourage other people to try out games, and see how long it takes. The more information the better.