New Miniatures and Gender Diversity in the Legio Custodes

Games Workshop has unveiled a significant expansion of the Legio Custodes miniature range, introducing new plastic kits for the Horus Heresy. This release includes a boxed set featuring various models, such as the Custodian Sentinels, who are equipped with sentinel warblades and praesidium shields. The new models are designed to be compatible with both the Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 games, allowing players to incorporate them into their existing armies.

Warhammer New Year Preview: Horus Heresy – Here Come The Legio CustodesGW reveals a whole plastic Adeptus Custodes army for Horus Heresy that makes the 40k minis look like trashThe New Year Preview – All-new Legio Custodes Revealed

The new Legio Custodes models showcase a high level of detail and craftsmanship, reflecting a substantial upgrade from previous resin versions. The infantry designs draw inspiration from classic artwork associated with the Horus Heresy, particularly the works of John Blanche and Neil Roberts. The models are noted for their ornate features and improved proportions, enhancing their visual appeal on the tabletop. Notably, the new Custodian Dreadnoughts can be assembled in two distinct configurations: the Contemptor-Achillus, which excels in anti-armour capabilities, and the Contemptor-Galatus, designed for crowd control.

GW reveals a whole plastic Adeptus Custodes army for Horus Heresy that makes the 40k minis look like trash

In a notable shift for the franchise, the upcoming releases will also include mixed-gender units within the Legio Custodes. During a recent preview event, Games Workshop highlighted the introduction of female head options for several miniatures, including the elite Shield Captain. This marks the first explicit representation of female units in the Legio Custodes, aligning with the broader trend of inclusivity in tabletop gaming.

Games Workshop emphasized that the new models not only enhance the Horus Heresy experience but also provide Warhammer 40,000 players with fresh options. The company stated, "These kits are technically for Horus Heresy, but if they have a datasheet for 40k, there’s no reason you can’t use these models in 40k!" This statement underscores the versatility of the new miniatures.

While the introduction of female Custodians has been met with enthusiasm, some traditionalists within the community have expressed concerns regarding the changes to established lore and aesthetics. Critics argue that the heavily armored nature of the Custodes has historically obscured gender distinctions, making the introduction of female figures a contentious topic among long-time fans.

Following this preview, additional releases are anticipated, including the Caladius Grav-Tank and the Coronus Grav-Carrier. A new Liber Custodes rulebook will also be released, containing updated lore and gameplay rules for the Custodes in the Horus Heresy.

GW reveals a whole plastic Adeptus Custodes army for Horus Heresy that makes the 40k minis look like trash

• “Oh and GW did mention during the preview that these kits are technically for Horus Heresy, but if they have a datasheet for 40k there’s no reason you can use these models in 40k!” — Games Workshop

Warhammer New Year Preview: Horus Heresy – Here Come The Legio Custodes

• “The new models are far more detailed than the previous version, far more ornate and baroque, pulling in more of the classic Rembrandt and Dürer influences that make the most iconic Heresy artwork both epic and timeless.” — Wargamer

GW reveals a whole plastic Adeptus Custodes army for Horus Heresy that makes the 40k minis look like trash

• “This marks the first time that the army has explicitly shown to have female units, although one could imagine that the heavily armored figures could be of either gender underneath their large helmets and breastplates.” — Gaming Trend

The new Legio Custodes releases represent a significant evolution in both gameplay and representation, reflecting Games Workshop's commitment to innovation and inclusivity in the Warhammer universe.