Games Workshop has officially announced the highly anticipated 4th edition of its wildly popular fantasy miniatures wargame, Warhammer Age of Sigmar with the Skaventide Starter Set. The new edition, set to release on July 13th, 2024, promises a comprehensive overhaul of the game’s rules, mechanics, and narrative, ushering in a new era for the Mortal Realms.
The Skaventide Starter Set
Spearheading the 4th edition launch is the “Skaventide” starter set, a colossal collection featuring 74 miniatures from the iconic Stormcast Eternals and the long-awaited return of the fan-favorite Skaven faction. This starter set promises to be a treasure trove for collectors and newcomers alike, offering a glimpse into the game’s revamped mechanics and lore.
Among the highlights are updated Stormcast Eternals Liberators, the grizzled veterans of the newly introduced Ruination Chamber, and a horde of skittering Skaven Clanrats, accompanied by their volatile war machines and crackling green magic. The Skaven’s resurgence as the antagonists of this edition is a nod to their enduring popularity among fans, who have eagerly awaited their return to the forefront of the Mortal Realms’ narrative.
Revamped Rules and Mechanics
While the starter set promises an abundance of new miniatures, the true heart of 4th edition lies in its revamped rules and mechanics. Games Workshop has confirmed a ground-up redesign of the rules for all Age of Sigmar armies, promising a more streamlined and accessible experience without sacrificing the game’s depth.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a new game mode called “Spearhead,” akin to the popular Combat Patrol mode in Warhammer 40,000. This mode aims to provide a quicker and more accessible entry point for new players, while still retaining the strategic depth that veteran players crave.
The infamous “double turn” mechanic, a long-standing point of contention among players, has been fine-tuned, with more opportunities for opponents to react during their opponent’s turn. This change promises to inject more dynamism and interactivity into the game, fostering a more engaging and balanced experience.
A New Era for the Mortal Realms
Beyond the mechanical changes, 4th edition promises to usher in a new narrative era for the Mortal Realms. The Skaventide starter set’s narrative revolves around a massive Skaven invasion, hinting at a cataclysmic event that will reshape the very fabric of the Age of Sigmar universe.
This narrative shift is accompanied by a culling of older miniature ranges, with Games Workshop retiring 82 kits, including Beasts of Chaos, Bonesplitterz Orruks, and the Stormcast Eternals’ Sacrosanct Chamber. While this decision has drawn criticism from some collectors, it underscores Games Workshop’s commitment to streamlining and refocusing the game’s narrative and miniature ranges.
A Bright Future for Age of Sigmar
As the release date draws near, anticipation among the Age of Sigmar community continues to build. The 4th edition promises to breathe new life into the game, attracting newcomers with its accessibility while offering veteran players a fresh and engaging experience.
With Games Workshop’s commitment to supporting its flagship games and the Age of Sigmar community’s unwavering passion, the future of the Mortal Realms looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of Age of Sigmar, the 4th edition promises to be a landmark moment in the game’s history, ushering in a new era of epic battles and narratives.
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