fbpx JOIN LOGIN JOIN

Freaking Out Over Female Custodes: The Good, the Bad, and the Hype

female custodes art with battleforce painted models in background hor wal warhammer 40k dark

Games Workshop solidifies Female Custodes join Warhammer 40k lore, reshaping the Adeptus Custodes with inclusivity, and learn about their role, models, and future in the galaxy.

Updated December 17th, 2024, by Rob Baer with new information and links to relevant content.

In 2024 the Warhammer 40k universe got a major update: female Adpetus Custodes are officially part of the lore now according to Games Workshop. This move reshapes the iconic Adeptus Custodes, introducing inclusivity while staying true to the faction’s role as the Emperor’s most elite guardians. With new characters like Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh leading the charge, Games Workshop has sparked plenty of excitement—and a fair share of debate—among fans.

From their role in the lore to potential models and the inevitable mix of positive and negative reactions, this addition has the Warhammer community talking. Love it or hate it, Adeptus female Custodes are here, and the future of the grimdark galaxy is looking golden from Games Workshop’s point of view.

Games Workshop Introduces Female Adpetus Custodes

warhammer 40k female space marines how tall are custodiansThe Warhammer 40k universe thrives on surprises, and few have been as impactful—or as conversation-starting—as Games Workshop’s announcement of female Custodians. When the news broke, it wasn’t a casual update tucked away in a forum post. Oh no, this was a lore-altering bombshell delivered with all the subtlety of an orbital strike.

Announcement and Lore Update

Central to this revelation is Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh, a towering female Custodian who has taken the fandom by storm. Her debut in the 10th Edition Codex is more than just a passing mention—it’s a proclamation. Kesh isn’t simply a warrior standing guard in the gilded halls of the Imperial Palace; she’s a force of nature aboard the Vigilant Flame, a Cobra-class destroyer tasked with protecting the Emperor’s interests.

Whether she’s leveling her guardian spear or intimidating her crew into absolute focus, Kesh demonstrates that female Custodians are every bit as commanding as their male counterparts.

Female Custodes Warhammer TV

What makes Kesh stand out is her seamless integration into the existing lore. Her armor doesn’t deviate into overly stylized “feminine” territory. She’s a towering, golden powerhouse wielding her iconic weapon without frills or concessions to gendered stereotypes.

Her introduction has set a high bar, showcasing Games Workshop’s ability to bring representation into the 40k universe without compromising its grimdark core. Click any of the links below to jump to the info you need the most, or just dig in from the beginning.

Negative Fan Reactions & Lore Purist Concerns

 

Female Adeptus Custodes Femstodes warhammer 40k female space marines how tall are custodians

Female Adeptus Custodes 2 Femstodes warhammer 40k female space marines how tall are custodiansNot everyone greeted the announcement with open arms. As with any major change in Warhammer 40k, there was bound to be resistance, especially from lore purists who hold the game’s history as sacred. To them, the introduction of female Custodians felt abrupt—like a seismic shift that lacked the gradual buildup many fans had come to expect.

Critics pointed to decades of established lore, where the Adeptus Custodes were described in exclusively male terms. Codices referred to recruits as “sons” and the Custodes themselves as a “brotherhood.” For some, these details weren’t just semantics but foundational elements of the faction’s identity. The sudden retcon—complete with Games Workshop’s claim that female Custodians had “always” been a part of the lore—felt jarring to those who value continuity.

Then there’s the elephant in the room: neglected factions. Some fans argued that instead of rewriting Custodian lore, Games Workshop could have expanded on other underrepresented groups, like the Sisters of Silence or the Adepta Sororitas. Why not give these factions more narrative depth or spotlight instead of altering a faction as established as the Custodes?

Social media quickly became a battleground. On one side were fans celebrating inclusivity and growth; on the other were voices lamenting the change as unnecessary pandering. The debate has been passionate, to say the least, with forums and comment sections lit up like a battlefield under heavy fire.

Whether you’re cheering the change or mourning what feels like a lost tradition, one thing is clear: female Adeptus  Custodes have sparked conversations that won’t be fading anytime soon, thanks to Games Workshop’s new story. Love it or hate it, this addition has cemented itself as a pivotal moment in Warhammer 40k’s history, proving that the franchise isn’t afraid to shake things up—no matter how loud the reactions might be.

Positive Fan Reactions to Female Custodes in Warhammer 40k

 

Female Adeptus Custodes 5 Femstodes warhammer 40k female space marines how tall are custodians

When Games Workshop revealed the inclusion of female Custodians, many fans gave a resounding cheer (like Walter here)—not just because it was a bold move, but because it felt like the galaxy finally had room for more representation. For a universe as sprawling and diverse as Warhammer 40k, the addition of female Adeptus Custodes felt like a much-needed shift towards inclusivity from Games Workshop.

Representation matters, and for some players, this announcement hit close to home. The Adeptus Custodes are not just any faction; they’re the Emperor’s personal bodyguards, the pinnacle of human potential. To see women included in this elite group isn’t just refreshing—it’s downright inspiring. Female Custodians like Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh are not token characters but fully realized warriors who command the same respect, fear, and awe as their male counterparts.

For newer players or those who’ve felt sidelined by the overwhelmingly male-heavy factions, the addition of female Custodians makes Warhammer 40k feel more welcoming. It’s a reminder that the Imperium of Man, for all its grimdark flaws, still has room to evolve. The potential for storytelling here is huge: how might the lives of female Custodians differ from their male peers? How could they navigate their duties or bring fresh perspectives to the complex philosophy that defines the Adeptus Custodes?

Then there’s the tabletop side of things. Let’s be honest—new models are a big deal. Fans are already imagining how female Adeptus Custodes miniatures might look. Will they retain the same regal, golden armor as the male Custodians, or will Games Workshop introduce subtle design variations? For painters, the idea of adding female Custodians to their armies is exciting, offering fresh ways to customize and showcase their armies on the battlefield.

The positive buzz isn’t limited to just players, either. Content creators, artists, and hobbyists are seeing this as an opportunity to reimagine the Custodes and infuse them with even more creative flair. Female Custodians have sparked a wave of enthusiasm for the faction, breathing new life into their lore and community discussions.

Official Confirmation Form Games Workshop: Female Custodes in the 10th Edition Codex

Female 40k Custodes Femstodes warhammer 40k female space marines how tall are custodiansFor those steeped in Warhammer 40k lore, the Codex is sacred scripture, and the 10th Edition brought some noteworthy changes. Among these updates was a subtle but significant shift in language. Where older lore referred to Custodian recruits as “sons,” the latest Codex now uses the term “child.” This wasn’t just a one-off adjustment; it marked a definitive move toward inclusivity, paving the way for the official recognition of female Custodians.

Games Workshop didn’t stop there. In their announcement, they confirmed that female Custodians have “always” existed within the lore. For fans who previously assumed the faction was exclusively male, this was a paradigm shift. By highlighting the handcrafted, gene-forged nature of Custodians, the Codex makes it clear that gender doesn’t limit the creation of these golden warriors.

Unlike the mass-produced Space Marines, whose processes rely heavily on male biology, Custodians are bespoke, with the Emperor himself shaping their genetic templates.

This shift wasn’t just a cosmetic change but a reimagining of how the Imperium’s elite defenders are perceived. The move aligns with a broader push toward inclusivity within the Warhammer 40k universe, allowing fans to see themselves reflected in the game’s lore.

Female Adeptus Custodes in Media

female custode femstode muscle mommies adeptus tithes episode 2The narrative leap from tabletop to screen is always exciting, and female Custodians have already found their way into Warhammer TV. In Tithes Episode 2, we see a female Custodian in action, a striking representation of Games Workshop’s new direction. Towering and armored, she commands the scene without a word, proving that these warriors aren’t just additions to the lore—they’re integral to the Imperium’s grand tapestry.

This appearance has sparked speculation about what’s next. Could female Custodians make their way into Space Marine 2 or other Warhammer media (maybe the Cavill series)? Fans are already buzzing with theories. A fully realized female Custodian character in a game would not only enhance storytelling but also cement their place as a core element of the 40k universe.

This integration into multiple media forms underscores a key point: female Adeptus Custodes are here to stay. From Codex to screen, they are being woven into the fabric of Warhammer 40k, adding both depth and new avenues for storytelling.

Introduction to Female Custodes in Warhammer 40k

Who Are the Adeptus Custodes?

The Adeptus Custodes are, without question, the most elite warriors the Imperium of Man has ever produced. These golden-armored giants are not your run-of-the-mill soldiers—they’re handcrafted masterpieces, each more a work of art than a simple tool of war. Tasked with guarding the Emperor of Mankind, they’re the gold standard (literally) in both combat and loyalty.

Born from the Emperor’s own genetic experiments, Custodians are far more than just oversized soldiers. Their origins trace back to the unification of Terra, where the Emperor needed protectors who could be trusted beyond measure. Unlike the mass-produced Space Marines, Custodians are individually crafted through a secretive, painstaking process.

Each one is molded into a philosophical warrior, capable of not only holding their ground in battle but also engaging in intellectual debates about the nature of the Imperium.

Now, let’s address the question that pops up at every fan gathering: how tall are these guys? Standing at an awe-inspiring 10 feet, Custodians make even the hulking Space Marines look a bit ordinary. Their size isn’t just for show; it’s part of their design. They need the strength and reach to wield guardian spears capable of skewering anything from xenos to traitors.

It’s their sheer presence—both physical and intellectual—that makes them so intimidating. Their armor gleams with gold, not as an ostentatious display but as a reflection of their role as the Emperor’s personal protectors.

In the lore, Custodians have long been depicted as the ultimate expression of human potential. They’re incorruptible, highly trained, and unflinchingly loyal. Their very existence is a testament to the Imperium’s ambition to create perfection—even if that perfection often comes wrapped in layers of tragedy and sacrifice.

Why Female Adeptus Custodes Are Significant

tithes episode 2 Warhammer TV

The introduction of female Custodes is, to say the least, a tectonic shift in the Warhammer 40k universe. For decades, the Ten Thousand—yes, that’s their nickname—were understood to be exclusively male, chosen from noble families who offered up their firstborn sons. The idea of female warriors of this stature was largely unspoken, leaving many to assume they simply didn’t exist. That changed with the 10th Edition Codex.

By confirming that female Custodians have always existed, Games Workshop made a bold move, challenging long-held assumptions about the lore. For some, this represents a breath of fresh air in a setting that can sometimes feel a little too rooted in tradition. Female Adeptus Custodes represent an opportunity to tell new stories, provide different perspectives, and reflect a more inclusive vision of the Imperium.

From a design perspective, this shift is just as important. Female Custodians, like their male counterparts, are towering figures clad in functional, beautifully crafted armor. There’s no “boob plate” here—just a commitment to showcasing warriors who are as formidable and imposing as their male peers.

This isn’t just a lore adjustment; it’s a statement. It signals that Warhammer 40k, while rooted in its grimdark traditions, is open to growth. For players and fans, it’s a reminder that the Imperium of Man is vast and varied, with room for representation that stays true to the game’s identity while embracing a broader audience. The female Custodes are proof that even in a galaxy at war, there’s space for progress.

Comparison: Female Custodes vs. Female Space Marines

female space marines history games workshop what is next wal hor Games Workshop lore changes

Key Differences Between Custodes and Space Marines

Let’s settle the debate: why do female Adeptus Custodes work within Warhammer 40k lore, while the concept of female Space Marines continues to spark heated arguments? The answer lies in the fundamental differences between these two factions, their origins, and how they operate within the grimdark galaxy.

First, let’s talk about how these powerhouses are created. Space Marines are essentially the Imperium’s mass-produced, gene-seed-dependent warriors. Their transformation relies heavily on a process that involves implanting genetically engineered organs into adolescent recruits—specifically male ones.

This reliance on male hormones and physiology is baked into the lore, making female Space Marines an unlikely prospect without overhauling the very foundation of how these warriors are made.

Jayne-amp-Gabs female space marinesCustodians, however, are a completely different story. These aren’t factory-line soldiers; they’re hand-crafted by the Emperor himself, each one a unique masterpiece of genetic engineering and arcane science. Unlike Space Marines, Custodes aren’t limited by biology. They’re built from the ground up, their genetic material tailored to perfection.

This bespoke process allows for far more flexibility, including the potential for female Custodians. They aren’t bound by the same limitations as Space Marines, which makes the addition of female Custodes both plausible and lore-friendly.

Another key distinction is their role within the Imperium. Space Marines are the Imperium’s shock troops, designed for versatility and rapid deployment. Custodians, on the other hand, are far more specialized. They serve as the Emperor’s personal bodyguards and philosophers, rarely leaving Terra unless the mission is of galactic significance.

Their role is inherently tied to their perfection, both in combat and intellect. Gender simply doesn’t factor into their ability to protect the Emperor or engage in the high-level strategic and philosophical debates that define their existence.

So, while the debate over female Space Marines may rage on, the case for female Adeptus Custodes is grounded in their unique creation process and specialized role. It’s not just about representation—it’s about what fits within the framework of the lore.

Representation in Other Factions

The inclusion of female Custodes adds another layer to a galaxy that already features some iconic female warriors. The Adepta Sororitas, or Sisters of Battle, have long been the poster faction for women in Warhammer 40k. Clad in power armor and armed with bolters, flamers, and unshakable faith, the Sisters have been a symbol of zeal and righteous fury. Their lore emphasizes devotion to the Emperor and their unrelenting resolve, proving that women have always had a place in the Imperium’s militaristic tapestry.

Then there’s the Sisters of Silence, who already work closely with the Custodes as part of the Talons of the Emperor. These psychic-null warriors are essential in combating Warp-born threats, and their lore is steeped in mystery and intrigue. While not as physically imposing as the Custodians, their ability to nullify psychic powers makes them invaluable on the battlefield.

Sisters of Silence artWhat’s interesting about these factions is how they complement each other. The Adepta Sororitas embody fiery zeal, the Sisters of Silence bring an eerie, psychic-nullifying calm, and the Custodians—now including their female members—stand as the Imperium’s ultimate expression of perfection. Together, they show that representation in Warhammer 40k doesn’t have to feel forced.

Each faction offers something distinct, adding variety to the grimdark galaxy without losing its unique flavor. Female Custodes aren’t just a milestone in representation; they’re a logical evolution within the lore. They stand alongside these other factions not as a replacement or token gesture, but as equals in their own right.

From the raging battlefields led by the Sisters of Battle to the psychic stillness imposed by the Sisters of Silence, the inclusion of female Custodes only strengthens the Imperium’s already formidable ranks. If anything, their presence highlights just how diverse the forces of humanity can be—even in the darkest corners of the galaxy.

Historical Context: Adeptus Custodes Before Female Custodes

Female 40k Custodes Femstodes warhammer 40k female space marines how tall are custodians

Traditional Lore

The Adeptus Custodes have long been considered the Emperor’s personal dream team, but for decades, one thing seemed clear: they were a boys-only club. Early Warhammer codices leaned heavily on masculine descriptors, consistently referring to the Custodians as “sons” of noble houses and part of an elite “brotherhood.” This terminology, coupled with the absence of female Custodians in the lore or models, shaped a perception that these golden-clad warriors were exclusively male.

The reasoning for this was never fully explained in-universe, but fans generally accepted it. The Custodians were crafted from the genetic material of hand-selected infants, and the mysterious, Emperor-directed process simply seemed to favor male recruits. These warriors, standing at an imposing 10 feet tall, were a physical manifestation of human perfection. For some, the idea of female Custodians simply didn’t cross their minds—after all, the codices were clear about their identity, right?

But the lore of Warhammer 40k has always been a little chaotic, much like the Warp itself. Stories conflict, records are intentionally unreliable, and history is often written by biased narrators. While the early texts were adamant about the Custodians’ all-male composition, there was never an explicit “no girls allowed” sign posted in the lore.

Still, the absence of female Custodians became an assumed truth for many fans, setting expectations that Games Workshop would later shake to their core.

Evolution in the 10th Edition Codex

Codex Adeptus CustodesFast-forward to the 10th Edition Codex and the winds of change were unmistakable. Games Workshop introduced Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh, a female Custodian whose presence was both a surprise and a statement. Her inclusion wasn’t a casual footnote; it was a decisive shift in how the Adeptus Custodes are portrayed. For a faction so steeped in tradition, this was a big moment—and it came with some fascinating tweaks to the lore.

One of the most noticeable changes was the language in the codices. Previous editions referred to recruits as “sons,” reinforcing the perception of an all-male group. The 10th Edition, however, adopted the term “child,” a subtle but meaningful shift that left the door open for recruits of any gender. This wasn’t just a nod to inclusivity; it was a reimagining of what it means to be a Custodian in a galaxy where perfection knows no boundaries.

Of course, this change wasn’t without controversy. Some fans saw it as a retcon, while others viewed it as a long-overdue clarification. Games Workshop, however, has consistently embraced the notion that Warhammer lore isn’t set in stone. As they’ve famously stated, “Everything is canon; not everything is true.” This philosophy allows for flexibility in storytelling, acknowledging that the Imperium’s history is as messy and subjective as the Imperium itself.

By introducing female Custodians, Games Workshop isn’t erasing the past but rather enriching the narrative. It’s a bold move that aligns with the larger trend of inclusive storytelling across all forms of media. The addition of female Custodians doesn’t just add diversity—it also opens up fresh avenues for stories, characters, and even tabletop models. Whether fans love or loathe the change, one thing is undeniable: the Custodes, male or female, are still the Emperor’s finest, standing tall as the defenders of humanity.

Future Implications for Warhammer 40k Lore and Gameplay

Expanding the Narrative

female custode femstode muscle mommies adeptus tithes episode 2

Adeptus Custodes Miniature for Warhammer 40k Game

The inclusion of female Custodians in Warhammer 40k opens up countless storytelling opportunities, giving the Adeptus Custodes fresh dimensions to explore. For decades, their lore revolved around a steadfast, almost monolithic portrayal of golden, gene-crafted warriors whose sole purpose was to protect the Emperor. But now, with the introduction of female Custodians like Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh, the narrative feels poised for richer, more diverse tales.

Imagine the interpersonal dynamics within the Custodian ranks now that gender diversity is canon. Do female Custodians have unique perspectives on their service to the Emperor? Could their backgrounds bring new philosophical debates to the forefront as the Custodians ponder the nature of loyalty, duty, and humanity’s future?

The Custodes have always been portrayed as thinkers as much as warriors, and this opens the door for intriguing character development in future novels or codices.

This change could also shake up how the Custodians are depicted in major campaigns. Will female Custodians rise to leadership roles during pivotal moments, guiding the Ten Thousand through conflicts both on Terra and beyond? Could they take a more prominent role in defending against xenos incursions or Chaos forces?

These are the kinds of questions that writers at Games Workshop might already be grappling with—and fans are eagerly waiting to see how these new characters shape the Adeptus Custodes’ place in the galaxy.

Potential Miniature Releases

auric battleforce adeptus custodes how tall are custodiansOn the tabletop, the introduction of female Custodes has the potential to excite hobbyists who are always on the lookout for something fresh. If Games Workshop decides to release female Custodian models, it would be a momentous occasion—not just for fans of the faction but for collectors across the 40k universe. After all, the chance to paint a new twist on the Imperium’s most elite warriors is the kind of news that sends ripples through the community.

What might these models look like? It’s safe to assume they’ll retain the signature Custodian aesthetics: regal, golden armor; guardian spears; and an overwhelming sense of presence. However, fans speculate there could be subtle differences in the design, such as armor plating tailored to differentiate male and female physiques without straying into over-the-top territory.

One thing’s for sure: these miniatures will need to command the same gravitas as their male counterparts, standing tall and intimidating on the battlefield.

For hobbyists, the introduction of female Custodian models means new ways to customize armies. These warriors might even inspire painters to create unique dioramas or battle scenes that showcase the diversity of the Custodes. After all, the Ten Thousand are an elite group, and having more options to reflect their composition only enhances their appeal.

Crossovers with Other Factions

Watchers of the Throne

The inclusion of female Custodians could also pave the way for fascinating crossovers with other Imperial factions, particularly the Sisters of Silence. These psychic-null warriors already work closely with the Custodes as part of the Talons of the Emperor, and adding female Custodians into the mix creates opportunities for compelling joint campaigns. Picture (or don’t!) the two factions standing side by side, one nullifying psychic threats while the other obliterates them with unrivaled precision.

These collaborations could lead to expanded lore focusing on how the Custodes and Sisters of Silence complement each other in combat and philosophy. Are there rivalries between the two factions? Do they see each other as equals, or is there tension beneath the surface? These dynamics could add layers to future narratives, enriching the Imperium’s broader tapestry.

Finally, this change could spark fresh campaigns that dive into (whoops!) their shared history. A joint effort to defend Terra against a monumental Chaos incursion or a tale of Custodes and Sisters teaming up to recover ancient relics from the far reaches of the galaxy would provide fans with exciting new stories to read—and fight out on the tabletop.

Female Custodians are more than just a lore update; they’re a signal of new possibilities for the 40k universe. From innovative storytelling to game-changing miniatures and faction crossovers, their inclusion offers a wealth of opportunities to engage fans and bring fresh energy to one of the Imperium’s most iconic forces. The Ten Thousand are evolving, and the future looks golden.

Frequently Asked Questions About Female Custodes

female custode warhammer tv muscle mommies adeptus tithes episode 2 screenAre There Female Custodes?

Absolutely, and it’s official from Games Workshop: female Custodes are now part of Warhammer 40k’s vast lore. Games Workshop confirmed this in the 10th Edition Codex, much to the surprise of fans who’ve spent decades immersed in the Adeptus Custodes’ stories. Until now, the Ten Thousand were depicted as an exclusively male force.

This all changed with the introduction of Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh, a towering female Custodes who has already etched her place in the faction’s legendary Warhammer history.

Games Workshop went even further, stating that female Custodes have “always” existed within the lore of Warhammer 40k. While this might raise eyebrows among lore purists, it’s a compelling way to expand the Custodes’ narrative. By introducing female Custodians, the creators didn’t just tweak a small detail—they signaled that the Imperium’s most elite warriors are as diverse as humanity itself, while still remaining the pinnacle of genetic and martial perfection.

How Tall Are Female Custodians?

If you’re imagining a towering figure of golden armor and pure intimidation, you’re spot on. Like their male counterparts, female Custodians are approximately 10 feet tall, give or take a few inches. For scale, even a fully armored Space Marine would need to look up—and we’re not just talking figuratively.

This extraordinary height is more than a gimmick. It’s a visual and functional representation of their enhanced physiology. Custodians—male or female—are engineered to wield massive guardian spears, move with unmatched speed, and take on the most devastating foes the galaxy can throw at them.

Their stature also serves a symbolic purpose, embodying the unmatched grandeur of the Emperor’s personal bodyguards. Rest assured, whether standing guard on Terra or charging into battle, female Custodians bring the same colossal presence as their brothers.

Why Were Female Custodians Introduced?

female custode femstode muscle mommies adeptus tithes episode 2 sizesGames Workshop has been making moves toward inclusivity across its Warhammer properties, and the introduction of female Custodians is part of this broader effort. In a universe as sprawling and diverse as 40k, representation is vital—not just for players but for the stories being told. Adding female Custodians breathes new life into the faction and challenges long-standing assumptions about its composition.

The change also reflects a commitment to richer storytelling. Female Custodians offer fresh opportunities to explore new characters and perspectives within the Adeptus Custodes’ lore. As individuals tasked with guarding the Emperor, they embody perfection—gender is simply irrelevant when the stakes are that high. This inclusion feels less like a radical shift and more like a logical progression for a faction rooted in the idea of humanity’s pinnacle.

Will Female Custodians Appear in Space Marine 2?

The buzz is real, and fans are already speculating about whether female Custodes might make an appearance in Warhammer Space Marine 2 (maybe as an expansion from Games Workshop). While nothing official has been announced, the timing feels ripe. The game could easily feature these warriors either as NPC allies or even as playable characters in certain scenarios. After all, the Custodians are known for stepping into the field only when the situation demands the utmost precision, power, and unshakable loyalty.

Given the recent inclusion of female Custodians in the lore, their presence in upcoming media adaptations like Space Marine 2 would feel natural and timely. A fully realized female Custodian character in the game could offer fans a thrilling glimpse of these warriors in action, helping to cement their place in the broader Warhammer 40k universe.

Conclusion: Female Custodes and the Future of Warhammer 40k

Adeptus Custodes Detachment Warhammer 40k 4The introduction of female Custodians is a milestone moment for Warhammer 40k. It challenges old assumptions, enriches the lore, and provides a broader representation of humanity’s finest warriors. These changes show that Games Workshop isn’t afraid to revisit its most established factions and infuse them with fresh ideas.

This isn’t just about inclusivity—it’s about expanding the depth and complexity of Warhammer 40k’s narrative. Female Adeptus Custodes are proof that the Imperium of Man, while steeped in tradition, can evolve without losing its grimdark Warhammer essence, and Games Workshop is making sure it happens. For fans, this represents an exciting opportunity to engage with the lore in new ways, speculate about future developments, and build armies that reflect a more comprehensive vision of the galaxy’s mightiest defenders.

As with any major change, there will be debates, but isn’t that part of what makes Warhammer 40k so engaging? The grimdark galaxy is vast enough to accommodate progress while staying true to its roots. Female Custodians are just one step in that direction, and it’s a step worth celebrating—or at least discussing passionately in every forum and subreddit. So grab your guardian spear (or keyboard), and let the debates, stories, and tabletop battles continue. The Emperor would expect no less.

Warhammer 40k Factions Explained: A Complete Guide to Every Army

What do you think about Games Workshop adding Female Adeptus Custodes (and hints at female Space Marines), if they will be in Space Marine 2, representation, and their addition to the lore in Warhammer 40k?

About the Author: Rob Baer

 rob avatar face

Rob Baer

Job Title: Managing Editor

Founded Spikey Bits in 2009

Socials: Rob Baer on Facebook and @catdaddymbg on X

About Rob Baer: Founder, Publisher, & Managing Editor of Spikey Bits, the leading tabletop gaming news website focused on the hobby side of wargaming and miniatures.

Rob also co-founded and currently hosts the Long War Podcast, which has over 350 episodes and focuses on tabletop miniatures gaming, specializing in Warhammer 40k. and spent six years writing for Bell of Lost Souls. 

Every year, along with his co-hosts, he helps host the Long War 40k Doubles Tournament at Adepticon and the Long War 40k Doubles at Las Vegas Open, which attracts over 350 players from around the world.

Rob has won many Warhammer 40k Tournaments over the years, including multiple first-place finishes in Warhammer 40k Grand Tournaments over the years and even winning 1st place at the Adepticon 40k Team Tournament.

With over 30 years of experience in retail and distribution, Rob knows all the products and exactly which ones are the best. As a member of GAMA (Game Manufacturers Association), he advocates for gaming stores and manufacturers in these difficult times, always looking for the next big thing to feature for the miniatures hobby, helping everyone to provide the value consumers want.

While he’s played every edition of Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy (since 5th Edition) and has been hobbying on miniatures since the 1980s, Titans of all sizes will always be his favorite! It’s even rumored that his hobby vault rivals the Solemnance Galleries, containing rulebooks filled with lore from editions long past, ancient packs of black-bordered Magic Cards, and models made of both pewter and resin.