Get the latest on the 40k Aeldari (Eldar) Aspect Warriors and Phoenix Lords with this full unboxing review featuring build tips and model insights!
The Aeldari have finally stepped out of the warp with a batch of new 40k Aspect Warriors and Phoenix Lords models, and it’s about time. Some of these sculpts haven’t had an update in decades, which means hobbyists have been stuck with fragile metal models and questionable finecast for far too long (and way too many codexes).
Now, we’ve got fresh plastic kits, modern details, and a few surprises to unpack. We’ll break down everything you need to know before cracking open these boxes. From unboxing to assembly, tricky build steps to scale comparisons, it’s all here in our Warhammer 40k Aeldari unboxing and review!
The New Aspect Models Are Here!
It’s an exciting time for Aeldari players. The latest Aspect Warrior kits and Phoenix Lords have landed, bringing fresh sculpts, refined details, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of plastic to assemble. If you’ve been waiting for an update to your Eldar army, this release is about to make your workbench a much busier place.
As we said, some of these models haven’t seen a proper redesign in decades—20 to 30 years, to be exact (hey, maybe their dark cousins will be next…). That’s an entire generation of hobbyists who’ve only known them in their old metal or Finecast forms. But here we are, in 2025, with updated versions that bring them into the modern Warhammer aesthetic while keeping that unmistakable Aeldari look.
Breaking Down the New Kits
Phoenix Lords and Their Big Bases
Four new Phoenix Lord models have arrived, each priced at $45 and standing on a 40mm base. That’s a notable shift. For those who remember the older versions, this is a definite size upgrade. Expect them to feel a bit more commanding on the battlefield.
Three Aspect Warrior Boxes
The Warp Spiders, Fire Dragons, and Swooping Hawks have all received much-needed updates. Given that Warp Spiders have been stuck in a time warp (pun intended), their new look alone is cause for celebration.
- Price point: $62.50 per box (which is now standard after the 2024 price hike).
- Sprue count: Three sprues per box, though Swooping Hawks are an exception with a four-sprue layout.
- Customizability: Five helmeted heads, five unhelmeted heads, and a mix of options for the Exarch in each set.
So, whether you’re swapping out older models or starting fresh, there’s plenty to work with here.
Assembly Notes: What You Should Know
Swooping Hawks
Putting these together should be fairly straightforward, but pay attention to the base sizes—32mm for the standard warriors and 25mm for the Shrine token. Also, don’t expect a massive size increase compared to the old metal ones. The tweaks are in the sculpting rather than the proportions.
Fire Dragons
There’s a quirk in the instruction manual for this set. Somehow, the Exarch’s assembly steps got shuffled into the instructions for a regular warrior. If you don’t pay attention, you might accidentally put together a Fire Dragon that’s half Exarch, half basic trooper. Double-check before gluing.
On a more positive note, the embossed banner details on the Fire Dragons are a nice touch. Anyone who’s ever attempted freehand painting on a banner knows what a relief that is.
Warp Spiders
This box has a bit of weight to it, likely due to the larger armor plating on the models. Make sure to use plastic glue liberally when assembling the rear armor plates, as there’s a potential for noticeable seams if things don’t set properly.
The biggest surprise? The new Warp Spider Phoenix Lords, Lhykis, is officially a female character. While it wasn’t a secret that Warp Spiders had a Phoenix Lord, this is the first time one has been given a name and model.
Phoenix Lords: The Big New Aeldari 40k Models
These are one-sprue kits, but don’t let that fool you—there’s plenty going on. Here’s what stands out:
Fuegan (Fire Dragons): Hot-Headed and Hard to Glue
Fuegan finally looks like the absolute walking inferno he was always meant to be. His armor is covered in flame motifs, his stance radiates “I’m about to delete a tank,” and that fire pike? It’s an absolute beast of a weapon.
But here’s the catch: the fire pike attachment is finicky. There’s a tiny nub that’s supposed to slot into his backpack, but it doesn’t always cooperate. If you don’t secure it properly, there’s a good chance it’ll pop out when you least expect it—like mid-battle when you’re trying to flex on your opponent.
A little extra-thin plastic glue will help keep things in place. Consider it a necessary ritual in appeasing the Forge Gods.
Baharroth (Swooping Hawks): Dynamic, But Delicate
Baharroth has one of the most dramatic poses in the set—wings flared, mid-flight, ready to rain death from above. Compared to the old chunkier sculpts, this one actually looks like it belongs in the air instead of awkwardly hovering on a tiny base.
That said, stability is your biggest challenge here. The leg and base connection isn’t the most forgiving, so take your time making sure everything is aligned before you commit to glue.
It’s the kind of model that looks incredible on the tabletop but might require some careful handling unless you want to experience the heartbreak of watching it snap off mid-game (magnetizing the base might be the best option here). If you’ve ever broken a wing off an old metal model, you already know the pain.
Asurmen (Dire Avengers): Cape Drama Incoming
Asurmen. The OG, the blueprint, the Dire Avenger supreme. He’s finally here in all his 40mm-based, caped glory. The armor is crisp, the banner is grand, and his oversized shoulder pads make him look like he personally invented power stances.
But let’s talk about the cape. It comes in two separate pieces, which means there’s a big, glaring seam running right down the middle. If you want it to look seamless (which, of course, you do), you’ll need to break out the extra-thin cement and possibly some Vallejo plastic putty to smooth things out.
Also, a word of warning: attach the shoulder pads before the head. If you forget, you might find yourself trying to jam things into place at an angle that defies physics.
Lhykis (Warp Spiders): The Surprise Entry
Lhykis, the first-ever named Warp Spider Phoenix Lord, has arrived, and she’s making an entrance. Literally. The model is posed mid-warp, with energy effects and rock formations suspending her in the air. It’s a bold design that captures the eerie, blink-and-you-miss-it movement of Warp Spiders.
But let’s talk about those energy effects. They aren’t just for show—they’re structural. The whole model balances on those warp-jump tendrils, meaning assembly takes some patience. The trick is to align all the pieces before gluing—otherwise, you’ll end up with something slightly off-balance, and suddenly, your terrifying Warp Spider leader is tilting like a drunk Guardian at Craftworld happy hour.
Hobby Tools That Make Life Easier
If you’re picking up any of these kits, having the right tools will make a huge difference. Snag your new hobby supplies from our handpicked list, and give us a high-five in support! Every qualifying purchase helps Spikey Bits keep the lights on and the fun going.
Hobby Supplies, here’s what works:
- Sprue Clippers: The old Citadel Clippers are solid, but if you want precision, something like God Hand Nippers will leave smoother cuts and less cleanup. Just be prepared for a higher price tag.
- Plastic Glue: Extra-thin cement works wonders, especially for tight seams like Asurmen’s cape.
- Gap Filler: Vallejo plastic putty is great for filling gaps without shrinking—unlike green stuff, which tends to contract as it dries.
- Pin Vise (Hand Drill): Useful for drilling out barrels or pinning delicate parts. Or, go with the Wowstick Drill for an electronic solution!
Size Comparisons: How Big Are These Models?
One of the biggest questions with new releases is how they scale next to existing models. The new Aspect Warriors are bigger but not drastically different. If you have older metal versions, they’ll still look reasonable next to the new plastics.
Phoenix Lords, on the other hand, have gotten a serious size upgrade. These aren’t just slightly larger—they’re almost the height of a Primarch (with the base height, not just standing). Standing next to a Primaris Space Marine, they hold their own. It’s a noticeable shift, making them feel as important on the tabletop as they are in the lore.
Where to Buy Yours
Snag your new Aeldari releases from our handpicked list of retailers, every qualifying purchase helps Spikey Bits keep the lights on and the fun going.
Quick Order Links Get 15% Off or More:
Mid Atlantic US: Fabricators Forge | Bazooka Games | Frontline Gaming (West Coast US) | The Rogue Traders | Central US: Dicehead Games | Noble Knight Games | Warpfire Minis | West Coast US: Squadmarks |
Worldwide: Amazon | eBay| or | Games Workshop’s Store | UK: Element Games (UK) | Merlin’s Minis | Wayland Games | Canada: Tista Minis | Abyss Game Store | Kingdom Titans |
- One plastic character miniature for Warhammer 40,000
- A fiery executioner for your Aeldari army
- Annihilate even the hardiest foes with blasts from the firepike, Searsong
- Cut down enemies up close with the legendary Fire Axe
- English (Publication Language)
Last update on 2025-02-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Final Thoughts On the New Aeldari 40k Models
Overall, the new Aeldari Aspect Warriors and Phoenix Lords bring some much-needed updates without completely overhauling their classic look. There are a few hiccups in the instructions and assembly, but nothing too frustrating. The extra details, better proportions, and improved sculpting make these models a worthy addition to any collection.
How to Play Aeldari Warhammer 40k Rules Guide
What are your thoughts on the new Aeldari (Eldar) 40k models from this review and unboxing?
