Here’s the classic Warhammer 40k Assault on Black Reach box set contents list, release date, value, and pricing in our breakdown review!
The Assault on Black Reach starter set is one of those Warhammer 40k boxes that defined an era. Back in 2008, this thing hit store shelves loaded with Space Marines, Orks, and enough value to make hobbyists do a double-take.
In this 40k flashback, we’re breaking down exactly what came in the box, its release details, how it stacked up across different versions, and why it still gets talked about like a legend today.
Assault on Black Reach Box Set Review
The Warhammer 40k Assault on Black Reach box set launched with 5th Edition and featured two armies that actually played well together, Space Marines vs Orks.
It had everything a new player needed at the time: great sculpts, quick missions, and a price tag that actually made sense. The Assault on Black Reach retail price was only $75.
Warhammer 40k Assault on Black Reach Box Contents List:
- Space Marine Captain with power sword and bolter
- Ten-man Tactical Squad (Firstborn)
- Five Terminators
- Dreadnought
- Ork Warboss
- Three Deffkoptas
- Five Nobz
- Twenty Ork Boyz
Assault on Black Reach Release Date and Versions
The Warhammer 40k Assault on Black Reach release date was September 2008, right alongside the 5th Edition rulebook. It stayed in production for a few years, thanks to strong sales, but was never reprinted after its initial run.
A few of its models were later reused or reboxed, like the Dreadnought and Deffkoptas, which became fan favorites.
The Production Question
Word on the street back then was that the Assault on Black Reach box set was produced in China for under $10 a unit, something the Games Workshop North America General Manager bragged about. Oddly enough, the box had no “Made In” label anywhere, sharing nearly the same rear layout and graphics design style as Battle for Macragge.
The kicker? It was never a Made-To-Order item; this was a straight retail release, and once it was gone, it was gone.
The Assault on Black Reach Parallels to 11th & 2nd Edition
It’s also fun to note how it mirrored the old 2nd Edition starter box contents, right down to Space Marines vs Orks. That setup feels especially relevant again with all the 11th Edition starter set rumors saying look for soemthing similar lineup-wise.
Warhammer 40k Assault on Black Reach Value and Pricing Breakdown
At $75, the Assault on Black Reach box set was a steal. Two playable armies, dice, templates, and a mini rulebook, all in one package. Buying those kits separately would’ve easily cost double or triple.
Collectors love this set, and it’s easy to see why. Sealed Assault on Black Reach box sets go for $200 to $300 online, depending on condition. Even partial sets sell quickly, especially among hobbyists chasing nostalgia or wanting those push-fit classics.
Final Thoughts on Assault on Black Reach Starter Set
Knowing what we know now, it’s wild that production costs were rumored to be under $10 a box. It’s no wonder retailers couldn’t keep them on shelves. For what players got, it’s still one of the best dollar-for-dollar values Games Workshop ever offered.
The Assault on Black Reach box set nailed everything a starter needs: great value, balanced gameplay, and memorable models. It brought thousands into the hobby and still stands tall as a fan favorite. Some even say it was the best Warhammer 40k starter set ever.
If you ever see one in the wild, grab it. You’re not just buying a box, you’re snagging a slice of Warhammer history that still feels relevant today.
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