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AoS Skaventide Review: Models, Contents & Costs

age of sigmar starter skaventide box set

Unbox the chaos and glory of Skaventide! With 74 miniatures, new rules, and epic battles, find out if this Age of Sigmar set is the perfect addition.

Skaventide Review: Is This Age of Sigmar Box Set Worth the Hype?

Ready to witness a clash between holy lightning and plague-ridden furballs? The Age of Sigmar’s latest box, Skaventide, brings us a grudge match that’s been brewing since rats first realized they could gnaw on more than just cheese. On one side, you’ve got the gleaming, golden Stormcast Eternals, Sigmar’s shining beacons of hope—or judgmental statues, depending on your perspective. On the other, we have the Skaven: a squirming, scheming horde of vermin whose idea of fair play is more “stab in the back” than “honorable duel.”

Find out more from our guide on the new Skaventide box by jumping to any of the sections below, or, just dig in from the beginning!

Skaventide: The Grand Clash of Fur and Fury in Age of Sigmar 4th Edition

SkaventideHere we go, folks. Age of Sigmar is back, and this time, it’s not pulling any punches—or whiskers. The Skaventide launch box marks the beginning of AoS 4th Edition, and it’s as jam-packed with rats and radiant warriors as you’d expect. We’re talking about 74 new miniatures, revamped rules, and enough lore to fill a Grey Seer’s twisted mind. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the chaotic Skaven or a Stormcast devotee who loves their heroes shiny and righteous, this box offers something for everyone.

Let’s start with what you get: a mind-boggling 74 miniatures split between the noble, if a bit self-righteous, Stormcast Eternals and the treacherous, backstabbing Skaven. On one side, you’ve got armored warriors who gleam like a well-polished coin, charging headlong into battle with the grace of a lion and the resolve of an immovable mountain. On the other, you have rats. A lot of rats. Some wield rusty blades, and some carry insane contraptions that look like they were built by a mad inventor with a cheese addiction, all of which are up to no good.

The rule changes introduced with this edition are not just tweaks—they’re a serious overhaul designed to keep battles flowing smoothly while adding layers of strategy that both newcomers and grizzled players can sink their teeth into. Whether it’s the new Spearhead game mode, designed for quick and tactical skirmishes, or the updated General’s Handbook that gives matched play a fresh coat of paint, there’s a lot here to chew over.

What’s Inside the Skaventide Box?

whats in the skaventide boxThe Skaventide launch box is bursting at the seams with everything you’d expect from a massive Warhammer release: models, rulebooks, cards, and more bits of plastic than a Grey Seer could cram into a warpstone-powered contraption. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of what you’ll find when you pry open this treasure trove of miniature madness.

This box is a two-for-one deal featuring two armies locked in eternal battle: the grimly determined Stormcast Eternals and the backstabbing Skaven. But this isn’t just your average skirmish; it’s a showcase of new and reimagined sculpts that set the stage for Age of Sigmar’s 4th edition. You’ve got 74 models in total, with 24 shining Stormcast Eternals on one side and 50 conniving Skaven on the other. Along with the minis, you’ll get a stack of rulebooks, warscroll cards, and some terrain to spice up your battlegrounds.

Now, let’s break down each side of this rat-infested, lightning-charged box.

The box is divided into two sides, coming in at 1,200 points. There are 24 Stormcast Eternals and 50 Skaven miniatures at a price of around $3.58 a model. Here is a breakdown of the miniatures you get inside unit by unit along with a review on Skaventide.

Skaven Models:

  • 40 Clanrats
  • Three Rat Ogors
  • Three Jezzails
  • Grey Sear
  • Ratling Warpblaster 
  • Clawlord on Gnaw-beast
  • Warlock Engineer

Stormcast Models:

  • Lord-Vigilant on Gryph-stalker
  • Knight-Questor
  • Lord-Veritant
  • Lord-Terminos
  • Ten Liberators
  • Three Reclusians (with three Memorians)
  • Three Prosecutors

Extra Components:

  • Age of Sigmar 4th Edition Core Rulebook
  • Spearhead: Fire & Jade Rulebook
  • Spearhead Warscoll Cards for the game mode
  • General’s Handbook Reference Cards
  • Double-sided game board
  • Range Rulers

Skaven 4th AoS Miniatures & Battletome Releasenew releases pre order skaven age of sigmar warhammer

Games Workshop revealed its next lineup of new releases for Age of Sigmar, for delivery on September 21st, 2024.  So, whether you’re joining the Great Grand Gnaw Horde or striking bargains with daemon-blades, these releases are sure to bring some chaotic fun to your next game. With a variety of new models and the first availability of a large portion of the new Skaven models outside of Skaventide, players have plenty to look forward to for this faction!

New 4th Edition AoS Stormcast Miniatures

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

In Skaventide, the fearless and noble Stormcast Eternals of the revered Hallowed Knights Stormhost have been dispatched to the treacherous Gnaw in Aqshy to confront the relentless Skaven threat.

Lord-Vigilant on Gryph-stalker

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures
4th Edition AoS Starter Set MiniaturesThe Lord-Vigilant commands a formidable alliance comprising warriors from the esteemed Warrior and Ruination chambers of the revered Stormcast Eternals. She rides into battle astride a steadfast Gryph-stalker, bearing a revered great axe that gleams with hallowed power.

Knight-Questor

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

While the majority of Stormcast Lords and Knights are bound by the weighty responsibilities of command, a select few emerge as solitary champions, journeying across the diverse realms.

Each Knight-Questor is summoned to the majestic throne of the God-King Sigmar and entrusted with a sacred quest, whether it be the recovery of an ancient relic or the vanquishing of an adversary’s general.

Although they do not belong to the Ruination chambers, they are among the rare Stormcasts permitted to beseech aid from these soul-afflicted powerhouses in order to carry out their divinely ordained mission.

Lord-Veritant

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures
Each Lord-Veritant is meticulously chosen for their unwavering and visceral loathing of Chaos, an emotion that eclipses all others. Armed with a blade wreathed in righteous flames and a staff of abjuration that breaks curses, they are accompanied by a faithful Gryph-crow companion.

Together, they venture into the darkest and most sinister corners of the Mortal Realms, tirelessly purging corruption by vanquishing sorcerers and heretics.

Lord-Terminos

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

In the dimly lit Ruination chambers, the figure of Lord-Terminos looms large and imposing. Wielding the formidable blade terminos, they stride across the battlefield with unmatched precision, swiftly dispatching the enemies of Sigmar.

These solitary warriors also hold the solemn responsibility of conducting the rites of the Last Threshold, solemnly severing the heads of soul-stricken Stormcast Eternals who willingly embrace oblivion. Accompanying them are the loyal Memorian squires, tasked with recounting their noble battle achievements and ensuring their connection to the present remains steadfast.

New Liberators

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

The Liberators are a group of courageous warriors who have been fighting for Sigmar’s cause since the beginning of the Realmgate Wars (i.e., AoS first edition). They are seen donning shining Sigmarite armor, and their preferred weapons are shields and war hammers.

These weapons not only help them defend themselves but also allow them to launch bone-shattering counterattacks against their enemies.

This edition features a much sleeker look for the Liberators. GW is trying to move them away from chunkier armor and into this new style, just like they did with the Vindicators.

Reclusians

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

The Reclusians were on the verge of losing themselves completely after undergoing multiple reforgings. They had chosen to isolate themselves in quiet reflection to prevent this. However, the current situation requires their intervention.

Despite the risks involved, they were undaunted in battle and could withstand even the harshest battlefields. Lightning cleansed their souls, shielding them from the corrupting effects of Chaos

Prosecutors

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

 

4th Edition AoS Starter Set MiniaturesThe Prosecutors are vengeful hunters of Sigmar who have been given a new, slick design for the latest edition. Although they have been around for a long time, they now have flame-like wings, replacing their old sunburst design. Their weapons have also been reworked, with new crested helmets, elegant javelins, and sturdy circular shields.

New 4th Edition AoS Skaven Miniatures

While we’ve already given a glimpse of the Clanrats, Warlock Engineer, and Warplock Jezzails, there’s more to come – and these new additions are set to be formidable forces on the battlefield.

Clawlord on Gnaw-beast

New Skaven Models

 

New Skaven Models

As the rulers of the Verminus Clans, the Clawlords hold dominion over the vast tides of Skaven soldiery that form the core of the Great Horned Rat’s armies. These formidable leaders have ascended to their positions through a combination of ruthless violence and strategic cunning.

Many of them exhibit exceptional valor and prowess, surpassing the typical abilities of the Skaven. Those who achieve particular renown or secure a favor from the Clans Moulder may even ride into battle atop terrifying Gnaw-beasts – mutated verminkind with hyperactive metabolisms that drive them into relentless feeding frenzies.

Warlock Engineer

New Skaven Models

The Grey Seers hold the highest magical authority among the Skaven, while the Warlocks serve as the masters of technology. As the primary inventors of the Clans Skryre, they are responsible for creating the extensive array of deadly weapons that keep the Skaven forces well-equipped. Among the Warlocks,

Engineers are the most prevalent, tasked with maintaining the mass-produced weaponry used by Warplock Jezzails and Ratling Warpblasters. They eagerly position themselves at the rear of battle lines, where they can direct the aim of Jezzail teams and take precise shots at enemy heroes using their warplock muskets.

Grey Seer

New Skaven Models

The enigmatic Grey Seers hold the peculiar distinction of serving as the prophets of the Great Horned Rat and as covert operatives of the Masterclan, exerting their influence over Skaven society through increasingly intricate schemes and, by their own account, entirely altruistic guidance.

New Skaven ModelsPossessing a unique natural aptitude for magic, they conjure storms of warp lightning that not only serve as a potent display of power but also help to rationalize why other Skaven Clans tolerate their ceaseless manipulations. Yet, the profound paranoia that permeates all Grey Seers is channeled into meticulous contingency planning, ensuring that their schemes are thoroughly safeguarded.

Ratling Warpblaster

4th Edition AoS Starter Set MiniaturesThe Skaven’s long-standing tradition of infighting between the Clans has led to the development of a fearsome weapon by the Clan Skryre. This weapon is specifically engineered to swiftly annihilate large groups of infantry.

With its remarkable firing rate, this rolling field gun can effortlessly decimate countless mortal foes.

Warplock Jezzails

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

Skaven are known for using lethal warpstone in battle, which they have employed since the earliest days of Warhammer. To launch their toxic shots at their enemies, Jezzail teams have collaborated for decades in an unusual display of teamwork.

One member of the team acts as a sniper, while the other serves as a supportive shoulder. This allows them to effectively deliver scorching hot lumps of poison to their targets.

Rat Ogors

New Skaven Models

 

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

The Rat Ogors, towering and grotesque, are the prized creations of the Clans Moulder. They are the result of a dark and nefarious process that melds rodent and ogor bodies using mysterious cryptosorcery and the corrupting influence of warpstone.

These monstrous beings are infused with poisonous concoctions and unleashed onto the battlefield with no more than primal instincts and an unrelenting hunger driving their savage violence.

They mercilessly rend mortal warriors limb from limb and lay waste to entire regiments with the scorching emerald torrents unleashed by their warpfire guns.

Clan Rats

4th Edition AoS Starter Set Miniatures

The life of a Clanrat is extremely hard as they are low-ranking soldiers of the Great Clans, and life is tough for the high-ranking rats! These soldiers are just one small part of a larger group of fierce creatures that have sharp teeth, claws, and matted fur.

While they do not possess exceptional fighting skills or courage as individuals, they can still be lethal in large numbers. They are armed with old and rusty weapons and wear ragged clothes. Despite their shortcomings, they can overpower larger enemies by swarming them with stabbing blades.

Age of Sigmar Skaventide Starter Launch Set List Pricing: $265 CAD$320 AUD$450 £160 €210

Quick Order Links: | Amazon | Dicehead Games | Bazooka Games | Frontline Gaming| Element Games (UK) | Noble Knight GameseBay| or | Games Workshop’s Store. This site contains affiliate links, and Spikey Bits earns from qualifying purchases.

skaventide

  • Base Size: Varies
  • Height: Varies
  • Alignment: Chaos, Order
  • Faction: Skaven, Stormcast Eternals
  • Role: Commander, Sub-Commander, Troops, Artillery, Monster
  • Material: Plastic
  • Number of Minis: 74
  • Release Year: 2024 

Buy The Skaventide 4th Edition Launch Box

Skaventide Price By Country

Country Price
United States $265
Australia AUD$450
United Kingdom £160
Europe €210

We thought we would have to wait a while for the price to come out, but it looks like GW already leaked the cost in their giveaway rules, which we have for you above.  By comparison, in 2023, the 40k Leviathan Starter sold for $250, which means, in review, Skaventide is also far more expensive than even Dominion, the last starter set for AoS in 2021.

Warhammer AGE of SIGMAR - SKAVENTIDE
  • Get started with the new edition of Warhammer Age of Sigmar, available here for the first time. Contains 74 brand new push-fit miniatures comprising two mighty armies of Skaven and Stormcast Eternals, plus terrain and a gameboard. Includes the full Warhammer Age of Sigmar Core Book featuring a cover exclusive to this set, plus warscroll and game cards, and a Spearhead rulebook for fast-paced play.
  • Theme: Fantasy
  • Language: english
  • Container type: Box
  • Theme: Fantasy

Last update on 2024-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Skaventide Release Date

skaventide release date pre-orderYou can mark your calendars for July 13th, 2024, because that’s the release date when the new 4th Edition Skaventide Launch Box will finally hit the shelves after its pre-order period!

Skaventide Box Pre-Order Bonuses

Get pumped for the new edition of Warhammer Age of Sigmar and the awesome Skaventide boxed set! To celebrate the launch, Games Workshop has some sweet bonuses for pre-orders

If you reserve online through the Warhammer site or at a Warhammer Store for full retail price, you’ll snag a set of six objective marker coins.

For those buying directly from a local Warhammer store, there’s a hot deal waiting – a set of 12 metal command point tokens up for grabs, split evenly between silver-colored Stormcast Eternals icons and bronze-colored Skaven icons.

journal bonus skaventide

Independent gaming stores are also taking action by offering a unique bonus journal at select locations. This slick hardback book rocks the corrupted twin-tailed comet logo from the new edition and is packed with Warhammer Age of Sigmar iconography.

Accessories and Additional Components

Beyond the models, this box is packed with all the extras you need to kickstart your battles. You’ll find the latest General’s Handbook 2024-25, packed with the core rules, advanced play options, and narrative missions. Plus, there’s the Spearhead Rulebook, which introduces quick skirmish games perfect for getting into the action fast.

The warscroll cards are a handy reference during games, and the double-sided game board and terrain pieces ensure you’ve got everything needed for a fully immersive battle right out of the box. The inclusion of these components shows that this isn’t just about the models; it’s about creating an all-in-one experience for players ready to dive into the new edition.

Skaventide Review: What’s the Verdict?

The Skaventide launch box has skittered its way onto the scene, bringing both the gnawing horde of Skaven and the shining defenders of the Stormcast Eternals. But is this box set really worth your hard-earned gold coins (or warp tokens, depending on your allegiance)? Let’s break it down.

Pros and Cons:

First, the good stuff. The model count alone is a huge selling point—74 miniatures split between two armies. The Skaven are a nightmare (or dream, depending on your tastes) of writhing tails and sneaky treachery, while the Stormcast have shed some of their clunkier designs for a sleeker, more dynamic look. The sculpts are top-notch, packed with detail that’ll either thrill painters or send them spiraling into a black hole of brushwork. For those who love assembling forces with varied unit types—heroes, troops, and big monsters—it’s got it all.

Now, the cons. At around $265 in the U.S., this box isn’t exactly pocket change. For newcomers, that price tag might be hard to swallow, especially if you’re still figuring out which side you want to fight for. Also, with 74 models, it’s a lot to handle for hobbyists who might be overwhelmed by a mountain of grey plastic. If you’re not a fan of rats or armored warriors, this box isn’t going to change your mind.

Is It Worth It?

When you break it down by cost-per-model, you’re getting a decent deal at around $3.50 per miniature, which is solid value compared to buying them individually. The models are versatile, the rules are updated, and there’s plenty of variety for different play styles. If you’re in it for the long haul with either the Skaven or Stormcast, this is a fantastic start or expansion. But if you’re more into collecting specific units or factions outside of these two, you might be better off looking elsewhere.

In-Depth Look at the Miniatures and Gameplay

So, you’ve got your box and you’re ready to unleash a horde of rats or a phalanx of heroes. But what’s the experience like once the models are in your hands?

Painting and Assembly Tips

Skaventide Painted Minis

Image From Games Workshop

First off, these kits are mostly push-fit, making them easy for beginners but still complex enough for experienced hobbyists to enjoy. The Stormcast are straightforward, with clean lines and larger surfaces for those who love layering and highlighting. The Skaven, on the other hand, are all about texture. Fur, metal, and tattered cloth give painters the chance to experiment with dirty, grimy schemes.

For those painting large numbers, consider assembly line techniques—basecoat all the Clanrats in one go and then hit them with washes and quick highlights. Meanwhile, the Stormcast benefit from contrast between polished armor and weathered cloth, making even basic color schemes pop.

Comparing New Skaven and Stormcast Models to Previous Versions

Skaventide Painted Minis 3

Image From Games Workshop

The Stormcast in Skaventide are more dynamic than previous iterations. Gone are the blocky, overly stiff poses, replaced with models that genuinely look like they’re in the thick of battle. The updated Liberators, for example, feel like real warriors instead of golden bricks. The Skaven, on the other hand, maintain their classic ratty charm but with sharper details and more expressive faces—perfect for showing off that manic energy.

How the Miniatures Play in the New Ruleset

Gameplay-wise, the Stormcast continues to act as elite warriors with strong defensive abilities and powerful heroes. The Lord-Vigilant, for instance, excels at leading from the front while dishing out punishment. The Skaven, naturally, focuses on numbers and sneaky tricks. Clanrats can be revived in waves, while units like the Warplock Jezzails provide ranged support from the shadows. In this edition, both armies have clear synergies that reward strategic play, whether you’re holding the line with your Stormcast or swarming the board with a Skaven tide.

4th Edition AoS Rules Overview

AoS 4th Edition confirmedThe 4th edition of Age of Sigmar comes with some significant updates that change the way battles play out. If you’ve been playing since the earlier days, you’ll notice how streamlined the rules have become, without losing the tactical depth that makes this game so engaging.

Key Updates and Changes in the 4th Edition Rulebook

The core rules have been tightened up, with clearer wording and a more intuitive sequence of phases. This means fewer “wait, how does that work?” moments during gameplay. The magic and command abilities have been expanded, giving armies like the Skaven more ways to unleash their trickery, while Stormcast gains new ways to support each other on the battlefield. Check out more about the rule changes for 4th Edition AoS here!

Introduction to Spearhead: Fire & Jade Rules

The new Spearhead rules bring skirmish-sized battles into the spotlight. Smaller-scale fights with fewer models are perfect for quicker games and are ideal for those just starting out. The “Fire & Jade” supplement introduces narrative-driven scenarios, where the Skaven and Stormcast are pitted against each other in thematic missions. If you’re a fan of lore and storytelling, this brings a lot of flavor to your games.

How These Changes Benefit Both Skaven and Stormcast

For the Skaven, these updates are a dream. The revised rules for summoning and reinforcement make it easier to flood the board with bodies. Plus, the new command abilities allow Skaven heroes to better coordinate their chaotic swarms. For the Stormcast, the new edition offers more flexibility in unit compositions and tactics, allowing for a wider range of strategies that suit both defensive and aggressive playstyles.

In summary, Age of Sigmar 4th Edition pushes the game forward with smarter rules, more engaging scenarios, and plenty of tools for both factions to shine. Whether you’re rallying behind Sigmar’s lightning warriors or sending in the rat hordes, this edition has something for everyone. Check out more about the rule changes for 4th Edition AoS here!

Skaventide vs. Previous AoS Starter Sets

dominion minisThe launch of Skaventide has inevitably drawn comparisons to its predecessors, like Dominion and Soul Wars. So, how does this latest Age of Sigmar offering stack up against the boxes that came before it?

Comparison to Dominion and Other Recent Starter Sets

First, let’s address the most obvious comparison: Skaventide versus Dominion. While Dominion was a spectacle of shiny new toys for Stormcast Eternals and Orruk Warclans, it didn’t quite shake the foundations like Skaventide. Dominion had its appeal (who can resist a good Kruleboyz ambush?), but it left some players feeling like it was a flashy appetizer rather than a main course.

Enter Skaventide, the 4th Edition’s bold statement piece. With 74 models and a narrative clash that’s both timeless (Order vs. Chaos) and fresh (sleeker Stormcast and reimagined Skaven), it’s clear that this box has more meat on the bone. Where Dominion offered a relatively straightforward, classic good-vs-evil conflict, Skaventide ups the ante with a grimy, tooth-and-nail struggle between fanatical zeal and twisted, rodent-filled ambition.

How Skaventide Raises the Bar

AoS 4th Edition confirmed2What really sets Skaventide apart is its attention to thematic and mechanical depth. The Skaven horde isn’t just a numbers game anymore—they’re sneaky, swarmy, and cunning in ways that Dominion’s Kruleboyz could only dream of. The new rules for Skaven allow for endless waves of vermin and trickery, while the Stormcast get a facelift that makes them feel less like stoic statues and more like living, breathing warriors in the thick of battle.

The variety of units and styles of play in Skaventide are what really elevate this box. The Spearhead rules for small-scale skirmishes offer an accessible entry point for new players while still providing enough complexity to keep veterans engaged. Plus, with each side featuring multiple heroes and diverse unit types, it’s a great showcase of what makes Age of Sigmar a dynamic and evolving game.

Who Should Be Excited About Skaventide?

If you’re already a fan of Skaven, this is practically a love letter to the vermin-loving players out there. You’re getting a robust, lore-rich faction that’s finally receiving some much-needed new models. For Stormcast players, it’s another notch on the belt, but with significant improvements in design and flexibility. Those new to the game will appreciate the variety in playstyles—do you want to overwhelm your opponents with sheer numbers, or rely on elite units with strategic positioning?

Skaventide isn’t just another starter set; it’s a statement about the direction AoS is heading. Fans of narrative-driven gaming, competitive play, and even model collectors will all find something here to sink their teeth into (just make sure you don’t catch any warpstone diseases).

What to Expect Next: Future Releases & Faction Updates

Skaventide is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting phase for Age of Sigmar. So, what’s on the horizon for those with an eye on future expansions and releases?

Predictions for Upcoming Skaven and Stormcast Models

hel crown preview teasers new skavenGames Workshop isn’t shy about teasing new releases, and if recent trends hold, we can expect even more love for both of these factions in the coming months. For the Skaven, the release of updated Clanrats, Rat Ogors, and Jezzails signals a clear intent to overhaul some of the older models that have been hanging around since the dawn of Warhammer Fantasy.

Don’t be surprised if we see more units from Pestilens and Moulder getting their time in the spotlight next, perhaps with new kits that bring them in line with the modern aesthetic. Luckily, Skaven won the the battle at Hel Crown, meaning we’ve already seen a giant swathe of reveals for them since Skaventide released! Check out everything in the faction pipeline here.

As for the Stormcast Eternals, it seems likely that GW will continue to refine their role as the versatile, hero-driven faction they’ve always been. Expect to see more specialized chambers or sub-factions, possibly leaning into some of the more unique lore elements like the Reclusians or even new Gryph-mount units. After all, nothing says “Sigmar’s wrath” like more armored beasties.

Speculation on New Battletomes and Expansions

With the release of the 4th Edition, updated battletomes are a given. We’ll likely see refreshed books for both Skaven and Stormcast Eternals, complete with new rules, lore, and army-building options that capitalize on the models introduced in Skaventide. GW has been increasingly focused on narrative campaigns and supplements, so keep an eye out for expansions that tie directly into the conflicts introduced in this box, possibly taking the fight deeper into the corrupted lairs of the Skaven or the fortified cities of the Stormcast.

For fans of competitive play, expect new matched play guides and updated points values, alongside the usual rounds of FAQs and balance changes. The General’s Handbook and Spearhead supplements will likely get expansions that cater to the evolving meta, ensuring that both factions remain relevant.

Building on Your Army After Skaventide

New AoS Skaven Miniatures

So you’ve cracked open the box and painted up your models—what next? For Skaven players, adding units from Clans Pestilens or Moulder will bolster your horde and introduce more tactical flexibility. Plague Monks or Rat Swarms can provide even more cheap bodies, while monstrous creations like Hell Pit Abominations deliver devastating melee power.

Stormcast players will benefit from expanding their options with ranged units like Vanguard-Raptors or specialized cavalry like the Stormdrake Guard. These additions allow for a more balanced force that can adapt to different scenarios.

In short, Skaventide is an excellent springboard for anyone looking to dive deeper into Age of Sigmar. Whether you’re building a force for narrative campaigns or tuning a list for competitive play, this set has all the tools to get you started and keep you hooked for the battles to come.

Is Skaventide Worth It?

Skaventide Painted Minis 2

Image from Games Workshop

So, you’ve watched the teaser videos, pored over the previews, and now you’re wondering—should I grab the Skaventide box, or will I be gnashing my teeth like a hungry rat ogor if I don’t? Let’s break it down with one final look at everything this box brings to the table (and the battlefield).

The Final Verdict

In a hobby filled with shiny knights and endless waves of monstrous foes, Skaventide is a breath of fresh—well, okay, a breath of warpstone-tainted air. It’s more than just a pretty (and slightly terrifying) collection of miniatures; it’s a complete experience. This box serves as a launchpad into the 4th edition of Age of Sigmar, offering a balanced and engaging introduction to both the Stormcast Eternals and the Skaven. Whether you’re new to the Mortal Realms or an old hand who’s been around since the Realmgate Wars, Skaventide has plenty to offer.

Model Quality: A Step Up in Every Way

AOS Age of Sigmar Lord-Vigilant on Gryph-stalker skaventide new modelsLet’s talk miniatures. The sculpting quality here is impressive—sharp, dynamic, and brimming with character. The Stormcast Eternals have evolved from their early “action figure” look into something more fluid and heroic. The new Lord-Vigilant on Gryph-stalker, for instance, strikes a pose that looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy epic, while the Gryph-Crow companion on the Lord-Veritant adds a grim flair to the holy hunters.

On the other side of the board, the Skaven are more verminous than ever. The Clawlord on Gnaw-beast is an absolute scene-stealer, blending menace with a touch of Skaven absurdity (because who doesn’t love a power-hungry rat riding a monster?). The bulk of the Skaven force, especially the Clanrats, sticks close to the classic designs we know and love, but with sharper details and more expressive faces. These updates make it clear that Games Workshop is intent on keeping the Skaven as one of the most iconic factions in Warhammer.

The New Rules: Fresh Layers of Strategy

The 4th edition’s rule changes are more than just a rehash of old ideas. The updated mechanics make battles faster-paced without sacrificing the depth that keeps you coming back for more. The inclusion of the Spearhead: Fire & Jade book adds another dimension, offering smaller-scale skirmishes that are perfect for quick games or testing out new tactics. Whether you’re playing massive 2,000-point clashes or more intimate engagements, Skaventide provides a framework that caters to all tastes.

Value for Money: Is It Worth the Price?

With a price point of around $265, Skaventide isn’t exactly pocket change. However, when you break it down to a per-model cost, it’s quite reasonable considering the quality and sheer quantity you’re getting. Compared to buying these units separately (if that were even an option), the box set saves you a decent chunk of cash. Plus, it’s packed with everything you need to jump right into the game: models, rules, cards, and even terrain. The added bonuses—like exclusive pre-order goodies and campaign narrative—are the icing on the cake for those who want the complete experience.

Who Should Buy Skaventide?

This box is perfect if you’re a new player looking to dive into AoS with two distinct and storied factions. It’s also a solid choice for current players who want to expand their armies, especially if you’ve got a soft spot for rats (or smiting said rats). If you’re a collector, the new sculpts alone make this a worthy addition to your display shelf.

Conclusion

skaventide starter setAnd there you have it: Skaventide in all its glory (or grimy horror, depending on your faction). Whether you’re charging into battle on the wings of righteousness or crawling through the muck with plans of underhanded victories, this box brings both spectacle and substance. The models are a mix of sleek heroism and feral cunning, and the updated rules promise a new era of strategic mayhem.

If you’re a Stormcast player, this is your chance to upgrade from statuesque warriors to truly dynamic champions. If you’re a Skaven fan, rejoice—the Great Horned Rat has seen fit to shower you with a fresh horde of scheming miscreants, ready to spread chaos across the realms.

All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors

Will you be picking up the Skaventide 4th Edition Launch box? Do you like all the miniatures inside?

About the Author: Travis Pasch

Travis Pasch

travis pasch writer headshot profile bioJob Title: Head Writer & Editor

Socials: @paschbass 

About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.

Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.

Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!