Wild controversy surrounds Inquisitor Lord Torquemada Coteaz’s model in Warhammer 40k: latest fan reactions, comparisons, and potential actions by Games Workshop.
Updated November 18th, 2024, by Rob Baer with new information and links to relevant content.
When Games Workshop dropped the new Inquisitor Lord Torquemada Coteaz model for Warhammer 40k, they must’ve been surprised by the internet meltdown it caused. The community didn’t hold back on their thoughts about the miniature!
Fans quickly took to social media, comparing the new design unfavorably to the beloved mid-2000s version. The backlash echoed a similar outcry from 2021’s Uriel Ventris release, which led to a secret redesign. With speculation swirling about whether Games Workshop will tweak the Coteaz model or stick to their guns, the stakes are high.
Social Media Backlash To Cotaez
When Games Workshop unveiled the new Inquisitor Lord Torquemada Coteaz model, the Warhammer community had a lot to say – and not all of it was positive. Social media lit up with critiques, memes, and heated debates, highlighting a general disappointment. Many fans felt the new model lacked the gravitas and detailed craftsmanship that made its predecessor a beloved piece.
Comparisons to the Mid-2000s Model
The nostalgia factor played a significant role in the backlash. Comparing the new model to the mid-2000s version, fans pointed out perceived shortcomings: less dynamic posing, odd proportions, simplified details, and a face that didn’t quite capture Coteaz’s stern demeanor. This comparison was unavoidable and fueled the fervor of the critiques, as the old model set a high standard.
Community Expectations
Reactions from the Warhammer Instagram.
The Warhammer 40k community isn’t shy about voicing its opinions. Expectations were sky-high for this release, given Coteaz’s storied history and importance in the lore. Fans wanted a model that honored the legacy of the character while pushing the boundaries of modern miniature design. When the preview failed to meet these expectations, the reaction was swift and loud.
History & Previous Models
In Warhammer 40k, few characters stand as tall as Inquisitor Lord Torquemada Coteaz. Known for his fierce dedication to rooting out heresy and his uncompromising nature, Coteaz has been a cornerstone of the lore for decades. Fans and hobbyists have come to respect his relentless pursuit of the Emperor’s will and his iconic appearance that captures the essence of his character.
The mid-2000s model of Coteaz was celebrated for its detail and dynamic pose, which perfectly encapsulated the Inquisitor’s formidable presence. This version became a fan favorite, setting a high bar for any future iterations. The old model’s intricate armor, imposing stance, and expressive face made it a benchmark in the miniature design of the Inquisition, earning a place of honor in many collections.
The Case of Uriel Ventris
(Model before the changes)
Back in 2021, Games Workshop faced a similar situation with the release of the Uriel Ventris space marine miniature. Initial previews of the model drew heavy criticism for its design, particularly the head sculpt, which many fans found unappealing and off-character. The outcry from the community was vocal and widespread.
Criticism and Response
Responding to the backlash, Games Workshop made a rare move by quietly releasing an updated version of the Uriel Ventris model with a redesigned head sculpt. This adjustment was well-received and praised by the community, showing that the company could listen and adapt to feedback.
It became a case study in managing fan expectations and handling criticism. Check out Rob’s unboxing and thoughts on the change here!
Lessons Learned
The Uriel Ventris incident taught Games Workshop valuable lessons about the importance of community feedback and the impact of design choices on fan satisfaction. The company’s ability to pivot and improve a product based on criticism demonstrated a commitment to quality.
However, it also set a precedent that fans might expect similar actions for future releases, including the new Coteaz model.
Possible Actions for Games Workshop
Pulling and Re-Releasing the Model
One potential course of action for Games Workshop is to pull the new Coteaz model and re-release it after addressing the criticisms. This approach would show that the company values fan input and strives for the highest quality in its products. However, it also involves logistical challenges and potential delays, which could frustrate some collectors.
Offering New Sculpt Exchanges
Another option is to offer a new sculpt exchange program, allowing fans dissatisfied with the current model to swap it for an updated version once it’s available. This method could mitigate some backlash while maintaining the release schedule.
It would require careful planning and communication but could demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness to the community’s concerns. They pulled and then rereleased their most memed product (the Space Wolves Horus Heresy heads), so they have done it before.
Risks of Changing Based on Feedback
However, altering releases based on feedback carries risks. It could set a precedent where every new model is subject to intense scrutiny and potential redesigns, putting pressure on the company’s design and production teams.
Balancing fan satisfaction with practical business operations is a delicate task, and Games Workshop must weigh the long-term implications of such decisions. However, they charge a premium for their products, meaning they have set the expectation high for great minis.
Long-Term Implications for Games Workshop
Impact on Company Reputation
Games Workshop’s reputation is built on the quality and detail of its miniatures more than anything else. How they handle the Coteaz model controversy could have lasting effects on their brand image. If they ignore the feedback, they risk alienating a passionate and vocal segment of their customer base. On the flip side, showing that they listen and adapt can strengthen their reputation as a company that values its fans, but it could come at a cost.
Financial Considerations
Addressing the criticisms of the new Coteaz model isn’t just about reputation—there are financial stakes as well. Reworking the model or offering exchanges would incur costs (and who knows if they have already packed up and made all the Battleforces with him, which would be harder to change).
However, the long-term financial health of Games Workshop is closely tied to maintaining a loyal customer base. Satisfied fans are more likely to make repeat purchases and invest in new releases.
Weighing the immediate costs against potential future earnings is a key part of their decision-making process. We’ll have to see which GW thinks is more important in a slow summer sales period.
Future Releases and Community Relations
The handling of this situation will set a precedent for future releases. If Games Workshop opts to redesign the Coteaz model based on feedback, it could lead to increased scrutiny of all upcoming models. While this could drive higher standards of quality, it might also slow down production and release schedules.
Establishing clear communication channels and setting realistic expectations with the community will be crucial to managing this dynamic.
What the Future Holds For the New Cotaez Model:
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In summary, the controversy surrounding the new Inquisitor Lord Torquemada Coteaz model highlights the passionate engagement of the Warhammer 40k community. While comparisons to the older model and the backlash are significant, Games Workshop’s response will be crucial in maintaining its reputation and fan trust.
Whether they choose to pull the model, offer exchanges, or stand by their design, the outcome will shape future interactions between the company and its dedicated fanbase.
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What do you think about the new Inquisitor Lord Torquemada Coteaz Model that was previewed?
About the Author: Rob Baer
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.
