Fresh Warhammer 40k leaks look to reveal Tempestus Scion jump pack drop troops models rumored to be part of a new Kill Team edition.
Updated August 17th, 2024, by Rob Baer with an update on the rumored models and new Operation Hivestorm box set reveal.
New Warhammer 40k Kill Team Edition: Hivestorm Launch Box & Release Date
The rumors about the new Scion and Vespid models were true. Be sure to get all the juicy news about the new Warhammer 40k Kill Team Operation Hivestorm box set contents release date and more on our preview article here.
- New 40k Kill Team Edition: Hivestorm – Tempestus Aquilons vs. Vespid Stingwings
- 40k Hivestorm: Kill Team Launch Box Values & Pricing
Leaked Tempestus Scion Warhammer 40k Miniatures Hint at New Kill Team Release
It’s that time again – another sneaky leak has surfaced, revealing what looks like fresh Tempestus Scion miniatures for Warhammer 40k. In true Games Workshop fashion, these images aren’t “official,” but let’s face it – they might as well be! The Warhammer Community knows the drill by now: grainy photos, some cheeky speculation, and a lot of excited chatter leading up to a big preview.
So, what’s different this time? The images suggest these Tempestus Scion jump pack drop troops might be part of a Kill Team release with their orange borders, which lines up nicely with the hype surrounding the upcoming Operation Hivestorm preview. And let’s not forget, there have been whispers about new Tau Vespid models joining the fray, making this leak even juicier. Games Workshop has mastered the art of building hype, and this “unofficial” leak is no exception. The timing is impeccable, given the rumored Kill Team edition on the horizon. For Warhammer hobbyists, this is more than just new models; it’s a glimpse into the game’s evolving meta, with scions poised to make a significant impact.
The “Not Official” Leak Format Strikes Again
Let’s be honest – the “accidental” leaks are a classic Games Workshop move. The company has a knack for stoking the flames of anticipation without actually saying anything. This time, it’s the Tempestus Scions getting the spotlight, and the community is already dissecting every detail.
The timing of this leak is no coincidence. With the Operation Hivestorm preview just around the corner, the Warhammer rumor mill is in full swing. Will these Scions play a key role in a new Kill Team set? And if the Tau Vespid rumors are true, we could be in for a major shakeup in that model range again too.
The Design of the New Tempestus Scion Models
The leaked Tempestus Scion models offer plenty for Warhammer fans to chew on. Right away, the new jump packs draw comparisons to the classic Forge World Elysian Drop Troops, with their round thrusters that bring a nostalgic flair to the design. But it’s not just about looking retro – there’s a clear Kasrkin vibe here, too, especially with those helmets.
Comparing the New Jump Packs to the Forge World Elysian Drop Troops
Image Credit: Black Library Elysian Drop Troops (after Forge World Models)
The old Forge World Elysian Drop Troops are the stuff of legend, so it’s no surprise that their aesthetic is making a comeback in these new scions. The round thrusters are almost a direct nod to those beloved models, giving them a dynamic look that’s sure to turn heads on the tabletop.
Design Choices Reflecting Kasrkin Influence
Beyond the nostalgia, these new scions have a distinct Kasrkin influence. The helmet design is sharper, and overall, the models give off a more elite, streamlined feel. It’s a subtle shift, but one that speaks volumes about the direction Games Workshop is heading with this faction.
The Absence of Flight Stands and What It Means
Notably, these scions don’t have flight stands. It’s a choice that aligns with the more grounded feel we’ve seen from other recent releases, like the Sanguinary Guard. Whether it’s a design trend or a nod to practicality, it’s certainly got the community talking. The lack of flight stands suggests a trend that’s here to stay. This design choice gives models a more grounded, realistic feel, making them easier to position on the battlefield without sacrificing visual impact.
How These Leaks Fit into the Current Kill Team Landscape
Kill Team is constantly evolving, and the latest leaks suggest that big changes could be on the way. The rumored inclusion of new Tau Vespid models alongside these Tempestus Scions is sparking plenty of “buzz,” and for a good reason. If true, this could introduce a fresh dynamic to the game that shakes up both the meta and the lore. The talk of new Tau Vespid models is intriguing. They’re not the most common unit in Warhammer 40k, so seeing them get the spotlight would be a treat for long-time fans. But what does it mean for Kill Team? A new edition could be a sign that Games Workshop is looking to diversify the game’s roster, offering more niche units with unique playstyles and rules.
The Bigger Picture – What This Leak Tells Us About Games Workshop’s Future Plans
The Tempestus Scion leaks aren’t just about new models; they offer insight into Games Workshop’s broader strategy. The design choices, release timing, and potential inclusion in a new Kill Team edition all point to a company that’s fine-tuning its approach to both gameplay and fan engagement. Recent releases have shown a clear shift towards a more practical and dynamic design philosophy.
The move away from flight stands is just one example, as is the blend of old and new aesthetics seen in these scions. It’s a strategy that balances nostalgia with innovation, giving long-time fans something to celebrate while keeping things fresh for new players.
Final Thoughts: Tempestus Scion models with Jump Packs & Tau Vespids
The leaked Tempestus Scion models have already sparked excitement across the Warhammer community, hinting at big changes for both Kill Team and the wider Warhammer 40k universe. With design elements inspired by classic Forge World units and the potential for a fresh Kill Team edition, it’s clear that Games Workshop is committed to blending tradition with innovation. The combination of elite design, strategic gameplay potential, and a dash of nostalgia makes this an exciting time for Warhammer hobbyists of all stripes.
Games Workshop knows how to keep fans on their toes, and these scions are just the latest example. As we gear up for what’s next, it’s hard not to get caught up in the buzz. Whether you’re eyeing those jump packs with a nostalgic grin or wondering how these new scions will shake up your 40k army or Kill Team roster, one thing’s certain: the leaks are just the beginning.
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
What do you think about Warhammer 40k’s Operation Hivestorm preview and the rumors of new Tempestus Scion jump pack drop troops, T’au Empire Vespid, and a return to Chalnath?
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.
