Get the best Forge World 40k models, including limited edition Titans and Horus Heresy characters, to customize your Warhammer army with top-tier minis.
Forge World 40k & AoS: Where to Buy, Customization Tips, & What Happened
Click any of the links below to jump to the info you need the most, or just dig in from the beginning.
- What is Forge World in Warhammer 40k?
- The Forge World 40k Product Range
- How to Use Forge World Models in Warhammer 40k Tournaments
- Forge World 40k Resin Models: Care and Maintenance
- Where to Buy Forge World 40k Miniatures
- Forge World’s Impact on Warhammer 40k: Collecting and Customization
- What Happened to Forgeworld?
What is Forge World in Warhammer 40K?
You’ve probably heard whispers about Forge World, that elusive realm where resin flows like water and titans roam. But what exactly is Warhammer 40k Forge World? Think of it as the ultimate workshop—a playground for model-makers who like to go big. Forge World is a subsidiary of Games Workshop (GW), the brains behind Warhammer 40k, but with a twist. It specializes in intricate, highly detailed resin models that make even the most hardened plastic kits look like child’s play. Whether you’re craving a massive Warlord Titan for your next apocalyptic battle or the delicate features of a Horus Heresy Primarch, Forge World has you covered.
The History of Forge World
Forge World as a Subsidiary of Games Workshop
Back in 1998, GW decided to create something special. While Warhammer 40K and Fantasy were already well-established, Forge World was born as a separate branch to cater to those who wanted more. More detail, more lore, and definitely more resin. This wasn’t just a side gig for Games Workshop (GW)—it was a way to push the limits of model-making. Forge World would focus on making models so exquisitely detailed that they’d stand as centerpieces in any army or collection.
Forge World started out as a place to pick up the odd large-scale vehicle or piece of terrain, but as its reputation grew, so did its range. Today, it’s known for producing everything from colossal titans to tiny, character-defining upgrades. And yes, people are willing to pay top dollar for the privilege. Fast forward a few decades, and Forge World now has its own cult following within the Warhammer 40K community while still being very much part of the Games Workshop (GW) family.
Evolution Since Its Founding in 1998
From its humble beginnings, Forge World has grown into a juggernaut of resin-casting glory. In the early 2000s, you might’ve snagged a few specialized tanks or terrain pieces. Now? It’s home to entire armies from the Horus Heresy era, and if that’s not ambitious, I don’t know what is. Forge World has been steadily expanding its product range while staying true to its original mission: offering hyper-detailed models that look like they’ve leaped straight out of Warhammer 40K’s grimdark universe.
What Makes Forge World 40k Miniatures Unique?
All 9 Loyalist Primarch Models From Forge World
High-Quality Resin-Cast Models
Alright, let’s get to the real reason GW Forge World makes everyone’s wallet cry: resin. Forge World doesn’t just deal in plastic sprues—its models are cast in resin, which allows for finer details and sharper edges. Unlike your standard plastic miniatures, Forge World’s resin kits feel almost like art pieces. These aren’t the kind of models you’ll slap together in an afternoon. Each one demands time, care, and maybe a little bit of blood (or glue, same thing).
Specialization in Detailed, Large-Scale Models Like Titans and Primarchs
You know you’ve entered the big leagues when your army includes a GW Forge World Titan. These beasts are towering war machines, meticulously detailed and capable of taking over an entire gaming table. Or, for those more interested in heroes of legend, Forge World offers the Primarchs—demi-god leaders from the Horus Heresy, each one sculpted to perfection.
What’s really special about GW Forge World is the scale and quality. Whether it’s a Reaver Titan or Roboute Guilliman himself, the models are so rich in detail they practically ooze narrative. No shortcuts are taken in the sculpting, and the result is a range of miniatures that outshine almost everything else in the Warhammer universe.
Collectible Nature and Limited Edition Models
GW’s Forge World isn’t just a name—it’s a badge of honor for collectors. Limited edition kits and event-exclusive models make Forge World a treasure trove for those who want their army to stand out. These models are often produced in small quantities, turning them into prized possessions among the Warhammer community. If you’re lucky enough to own one, it’s like having a rare gem in your army case.
The Role of Forge World in the Warhammer 40K Universe
Forge World Horus Heresy Primarch
Forge World’s Contribution to Warhammer 40K Lore and the Horus Heresy
Let’s talk about why Forge World isn’t just about fancy models—it’s also about expanding the Warhammer 40K story. Forge World doesn’t just give you an army; it gives you history. They’ve been instrumental in bringing the GW Horus Heresy to life, an era so pivotal to the Warhammer 40K universe that it practically deserves its own series of novels (oh wait, it has that too). The Horus Heresy is all about massive civil war, brother fighting brother, and Forge World has made sure we can play out these epic battles on the tabletop.
But it’s not just about history. Forge World models often come with their own lore and background, giving players a way to connect with the universe on a deeper level. Each model is a piece of the larger GW Warhammer 40K puzzle.
Impact on Narrative and Gameplay in Tabletop Games
Forge World has a significant influence on the way we play Warhammer 40K. From rules to lore, Forge World models often introduce new units, special abilities, and game mechanics that aren’t found in standard Games Workshop (GW) releases. For example, do you want to field a Primarch in your Space Marine army? You’ll need Forge World. Want to bring a towering Titan to a planetary assault? You guessed it—Forge World.
More than just pieces on the board, these models shape the very narrative of the battles you fight. Forge World’s commitment to staying true to the lore while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a game ensures that every match feels more cinematic and significant.
The GW Forge World 40k Product Range
Forge World 40K is like the VIP section of the Warhammer universe. It’s where you go when you want something beyond your run-of-the-mill plastic kit. Think of it as a secret stash of resin miniatures, hidden lore, and massive war machines that make regular armies look like they’re playing in the sandbox. So, what makes Forge World stand out in the Warhammer 40K galaxy? Let’s break it down, piece by resin piece.
Resin Miniatures for Warhammer 40K
Unique Characters, Factions, and Primarch Models
GW Forge World 40K is where legends come to life. We’re talking about the Primarchs—those larger-than-life figures who lead entire Space Marine legions. If you’re tired of regular Space Marines (gasp!) and want something with more…gravitas, Forge World has you covered. These are no ordinary models. We’re talking about statuesque demigods like Roboute Guilliman, Horus, and Sanguinius, each sculpted with a level of detail that’ll make you question why you didn’t take up painting lessons earlier.
And if that’s not enough, Forge World has plenty of unique characters and upgrades for your armies. They’ve got models that don’t just look cool but add personality to your factions. Whether you’re playing as the noble Ultramarines or the traitorous Sons of Horus, Forge World models will ensure your army has the character it deserves.
Large War Machines Like Titans (Warlord, Reaver, Warhound)
Now, if characters and Primarchs aren’t massive enough for you, Forge World also gives you Titans. Yes, Titans. These colossal machines are like walking skyscrapers, ready to obliterate everything in their path. The Warlord Titan? It’s essentially a mobile fortress, bristling with weapons that could wipe out whole armies. The Reaver and Warhound Titans are slightly smaller but no less deadly. Whether you’re fielding one for narrative games or just because you want to intimidate your friends, Titans are the crown jewels of Forge World.
And don’t forget the customization kits that let you modify your army to your heart’s content. These upgrades let you tweak your forces, turning regular squads into uniquely armed and armored behemoths that’ll stand out on any battlefield.
The Horus Heresy Series
How Forge World Brings the Horus Heresy to Life
Let’s be real—GW’s Warhammer 40K might be all about the grimdark future, but Forge World’s Horus Heresy series takes us back to the even grimmer dark past. The Horus Heresy, for those unfamiliar, is basically the galaxy’s most dramatic betrayal. Forge World dives headfirst into this brutal civil war, giving us beautifully sculpted models from this iconic era.
Whether you’re a loyalist, holding the line for the Emperor, or a traitor, backing Horus in his bid for galactic domination, Forge World lets you recreate those pivotal battles. They don’t just give you miniatures; they offer entire campaigns and books that bring this blood-soaked era of history to life. Want to relive the Siege of Terra? Forge World’s got the Primarchs, Legionaries, and Titans to make it happen.
Popularity Among Collectors
Collectors love the Horus Heresy range because it’s not just about the game—it’s about the lore. The intricacy of the models, the historical significance in the Warhammer 40K universe, and the sheer beauty of the sculpts make these pieces collector’s items. Forge World has crafted an entire subculture within the 40K community, where owning a Horus Heresy model isn’t just about winning games; it’s about owning a piece of Warhammer history.
Specialist Games and Expansions
Adeptus Titanicus, Necromunda, Blood Bowl, and Other Specialist Games
Forge World doesn’t just stick to Warhammer 40K proper—they’ve extended their mastery of resin into specialist games that offer a different flavor of tabletop carnage. Take Adeptus Titanicus, for example, where you can command mini-Titans (yes, they’re smaller but still terrifying) in tactical battles for supremacy. It’s like playing chess, if your chess pieces could annihilate cities.
Then there’s Necromunda, a game where gang warfare takes center stage. Forge World adds to this gritty, underhive chaos with highly detailed gangers, weapons, and terrain that make the world feel truly alive. Or Blood Bowl, the sport for those who think American football just doesn’t have enough fatalities. Forge World’s contributions here make the game as brutal as you’d expect, with star players and customization options that give your team a unique edge.
These specialist games offer something for everyone, and Forge World ensures that the models and expansions they produce for them are top-tier in quality and fun.
Terrain and Customization Kits
Upgrade Kits and Terrain Pieces to Enhance Your Gaming Experience
No battlefield is complete without proper terrain, and Forge World knows this all too well. If you’ve ever wanted to fight your Warhammer 40K battles across the smoking ruins of a manufactorum or a blasted wasteland, Forge World’s terrain kits are the way to go. These resin pieces are sculpted with the same meticulous care as their miniatures, turning your table into a fully-fledged war zone.
In addition to terrain, Forge World’s upgrade kits allow you to personalize your army. Whether it’s unique shoulder pads, weapons, or even head swaps, these kits add a layer of customization that makes your army truly yours. Plus, they’re perfect for hobbyists who want to add extra flair to their forces without starting from scratch.
How to Use Forge World Models in Warhammer 40K Tournaments
So you’ve got that shiny Forge World 40K model, and now you’re itching to throw it down on the table in a tournament to crush your enemies in style. But wait—are you actually allowed to bring that beastly Warlord Titan or ultra-detailed Horus Heresy Primarch to the battlefield? Let’s break it down and find out how Forge World 40K fits into the world of competitive Warhammer.
Are Forge World Models Tournament Legal?
First things first, yes—Forge World models are legal in most Warhammer 40K tournaments. However, like most things in this grimdark universe, there are rules and caveats. Not every tournament will welcome your beautifully crafted Thunderhawk with open arms. Official Warhammer 40K tournaments, particularly those that follow Games Workshop’s rules for matched play, generally allow Forge World models. They’re considered part of the Warhammer 40K ecosystem, and many Forge World units are now included in GW’s annual balance updates.
That said, don’t assume you can just roll in with your Warhound Titan and expect no pushback. Most tournaments have point limits, and some Forge World units are really pricey in terms of points. Bringing your Titan to a 1,000-point game might be legal but could also make you that player who blows up everyone’s fun (and entire armies) by turn two. It’s always a good idea to double-check the specific event’s rules because some tournaments place restrictions on certain Forge World units to keep things balanced. Check out all the Forge World rules for models in 10th Edition 40k here!
Is Forge World Legal in Tournaments?
The legality of Forge World models can sometimes feel like navigating a minefield, especially when local tournament organizers (TOs) have different interpretations of the rules. While Forge World is generally accepted, certain events might ban or restrict units that are seen as too powerful or unbalanced for competitive play. So before you start dreaming of rolling your Acastus Knight Porphyrion onto the battlefield, check in with the TO and clarify what’s allowed.
As for the rules themselves, Forge World’s rules are officially part of Games Workshop’s Warhammer Legends and Index updates. These entries are designed to keep Forge World models relevant in the meta without overwhelming the game. When you bring your Forge World units, make sure you’ve got the latest datasheets and are ready to justify why your Leviathan Dreadnought isn’t the most broken thing in the room (spoiler: sometimes it is). Keeping updated with FAQs and errata from both GW and Forge World will ensure you’re playing by the book and staying on everyone’s good side.
Forge World 40K Resin Models: Care & Maintenance
Forge World models are beautiful, delicate, and—let’s be honest—a bit intimidating to work with. Resin is a whole different beast compared to regular plastic, and if you don’t know how to care for it properly, you could find yourself stuck with a very expensive pile of misshapen bits. Here’s how to treat your Forge World models with the care they deserve.
How to Clean Forge World Resin Models
When you first open that Forge World box, resist the urge to start gluing and painting right away. Resin models often come coated in a thin layer of mold release agents, which helps them come out of their casting molds but makes it a nightmare for your primer to stick. So before you do anything, grab some warm, soapy water (not hot—resin and heat don’t mix) and give the parts a gentle scrub with a soft toothbrush or sonic cleaner.
You’re looking to clean off any greasy residue. Be thorough, but don’t scrub like you’re trying to file down the mold lines. Once you’ve cleaned your resin pieces, let them dry fully before starting assembly or painting. Pro tip: Don’t rush this. If you skip the cleaning step, that amazing paint job you’ve got planned might just flake off like a bad sunburn.
How to Assemble and Paint Forge World Resin
Once your Forge World resin models are squeaky clean, it’s time to start assembling—but don’t treat these pieces like plastic kits. Resin is more fragile, and it doesn’t flex or bend like plastic. This means you need to be careful when handling smaller, thinner parts. When cutting parts from the sprue, use a sharp hobby knife and always cut slowly. Better yet, use a razor saw for larger pieces to avoid damaging the resin.
You’ll also want to have some super glue on hand. Plastic glue won’t work on resin, so make sure you’re using the right stuff. And remember, less is more! Too much glue can lead to a sticky mess and can even melt some of the finer details on the model.
Now onto painting. Resin tends to have a smoother surface than plastic, so priming is essential. Use a good-quality primer that’s designed to stick to resin. Once primed, you can paint it just like any other miniature—though if you’ve got a massive Forge World Titan, you might want to consider an airbrush unless you plan on growing very old painting those massive armor plates by hand. Forge World models are amazing, but they require a bit more TLC than your average Games Workshop (GW) kit. Check out how Rob repaired a beat-up Forge World model here!
Where to Buy Forge World 40K Miniatures
If you’re in the market for some Forge World 40K miniatures, you’re probably looking for the best ways to get your hands on these stunning (and sometimes wallet-weeping) resin masterpieces. Fear not! Whether you want that exclusive Primarch or the towering Warlord Titan, there are a few solid options for buying Forge World miniatures. Let’s break down where you can snag these coveted models, whether you’re looking for the latest release or hunting for a rare treasure.
Buying Direct from Games Workshop’s Forge World Warhammer Store
If you’re after the freshest batch of resin and want to skip the aftermarket chaos, buying direct from the Warhammer Webstore is your best bet. This is the official place to get all your Forge World goodies straight from the source. Games Workshop keeps the Forge World store well-stocked with their standard product lines, but they’re also known to drop some exclusive models that can only be purchased at specific events or—if you’re lucky enough—by visiting Warhammer World in person. The Forge World site has been rolled into the GW one, so there is basically one place to go now for the minis.
Yes, Warhammer World exclusives are a real thing, and they’re the stuff of legends. Whether it’s a Chaos Dwarf sorcerer or a special variant of a Titan, these products are only available in-store or at select events. So, if you happen to be visiting Nottingham (Warhammer pilgrimage, anyone?), you might want to plan for some extra luggage space. Plus, GW likes to sprinkle in some limited-edition models and merchandise—mugs, art prints, t-shirts that scream “I own resin”—to make you feel extra special.
But here’s the kicker: no shipping fees when you buy in person at Warhammer World. If you’re grabbing that £1,000 Thunderhawk, skipping shipping might be the small win you need to justify that purchase. Kind of.
Third-Party Sellers and eBay
Sometimes, though, you’re not after the latest shiny thing. Maybe you’re on the hunt for that rare, discontinued model from the Forge World Vaults. Enter: the Wild West of Forge World hunting—third-party sellers and eBay. There are some trusted online retailers like Noble Knight who stock Forge World models, but often, you’ll find that the aftermarket offers the best selection of those long-gone miniatures that just don’t pop up on the official store anymore.
eBay, of course, is the main stomping ground for those rare finds. Scrolling through listings feels like treasure hunting: you might stumble upon that rare Primarch model or that obscure Ork Battlewagon. The catch? Forge World’s popularity means prices can get steep—sometimes even higher than the original retail price, thanks to its limited runs and high demand. Always check the seller’s reputation and product photos to make sure you’re getting the real deal, not a dodgy recast.
Forge World’s Impact on Warhammer 40K: Collecting and Customization
Let’s talk about why Forge World models hold such a special place in the hearts of Warhammer 40K fans. These aren’t just toys, people. They’re art, storytelling, and pure hobby bragging rights all rolled into one. Forge World miniatures have built a cult-like following, and there’s a reason they’re so sought after by collectors.
Why Games Workshop’s (GW) Forge World Models Are Highly Sought After by Collectors
Forge World miniatures are like the Warhammer 40K elite. Not only are they painstakingly detailed and cast in high-quality resin, but they also come with an air of exclusivity that can’t be matched. Forge World doesn’t churn out mass-market miniatures. Instead, they produce limited runs, and this creates a “gotta catch ’em all” mentality among collectors.
Part of the allure is the scarcity—many of the models are only available for a short time or as part of event exclusives. Once they’re gone, the aftermarket prices skyrocket. That sense of urgency, combined with the fact that many Forge World miniatures represent key characters or units in the 40K lore, turns them into coveted pieces for any collector’s shelf. This is why some Forge World models end up being the crown jewels of a Warhammer collection, driving the value and demand even higher.
How Forge World Adds Personalization to Your Warhammer 40K Army
Now, beyond just the collectability, Forge World models have a way of making your army feel personal. These aren’t cookie-cutter Space Marines you’ll see in every game. Forge World offers unique customization options, allowing you to tweak your armies in ways that regular kits can’t match.
For example, maybe you want to build a Space Marine Chapter that’s steeped in the ancient history of the Horus Heresy. Forge World’s extensive range of Heresy-era armor and weapons lets you craft an army that feels like it just walked out of a dusty tome of 40K lore. Whether it’s through unique shoulder pads, helmets, or entire Legion-specific upgrade packs, Forge World gives you the tools to make your army tell a story.
And if you’re more into vehicles, Forge World also offers upgrade kits to make your tanks, flyers, and dreadnoughts stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re going for a narrative-driven force or just something visually striking, Forge World’s models give you that extra flair and individuality to make your army uniquely yours.
Forge World’s Legacy: From Resin Giants to “Expert Kits”
Ah, Forge World. The name alone stirs up memories of towering Titans, jaw-dropping Horus Heresy models, and enough resin to keep hobbyists and their wallets busy for decades. Launched back in 1998, Forge World was Games Workshop’s way of saying, “Hey, you like big models? How about really big models?” Their early creations, like the Thunderhawk Gunship, made sure that anyone who owned one got instant hobby cred.
But like all good things, Forge World’s reign as a standalone brand has come to an end. By 2024, Games Workshop (GW) decided to fold Forge World into its main product line, leaving us with “Expert Kits” instead of the old resin-drenched Forge World branding. Does that mean the end of beautifully detailed models and epic-scale projects? Not at all. It’s more of a rebranding exercise, allowing Games Workshop (GW) to bring everything under one unified Warhammer banner.
While we might not see the words “Forge World” on those fancy boxes anymore, the models and spirit of innovation remain. The legacy of Forge World lives on in the form of resin-cast masterpieces, whether they’re called Forge World or “Expert Kits.” The name may be gone, but the models? Still just as awesome—and still making Space Marine Captains everywhere wish they had a bigger gun. To see the full timeline of what happened to Forge World, check it out here!
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
What do you think about the Games Workshop (GW) 40k models and the history of Forge World?
About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job 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!
