Games Workshop suspended new pre-orders this week- here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what’s (probably) lurking just around the corner.
Games Workshop has just revealed that this is a “break week”, meaning no new pre-orders for any game system. That being said, we’ve got a few other things worth checking out.
Why Has Games Workshop Halted Pre-Orders?
We’ve seen this movie before, and if last year’s script is anything to go by, a price increase could be peeking over the horizon. In May 2024, GW dropped the price hike bomb, giving us all a few weeks’ warning before it hit our wallets in June.
It wouldn’t be shocking if a similar move is brewing right now. After all, with the way costs are rising across everything from sprues to staff, GW giving things a week-long breather could signal that they’re preparing for a “new pricing structure” announcement.
Tariffs Are Squeezing the Hobby Harder Than a Paint Pot Lid
Let’s not ignore the extra spice getting tossed into the mix: tariffs.
Right now, products coming directly from China are getting slapped with new US tariffs. That’s a big deal for GW, since some of their materials — including resin, packaging, and accessory lines — get manufactured overseas before making their way to our painting tables.
But it’s not just China. Imports from the UK (hello, Nottingham) are starting to feel the heat, too. With GW’s home base being smack in the UK, US players could see extra price bumps as tariffs layer on top of existing costs.
All of this stacks up to make a price increase almost inevitable — and it’s probably why GW’s pulling a tactical withdrawal on new pre-orders for now.
New Space Marine Previews Incoming?
Hold onto your bolters. If you’re craving more power armor in your life (who isn’t?), rumor has it we might get some juicy Space Marine previews around May 22nd at the Dallas Open.
This tracks nicely with the event’s reputation for revealing major new models and expansions. Expect updated kits, new Primaris designs, and maybe even a fresh campaign book if GW’s feeling spicy.
Free Mini of the Month: Is It Emperor’s Children Time?
While we’re on the topic of “what’s next,” there’s another treat coming up — the new free mini of the month.
And from what we’re picking up, it’s got the smell of Emperor’s Children all over it. Maybe Lucius? Maybe something even shinier? Either way, it lines up nicely with the slow but steady hints GW has been tossing our way about Chaos goodies getting their moment to shine.
Final Thoughts On This Week
So here’s the situation: no pre-orders this week, the shadow of a price hike looming, a potential Emperor’s Children freebie around the corner, and Space Marine news almost definitely locked and loaded for later this month.
Stay ready, keep an eye on your favorite FLGS, and maybe squirrel away a few hobby bucks — May is looking to be wild.
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What do you think of the break this week from new pre-orders?
