Gravediggers Command Starter: A 30-Point Cygnar Force

The highlight of this week’s update is the Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter, which will be available for pre-order next week and is scheduled for release at AdeptiCon. This starter set provides a 30-point force, making it suitable for smaller-scale games or for players new to Warmachine.

The set features Captain Buck Hasker, a Trencher warcaster known for his stealth tactics and use of explosive traps. Hasker’s crew includes Plugger, a versatile unit equipped with a Storm Cannon capable of handling both infantry and larger targets. The force is rounded out by the Rowdies and Ramjaw, each bringing unique abilities to the battlefield.

Full rules for the Gravediggers Command Starter can be accessed through the free Warmachine app under the ‘Cards’ section.

New Doubles Gameplay Scenario: “Two Hearts That Beat as One”

A new seasonal gameplay scenario, “Two Hearts That Beat as One,” has been introduced for Warmachine app subscribers. This scenario utilizes the Duos format, allowing players to build forces with two Leaders instead of one. While standard force-building rules apply, players must manage two Leaders during each turn, with each Leader only able to allocate focus or reave fury from their own Cohort models.

The Duos format is designed to offer a fresh gameplay experience and can also serve as an introductory tool for new players. By assigning a portion of the force to a novice, experienced players can help them learn the game in a collaborative setting.

Shadows & Scum Pre-Order Now Available

The Shadows & Scum two-player set, which was announced last Friday, is now open for pre-order. This set is tailored for Khymaera and Southern Kriels armies and is intended for two players, making it an option for those looking to split the set with a friend or build their own force ahead of its AdeptiCon release.

Lylyth, Raven Vengeance Releases Tomorrow

Lylyth, Raven Vengeance, a new warcaster for the Khymaera faction, is set to release tomorrow. Formerly associated with Everblight, Lylyth returns to lead Shadowflame Shard armies. Players are invited to share their painted Lylyth models in the community group and on Discord for a chance to be featured in Steamforged’s #paintmachine spotlights.

The Maelstrom is a colossal warjack designed to enhance the capabilities of Storm Legion armies with its advanced weaponry and versatility. Powered by a storm core generator, it features a range of customization options, including shoulder-mounted weapons and interchangeable left-arm configurations, allowing players to adapt it to their preferred strategies.

This colossal combines ranged firepower and close-combat strength, offering an opportunity to bolster both offensive and defensive playstyles. Whether you’re expanding an existing Cygnar force or starting a new army, the Maelstrom is a significant addition to the faction’s lineup.

For more details on its lore, design, and battlefield strategies, the Maelstrom Compendium is available in the Warmachine App.

The starter set includes everything needed to begin playing, featuring two distinct factions, Cygnar and Khador. Cygnar emphasizes precision tactics and advanced lightning-powered technology, while Khador showcases heavy armor and raw brute force. Each faction brings unique characters, warjacks, and units that define their playstyle, creating a dynamic and tactical experience for players.

Steamforged Games has provided several resources to support new players, including a Quick Start Guide and detailed assembly instructions for the miniatures. A free companion app is also available, featuring the full game rules, lore, and weekly updates to help players deepen their understanding of the game.

Warmachine, set in the steam-powered world of the Iron Kingdoms, combines strategic gameplay with a rich narrative backdrop. Players take on the role of commanders leading their forces through battles that require skillful tactics and clever maneuvering.

Captain Bastian Falk offers leadership to Gun Mage forces, providing them with the Reciprocate ability, which allows models to react when enemy ranged attacks miss. He can gain Stealth when concealed and reposition after eliminating enemy models using Run & Gun. Equipped with the Magelock Scattergun, Falk’s abilities include Banish, Decrepitation, and Incendiary effects.

Sergeant Goran Lazarenko, known as the Jackal, specializes in targeting specific parts of enemy warjacks and warbeasts with his Jack Buster weapon, dealing targeted damage. His abilities include Prowl for stealth movement and Reposition, allowing for tactical maneuvering on the battlefield.

This week’s subscriber content features the Grim Harvest scenario, where one player controls Grymkin forces attempting to abduct villagers during the Longest Night, while the opposing player works to defend the village and protect the occupants. The scenario introduces a thematic challenge that ties into the Grymkin’s lore and the game’s seasonal setting.

The Two Player Starter Set, featuring Captain Bastian Falk and Sergeant Goran Lazarenko, is now available for pre-order.

The roadmap provides a glimpse into future Warmachine expansions, starting with the Cryx Necrofactorium Auxiliary Expansion in October 2024 and continuing into next year. The schedule includes new warjacks, starter sets, and other expansions through June 2025. While many releases were confirmed, some details remain under wraps, adding to the anticipation for what’s to come.

In addition to the roadmap, Hart discussed several changes to the game’s formats. One of the most notable updates involves simplifying how players approach the different Warmachine formats, such as Prime and Legacy. The goal is to reduce confusion and streamline the game for players at all levels. Prime will continue to be the main focus, encompassing both new armies, referred to as MKIV, and older, out-of-production armies that will now be known as Armies of Legend. This rebranding is meant to help players differentiate between the armies currently in production and those that require more effort to collect.

The Unlimited format is also undergoing a name change, now being rebranded as Legacy. This update is intended to align Warmachine with similar games in the market, making it easier for new players to understand. Despite these changes, the Legacy format will still receive support, particularly through upcoming Lock & Load events. These events, set to return next year in the USA and later in Europe, will officially include Legacy format tournaments, ensuring that fans of the older characters and storylines can continue to enjoy their favorite parts of the game.

The update includes the Malefactor Heavy Warjack, which features a modular weapons loadout that allows for customizable offensive and defensive strategies. This model includes an integrated Aggressive ability, enabling it to run or charge without the need for spending focus.

Additionally, the Raptor, a light bonejack, has been introduced to provide versatility to Necrofactorium armies. It comes with modular head and back options, allowing it to fulfill various roles on the battlefield, from executing swift strikes to serving as an arc node for spellcasting.

The Mechanithrall Swarm is another new addition, consisting of Cryxian automatons that can boost their attacks through the Gang ability and retaliate when targeted thanks to the Vengeance feature. These units are designed to help players overwhelm their opponents through numerical superiority.

The Machine Wraith Dominator is introduced as a Necrofactorium solo unit with the Dark Dominion ability, which grants the capability to control enemy warjacks and use their strength against their own armies.

The Skarlock Lieutenant enhances the command capabilities within the Mechanithrall Swarms, using dark sorcery to increase the power and resilience of these mechanized undead troops.

The Necrosurgeon Initiates are also new, providing dual benefits of enhancing warjack combat capabilities and performing Grim Returns to revive fallen trooper models and reintroduce them to the battlefield.

These new models and units are available in various purchasing options, including the core expansion and battlegroup box.

Steamforged is working to resolve the inherited issues of high demand and extended lead times. Currently, Australian fans will need to wait a bit longer for their orders as the company works on setting up domestic manufacturing, promising an update when this option becomes available.

During this transition, the company has also reassured Mini Crate subscribers that their service will continue without interruption, and no subscription fees will be charged until further updates.

Steamforged has introduced several product updates. They are launching Command Starter Sets, beginning with the Cryx Necrofactorium in August, which includes a full playable force at a competitive price. They’ve also rebranded and repriced their Battlegroup Boxes to make entry into the game more accessible for newcomers.

Moreover, the restructuring includes a redesign of the Core and Auxiliary Expansions to help players more effectively build their armies at reduced costs. Notably, the introduction of a special 2-player starter box featuring Cygnar vs. Khador will mark the first time Warmachine miniatures are produced in hard plastic, highlighting a commitment to quality and durability.

Adjustments have been made to streamline where certain Warcasters or Warlocks are included, optimizing the compatibility and gameplay experience. This may affect players of established armies, with certain models available separately for a limited time to ease the transition.

For the past two decades, the Iron Kingdoms titles, especially Warmachine, have been popular among players and hobbyists for their rich lore and immersive gameplay. Moving forward, Steamforged and Privateer Press will work together on the design and development of these lines.

Steamforged is positioned to further develop Warmachine and the Iron Kingdoms. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Steamforged has experienced continuous growth, with trading revenue increasing by 50% each year for the past three years.

“This project is a perfect, logical fit for us. Almost every aspect of Steamforged’s history can be traced back to Warmachine in some way or another,” said Rich Loxam, CEO and Founder of Steamforged. “Both Mat Hart and I are Warmachine players, and Warmachine was actually a key inspiration for us creating Guild Ball. We are excited to bring our experience and infrastructure to take Warmachine into its next era.”

Mat Hart, CCO and Founder of Steamforged, added: “There’s a real wealth of creative talent and passion for tabletop gaming in our team. We all share a special love for Warmachine and the Iron Kingdoms. Our expertise in creating beloved games makes us well-suited to collaborate with Privateer Press in shaping the future of this important franchise. We look forward to what’s to come for the players in this world.”

Matt Wilson, CCO and Founder of Privateer Press, stated: “We couldn’t have asked for better custodians than Steamforged. Their track record, history with the games, and genuine excitement about the future make them the perfect fit to lead Warmachine and the Iron Kingdoms into the future. We look forward to working with Steamforged in the years to come.”

As the games transition to their new home under the Steamforged banner, there will be a period of adjustment as the range moves from the Privateer Press website to Steamforged’s platform. For the latest updates, enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up for the Steamforged newsletter, join their Discord, and follow them on social media.

In this new chapter, Steamforged and Privateer Press are committed to making the gaming experience better than ever, with joint efforts in design and development. Steamforged’s 10-year track record of creating, developing, and delivering large-scale games is set to support Warmachine’s growth.

For those interested in staying informed, the Steamforged community channels, including a dedicated Iron Kingdoms section on Discord, will provide the latest news and updates. Additionally, Steamforged will manage the Warmachine Facebook group, ensuring continuous updates for the community.

As orders transition to the Steamforged website, the focus will initially be on Warmachine and the Iron Kingdoms RPG lines, with more information on Formula P3 Paint, Warcaster, Riot Quest, and other titles to follow. Existing orders placed with Privateer Press will be honored and dispatched as promised.

Steamforged’s plans for Guild Ball and Godtear remain unchanged, with ongoing support and updates for these titles. Warmachine joining the Steamforged family is expected to strengthen the miniature gaming community.

Scheduled Gen Con events for Warmachine and Warcaster will continue as planned. Additionally, the Iron Kingdoms RPG Kickstarter for Strangelight Workshop is set to launch at the end of the month.

Emperor Carver Ultimus Esquire III & War Boar MMD47, a pair that has garnered attention following their roles in the Legendary Event series and the Dragonfall storyline, are now ready to join the battlefields. Their introduction into the WARMACHINE universe is poised to offer players new tactical options and narrative depth.

Krueger, Wrath of Blighterghast, also introduced as a new model, aligns as an ally with the forces defending the Iron Kingdoms from the Orgoth invasion. This character brings additional strategic possibilities for players involved in the game’s expansive storyline.

These models are scheduled to make their first appearance at AdeptiCon. For enthusiasts not attending the event, preorders are available to ensure delivery in the first wave of shipments, starting Wednesday, March 20th.

Both Emperor Carver Ultimus Esquire III & War Boar MMD47 serve as mercenary models, making them compatible with any MKIV army and all Prime Legacy armies, providing a versatile addition to player collections.

Similarly, Krueger, Wrath of Blighterghast, is categorized as a mercenary model, suitable for inclusion in the Storm Legion, Winter Korps, and House Kallyss armies, offering new narrative and strategic layers to these factions.

Khymaera Shadowflame Shard: A New Force Emerges

Diving deep underground, the new Khymaera Faction brings a draconic twist to the game with the Shadowflame Shard Core Army Starter. The set boasts 22 models, led by a brand-new warlock named Shyryss, the Flawless Dark. Adding further might to this new army are two heavy warbeasts: the Vypex and the Hydrix, designed to challenge enemy forces in table-top battles.

The army set comes with four new units, two command attachments, and one solo model. Players can configure the warbeasts to build an army ranging from 47 to 66 points. Retailers opting for the December Premium Bundle, which includes four Shadowflame Shard Core Army Starters, will also receive four exclusive Shadowflame Shard Quickfang Master Holiday Minis.

Khador Annihilators: A Cadre of Destruction

For the MKIV Khador players, the Annihilators cadre adds new life to the game. This expansion features a fresh warcaster, Kommander Tatiana Sikora, and a unique character solo, Sergeant Sergei Krol. These characters enhance gameplay when combined with existing Winter Korps or the anticipated Old Umbrey forces. Additionally, the Controller solo and the Man-O-War Wrecking Crew unit will add a layer of devastation, especially when up against enemy warjacks.

Matthew D. Wilson, Creative Director of Privateer Press, expressed enthusiasm for the new releases, stating, “As the newest Faction and army for the fourth edition of WARMACHINE, the Khymaera Shadowflame Shard joins the Brineblood Marauders in bringing back warlock-led armies en force. Cadres open up new list-building opportunities for players, acting as a bridge between the armies of new MKIV Factions, and we’re looking forward to introducing the Annihilators and more cadres in the future.”

Availability and Pricing

Both the Khymaera Shadowflame Shard Core Army Starter and the Khador Annihilator Cadre will be available through local game stores and the Privateer Press Online Store in December. The MSRP is set at $199.99 for the army starter and $99.99 for the cadre.

With these new additions, Privateer Press aims to elevate the gaming experience for WARMACHINE MKIV enthusiasts, offering not just new models but also strategic and tactical depth. Mark your calendars for December, as the underground Khymaera and the devastating Annihilators prepare to make their debut.