This Year’s Top Warhammer 40K Expansion Sells Out Online

In the universe of Warhammer 40,000, human society isn’t solely built on the foundation of a highly militarized, totalitarian regime. Beyond the iconic Space Marines and Martian cyborgs, the realm is dominated by a mighty theocracy that worships the Emperor of Mankind as a divine being. This religious fervor means that half of the figures in the Blood and Zeal set are fervent zealots, led astray by their worship of a false deity, and tasked with the immense responsibility of guiding vast populations in the 41st millennium. Meanwhile, the remainder of the miniatures pledge allegiance to Chaos.

Known as the Ecclesiarchy, the Empire’s theocratic branch is perhaps the most nefarious element of the 40K world. Ironically, it idolizes a leader who repeatedly insisted, “Do not worship me,” to many. Still, the narrative makes it apparent that some opportunists saw the potential of harnessing power by establishing the Cult of the Emperor. This cult evolved into a potent instrument of control, wielded to subjugate the masses. While the Ecclesiarchy isn’t the root of humanity’s darker instincts such as xenophobia, vigilantism, and mob mentality, it certainly doesn’t counteract them. In the Imperium, violence and fear aren’t malfunctions; they’re integral features. Now, with this set of miniatures, those qualities have faces.

These figures represent the most unquestioningly loyal, brainwashed fanatics in the universe, making their packaging alongside the forces of Chaos quite fitting. Delving into the storylines included within the box reveals that there are far more members of the Ecclesiarchy than there are Space Marines. The numbers of these religious extremists might even surpass the mighty Imperial Guardsmen. And frankly, they’re all pretty terrible.

Nonetheless, they serve as the binding force keeping the Imperium of Mankind from unraveling. Without their fervor, without the equal measures of devotion and animosity they provide, humanity would surely implode, succumbing to threats like Chaos, the Tyranids, the Orks, or any of the myriad adversaries bent on wiping humans off the galactic map. Consequently, assigning faces to these names becomes crucial.

The Blood and Zeal set, while expanding the narrative scope of the universe and providing more content for Kill Team, also fills a unique role in the wider hobby. These characters deserve a spot in every facet of tabletop 40K—from Kill Team to Necromunda, the expansive Warhammer 40,000 wargame, and even tabletop role-playing games like Imperium Maledictum.

Personally, I find them detestable. Yet, I’m also pleased they exist physically. I suggest acquiring them, if for nothing else, to stare into their small, intense eyes and confront them directly.