A fresh wind howls through the fortress-monastery, and with it comes the march of unrelenting zeal. The Black Templars, ever the fiery fist of the Emperor’s wrath, return to the stars with renewed purpose—and leading the charge is a brand-new miniature that’s equal parts iconic and intimidating: the Crusade Ancient.
This latest addition isn’t just another sword-wielding knight in black ceramite. No, this warrior is a walking shrine. A battle-scarred veteran who bears the most sacred of banners, the Crusade Ancient is designed to look every bit the inspirational force he represents on the tabletop. From the studded black armor to the purity seals billowing in the smoke of war, every detail screams “crusade.”
The Model: An Icon in Motion
What makes the Crusade Ancient stand out immediately is the sheer storytelling packed into the sculpt. The miniature comes with two banner top options: an Ork skull impaled on a spike with the name Armageddon etched into it (a clear nod to the Templars' storied past), and a blank heraldic shield for hobbyists who want to add their own chapter lore. Either way, it’s a centerpiece model—perfect for both narrative collectors and competitive players.
The pose is commanding without being over-the-top—stoic, resolved, and ready to walk into hell carrying the Emperor’s word on high. And that’s exactly what he’ll do in-game too.
On the Tabletop: Strength Through Inspiration
Rules-wise, the Crusade Ancient carries more than just relics. He brings raw motivation. He’ll likely act as a potent support piece, buffing nearby Black Templars through Acts of Faith, auras of resolve, and maybe even letting others fight or shoot one last time before falling. While we don’t have the full rules yet, the description of “booming rhetoric” and “inspiring allies” suggests synergy with Crusader Squads and Sword Brethren pushing up the board.
It’s the kind of unit you build a thematic list around. Not because it’s broken—but because it feels right.
Supplement Codex: A Crusade Reforged
Of course, the Crusade Ancient doesn’t ride alone. The Codex Supplement: Black Templars refreshes one of Warhammer 40K’s most beloved Firstborn Chapters with new Detachments, Crusade rules, and classic character support. High Marshal Helbrecht and Chaplain Grimaldus return, bringing the old fury with new mechanics.
Three Detachments and an Oathsworn Campaign system give Templar players something they’ve always craved: thematic depth. This is about more than rerolls—it’s about oaths, honour, and pushing through the flames of battle with nothing but righteous hatred and a chainsword.
Final Thoughts: For Sigismund and the Emperor
The Crusade Ancient is a triumph of both design and narrative potential. Whether you're a long-time Templar commander or a new recruit to the black cross, this model captures the soul of the Chapter—resolute, unyielding, and burning with divine fury.
Keep an eye out as preorders go live later this year. This isn’t just a model drop—it’s the call to crusade.