This week’s reveals feel like a major inflection point for two game systems at once. The Old World gains more depth with the arrival of Cathay’s mighty armies, while Legions Imperialis gets a serious injection of rules and tanks to round out the Legiones Astartes arsenal.
Arcane Journal: Dawn of the Storm Dragon
Cathay takes center stage with this 48-page supplement, which expands on their role in the Old World. Beyond lore, the highlights are the Jade Fleet Army of Infamy, multiplayer campaign rules, and even terrain generation for the Wasteland and Shadowlands. It’s a compact but meaty volume that makes Cathay feel like a real force rather than a distant rumor.
Miao Ying, the Storm Dragon
One of the most anticipated characters from Total War: Warhammer finally hits the tabletop. The dual-kit approach—Miao Ying in her human guise or as her colossal dragon form—gives players flexibility and hobbyists a centerpiece miniature to be proud of. The sculpt captures her aloof, powerful presence perfectly.
Jade Warriors & Jade Lancers
Core troops and cavalry are the bread and butter of any fantasy army, and Cathay’s new plastic kits do not disappoint. The Jade Warriors box packs in customization options—20 models, multiple weapon loadouts, and gender diversity in the heads—that will make it easy to build unique regiments. The Jade Lancers, meanwhile, deliver heavy cavalry in disciplined ranks, providing Cathay with a true hammer unit on the battlefield. Both kits come with generous transfer sheets, a nice touch for hobbyists aiming for detailed, uniform armies.
Grand Cannon & Fire Rain Rocket Battery
Artillery lovers won’t be left behind. This dual-kit gives players access to Cathay’s signature long-ranged firepower, complete with crew options and even an Ogre mercenary hauling munitions. It’s thematic, flexible, and provides the kind of battlefield punch that can make or break sieges.
Transfer Sheet – Northern Provinces
While not the flashiest release, the dedicated Cathay transfer sheet is a boon for painters. With over 260 decals designed for banners, cloth, and even sky lanterns, it makes army building more accessible and helps tie the faction together visually.
Legions Imperialis – Liber Strategia and Reinforcements
The other major half of this release slate belongs to Legions Imperialis, and it’s clear Games Workshop is committed to expanding its scope.
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Liber Strategia consolidates rules across multiple prior books, streamlining access and updating content for Legiones Astartes, Solar Auxilia, Mechanicum, Titan Legions, and Knight Households. For serious players, this feels like an essential pickup.
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Mastodon Super-heavy Assault Transports bring one of the most iconic tanks in the Horus Heresy into epic scale, complete with weapon loadout options and transfer sheets.
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Cerberus Heavy Tank Destroyers, Typhon Heavy Siege Tanks, and Vindicator Squadrons add specialized firepower, while the Whirlwind and Scorpius Missile Tank Squadrons ensure Astartes commanders have flexible artillery at their disposal. Each box offers multiple builds, making them versatile additions for collectors and competitive players alike.
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Order Tokens and Objective Markers plus the Formation and Datasheet Card Packs round out the release, providing the kind of practical tabletop tools that help keep games smooth and organized.
Final Thoughts
Grand Cathay’s continued arrival in The Old World feels monumental. Miao Ying, her Jade armies, and their devastating artillery cement Cathay as more than just a background faction—they’re here to shape the narrative. On the other side, Legions Imperialis continues its rapid expansion, with Liber Strategia ensuring clarity while the flood of Astartes tanks guarantees no battlefield will look the same twice.
This wave is a strong one: plenty for lore fans, plenty for hobbyists, and plenty for gamers.
Note: Legions Imperialis releases will be available for reserve after their street release date. These will not be available for pre-order at Wargame Portal.
