Navigating the expansive world of Warhammer 40,000 can be overwhelming. If you’re a beginner, you might not even know where to start. With countless options emerging every year, how do you decide which figure deserves a place on your shelf?
This guide simplifies the hunt. It highlights the best Warhammer figures of 2023 that every collector should consider. Of course, it’s a subjective list, but it’s worth looking at.
Whether you’re refining an existing collection or starting a new one, these recommendations will help you invest in the best. Let’s cut through the noise and get to the figures that matter. By the end of this guide, we’ll even answer all your questions about buying Warhammer 40,000 figures.
The 5 Best Warhammer Figures for 2023: Reviewed in Detail
Although these Warhammer figures might also be used as miniatures, the sizes for most of these won’t allow collectors to do that. However, you might utilize the following figures very effectively for informal/custom games.
1. HiPlay JoyToy Warhammer 40,000 Ultramarines Primarch Roboute Guilliman
Build-wise, you’re looking at ABS PVC robust build that speaks to its durability. The sci-fi design and professional paintwork are to die for.
Length-wise, you’re looking at around 105mm and it weighs enough at 350g. The height might be smaller than some might expect, but it doesn’t skimp on detail or functionality. It’s a must-have for Warhammer fans — especially those inclined toward the Space Marine saga.
Pros
- Premium-quality build with ABS PVC material provides longevity.
- Highly detailed design with professional paintwork captures the essence of Roboute Guilliman.
- Versatile articulation allows for multiple poses, which enhances display options.
- The figure is from the JoyToy collection and the figure stands upright.
Cons
- Some users expected a larger figure given the price point.
- On the pricier side, which makes it a significant investment for some collectors.
2. HiPlay JoyToy Warhammer 40K Blood Angels Intercessors
This one’s also made from ABS PVC, has an exquisite finish, and is durable. Like other JoyToy figures, this one’s also crafted at a 1:18 scale. So, for anybody who is after Warhammer’s sci-fi-themed collectibles, this one is worth considering.
Weighing 350g and with a height of 105MM, the figure might seem compact, but it packs a punch with its design precision. From Blood Angels to Imperial Fists, the availability in various sizes and an impressive 21 colors ensures that collectors can choose based on their allegiances. Perfectionists might have to make peace with below-par packaging, however.
Pros
- Exceptional paintwork and detailing capture the spirit of the Blood Angels.
- Made from durable ABS PVC material.
- Different variants available catering to diverse Warhammer factions.
- Resonates well with fans, especially those seeking specific chapter figures like the Imperial Fists.
Cons
- Limited leg articulation due to the design of the coat.
3. JOYTOY Warhammer 40K Black Templars Figure
It’s available in a staggering 24 colors, with variants including Black Templars and Blood Angels. The paintwork is intricate. The detailing is meticulous. There might be some usability concerns, but they’re negligible. The pros and cons will help break down the rest!
Pros
- High-quality paintwork complements the Black Templars’ aesthetic.
- Soft plastic construction provides flexibility during articulation.
- Comes with a variety of accessories.
Cons
- Some users experienced challenges with the figure’s joints being too loose.
- The hand attachments appear to be of lesser quality and might pose challenges when equipping them.
4. McFarlane Warhammer 40,000 Wave 5 Dark Angels Intercessor Figure
If you’re a hobbyist, you can paint and customize it as you like! The ultra-articulation design, boasting up to 22 moving parts, provides a comprehensive range of posing options. With the inclusion of key accessories such as a Bolt Rifle and Backpack, this figure is tailor-made for the right Warhammer collector.
Pros
- Ultra-articulation with 22 moving parts offers great flexibility for posing.
- Classic matte gray finish allows customization and taps into the DIY spirit of traditional Warhammer miniatures.
- Comes with a bolt rifle and backpack.
- The packaging design (Warhammer-themed) is excellent.
Cons
- Foot plates might affect symmetry when painting.
5. TAMASHII NATIONS Mobile Suit Gundam Char’s Counterattack
Equipped with the Beam rifle, Beam Tomahawk, and an optional hand, this 6.1″ tall figure screams quality and excellent craftsmanship. The commitment to a perfect blend of modeling, articulation, and the right materials is obvious in this figure.
Pros
- The figure comes with iconic accessories, including the Beam rifle and Beam Tomahawk.
- Durable construction provides suitability for both play and collection purposes.
- Sharp form ensures the figure is anime-accurate.
- Fantastic articulation makes posing easy and dynamic, which helps come up with interesting setups.
Cons
- While this figure stands out in design and detail, its price point might be a bit steep for casual fans.
Buyer’s Guide to Help You Buy the Best Warhammer Figures
Why Should You Choose Collectible Action Figures Over Miniatures?
While no hard and fast rule compels any Warhammer or tabletop game enthusiast to do this, some folks prefer to collect action figures over miniatures for the following reasons:
The Collector’s Perspective
Collectible action figures often stand out with their intricate detailing, lifelike articulation, and sometimes, brand endorsements.
They’re not just game pieces; they’re statements of fandom. These pieces of art can be posed and displayed. Their packaging alone can be a testament to their value. Plus, with action figures, there’s the joy of seeing beloved characters in near-lifelike renditions.
The Gamer’s Perspective
For gamers, action figures introduce a dynamic element to gameplay. Their articulated joints and detailed accessories can make game scenarios feel more animated. While they might not always fit the traditional game scale, they can enhance custom games, offering more varied poses and interactions.
Those looking for larger figures should consider the HiPlay ones we’ve reviewed above. For relatively smaller action figures, consider the JoyToy Warhammer 40K Black Templars Figure.
What Factors Should I Consider Before Buying a Warhammer Figure?
The Warhammer 40k figures are collectibles that may improve in value over time. As such, several considerations should guide your purchase. Start with licensing and search for official products if you’re truly interested in collecting authentic collectibles.
Authenticity and Licensing: What to Look For
Understanding the authenticity and licensing of Warhammer figures is crucial. Genuine products uphold the high standards of quality and detail that the brand is known for.
Products with official licenses will often carry an affixed label or hologram from the licensor, in this case, Games Workshop or any other official entity that they’ve collaborated with.
This guarantees that the figure adheres to the high standards set by the original creators. Additionally, genuine products will typically include details about the manufacturer and may even have unique serial numbers to verify their authenticity.
Beware of prices that seem too good to be true. Knock-offs will typically undercut genuine products significantly. Other signs include, but are not limited to:
- Misspelled names or terms related to the Warhammer universe.
- Low-quality packaging or missing official holograms.
- Lack of detailing or poor paintwork on the figure itself.
Material Quality
When choosing a Warhammer figure, the material’s durability and feel are paramount. High-quality figures are typically made of robust plastics, ABS, PVC, or even die-cast metals, providing longevity and resistance to wear.
Level of Detail
Look for sharp, precise paint applications. The sculpting has to be meticulous and should accurately represent the character/unit. That’s the whole point of having figures.
Articulation
For those who enjoy posing their figures, articulation is crucial. Premium Warhammer figures will have multiple points of articulation. This allows for dynamic poses and greater flexibility in display options. The joints should move smoothly without being too loose or tight.
Scale and Size: Why It Matters
A consistent scale guarantees that all your figures proportionately relate to one another, providing a cohesive and immersive viewing experience. The size also affects where and how you can showcase the figure, making it essential to consider if you have limited space or a particular theme in mind.
Secondly, if you’re looking to use your figures in custom games, that’s another thing to consider when buying a Warhammer figure.
Display and Storage Considerations
Consider investing in glass cabinets or shelves to protect them from dust and potential damage. UV-resistant cases can also prevent color fading. However, this is normally only for those buying high-end and expensive collectibles.
Otherwise, those buying for casual and hobbyist use will enjoy wall-mounted displays, rotating stands, and table tops. These can be just as good to show off your collections!
Maintain a Balance Between Investment and Fandom
While the thrill of collecting Warhammer figures from beloved factions can be intoxicating, it’s essential to strike a balance while buying these figures. Not every item will appreciate more value, and not every valued piece will resonate with your tastes.
Be discerning. Only purchase figures that ignite your passion, but stay informed about the market’s trends and potential long-term value.
Remember, the most fulfilling collections reflect genuine love for the universe and a savvy understanding of its economic facets. Let your heart guide you, but let your mind have a say too!
Limited/Rare Editions and Artist Proofs: Are They Worth It?
Artist Proofs are typically the first figures made from a new mold. They’re usually created to approve color schemes and overall design before mass production. They work as a prototype and are often identical to the production version, but might come before final tweaks.
Given their place on the production line, they can be rarer than standard figures. So, are they worth it? From a collector’s perspective, the inherent value of these items lies in their rarity. They can be a unique centerpiece in a collection and they tend to appreciate value faster.
However, keep in mind that this worth isn’t solely monetary. It also depends on personal significance. If you’re drawn to the backstory and rarity, they’re a worthy acquisition. But, if you’re merely seeking to broaden your collection, standard figures can be just as fulfilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rarest Warhammer Figure?
In September 2021, the rarest Warhammer figure was an all-metal Thunderhawk Gunship, developed by Games Workshop in 1997, and it was sold for around $35,000. Now, whether this was the rarest or not, remains subjective.
What matters here is that this was a rare model and it was bought for such a high price. The miniature was painted by Emil Nystrom and the team at Squidmar Miniatures. If you’re looking to buy a rare Warhammer figure that is licensed, you’ll probably have to buy it at auctions or online forums like Reddit where people have high-value collectibles.
What is the Best Starter Warhammer Figure?
If you’re looking to buy a starter Warhammer figure, the list above should be an excellent starting point. The JoyToy collection cost range is between $15 and $30. So, it isn’t too expensive and should do well for any collector. The figures are articulative and meticulous. They’re available and cater to the interests of different individuals across all factions.
If you aim to buy a whole starter set, you could aim toward building specific collections — Space Marines, for example, are often recommended for beginners as they are versatile and have straightforward gameplay.
Who is the Strongest Human in Warhammer?
In the Warhammer universe, the question of who the strongest human is can be subjective and context-dependent, as it encompasses various timelines, settings, and interpretations.
If you want to read more into it, you can start by learning more about:
- The God Emperor
- Nagash
- The Fabricator Lord of the Admach
- Slann
- Chaos Champions
- And Different individual interpretations of these characters on Reddit/Quora. There are also various videos explaining each and everything in detail.
Why is Warhammer Expensive?
Warhammer is expensive due to a combination of factors. Firstly, the intricate handcrafted nature of the miniatures and their high-quality materials significantly increase production costs.
Games Workshop, the company behind Warhammer, has also established a strong brand reputation. It allows them to command higher prices due to the perceived quality of their products.
Warhammer caters to a niche, relatively small market of dedicated hobbyists and collectors. They have their own thing going on as well as rarity auctions that increase the overall capital circulating in the market.
What is Warhammer Plus?
Warhammer+ is a subscription service designed for Warhammer enthusiasts. It offers a fresh approach to exploring the expansive Warhammer universe.
Users can subscribe to this service and instantly get access to a variety of content. This content includes original animations, subscriber offers, and exclusive miniatures. So basically, think of it as a guide to learn about the game before getting started, without buying the game at all.
Final Thoughts
Before getting into this awesome game, please make sure to do your due diligence. Warhammer 40k is an expensive game, and if you plan to make it a hobby too, it becomes even more expensive.
Secondly, collecting miniatures/figures has to be a thoughtful purchase. If you truly love it, you’ll guarantee you’ll only buy the best Warhammer figures! If you’re buying an artist’s proof figure or a figure that you’d like to customize yourself, make sure you have ample time to pursue this hobby.
